and the winner is...

Well friends, not only has it been far too long since my last post, it has also been quite some time since I've given you an update on 'ole preggers, aka my sister who is almost 7 months pregnant. Below is a shot of her during Christmas, but no worries, her tummy is much more convex these days.



Anyway, I wanted to let y'all know the name of my future niece. There had been much deliberation over the name, and it didn't seem that anyone (because my whole family needs to be in on the decision, clearly) could agree on the perfect name. Numerous attempts had been made to conjure up the winning (yes, I see everything in the context of a game where there are winners and losers) name, particularly on my part, but they were all in vain. Either Nick poo-pooed them, or Michelle didn't fancy the name, or one of their friends already took the name, etc. {BTW, if I should ever actually bear children and you take my name, no worries. I will still use it...ha ha.} Anyway, back to business, after months of hemming and hawing, Michelle and Nick have officially named baby #2, so without further ado, I present to you the name of my niece who will be born in approximately 2 months:

MEREDITH HOPE MENDEZ

Not that my opinion matters (but it kind of does), but I don't think I could love this name anymore than I do. With a name like that, this girl is totally gonna be the cat's pajamas. If I may, I will break down exactly why I like this name so much.

1. It is not trendy or hyper-creative/weird. Meredith is a classic name that is not over-used.

2. Meredith sounds appropriate for all stages of life. It is cute for a baby and toddler. It is sweet for a pre-teen and teenager. And it is completely sophisticated for a young adult and beyond.

3. Meredith actually means "protector," so her name could be translated as "protector of hope." AMAZING! I l-o-v-e, love that! The end.

I could go on, but I will spare you. So, my apologies once again for not keeping y'all updated, but I hope you can forgive me. FYI, my sister is doing well, and I know she cannot wait to meet her new little baby. And the same goes for Aunt Chie-Chie.

I know God has a plan for Meredith Hope and I cannot wait to be a part of it! I love you already baby Meredith!!!