I must admit I have used Ms since I was about 16. I felt too old ( or even possibly too young in the spinster sence) to be a Miss and as we have never married I have had no need of the Mrs. When I was young I definately felt that it was unfair taht my maritial status was easily recognised but not that of a man in the same position.

I am ok with whatever people address me as if they change that address after I tell them to. Although, I do not like sales people addressing me by my first name while they are trying to sell me things.

Our problem is that, having two surnames in the house we get twice the amount of cold calling. Still we usually just say that there is not a Mrs L'amie or a Mr Fotheringham and put the phone down. If all else fails Tim tells them that the house is being repossesed next week. It can case some confusion in relation to Cat who has her father's surname but I have found it simplicity itself in the schools who are used to dealing with complicated step families - for example Cat's boyfriend has two step brothers ( twins) who were in the same year as him)

What I really hate is when people address things to mee, assuimg I'm male based on the job that I do - once again is forgivable or worse still - this happens a lot when the envelope is addressed correctly but the letter begins dear Sir or Dear Mr Fotheringham. Very Sloppy Systems !

All the best

Julie