Introducing.... (finally)

Cody Elias-Vernon Stevenson May 19, 2009 @ 1:38 am 8 pounds 1 ounce 20 inches long (the meaning behind his name as typed up for his baby album) The name Cody came primarily from your dad’s love for the state of Wyoming, and specifically for the National Parks of Yellowstone and Grand Teton. Since meeting your dad, your mom has fallen in love with Wyoming and the parks as well. We travelled there for our Honeymoon in February of 2005 and it will be a place we will continue to visit over the years. Cody is a small town that guards the eastern entrance of Yellowstone National Park. Elias is the Latin language transliteration of the Greek language form of the name Elijah. This name has two significant meanings. First, the prophet Elijah in the Bible is one of your dad’s personal favorites. The story of his stand on Mount Carmel against the Baal prophets depicts the character that we pray already everyday for you. Secondly, your dad wanted to name his son(s) after mountains because of his great love for snowy-capped peaks and the strength and majesty they engender, reminding us of God’s great power, handiwork, and glory. Mount Saint Elias is the second highest mountain in the United States, located on the Alaska-US and Yukon-Canada border, overlooking the Hubbard Glacier. Mount Saint Elias dominates the skyline as it rises from sea-level to 18,009 feet. Although many miles from the ocean, it seems to rise from it, making it a very striking mountain to see. Vernon is a family name from the Ward family, whom we are a part of through your Grandmother Diane’s marriage to your Grandfather Randy Vernon Ward in 1988. As far as your dad knows, Vernon has been a name passed down through the men of that family at least since your great-great grandfather. We wanted to continue the tradition to honor both your grandfather, and your great-grandfather, Clyde Vernon Ward. Your great grandfather was and remains one of the godliest men your dad has ever met, and his life made a great impression on him and his walk with Christ. These are all pictures from the hospital!