Return to Maiden Name?

[findmydream]

I was thinking about this recently. I have only been separated for about six months. What have others done regarding their last name if they changed it when they got married? I also have two children with him. In a way I kind of want to change it back (I have on Facebook, but of course that isn't official or anything). I also kind of want to leave it so that I still have the same last name as the kids, but of course if I were ever to remarry, I would more than likely take his last name. I don't want to go the hyphenating route either because both names begin with "St" and it just doesn't sound very good (and would be very confusing). I don't imagine there would be any sort of biblical advice on this as I understand it is a much more modern ritual taking the husband's last name. Just looking for points of view, ideas and thoughts on the subject. Thanks!

 

[akmom]

I'd want to keep my kids' last name too. I see no reason to change it, unless you're remarrying. In my parents' generation, people didn't. Today it is like the first thing a divorced couple does. Or maybe they just do it unofficially, like you.

 

[BigDaddy4]

In my experience, the woman has changed back to their maiden name. The main reason is they took his when they married, and now that they are no longer married, they change it back.

Think about this - say you meet a new guy. Do you think it would be weird for him to know that you still have your ex's last name and not the name you were born with? As a guy, I would, as it would seem like there is still some kind of bond there with the ex.

But, to each their own.

 

[SarahCarlene84]

I'm changing mine back. Feels right to me mostly because I've re-entered my dad's household (being quite the "prodigal daughter") and feel like his daughter again not someone's wife so I guess it's personally symbolic to me.

 

[Lotuspetal_uk]

I will be keeping his name. It's the same as the kids and I have no current plans to remarry. I will more likely remain single while I focus on the children.

So right now it seems the right direction for me.

 

[Autumnleaf]

If you don't like the guy then that might be enough reason for you to change it. My friend remarried right after her divorce and she couldn't wait to change her name.

 

[blessedmomto4]

I changed mine. My deciding factor was.. I could do it for free and just have it added to the divorce or, decide later and have to pay a ton of money. I can't stand my ex or his family (he cheated,left me ect ect and his parents and siblings backed him up and even aided in it). I wasn't going to do it at first so t hat I could have the same last name as the kids BUT.... I have a lONG discussion with them and they didn't care at all, in fact they couldn't understand why I was asking. But, to each their own.

 

[Annessa3]

I kept his name. Mostly because I didn't want to go thru all the forms and cost of changing passport, professional licensing, accounts, etc.

I've been known by this name for 18 years; switching back to maiden name seems not too important.

 

[emily_elizabeth]

I just got divorced last week and went back to my maiden name. He was extremely abusive and we had no children, so there was no reason to keep it.