For Daniela Vasiljevic, distance has become an unexpected part of new motherhood. With her partner Nate working away for two weeks at a time, she is often at home caring for their five-month-old daughter Murphy, learning to navigate those early months solo while keeping their young family connected from afar.
When Nate heads off to manage a busy restaurant in Port Augusta, the reality of doing daily life without the doting father quickly sets in. "It's definitely not how we imagined those first months would look," Ms Vasiljevic says. "You picture doing it all together, but we try our best to stay connected, and we know this isn't forever."
To stay close, the couple relies heavily on technology. Daily video calls, WhatsApp chats and messages have become non-negotiable, offering Nate a window into Murphy's world, even when he is hundreds of kilometres away. "We FaceTime every day – sometimes a few times a day," Daniela says. "Even if it's just five minutes, it makes a difference for him to see her – or for her to hear his voice."
Photos are just as important. Daniela sends a steady stream of updates – smiles, naps and little milestones – anything to help Nate feel included. "I send him photos constantly," she says. "Every little thing, because I know he doesn't want to miss it." Still, the screen can only do so much. "It's hard," she admits. "There are moments you just want another set of hands, or to share something in person instead of through a screen, but we are so lucky she is such a dream."
Despite the challenges, they have found a rhythm that works. Regular check-ins, shared moments online and a strong sense of perspective help carry them through. For the young family, technology does not replace being together – but it helps close the gap, one call, photo and moment at a time.
This Mother's Day will be especially meaningful, with Daniela travelling to South Australia's far north to reunite with Nate and celebrate together. "You just make it work," Daniela says. "We do appreciate the time together so much more when he's home – but we'll all be together on Mother's Day, which is going to be really nice."
