In May 2023, our lives changed forever. Meet our sweet girl Delaney Jolie, also known as Laney Jo. Here’s what you need to know about Laney Jo, my parenting style, and how I will be sharing my experience as a new mama on social media.
+ How did you decide on the name Delaney Jolie?
Buckle up, this is going to be a ride. Cameron and I have been building a list of names for our (future) children since we started dating. So, it was easy to whittle it down until we got to one name that we’ve both adored for years… Jolie. I’ve always had a fondness for this French-rooted name (a heritage both Cameron and I share together). Not to mention the name “Jo” has special meaning to my side of the family.
Then, the unexpected happened. A few months after setting down roots in Chattanooga, I was back in California for my best friend’s bachelorette party. The night before we set off for Paso Robles, I was up sick all night. With the cross-country travel, a couple glasses of wine, and the California heatwave, I chopped it up to a fluke. But then, I was sick again… and all through the next morning. My beautiful bride is lucky I didn’t vomit in the car ride on the way to our destination! As the weekend went on I started to wonder… could this be morning sickness?
As I impatiently waited for my OBGYN appointment back in my hometown, I met an amazing group of ladies at the bachelorette… including a the bride’s sister-in-law (to-be), Delanie. Immediately I thought, wow! What a unique name and what a smart, confident woman this Delanie was. After much Googling, I discovered this name also shared French and Irish heritage which was important for Cameron. Not only that… but Del is the name of Cameron’s grandfather. Now, this new name was making it extremely difficult to decide between the two. So, after much discussion… we decided not to choose all! Nine months later, Delaney Jolie was born and we couldn’t be more excited to begin our journey as parents.
+ Will you share photos and videos of Delaney?
Until our baby girl is old enough to make her own decisions, Cameron and I will be creative with how we share our journey with Delaney. This includes being very selective of which photos and videos we share on social media. As we navigate this unknown territory, we may provide some artistic photos that feature a side profile or the back of her head. But first and foremost, it’s our responsibility as parents to protect our babe from the world and keep her innocence intact for as long as possible. I hope you understand and respect our decision as parents.
+ Will you still share your journey as a new mother?
Absolutely! While Cameron and I are protective of our daughter, I also want to be open about my experience as a career mama raising a girl in the South. As we navigate this life-changing experience, I will be as open and honest as possible without jeopardizing the wellness of our child. I’m beyond excited to join our motherhood with our friends, family, and community!
