You are right. Your opinion, while interesting, is irrelevant.

We’re well aware of the “son” suffix as historically meaning “son of.” However, patterns of language usage–just like social conventions–change over time. And, while ‘Emerson’ is certainly somewhat less than common, it’s fairly well established as a social custom–based on actual usage rather than personal opinion–to now utilize ’son’ suffixed names on girls (e.g., Madison, and Addison). Moreover, in terms of social convention, it would have been more ‘radical’ for us to actually use the name ‘Emerson’ with a boy… because it is, indeed, clearly becoming established as a “girly name.” To wit, I hope your (Emer)son doesn’t suffer any ass kickings.

By the way, I suspect you’re one of those people opposed to split infinitives? For the record, I think “to boldly go” is far better than “to go boldly” (nor, might I add, am I opposed to dangling participles or starting sentences with conjunctions). That’s right, I said it.

As for your side note, I only wish that I could have done more: something to really help. You know? In my own mind, words (and actions, I suppose) seemed so inadequate and unfulfilling. But, at least you hopefully know that others, like me, really do care and felt some small degree of what you were/are feeling. Maybe that makes the pain of it all a little less. I sure hope so.

I really do believe that things will work out well in the end. You’ll get the baby you’ve dreamed of having. This is just another bus stop en route, my friend. Yet, I also know that doesn’t make the frustration, anger, sadness, or questioning (why this? why now? why me?) any easier now. Hang in there. Libby and I are cheering you along the way!

As a side note (a very important one), thank you so much for your posts and your support. You have no idea how much it has meant to me.