this was more of a challenge than i thought it would be! i have so many favorites, but these are ones i can see myself actually using on little ones someday, calling them in for dinner and teaching them how to write their names.
girls
viera → ever since i first saw this name, i’ve been in love with her. she’s sparkly and strong, with a gorgeous meaning and is a nod to my czech heritage while still being easy to pronounce in english.
stavra → another one i’ve adored since i came across her, she’s been on my mind for a while. i love the biblical reference in her meaning and the vibes i get from her, somehow both refined and arcadian.
andelis → i discovered her looking for an honor for an andrew. i love all the nickname potential for her, and her unique yet approachable nature.
idalia → she’s so spunky and bubbly to me, i appreciate her versatility across so many languages and both my polish & german background. she feels perfect for a spring/summer girl.
garnet → i love gemstone names, and she’s a subtle honor to a close family member born in january. she’s sweet yet commanding, although she shifts up and down my list, she’s always there.
honorable mention to my beloved luknė, who would be on there for sure if she was a bit easier to pronounce in english!
boys
uziah → i love how cool this name sounds, it’s biblical relation, and how while other -iah names have taken off, he’s still unique. he’s very strong and masculine, while still warm.
galil → one of the more recent boys names that i fell in love with, he’s just perfect to me. as the home of many important stories in the bible, he’s a nod to my religion as well.
tadeas → i adore this spelling variant so much, he feels spunkier than the original, yet easier to pronounce and spell. he also has an amazing meaning and history.
palmer → he feels so charming and kind, he’s perhaps a bit more common than the other names on my list, but nonetheless has been one of the longest-standing.
laszlo → he’s so much fun to me, and has a great meaning. i can see him running through the forest and jumping off of the dock into the lake, running home as the sun sets to be on time for dinner.
honorable mentions to martin, who honors so many people for me, and tavor, who i’ve been obsessing over since i came across.