On February 15 at 6:19AM, we met our son for the first time. And now we’re ready to intro him to you. Say hello to the new love of our lives... Chell Spirit Peterson.
Here’s the story of his name—how we chose it, what it means to us and what we hope it will mean to him.

WHAT WAS IMPORTANT
TO US IN A NAME

First, his name should be likable. It needs to feel good to say in a way that’s palatably pleasing. And it needs to feel good to hear—a series of syllables that bring a smile when strung together.
Second, his name should have staying power and last him at least 100 years. It should feel fresh, no matter the date or place.
Finally, his name should be open enough to let him leave his imprint. His name should grow with him. He should be able to shape and mold its meaning to his unique character through his personality and his actions.

SHOULD WE PICK A POPULAR NAME
OR CREATE SOMETHING NEW?

Having a name that’s too popular can leave a person feeling like one of the crowd—but ensures that your name is likable. Popular names are appealing for good reason.
To be new risks putting a novelty on a child that won’t last. Imagine living with “Macarena” or a passing fad as your name. But risks have rewards—maybe a new name gives a person the space he needs to best make the name his own.

WHY WE TOOK
A TWIST ON TRADITION

In naming our son, we went with a popular name that honors our Norwegian tradition. Kjell is well known and loved name in Norway dating back to the 15th century. It can mean “kettle” or “helmet,” but the meaning we like best is “a source.” Kjell has stood the test of time—and will continue to be popular.
People like it. We like it. But the “Kj” sound doesn’t translate directly. So, like others who immigrate their traditions to America, we are adapting it with a phonetic spelling. We think of this as an act of kindness to our son, his future family, and his future friends.
It is our hope that his name blends the best of old and new with the best of us as a family—a reminder of an act of kindness from his parents that is both rich with tradition and ripe with possibility. He may be the only Chell 😊.
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For his middle name, we chose Spirit. “Spirit” is a word he can animate. It is fun and whimsical. We wish that others will learn to love his “chell spirit.”
It is also a reminder to always approach life with energy and enthusiasm, courage and character, heart and humor.

OUR DREAM FOR HIM

We hope our community will honor his name and love him and his name the way we do. And we hope it will forever be a blessing for him—a bountiful source rooted in our love.
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Welcome to the world, Chell!