What's in a Name

People always give me a strange look if I mention my husband's name is Oby. (pronounced Oh-bee).

"Do his parents love Star Wars or something?"

No. He is not named after Obi Wan Kanobi.

"Opie?"

No. He was not named after Ron Howard's character on the Andy Griffith Show.

Someone asked me about his name just today, so I figured I got some 'splainin to do. Here goes.

This was the picture I first saw of him. I don't think I've ever publicly explained how Oby and I met. It's long and complicated and funny and for another post. But here was the picture....


I thought he was a cutie. Then I found out his name was Oby and I had the same reaction that everyone usually has..... "What kind of a name is Oby?''

Turns out he is named Michael Obadiah Bennett. Michael is his dad's name and Obadiah is his dad's favorite prophet from the Old Testament. Mike, correct me if I'm wrong, but my understanding is that he loves Obadiah the prophet because he wrote the shortest book in scripture.... He had something to say, it was important, he said it and moved on. No beating around the bush. Mike is that kind of guy. Oby is definitely that kind of guy.

So if you're like I was, then you're probably thinking, 'Why doesn't he go by his first name?'

That was his mom's plan. She didn't want him to be named that, but Mike was persistent, so she gave in and said it could be a middle name and he would go by his first name.

It didn't happen. He has always been called Oby.

I found out while dating him that he is definitely an Oby....



Just like his name, he is unique, he makes people scratch their head and ask why a lot, and oftentimes even makes people laugh right to his face!....


But I wouldn't change him - not for the world. I wouldn't change his name either, just because it is so HIM and I love HIM. He asked me once if I would prefer for him to go by Michael or Mike. I almost slapped him for considering it. He is my Oby and that is that.



Just like the prophet he was named after, he is a very straight-forward kinda guy. Gets right to the point. NO beating around the bush. I don't believe he's prophetic, but he is definitely a man of God. His straight-forwardness and complete honesty was a big part of why I fell in love with him. I was seeking that after some of the dating experiences I'd had. And then I found it in Oby....


Chloe thinks he pretty much rules the world. She adores her daddy too!....





I'm grateful for my very unique husband and best friend. Where would I be without him? I don't even want to know....