Brittany Bown says Zuri was named after Nic Natanui's mother.
Camera IconBrittany Bown says Zuri was named after Nic Natanui's mother. Credit: SUPPLIED
opinion

Brittany Bown: A glimpse into our life as a family of four, as Zuri Ateca Naitanui fills our lives with love

Brittany BownSTM

I am thrilled to announce that Nic and I have become proud parents of a beautiful baby girl — Zuri Ateca, born on October 8 at 10.49am, who has already filled our lives with immeasurable love and happiness.

Her middle name belonged to Nic’s mother and is pronounced Atetha. Zuri weighed a delicate 3.4kg (7.4 pounds) and measured 50.5cm, a tiny bundle compared to the 4kg and 54.5cm of Ezekiel, our firstborn.

Zuri is proving to be a sleepy little one, with her favourite pastime being falling asleep while feeding. As for Ezekiel, he’s navigating the concept of a permanent sibling with curiosity, offering occasional kisses and cuddles, tossing toys in her direction, yet not quite grasping why Mum can’t hold both of them simultaneously.

Adjusting to life with two infants has been an adventure, to say the least, and we are immensely grateful for Nic’s recent retirement, which allows us both to be here to tag team the responsibilities.

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When work commitments beckon Nic away, my amazing mother steps in as the unsung hero. I make a silent promise to return the favour to my little girl one day.

Brittany Bown's parents, Jacque and Chris, with Zuri Ateca Naitanui.
Camera IconBrittany Bown's parents, Jacque and Chris, with Zuri Ateca Naitanui. Credit: Supplied

Nic is once again proving to be a devoted father, actively participating and being present in this new season of our lives. With two children, it feels like we’ve shifted into full-blown family mode, and I can already sense that life will never be the same again.

Certainly, we’ve bid farewell to sleep-ins, a tidy house and the luxury of sitting down without interruptions. Yet, in return, we’ve opened the door to an abundance of laughter and joy.

I find solace in the belief that I am exactly where I am meant to be, revelling in the happiness that surrounds me. Although challenging times lie ahead, including new business plans to see through, an impending wedding that we haven’t quite got around to, and the ongoing journey of navigating life with a spirited one-year-old and a newborn, I am optimistic about the growth and love that will flourish within our family.

Zuri Ateca Naitanui.
Camera IconZuri Ateca Naitanui. Credit: Supplied

In terms of my relationship with my body post-pregnancy, I’ve never been prouder of what it’s accomplished. Two pregnancies in two years have undoubtedly left their mark, but I am in awe of the incredible resilience and strength of the female body.

Admittedly, my abs are currently non-existent, my back aches and the prospect of rebuilding muscle and strength is something I eagerly anticipate. Yet my heart is brimming with love and gratitude for this miraculous vessel that brought two beautiful children into the world.

As we embark on the journey ahead, I look forward to sharing the highs and lows, offering glimpses into my pursuit of wellness.

My hope is that my experiences will inspire and challenge you to carve out your path towards a healthier and more fulfilling life.

So, here’s to the next chapter, filled with laughter, love and the beautiful chaos that comes with being a family of four. May these snippets of our journey bring you joy and inspiration as we navigate the wonderful adventure of parenthood once again.

This week I’m . . .

Cherishing the timeless memories of Zuri’s early days, captured by Hello Harlow Photography in the midst of our new family dynamic.

Zuri Ateca Naitanui.
Camera IconZuri Ateca Naitanui. Credit: Hello Harlow Photography

Planning another visit to Maylands Waterland, which our family enjoyed recently. It’s free and perfect for toddlers, offering shallow pools, ample shade, convenient amenities and the opportunity for a leisurely barbecue.

Ezekiel Naitanui at Maylands Waterland.
Camera IconEzekiel Naitanui at Maylands Waterland. Credit: Supplied

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