Most girls change their last name when they get married. Some don't. I didn't. And not just for this reason:
The real reason I didn't change my last name is because I am very attached to my name. Very.
I don't want a crazy long hyphenated name. I don't want to drop my wonderful middle name to make my maiden name my middle name and have T's last name. I think I have a fabulous name right now. I love the way my name sounds all together (thanks, Mom and Dad!) and I love my awesome signature. But it's more than that. I love my name because it's my whole identity. And I love that my name is more than just me. I love that my name connects me to my ancestors on both sides. I'm proud of my name. I'm proud of the people I'm related to. I'm a *my last name* and to me that name means a lot. Maybe everyone else doesn't know what it means to be a *my last name* but I do, and I try to live up to that good name.
It's not that T has a bad or unpronounceable last name, I just don't have a strong connection to that name. But on the other hand, I am married to a guy with that last name and that is a pretty strong connection. Also, it would make some things (insurance, bills, church, etc.) easier if we had the same last name. I've been thinking about this lately because I have to get a passport so we can go to London next summer. So if I'm going to change my name, now is the time to do it.
Anyway, did you keep your maiden name? Do you have any thoughts / opinions on the matter?
P.S. I've pretty much decided to keep my name as it is. At least for now.
I wish I still had my maiden name and people still call me by it.(Because it's a tongue twister) I'm ok with my new one too because easier on the kids.
ReplyDeleteThe main reason I changed my last name was for future (now present) kids. It's easier on us and the kids, especially when you consider my communication issues. ;)
ReplyDeleteEven though I sign my name with no problems, often when I go to write my FULL name, I find myself starting to write my old last name. I love both names and I feel like my previous last name will always be a part of me.
One lady I know who is very much respected and loved by all who know her kept her maiden name when she married her husband long ago. Some people struggle for a bit after meeting them, but every person who knows this couple just takes it for granted now. It's just who they are.