(Originally published Tuesday, January 17, 2006)
Dear Willa,
It's a rainy Tuesday that feels like a Monday because yesterday was MLK Day. I'm at work, waiting for a phone call, and slipping in a little note to you.
On Saturday, the mail carrier brought us one of the three packages of paperwork on which we are waiting so that we can proceed to the next step. We're getting closer to you all the time.
You still have no middle name, however.
All around your Papa's closet door, I have taped some options, so we can see them in action. Each name recalls someone especially close - someone to whom you can look up and remember as you grow.
Will you be Willa Elizabeth, carrying the name of your mother, both grandmothers, three great-grandmothers and a certain strong-headed English queen? Willa Elizabeth is romantic, but surprisingly strong. But she hates how long her name is when it comes time to sign real estate closing papers. Trust me on that one.
Could you be Willa Elise, with a name almost shared by two women - Jahna and Lisa - who are my sisters is every way but biology? If I were basing my decision purely on giving you a name with the most solid role models, this would be the one.
Or are you Willa Jane, named for your father, Jahna and Rebecca? Willa Jane is no-nonsense. She takes care of business and she has a tongue that is as sharp as it is funny. Willa Jane wrote poetry in high school, and rolled her eyes at her teachers more than once.
Willa Josephine - is that you? You, with the initial J for your father, Jahna and all those other J's we love, and Josephine for the mythologized Aunt Annie Joseph and all of the Senchyshyns rolled into one. Willa Josephine, you remind me a bit of Willa Elizabeth and a bit of Willa Jane, but I think you combine their best qualities. Not too hard, but not to soft.
If only it weren't for things like Social Security cards and kindergarten, I would give you all those names.
Instead, we'll just have to choose one, and give you plenty of time with the people and stories of people, who inspired the others.
~Mom
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