Why I named my #daughter Anika

#TalkNerdyToMeLover's @JenSquard

I knew I was having a girl from early on in my pregnancy, I could just feel it.  And I had NO idea what to name her.  Not even a little bit.  I liked the name Pearl, but apparently I am in the minority on that one.  We got pregnant on our honeymoon in Fiji, so we threw some names around about the local culture, and things that we loved about our honeymoon.  The most awesome thing about Fiji (besides it being Fiji and amazing) is that they sing-talk.  Instead of just saying "Bula, Jen.  Bula, Brian." which means hello, they kinda sing it.  But Bula...not a cute name for a baby girl.

We did meet an amazing couple from Sweden, which is where Brian's family originated (hence the weird last name of Swedhin).  Their names were Anica and Bjorn.  Bjorn was in a diving accident in his 20's and was confined to a wheelchair with no use of his lower half.  Anica was amazing with him, she lifted him when he needed it, stayed back when he couldn't participate in an activity, and was incredibly patient and supportive.  They were on their honeymoon, too. 

I wanted a name that conveyed kindness and strength, that was unique but not made up, and was easy to say.  Well I got some of those qualities since no one can pronounce Anika right (try this - Aunicka).  For a middle name we went with Piper.  In Ecuador, the birthplace of our lovestory, Brian and I studied the caterpillars that fed on Piperacea, a beautiful plant with heart-shaped leaves. 

So there it is.  Anika Piper.  She is fiesty, bold, emotionally receptive and incredibly expressive.  She is also stubborn and smart.  And I sweet ass dancer!

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