When we were brainstorming names for this blog, we threw around a lot of ideas. For a while, none of those ideas gave us the warm, fuzzy feelings we were searching for. We tried to find a name that played off our unique “bookend” perspectives, knowing that our friendship is so unique and special because of how different we are. But that also lacked the “feels” we were hoping for.
After a lot of collaboration (and wine), what resonated most with us was the origin of our inner strength. When pondering that, we knew our strength came from the strong female role models we were exposed to growing up.
Our mothers, and definitely our grandmothers, showed us what it meant to live a life “outside the box,” and we immediately knew that we wanted to name our blog after them. We have recognized that these women made incredible sacrifices to provide opportunities to their daughters that they did not have. Because of that, we are here to make the most of those opportunities by using our corner of the internet to honor them. How are we going to do that? By celebrating the ladies who surround us.
The name Leo refers to my maternal grandmothers. Leocadia (Leo) Marques is a beautiful warrior who overcame adversity as she settled with her family in the U.S. after emigrating from the small Azores island of São Jorge. She is my our inspiration.
I figure, the best way to inspire others is to first be inspired myself! The meaning of LEO & MAUDE, and the women the name represents, is a constant source of inspiration to me. It gives all the warm, fuzzy feelings I craved in a blog name and I hope that I can forever keep this blog near and dear to my heart. That being said, thank you for being here! I appreciate and love each of you for joining me on this journey.
xoL&M
