The name Tyler means “Tiler of Roofs.” It's nothing overly special but I feel as though the name has had an effect on how I've turned out. The name is connected to my future in real estate and my passion for home development. The name is somewhat common and I like that due to the fact that it doesn't stick out but blends with the crowd. I’m not a fan of sticking out all the time but I have no problem making myself known when I feel like it. The name Tyler reminds me of a strong leader leading by example. 

My mom explained how she pulled my name from a baby book. She was going to name me Connor until she saw a tragic story on the news about a baby boy that was murdered, Connor Peterson. My mom couldn't get that story off her mind. Connor, a name that to me screams mischief and tragedy versus the simple, kindhearted name Tyler.

I could have been a girl named Alexis. Something my parents were almost certain of, with nothing to ensure that besides their own strong beliefs. They were so certain of this that they didn't even bring boy clothes to the hospital. But They were overjoyed that I was still a happy and healthy baby regardless of the gender.

Maybe in another life my name would have been TJ, like my dad originally wanted. A name that I'm glad didn't stick. A mix between my first name Tyler and middle name James., It's just too complex for my simple, humorous, and outgoing personality. My family and some of my friends call me Ty. Ty is more of a unique name and is short and simple. Ty is my preferred nickname.