Welcome, Little Man

Here He Is! (subtitled: Ben's 3rd post in as many years)

Introducing: Axel Selah Runnion-Bareford

Pronounced: Sweet Child O’ Mine Running Barefoot

Meaning: Axel “Father is Peace” Selah (family name; my middle name)

Stats: 8 lbs. 6 oz., 20 inches long (but everyone thinks we got short-changed on that one…)

First, let’s address the obvious…both for those of our generation who will make the automatic association with Axl Rose, and those who know me well and make fun are aware of my appreciation for the fine genre of 80’s metal/hard rock.  Yes, most of the lyrics are trite, stupid, and/or downright terrible, but listen to the instrumental intro of Mr. Brownstone and tell me you can stop your arm from rising, unbidden, as a horned hand is formed and reaches to the sky.  Jenna, you’re just not being honest.

Anyway, this boy was not named for the frenetic front man of Guns N’ Roses, his fine moral character and exemplary lifestyle notwithstanding.  For me, it was pretty easy to put that association aside and consider the name for the way it sounded…different, strong, without being overly intentional or pretentious - Spartacus and Maximus were, ah…too Roman.  As I was listening yesterday afternoon to the midwife say, “ooh, he has such delicate features!”, I think having a strong name will be a good thing.

It may have taken just *a bit* more time for Shauna to come around…she laughed and rolled her eyes the first time I said…”what about Axel?”  Thankfully, it grew on her – or maybe she was just worried that I might suggest Sebastian Bach Runnion-Bareford or Jani Lane Runnion-Bareford as an alternative.  In any case, it became his name when Tobi started regularly referring to him as “baby Axel”.  So Tobi-doo, you helped to name your little brother…I’m sure it’s just the beginning of all of the “helpful” things you’ll do for him.  As I was watching you hold him, hug him, touch his face, and cup his feet in your little hands for the very first time , I can’t imagine he could have a better big sister.

We can’t imagine being more thankful for the gift of our two children…thank you, Lord!