Greater Portland Baptist Church

Donavan and Laura Bangs: April 2008

Dear Friends,

April has been exhausting. It began with the arrival of Laura's mother and stepfather, who were here to see their grandson, who had not yet been born. Because the baby was late Laura was admitted into the hospital for inducement on Tuesday the eighth. There were some difficulties and things did not progress as we had hoped. Laura went into labour, but progress was slow. After a around 40 hours of contractions the baby seem to be in distress as its heart rate dropped. The decision was made to deliver the baby by emergency c-section. I remained with Laura even in the operating theatre, trying to keep her calm. The doctors got the baby out and it cried. That was the most beautiful sound I have ever had heard. Then our little baby promptly peed on the midwife. So on the 11th of April about 9.00 p.m. local time Max Xander Bangs was born weighing in at 8lbs 15 ounces. I chose the name, although I had wanted the middle name to be danger that way the child could say danger is my middle name and have proof, but Laura vetoed that particular choice. Immediately after the birth Laura's heart rate dropped, but recovered later. Laura and Max were in the hospital for the next three days. They came back one day before Laura's mother was due to leave. I have advice for any prospective parents even if you plan on breastfeeding; make sure you have formula in the house and do not have to fetch any at four a.m. whilst taking your in laws back to the Airport. Max is doing well and Laura is slowly recovering. I am taking care of both of them to the best of my abilities. Having a newborn in the house does not necessarily make you more spiritual but it will eliminate any time or energy for wickedness. Max is a blessing and Laura could not be happier even I have found myself upon occasion making silly noises for him.

The church folks are also excited and we have received congratulations from people all around the world. Some of our neighbours have been around and it has been a good chance to strengthen the relationships. My sister Debbie has come around to help clean and may come again and even attend services with us. We pray for her salvation. Things will certainly be changing in our lives and we pray for wisdom concerning this. I have found out that Max will hold dual nationality as do I. There is a lot of paperwork involved for a new baby, almost as much for a new car, but you can't take babies back if they're making strange noises or leaking or smells and washing cars are certainly easier than babies. Throughout all this, services have continued as normal although one Sunday my friend, David Parker, preached as he needed the practice prior to missionary service and I was a little fatigued to say the least. More adventures next month and I have included some pictures of Max.