Changes

First post, I thought as a "newlywed" it was appropriate to start a new blog.

While I have been practicing for a few years, it's still strange to see my new name in print.  Awesome, but strange.

I like my new name - not that there was anything wrong with my old one, it tied me to my parents (whom I respect and love more than anything), it is strong, it is honourable (unless you include an ex-cabinet minister with the same last name - no relation thankyouverymuch), and I was never ashamed to have my Dad's last name.

It's just this new name has a different meaning.  It means I have tied my life to Jon's forever.  It means we are officially and legally recognized as a couple, and by the courts as a single entity.  It means we openly and without reserve committed to each other for life.  It means so much.

I talked with my Dad about changing my name, because I didn't want him to think I was looking forward to getting rid of my maiden name for some reason.  He said he anticipated it, because "that's what's done".  Actually, I told him, I'm in the vast minority for women my age - apparently in our society less than 30% of women over 35 change their name at marriage.  He was perplexed by that, but I don't think he is all that bothered by the name change - in fact I think he thinks it's neat.

Mum and Dad adore Jon.  So do the rest of the family members.  It helps that there is so much support for this relationship.  Enough support that all of the family dressed in their costumes for the wedding - and that's WAY WAY WAY outside the comfort zone for most of them.  Particularly my folks.

The wording in our program said:
"Jon and Laurie have built their relationship on common conversation, respect, and love.  These things give the relationship a solid foundation for continued building.  They will all deepen over time, cementing the bond between the two of them, allowing them to constantly grow with each other"

Kinda says it all.