Although we had quite a time settling on Ben's first name, Tim and I both really like it. After I vetoed Tim's first choice (Matthew), and he vetoed my first choice (George), we were left with a short list of names we both really like. Ultimately, we wanted something traditional and timeless that isn't too common. We both think "Ben" is great.
We've said the name out loud, written it down, and practiced casually slipping it into conversation. As we've worked on the nursery over the last week, we've said offhandedly, "Oh, I left that in Ben's room," and "Ben's room is really coming along!" It feels right.
We picture him as a squirmy, smiley little baby, and I imagine cooing, "Baby Ben," and tickling his tummy.
Then we picture him playing t-ball, running the bases while we yell, "Run, Ben, Run!"
We picture him as a teenager and Tim sternly saying, "Ben, be home before midnight."
Eventually, we imagine him crossing the stage at graduation to accept his diploma as the announcer's voice booms "Benjamin Bergeron."
It works across the board, and we really feel like it is a name that will grow with him.
Ben's middle name was never in question. I asked Tim about "Stephen," as soon as we started discussing names, and he immediately agreed. Stephen is my grandfather's name, and I can't think of another man I'd rather have my son emulate than my grandpa, Stephen Kubick. Grampa has so many wonderful character qualities. He is kind, thoughtful, hard-working, intelligent, patriotic, and quick-witted, but the first word that comes to mind when I think of him is "generous." Giving is in his nature, and he has an obvious respect for everyone he meets. He treats others with kindness, whether he's with family, friends, colleagues, or strangers. He recognizes the dignity and worth of each human soul.
One day, I went out for ice cream with my grandma, and we talked about her childhood. She described her own grandma as her "soul mate." I'm sure the quizzical look on my face registered with her, because she went on to explain that she doesn't believe a soul mate has to be a person one has a romantic relationship with, or event someone of the opposite sex. She described a soul mate as the person your soul most relates to, and that you have a deep, natural affinity and love. I've thought a lot about that conversation, and it makes sense to me. I absolutely adore Stephen Kubick, and I think he gets a kick out of being adored. He was there when I was born, and he's in most of my favorite memories. He is my soul mate, and I would love nothing more than for Benjamin Stephen to grow up and be just like him. I better stop gushing... Grampa will read this and it will go right to his head. He'll be impossible for me to live with on our next family vacation!
We are still three months away from Ben's arrival, but I can't express how much love and excitement we've felt from those around us. We are so, so thankful for our sweet friends and family who have shared in our joy and are (almost) as anxious as we are to meet this little guy.
