Q: How was childbirth for you?
Rather traumatic, to be honest. I almost had an unexpected
home birth. Luckily the ambulance crews decided to take me to the hospital in the end, and everything went smoothly thereafter. I gave birth in about 2 hours after I arrived at the hospital!
Q: Best and worst things about being pregnant?
The best bit was that everyone, including strangers, treated me so nicely. I was able to sit down every day on the train during the commute. The worst bit was the morning sickness. I couldn't eat anything besides yoghurt and banana for a while. I had to cook Christmas dinner and couldn't eat any of it!
Q: What have you found the most rewarding about motherhood so far?
My daughter's smile and knowing that she recognises me. I can't be angry at 3 am breastfeeding if she gives me a big smile afterwards (but hopefully I don't have to do this much longer...)
Q: What have you found to be the greatest challenge in being a parent?
People expect me to know what to do just because I'm the mum. I have no idea if my baby should wear one or two layers of clothes, nor I have any clue why she is crying most of the time. I often want someone to tell me what my baby wants!
Q: What encouraged you to volunteer for your NCT role?
I wanted to do something productive besides looking after the baby during the maternity leave. As a project manager in a digital agency, I thought the Web Coordinator role is perfect to do something a little bit techy. I also selfishly thought that I might be able to find out the upcoming events and so I can meet other parents in the area.
Q: What is your ideal way to spend a child-free afternoon, or evening?
I haven't really had one yet since I had my daughter... I would love to read a book and have a nice cup of coffee without worrying if it's time to breastfeed or having my breasts engorged.
Q: What is the best or worst piece of parenting advice you have ever received?
Our health visitor told us to "follow her lead" and that was a good advice. I often get mixed information when I read parenting articles in English or Japanese, so that's been hugely confusing. I concluded that there are many ways to raise a child and there can be multiple correct answers.
Meet the Volunteer
Name: Natsuki Pope
Role: Web Co-ordinator
Lives: Clapham
Mama of: Allie