What's in a name?

     "I share your dislike of the shortening of names but I must say that I'm not sure 'Alexandra' is entirely suitable for you. It seems to me that you require a name with rather more brio. I see you as a 'Lexie'. What do you think?"

    That passage comes from Maggie O'Farrell's The Hand That First Held Mine, and when I read it last night I felt a post coming on. We did talk about names a while ago, but I think we're allowed to re-visit the subject three years on! So, do you like your name? Have you shortened it or changed it - informally? Is there a name you wish you could use for a child or an animal? Any thoughts on nicknames? 

 
"That which we call a rose By any other name would smell as sweet", but I've yet to discover whether 'Alexandra' is more or less fragrantly a 'Lexie'. No doubt all will be revealed soon.