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Baby Names
Novalee
Novalee...what do you think? It's growing on me and its DH's top choice! 
If you do like it, what would you suggest for a middle name. I was thinking something along the lines of Pearl or Mae? Suggestions?
If you do like it, what would you suggest for a middle name. I was thinking something along the lines of Pearl or Mae? Suggestions? 
This discussion has been closed.
Re: Novalee
I thought this at first too...but come on...that's not THAT popular of a movie. Definitely not popular enough that it will withstand the test of time...
Ummm....what?
How is this even pronounced? Like, novelly? Or no valley?
I've never seen or heard of this name before, but it seems completely made up. No me gusta.
It's different... I think it sounds like two names Nova Lee.
I like Nova Lee *Lastname*
but I really don't like Novalee
I'm not familar with that movie, but I was reminded of a Chevy Nova. I think a fair amount of people (particularly car-lovers) would make that association.
[ syll. no-va-lee, nov-al-ee ] The girl name Novalee is pronounced NahVEYLiy- ?. Novalee is of English origin. It is used mainly in English and German.
Nope, not a made up name
Married since 06/19/2004|Anna born 11/19/2006|Charles born 11/1/11
Double undergrad graduation May 2011| Me: Psychology, DH: Communication| A long journey!
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I immediately thought of Where the Heart Is. But I'm not talking about the movie, which was cute, but not quite up to the caliber of the novel of the same name that it was adapted from. The book was well-reviewed, an Oprah book club pick, and won at least two awards that I know of. So, even if the movie doesn't endure, the book just might.).
It's also worth noting that the name Novalee was specifically chosen by the author to reflect the protagonist's circumstances--that of a poor, Southern white girl with little future. I think you'll find that most people feel it perfectly suited that character and will associate it with someone of similar class, whether they've seen the movie, read the book, or neither.
I guess I can understand the appeal--it's unusual, has the ever-popular -ee ending and sound, has the uber-trendy V prominently placed in its middle . . . but, honestly, ask yourself how you want your child to be perceived--personally, poor white trash is not the future I hope for my children and while certainly your daughter can easily transcend her name, she shouldn't have to. Her name should be chosen with her in mind.
I agree 100%
Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge Him,and He shall direct your paths.
Proverbs 3:5-6
Poor southern white trash was just the picture I had in mind for my future children... surely most people with any sense would make THAT association....
I agree, the movie isn't THAT popular, but like StrangeBird said-the book was extremely popular because it made Oprah's list. That's the only time I've ever heard the name, so that's what I'll always associate it with.
It's starting to seem like you don't really want our honesty--clearly, you'd rather argue with anyone who disagrees with your exalted opinion of the name.
If you're dead-set on Novalee, use it. Why even bother asking us?
definitely not arguing, I asked for opinions. I just thought it was funny that someone took it as far as saying my child would always be looked at as white trash and would have to "overcome" her name. I thought my sarcasm was obvious.....guess not
I understood your sarcasm, but I think StrangeBird is right on. People who have heard the name Novalee before will have most likely heard it from Where the Heart Is. It's an association that your child WILL have to overcome. People are judged based on their names all the time. I think choosing a solid, respectable name is one of the greatest gifts you can give your child.
When we reference the "perception" of a name on this board, quite often we're not referring to who you daughter is or how she'll be raised. Obviously if your daughter is clean, bright, and well-educated then she'll be well-received when she introduces herself, even with a bad name. But what about when your daughter isn't present to represent herself?
Employers reviewing resumes and applications are just one example of a moment when your daughter's name will be used to make a snap-judgment about her. If that employer's first instinct is to assume Novalee is a trashy name, your daughter is already working at a disadvantage if and when she gets interviewed. That is what I meant when I implied your daughter would have to overcome her name.
And while your sarcasm was blatantly apparent, I took the time to write out a detailed response to your question with an honest opinion--implying I have no sense (whether with sarcasm or not) wasn't exactly the nicest way to respond.
I wasn't saying or implying that you had no sense. I was sarcastically saying that anyone with sense would of course make that association...as in through out her life, or in the future. Meaning that I guess I forgot the power of Oprah and her influence on everything...including names apparently... I wasn't trying to be rude, I guess I just have a different sense or humor. Honestly, thank you for taking the time to respond, that was thoughtful. I will be more choosy of my wording next time.
I don't like it, but don't mind Nova Lee/Leigh. You, and she, will have to repeat the name for people.
I love Pearl.
I have always thought your little girls are absolutely adorable!
i thought of this movie too.
dislike.
Sounds completely made up and very cutesy.
What about Natalie? Sounds similar. And is a great name
This is almost exactly what I was going to post.
I think you should take the advice of Novalee's friend, Moses:
Moses: "You know, a name's important. Have you picked out a name
for your baby yet"?
Novalee: "Well, I was thinkin' about 'Wendi' with an 'I'."
Moses: Oh, don't you dare. Give that baby a name that means somethin', a good, sturdy name.
Darn...'Wendi" with an "I" was my second choice... Maybe I'll go with my 3rd choice and name her Americus...
Thanks for your opinions/thoughts ladies! Much appreciated. We just tossed around this name last night and I thought I'd ask. It's quite obvious where the board stands
By no means did I have my heart set on using it. DH liked it, but his # 1 choice changes weekly at this point. We are no where near narrowing down our rather long list. Right now we are just praying that this pregnancy sticks! Thanks again!
How novel! Not really though. It is a very bad name.
If I heard the name I would sarcastically wonder what she had against nonfiction. And what made her so like a novel as opposed to poemy or biography-y.
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This.
Agreed! That's the only place I've ever heard it.
ETA: I totally agree with Strangebird, as well. Even if people have never heard of the book or movie, that vibe is going to come across to most people, which is why the author chose that name.
the book was fairly popular...
but I have never liked the name
On the Baby Names board? Never!
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This, exactly.
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