Miriam or Hester

[Donthackmenow]

For our (currently fictional) 3rd child I really like Miriam and Hester for girls. I mentioned them to my husband this morning and he would need working on but didn't reject them. But what do you think? Are they nice names or do I need to think again?
I always find boys names harder, ds has an Old Testament name which means laughter but when pregnant I really liked Rupert (husband wouldn't back down on that one) and Edward.

I love Miriam. Hester isn't bad but I prefer Esther.

I think they're both awful, but Hester is significantly worse.

I'd go for Miriam if I had to.

Your DH was right about Rupert btw.

We have a Miriam, her brother has the same name as your ds.
I think they go really well together, and many people comment on Miriam and say lovely name, unusual, you don't hear it often.

I suspect Hester will be called Esther a lot.

Hester sounds really unpleasant sorry. It sounds like a heffalump.

Too old-fashioned but not in a sweet way.

I thought Hester was a boy's name?

I LOVE Hester. Love love love it. But have never even dared to suggest it as I suspect DP and family will scoff.
Ester is also nice, and seemingly more acceptable???

Miriam definitely. It's lovely.

I don't like either but prefer Miriam. I really think Hester sounds ugly.

Miriam is such a spineless, weedy name. Sorry.

Hester isn't as bad but is a bit Puritan wife.

I love Miriam- I have a Mariam!

I love Esther, not Hester, though.

Not popular choices then , good job the child is purely fictional at the moment! I also like Claudia.

Miriam is such a spineless, weedy name.

Are you familiar with the bible squoosh? Miriam is anything but spineless or weedy to me because of the bible and also knowing one personally who is extremely determined, intelligent and fearless.

My MIL is also a Miriam. She's lovely a lot of the time but definitely not spineless...

Um yes Shovetty, I'm familiar with the Bible but am more influenced by, y'know, real people. And all the real life Miriams I've known have been awful drips.

I like Hester. Sounds like an "alternative" type of woman. A more useable Hepzibah, perhaps.

we chose Miriam because in the Bible she is a leader, very strong amazing women, from child to adult, and known for singing and celebrating too.

The first rl Miriam I ever met was a child who was the most amazing ray of sunshine and laughter.

So to me it is a very strong name, which needs a strong personality.

that is dd2 to a tee!

I love Miriam. I prefer Honor to Hester.

I love Hester and never liked Miriam much to be honest

I like Miriam. hester not too much - sounds harsh

I like hester sounds a bit watership down tho

Miriam is lovely.

Hester is dreadful.

yes agree with Awombwithoutaroof, if you'd said Miriam or Honor, that would be a tougher choice! Think I'd still sa Miriam but only by a hair.

I like Miriam.

Not keen on Hester, but Esther is OK.

Miriam. Miriams rock. Tough as old boots, too. Means 'bitter' or 'rebellious'.