Malcolm Gorrill
Northern News Services

Inuvik (Sep 07/01) - Lawrence and Mary Rose don't just ask what's in a name, they make it their business.

The couple from Grande Prairie Alta. recently wrapped up a three-week stay in Inuvik. While in town they operated their portable business, "What's in a name."

Mary Rose looks up a name on her computer. Rose and her husband, Lawrence were in Inuvik for about three weeks to operate their business, "What's in a name." - Malcolm Gorrill/NNSL photo

People could look up their names on a computer or search through about 25 name books to find out the meaning behind their name.

The Roses began their business about six years ago.

"It started out as a hobby and it just kind of grew from there," Mary explained.

"We were doing it on weekends and then we decided to go full time."

This year the Roses are operating mostly within Alberta, but last year, they travelled into Atlantic Canada, and have toured across the country.

Business was good during their Inuvik stay, although they explained that usually, they set up in shopping malls where a lot of people walk by.

"There's probably been only one or two (names) while we've been here that we didn't have," Mary said.

"I don't think very many people do look into the meaning of a name when they give it to their baby, 'cause a lot of them seem surprised."

Mary said her favourite name is Takara, which is Japanese for "treasure."

Both Mary and Lawrence said they enjoyed their Inuvik stay, and that the people were friendly.

"It's a great area," Lawrence said.

"I haven't seen a blue sky like that in quite some time -- the colour of it."

The couple may fly up here this winter to catch the Northern lights. Lawrence explained he saw them in northern Ontario as a child.

"But they're not spectacular like they are here," he said.