Welcome to our world, little Theodore | You’re ‘just perfect’

This personal reflection is a letter of welcome — a heartfelt tribute to the arrival of our grandson, Theodore Ivor. Set against the backdrop of a world filled with noise and uncertainty, this blog focuses on the quiet miracle of new life - a reminder of hope and wonder and joy. More than just an announcement, it's a celebration of belonging — to a family, a heritage, a community, and a country. At its heart, this is a love letter — from a Nan whose heart has once again burst wide open.  

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For roughly 9 months, 39 weeks, 273 days, 6,5552 hours, or 393,120 minutes, we’ve been waiting, anticipating, wondering, loving, and praying. And then, in one moment, the waiting turned to relief, the wondering turned to wonder, the anticipation turned to joy, and the prayers turned to overwhelming gratitude. The loving? That just arrived … indescribable and incomprehensible. 

Dear Theodore Ivor 

I am writing this at a time in history when the world is filled with noise: wars and rumours of wars, corrupt politicians, egotistical world leaders, and unjust ideologies. 

But, at this moment in time, you know nothing of this. And for just a second, when we got the news of your safe and wonderful arrival into our world, the noise stopped. Everything seemed to be set to rights.

Welcome to this world, little one.

On a wintry day in July,  you were born into our family. 

This is what you need to know: long before you took your first breath, you were loved. From the very first moment your life began to be knitted together in hidden, sacred ways, your mom and dad loved you, and your Nan and Grandpa loved you.  

You have been born into a circle of love. 

You’ve also been born into a family with a big brother. Lucky boy! Big brothers are the ‘bestest’ of friends - fierce protectors, and wild playmates. You’ll grow up side by side, learning, laughing, adventuring, and finding your place in this world together.

The day on which you were born - 24 July -  also happens to be International Cousins Day. How cool is that? Because you’ve arrived in a family of cousins. You may not see them every day, but when cousins get together, something special happens: a kind of mischief, fun, and belonging that only cousins understand.

It doesn’t stop there. You’ve been born into a rich heritage of great-grandparents, grandparents, aunts, and uncles — all ready to love you in their own way. Some are no longer in this world, but the stories of their lives will delight you. Cherish that. 

Be warned: You’re going to be adored and very, very spoiled (and will have to endure many cuddles and kisses from Nan).

You’ve also been born into a ‘village’ — a broader community and church family. This will be your playground of friendships and accountability. They will cheer you on, guide you, pray for you, and help shape your story. That’s a gift. Be grateful for it.

And then you’ve been born in South Africa — a country that is complex, beautiful, and imperfect. This is the place you will grow up in and make your mark. I hope you will get to make a difference in the little everyday moments of living in this small corner of the world. 

But this is what I really want you to remember: your arrival into this world and our family is a reminder of something good. Of possibility. Of love stretching wider than we thought possible. Of hope, renewed.

Today, I’m holding fast to this moment — the awe, the joy, the miracle of you.

I love you to the moon and back.

I’ve loved you for nine months already, and now, having met you, my ‘Nan heart’ has burst wide open to make room for you. It’s a love beyond understanding — quiet and deep. 

Welcome to our family, little one. We’re so glad you’re here. 

Love and kisses, Nan 

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Written by Leanne Johnson