JEFFREYS BAY – When the Oosthuizen family from Jeffreys Bay entered their bundle of joy into this year’s Kouga Express Christmas Baby competition, they never expected to take home the top prize, but five-month-old Noah Oosthuizen, with his infectious smile and sparkling blue eyes, has officially been crowned this year’s Christmas baby winner.
Credit: Liezel Steenkamp/Pro-Design Photographers
Noah’s mother, Nicaile, said that since her son is such a happy baby who loves to smile, she thought that he could stand a chance to win the competition.
With encouragement from both Noah’s grandmothers, Tilita Fevrier and Marie Oosthuizen, they entered and were pleasantly surprised to learn that he had won.
“My husband, Amand, and I laughed and really enjoyed the moment. We didn’t expect him to win, but it sure did feel good, and we’re excited to give a copy of the newspaper to Noah’s great-grandma and grandparents,” said Nicaile.
Born at home surrounded by his loved ones on 28 June, Noah has been bringing joy to the Oosthuizen household alongside his 2-year-old big brother, Eliah, who always makes him smile.
Having experienced a miscarriage before, Noah’s arrival was particularly meaningful for the family.
Despite a challenging pregnancy with extreme nausea, anaemia, and fatigue,Nicaile said that her birth experience was beautiful.
“My birth experience was amazing. I had an unmedicated birth in my lounge with the best birth team. It was such an amazing, sacred experience,” said Nicaile.
“I felt the Lord’s presence, and there were fairy lights, calm music, and a birthing pool. Surrounding the birthing pool were my husband, mother, mother-in-law and sister. Everyone played such important roles in helping me
manage the birth.”
The name Noah, meaning “rest,” was a meaningful choice, and true to his name, he has brought a sense of peace to the family, even with the challenges of caring for two children under two.
“The initial adjustment was difficult with two under two. Postpartum is not easy, but I absolutely love my boys and would sacrifice my life for them,” said Nicaile.
“Of course, life has its challenges and having two young kids at home all day is not easy, but there is so much joy that overpowers the difficult times.”
Even at five months old, Noah’s personality is already emerging.The family lovingly calls him “Noey,” while his brother Eliah coined the nickname “Noey Boey.”
Nicaile said that Noah is a very calm and happy boy. He loves people and is very inquisitive. She said that he also loves jazz and classical music, and he laughs a lot. Noah’s favourite activities include playing in water and watching his father play the guitar.
Nicaile said that Noah’s first Christmas Eve will be spent with her in-laws in Oyster Bay. On Christmas Day, they will attend church at Jeffreys Bay Bible Church, a church community where Nicaile said her boys feel loved and welcomed. Thereafter, they will spend the day with Nicaile’s parents.
She said that they will also be starting a new family tradition this year which they are excited about.
“After spending time with family, we will drive along the Christmas lights route and then go home to watch a Christmas movie with our kids. Our main focus for Christmas is teaching our kids that Jesus is the reason for the
season,” said Nicaile.
With one great-grandmother, four grandparents, 12 aunts and uncles, one cousin and another on the way, she said that Noah is blessed with a large support system.
“Noah is such a blessed boy who is loved by so many. It takes a village to raise a child, and I can say he has a strong, loving village,” said Nicaile.
“I would like to thank my mother and husband because without them, I would not be able to raise these two boys.”
You must be logged in to post a comment.