Despite her journey to motherhood getting off to a rocky start – having battled with the side effects of hyperemesis gravidarum, a form of extreme morning sickness, throughout her pregnancy – Kalifatidis has been loving parenthood since Lucius arrived. “Motherhood has been the wildest experience of my life, in the best possible way,” she shares. “I’ve asked Michael how he thinks motherhood has changed me, and to quote him, ‘You are far more patient, empathetic, understanding and above all else selfless, you are the best mum to Lucius,’” she tells. “That’s an endorsement I’m very, very proud of!”
And Kalifatidis is equally impressed with her partner’s parenting skills. “Michael is incredible! There is no way I could do this without him,” she explains. “He’s so reliable, patient, attentive and caring. He was a teacher for seven years, so I always knew he would be amazing, but actually seeing him in action has been so heartwarming. “We have such different personalities,” she continues. “So it’s exciting to see what Lucius will take from me and what he takes from Michael.”
While social media can often be a highlight reel, Kalifatidis and Brunelli have made it their mission to share their authentic experience of raising their adorable bundle of joy – trials and tribulations, including a very hilarious video involving a blocked milk duct, to boot. And it’s those candid moments that will likely see the Bonds Baby Search winners crowned. “Just capturing those natural moments, the funny ones, the entertaining ones and the messy ones, is going to help become a standout in the search,” she explains.
And when she isn’t capturing her little “Looch”, you’ll likely find Kalifatidis staring at him in awe. As is a mother’s love!
“Describing my bond with Lucius is difficult. How do you put into words a love and connection you’ve never experienced before?” Kalifatidis adds of their mother-son connection. “It’s unbreakable, it’s immeasurable, it’s every part of my being, it’s the ultimate love!”
(The Bonds Baby Search is on now)