Is it acceptable to use the same name as my cousin- bear with me, I know it's been done before!

[jumpinghoops]

So- I have actually only just realised that my cousin's 18 month old son is named Edward as they've called him by his middle name since birth, I've never even heard them use Edward in reference to him (in photos or person)! However, I've just happened upon a photo album that lists his full name.

I really love Edward James for our soon to born son- do you think it's acceptable for me to ask my cousin if he minds us using it? We're not a close family but probably catch up maybe 3 or 4 times a year.

You felt squeezed out of the family because your cousin named her child after your dog? Why?

Yes, Miaow, why? You were there first and it's a dog!

My parents gave their dog a male version of my name...

If your cousin's son is 18 months old and you've only just realised what his actual name is then I'd say you are not close enough for it to be a problem.

It's a non-issue.

1. They don't call the other kid Edward
2. People aren't glued to their extended families for life
3. Edward has lots of shortenings and pet forms
4. It doesn't matter anyway

What about calling your son James Edward but use his middle name day-to-day?

Just wanted to say thanks for all advice/suggestions here. My cousin has come back to me to say he doesn't have a problem with it at all as they don't think of their son as an Edward- in his words 'he's most definitely a [Turkish name] now, not an Edward'.

Thanks again to all.