The Naming of Henry and Hollis

 

Throughout my pregnancy we chose and changed names many times- including Levi, Nathan, Holden, Harvey, Easton, and Weston. We finally decided on Henry and Hollis, despite some opposition from their older siblings. We talked about other options after that but kept coming back to these two names.

Hans and I had not decided which baby would be named Hollis and which baby would be named Henry but the minute Hans saw Hollis he knew the name fit him perfectly.  He didn't say anything until we could see both boys.

When we had both babies in the room we all decided on our own who should be named Hollis and who should be named Henry. There was no debate or discussion. We just knew. Hollis was the smaller and first born and Henry was the bigger one with wide open eyes and dark hair.   Even their older siblings when they arrived the following morning agreed upon meeting them.

Hollis Makaio

Hollis is named after Hans' favorite grandfather. His grandpa Hollis was a man of faith and good humor. Hans remembers a story his dad, Kendell tells of when his dad, Hollis, was dismissed from a calling in sacrament, suddenly and without notice because of some unfounded suspicions that he was associating with some groups opposed to church views. The next week Kendell was surprised to see his dad getting ready for church and asked why they would go there after what happened. He said "they cannot take my testimony of the gospel." This example had a great impact on his son and set a foundation of faith for generations. Hollis is fondly remembered by everyone in his family, especially grandchildren who remember how he teased and played with them.
Nickname: Hollicito

Henry Akoni

Henry is also a family name. Hans and I both have great grandfathers further back in our line with the name Henry. Of Germanic origin, Henry is a strong name, with a royal pedigree. The meaning of Henry is "home leader," from Haimric, derived from haim meaning "home" and rîc meaning "power, ruler". We both really liked the name and thought it went well with Hollis.
Nickname: Henry Bug

In keeping with Thompson family tradition, we gave both boys Hawaiian middle names. Akoni means "priceless or invaluable." Another possible meaning is "praiseworthy." Makaio means "gift of God."