What's in a Name?

Yep, you read it right! We've decided on a name for our new little baby girl. I actually thought this wouldn't happen until MUCH later in the pregnancy. Patrick refused to even consider names before we knew the sex. I, of course, wanted to talk about boy and girl name possibilities before when actually knew what we were having. But Patrick and his ever practical self ix-nayed any name discussions prior to week 20. Party pooper, right?

Well, then week 20 came, we found out it was a girl, and we still didn't really talk about it. A few weeks ago, I started forcing name conversations when he couldn't escape- like driving in the car, eating dinner at a restaurant, etc. He didn't like anything I suggested- but, of course, didn't have any real suggestions of his own! So, I had thrown a few names out there as my top 3 or so- he poo-pooed all of them for one reason or another!

Then, a few days later, he text me: "I like ____ _____. Gave it some thought today." It happened to be one of my top TWO!! So, we took a day or two to really consider it and it felt right. We finally settled on a pretty little girl name.

So, what is it?? Well....are any of you familiar with a little vampire lover named Bella? :) Yep, we're totally going there. Her name will be Bella. No, not after Twilight (although, come on! Greatest books ever)!! And, when I said this name initially, Patrick said, "like after the vampire?" (If you remember, though, her name is actually Isabella Swan, she just goes by Bella). ;) So, anyway, we love it. It's short, feminine, goes well with "Ava" and is easy to pronounce and spell. All things I wanted in a name. Now, I wasn't particularly looking for a name that everyone else also has- apparently Isabella is the #2 most popular girl name this year. But, you know, you gotta pick something you like- and I like Bella. So, there. :) For a middle name, we decided on Michele, after my mom. Yes, only one L. Pronounced like regular "Michelle." :)

Besides- Bella means "Beautiful, Devoted to God, and Intelligent" (depending on what origin you look at)! Doesn't get much better than that!

So, there ya have it: Bella Michele :)

Purtty, ain't it?



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