Hi, all. We are looking to get pregnant soon and have settled on our potential boys' names. We are finding the girls' names a bit trickier. I love classic names that sound strong and feminine. DH agrees but would also like a cute nickname to go with them, which is fine by me. I tend to be drawn to three syllable names, names with historical and/or literary connections, and names with "L" or "R" in them, though those aren't requirements.
Boys: Lionel (nn Leo) FamilyMiddleName
Theodore (nn Teddy) FamilyMiddle Name
Middle name will be family name (Lee or Holly) though I don't care too much about first and middle name coordinating. Last name is a bird, fish, or something that could throw off even Holmes. Begins with "H".
We wanted the nickname of Rosie and would also call her Rosie Lee (in the States so has nothing to do with tea here) but don't love any of the "Rose" names and Rose by itself is just too abrupt. We like Rosalind nn Rosie, especially because of the Shakespeare connection but I am not sold- I am not sure if the "lind" is a little harsh. I also really like Delphine but DH is not convinced and I am not quite either.
Other names we liked but will likely not use:
Seraphina (nn Fina)- negative associations for DH
Lavender- not sold, no nickname
Chloe- I like the "lo" sound but feels a bit trendy
Grace- seems a bit blah
Clara- see Grace, no nickname
Arabella/Annabel- too many Bellas in the US right now
Rose
Araminta (nn Minty)- DH LOVES and I love the historical connection (Harriet Tubman) but I don't know if I could actually give a child this name, seems like it would be a bit much; also a bit harsh sounding. I know this is a "posh" name but that is irrelevant in the States
Jemima- love but would never use due to racial undertones here
Josephine (nn Posy)- love the nn and "Little Women" connection, don't love the full name
Juliet- don't love the "t" ending, perhaps is too strongly associated with the character
Felicity (nn Fi) - DH doesn't like
Thanks!