The Name Game

Truth be told, I had a lot of expectations going into pregnancy. I knew, for example, that I wouldn't totally feel like myself, that I would be more tired than normal, and would gain weight. All things I expected and am now experiencing, no big surprise. What I was not expecting was the overwhelming task of naming our child. I hate it. Some people come into pregnancy with names in their back pocket and when the time comes they apply the name and "voila" the child is named. Well, not us.

Believe it or not, Nate and I actually bought a baby name book. I NEVER thought I would be the type! I figured I would look back at my favorite pieces of literature and choose a name based on one of my favorite characters who had traits that made the character worthy of naming my child after. But, no such luck. Boy names in literature are usually off-the-wall or a little too common, and those characters I thought would impact the decision, are now seen as not perfect enough. Ugh. So the baby name book has become the go-to place to search. I've created my list, Nate is working on his. Who knew naming a child could be so tedious?

Another thing I wasn't expecting, I'm self-conscious about sharing the names we are considering. If people react negatively to them, I take it a little personal. I never understood why people would keep a name secret, but now I can see why. Naturally, everyone has an opinion. But it's hard to take criticism when you are already feeling so vulnerable about the situation.

The good news? I really feel like we will have a name soon. Like I said, I have a list and Nate is finishing his this week while in D.C. I can't wait to name this kid!! I can only refer to the baby as "what's his name" for so long ;)