Introducing.....

I can't believe it's been 3 weeks now......

Israel Manga Cameron was born November 24th, 2008 weighing 10lbs 7.5oz.

Tessa went into Labour around 6am that morning and Israel was born at 2:34.

Tamati opened his bible to Isaiah 44 that morning;

Israel the Chosen

1 "But now listen, O Jacob, my servant,
Israel, whom I have chosen.

2 This is what the LORD says—
he who made you, who formed you in the womb,
and who will help you:
Do not be afraid, O Jacob, my servant,
Jeshurun, whom I have chosen.

3 For I will pour water on the thirsty land,
and streams on the dry ground;
I will pour out my Spirit on your offspring,
and my blessing on your descendants.

4 They will spring up like grass in a meadow,
like poplar trees by flowing streams.

5 One will say, 'I belong to the LORD ';
another will call himself by the name of Jacob;
still another will write on his hand, 'The LORD's,'
and will take the name Israel.

They'd talked about the name Israel for one of their children before they were even married... this just cemented the name.

There have been some pretty outspoken opinions about the name. Mum's worried that he'll have all sorts of problems later in life when he goes to travel, or just being teased for the name.

It's funny how some people immediately think of the country - where as it didn't even cross my mind.

He seems to have a very placid personality, and so far has been pretty easy. Evita and Tawhai absolutely adore him.

I was incredibly humbled to be invited to be there for the birth. It was the longest and hardest one for Tessa, with the other two arriving in a couple of hours. It was quite difficult for me - the one who likes to be busy and able to help to have to sit back and pray through most of it. It was amazing though! And I do somehow feel a different bond to him now too.

I thought I had downloaded the photos on this computer - but can't find them, so watch this space!

Praying everyone is well and filled with awe at the season we're now in.

That you're finding time to reflect on the reason and the joy we should find in Jesus' birth.

Be super blessed!

xxx