Bible inspires son's name

WHEN their son arrived on June 3, Shannon and Rowan Bestmann wanted to give him a Biblical name.

The couple, who are from Walkers Point, chose Reuben, a name that appealed to them both.

His middle name, Monte, was for a close friend and his wife from the United States.

The American couple have been mentors for Shannon and Rowan so they chose to honour them by using the husband's name.

The couple were thrilled to find out they were expecting their first child.

"We were excited - he was very much wanted," Shannon said.

The new mum had a straightforward, healthy pregnancy and while the labour was difficult towards the end, she had nothing but praise for the doctors and midwives at Hervey Bay Hospital.

"They did good things for us," she said.

The couple waited to find out what the sex of the baby was, so it was a surprise.

"We are both a bit old-fashioned," Shannon said.

Both Shannon and Rowan were from big families - Shannon is one of six and Rowan is one of five.

So a lot of people were eagerly awaiting the birth of little Reuben.

Shannon said the family had enjoyed many visitors since Reuben's arrival and her mum, who lived with couple, had been a huge help.