what's in a name?

Most British Baby Names, 2010

RANK	BOYS	GIRLS
1	Alfie	Maisie
2	Olly	Poppy
3	Archie	Ellie-May
4	Harry	Imogen
5	Kenzie	Lily-Mae
6	Finlay	Ffion
7	Barnaby	Darcey
8	Ollie	Freya
9	Freddie	Bethan
10	Osian	Ellie-Mae

This is interesting.  The author of The Baby Name Wizard, points out that British names are not what they used to be, or at least not the formal, stereotype names we, as Americans, expect them to be. These are the author's own lists of typical British-sounding and typical American-sounding names.
Molly was just asking the other day what I would name her if she was a boy, born right now. I said, "Alfie."  She was not happy, but I was not kidding.  Must be all the Lark Rise to Candelford I've been watching lately.
There are several others I love on that British list too.

Most American Baby Names, 2010

RANK	BOYS	GIRLS
1	Landon	Addison
2	Anthony	Avery
3	Gavin	Hailey
4	Angel	Allison
5	Andrew	Kaylee
6	Brayden	Aubree
7	Jose	Natalie
8	Elijah	Brooklyn
9	Christian	Ashley
10	Hunter	Lillian

2010 baby name rankings

	BOYS	GIRLS
	1   Jacob	Isabella
	2   Ethan	Sophia
	3   Michael	Emma
	4   Jayden	Olivia
	5   William	Ava
	6   Alexander	Emily
	7   Noah	Abigail
	8   Daniel	Madison
	9   Aiden	Chloe
	10 Anthony	Mia

The Social Security Administration has just released 2010's top baby names.  I am fascinated with names and their staying power, or lack-thereof. The surprise on the 2010 list, for me, is Anthony. I don't know a single Anthony under the age of 18.  And now that I think about it, I don't know any babies named Michael. Do you? Those names must be hot in other parts of the country. {Demographics are fascinating too.} Are there any surprises for you?


FYI: "Sarah" was in the top 10 for at least a decade, much of that time as #1 or #2. {My parents were ahead of their time, as most Sarah's I know are younger than me.} But it has since fallen to #30.


Go here for a list of the top 1000 names.
And here for the fastest rising names.

we get to pick 2

I just got this book in the mail. I love it! I have been following the baby name wizard blog for quite some time now - even before I was planning to have another baby (or 2). Names are fascinating. Go check it out.