I really don't know why I let it bother me so much.
Personally, I think it's more the pure laziness of people that angers me, more so than the actual mistake itself.
It's just so disrespectful. Here's the thing, if your name is Jane, I will call you Jane - it's not rocket science, is it?
So, why then do some people think it's ok to call me every double-barrelled concoction under the sun but the right one?
Usually, I let it just wash over me but this week, it's been particularly bad. Once on the phone, I was dealing with an office I speak with regularly as a journalist and the person ended the call by saying "Thank You, Marie".
Marie? Are you serious? I'll be honest, it infuriated me. Later, I sent not one but two e-mails, which I usually sign off Marie Louise, because that's my name.
However, both replies I received referred to me as "Maria".
I was furious. Why does this keep happening?
Let's face it, it doesn't take much to actually read a name, does it?
And it's just good manners to address someone by their name - it's not like I'm asking people to address me as Princess.
Why is it that people don't have the courtesy - or take that extra second - to say a double-barrelled name or write it for that matter.
And no, it's not ok just to pull any double-barrelled name out of the air and hope that's enough.
Let's be clear.
I am not Marie Therese nor am I Anne Marie nor Mary Frances nor Marie nor Maria nor Mary - my name is Marie Louise and there's no hyphen either, while we're on the subject.
Of course, I'm only mentioning all of this now because I was talking to a friend this week who was asking my opinion on double-barrelled names as she will soon be having a new baby.
Obviously, I recommended them - as I don't want the tradition dying out - however I did warn her that they come with responsibilities.
She should raise her new daughter to expect to be addressed properly and accept nothing less - which is what I intend to do from now on.
After all, us double-barrellers are a pretty unique bunch - so special in fact, they named us twice.
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BORING REALITY
Enough reality already.
These days, it's pretty much impossible to turn on the telly without finding `scripted reality' on every channel.
In the beginning, I was on board but now I'm just fed up with all things reality on TV.
And now, another has graced our screens.
`100 Years Younger in 21 Days' saw eight celebrities (yeah, right) including EastEnders actress June Brown try to lose a combined 100 years from their faces, bodies and brains over a period of 21 days without undergoing surgery. Just awful.
Please bring back good television - real drama and not Essex-style.
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Competition
With Mother’s Day just days away, it’s time to get thinking about the perfect present for the wonderful lady in your life.
From free babysitting to always being on hand to taxi you around, Mother’s Day gives us a chance to thank that special mum, step-mum or family member who goes that extra mile.
So, how do you fancy winning her a voucher for a delicious hand-crafted Afternoon Tea for two at the gorgeous La Mon Hotel & Country Club?
Conveniently located 15 minutes from Belfast city centre, yet nestled in the countryside, La Mon is an outstanding four-star hotel, described as one of the finest in the north.
Perfect for family breaks, romantic getaways or leisurely weekends, La Mon also boasts an incredible Afternoon Tea – complete with delicious scones and mouth-watering sweet treats.
So, with Mother’s Day on Sunday, March 11, why not treat mum to some indulgence?
I have two Afternoon Tea for two vouchers to give away.
If you fancy winning a voucher, simply email your name, address and telephone number – along with the answer to the question below – to competitions@irishnews.com
Closing date for entries is Tuesday, March 6, 2018
(Q) What date is Mother’s Day this year?
Normal Irish News Rules Apply
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The winners of the Free'ist competition are Susan McMahon-Jess from Belfast, Connor Bradley from Darragh Cross, Co Down, and Teresa McQuaid from Newry.
