Potato, potahto, tomato, tomahto!

The quest for names is still ongoing.

In a previous blog, I discussed etiquette and protocol when choosing names.  I am still adhering to my self-imposed rules,  There are a few names I like, however nothing is definite as yet.  I have come across a few that are confusing.  "How so?" you might wonder.  Well, the thing is this.  Certain  names not only have alternate spelling, but they also have alternate pronunciations.  This can lead to a lot of frustrations in a person's life if they happen to have one of them names.  I should know. I have heard it all - Rosalie, Rosalin, Roslyn, Rosalinda - you name it.

I have come to the conclusion that when in doubt, one should look into the origins of the name.  Let's take the name Andrea, for example.  There are at least three different ways to pronounce the name.  To me, however, it would sound like Undre-a.  The name itself is of Greek origins, where it is used for Males, and it is usually in the form of "Andreas".

A fun fact about Greek names ending in an s is that they cause a lot of people to make an ass out of themselves.

Whilst sitting at the doc's clinic waiting for my turn, there  was a couple with a young toddler who happened to be called Andreas.  "How do you know?" you might ask. Simple.  I heard his father say "Stop running around and come here Andreas."  I shook my head silently and thought to myself that not enough people research the names they pick for their children.

When it comes to formal nouns ending in an s-, such as the name Andreas, you would say "Andreas" only if you're talking about the person with someone else.  The moment you're addressing the person, you would drop the final s and call him "Andrea".

To me, this lack of research indicates the same level of IQ points as those belonging to people who pick random Kanji flash off the wall at a tattoo studio and actually believe that the particular symbol they chose means 'Strength' or 'Love', for example.  When in doubt, do some research or you'll end up making a fool out of yourself.  This, is a blog entirely dedicated to the topic.

One more thing - whenever you are weighing the options always make sure the initials don't spell something embarrassing or ridiculous.  "Such as?" you'll be asking, with a raised eyebrow.

Ok. let's say your surname is Downs.  You have a gorgeous Baby Boy, and you decide to name him Simon.  As a middle name, you choose Terence, in honour of the paternal grandfather.  Simon Terence Downs.  A good solid name, right?  Look at it again.  Simon.... Terence.... Downs.....

BAM! You've just condemned your son to a lifetime of bullying just because his initials spell the acronym STD.

Google and Wikipedia truly are your friends in these cases.  All you have to do is to look up whatever initials you've thought of and it will bring up a list of meanings.  Give it a shot! It is fun.  I looked up my own initials - RMD - and this, is what came up.  Thankfully, nothing too bad.

Be considerate - you might find it funny, but it will make your child's life a living hell.  Don't go naming your son Barry if your surname is Wright, for example.  It sounds too much like Barry White.  Hell, even I would take the piss out of someone with that name! Let alone others who truly want to bring him down just to try and boost up their ego!