Way back in March of 2016, scientists in the UK made the mistake of asking citizens to name their new polar research ship. The expected to get great dignified names from the public. Apparently they hadn’t been on the Internet lately. Instead the British voted for the name “RRS Boaty McBoatface.”

I thought it was hilarious at the time, but never heard anything since about it. But I did assume the scientists ignored the public’s great idea. And then one day this boat showed up in my neighborhood. Boaty McBoatface. It does not in anyway resemble the polar research vessel, but who cares? It made me laugh all over again. And it’s a good reminder for me — and to all writers — that when you hear a great character name, you need to grab it and write it down. And then use it.