When I chose the name Addison for my child, it felt refreshingly unique. Fast forward to today, and it’s become astonishingly common.
My Name Choice Journey
Back in 2002, before my first child was even a thought, I had already made up my mind about names. For a girl, it would be Anna, in honor of my great-grandmother. If it were a boy, I’d name him Addison, after my then-husband’s great-great-grandfather. At the time, I had only encountered one Addison—who was long gone—and I had never heard the name elsewhere.
As my due date approached, friends and family began to inquire about our name choice. When I proudly announced that we were naming our son Addison David, I would explain that the first name paid tribute to his great-great-great-grandfather and the middle name honored my father. The typical reaction was an enthusiastic, “How original!” And I would beam with pride, grateful that we had chosen a name that was both meaningful and rare.
The Boutique Encounter
A few months prior to the birth, I visited a local boutique to shop for adorable baby clothes. When the store owner asked about the name, I eagerly shared it. She paused from folding tiny shirts and said, “That sounds presidential! Addison David—I love it!” How could I not feel like a proud parent-to-be?
The Shift in Popularity
But now, here we are, and Addison is no longer the distinguished name I once cherished. Suddenly, it seems like every other child in his class shares that name. It’s as if the moment he was born, a wave of new Addisons swept through the world. The unique name I adored has morphed into something all too familiar.
I have started to notice whispers about how overused the name has become when people think I can’t hear them. I once took pride in selecting a name that felt special, but it seems that choosing a name can often lead to unintended popularity.
A Friend’s Experience
Interestingly, I have a friend named Rachel who named her daughter Leila, which felt unique when she chose it. But just a few years later, the name exploded in popularity, leaving Rachel feeling a bit frustrated. It’s a reminder that once a name captures attention, it can quickly become a trend.
Advice for Expecting Parents
If you’re considering a unique name for your child, just know that it may not stay unique for long. Watch it flourish and soon find its way onto the list of the most overused names. And yes, feel free to express your feelings about it.
Resources for Parenthood
For those navigating parenthood or exploring home insemination, there are resources available that can help. Check out this excellent resource for pregnancy and home insemination and if you’re interested in DIY options, take a look at this home insemination kit. If you’re looking for alternatives to IUI or IVF, Make a Mom offers valuable solutions.
Conclusion
In summary, naming a child can be full of surprises, especially when it comes to popularity. The name you think is unique today could become the name of the moment tomorrow. Embrace the journey and find joy in the process, even if it means sharing your chosen name with a whole lot of other kids.