Thursday's Thoughts: Characters With Your Name! Are You in the Story?

When I was working out tonight on the stationary bike, I was reading my book. I'm currently reading Asylum by Madeleine Roux in case I haven't already said that previously. Anyway, to my surprise, there is a female officer named officer Coates. Coates is my last name so of course, I got excited. Even though her character is later in the book and not even a main role, I still felt special. I hardly ever hear my name at all on TV or in movies and I'm sure many of you know what it feels like when you can't find your name on any souvenir keychains. I've actually only seen my name in a couple books and it was my last name at that. 

My thoughts for today are these. I personally love when I see my name whether it be my first or my last in a book. It almost makes me feel like I am really a part of the book as myself. Of course, I always feel like I'm a part of the book and that's why it's so hard when I finish a book that I really like, but having my name adds something to the story. How do you feel about that? When you see your name does it get you excited? Do you feel like you are ACTUALLY in the book or does it do nothing for you? Let me know in the comments below!