What's in a name?

As Jacob and I have talked about names for our daughter, the most important factor in the decision as been to choose a name with meaning. Since this is the case, we thought we'd share a little with you, our friends and family, about what the significance of Lucy Amanda is to us, and how it is essentially a prayer for daughter's life.

 
Lucy was born at 1:37 pm. She measured 20.25 inches, and weighed 8 lbs, 1.6 oz. One BEAUTIFUL baby girl!

The name "Lucy" comes from the character Lucy Pevensie in C.S. Lewis' Chronicles of Narnia. These books have been formative in my own Christian walk, and have been something I have enjoyed listening through on audio book with Jacob. Lucy's character in these books is, while not perfect, one worthy of being modeled. She consistently displays courage, humility, a desire to seek Aslan (the Christ-figure), childlike faith, love of family, and a resolution to do the right thing. She is also one of the most caring and empathetic of the main characters in the series.

Lucy sitting at the feet of Aslan

Additionally, the name “Lucy” is derived from the Latin for “Light.” It is our prayer that, through the character traits above, our daughter will be a light to others as she shows God’s love to the people in He places in her life.

A light to others in a dark world

The name "Amanda" is a family name for both of us. Most of you know that this is my only sister's name, and she and I have been very close since we were children. "Amanda" is also the middle name of Jacob's sister, Joelle, and I have very much appreciated the relationship that has developed more recently with her. Jacob's paternal grandmother, who recently passed away, also had the middle name "Amanda." When Jacob was young, one of the memories he has of his grandmother is of her sitting at her piano singing hymns. All three of these women have a heritage to pass along to our daughter. We hope that she follows in the footsteps of Jacob's grandmother in her love of praising the Lord, that she models Joelle's thirst for good theology and heart to see others come to Christ, and that she inherits Amanda's loving care for other people and hunger for God's word.

Following those who have
gone before

Also, the name “Amanda” is a Latin word which means “Worthy of being loved.” While Lucy’s first name is a prayer for how she will serve and love others, her middle name reflects our desire that she will be confident and assured of both God’s love and her family’s love for her.

Beloved one

 Welcome to the world, Lucy Amanda Ailes. :) May you be inspired by the rich heritage of your family that has come before you, and learn to emulate those in your life who lead godly and Christ-centered lives.