This comment makes me happy because not only did you totally understand what I was trying to say, but also because your story is such a good one. You should be proud to be a Lenhardt girl. You are carrying on traditions, and all good ones. I especially love the “There were no BOY or GIRL roles…” Your father will be VERY well preserved in all of you with or without the tattoo. But if you decide to get one, please don’t make it a tramp stamp. I’m thinking that’s not what he’d have in mind for you.
Love hearing from you, Kathleen. This comment made my day for many, many reasons.
You’re a strong, intelligent woman. Exactly the kind of reader we love, the kind my girls would look up to.
XOXOXO R

When I became engaged to Roger, I let him know that I would take his name (it was important to him) but I was never letting go of Lenhardt. He said that was ok with him….So there you have it! We were both happy.

I moved my first last name to be officially my middle name when I got married. I was sad to give up my middle name (which came from my great grandmother) but at the time I didn’t want 4 names (I thought it would be cumbersome). So I went from Kathleen Mae Lenhardt to Kathleen Lenhardt Meyers. I liked it. it was perfect for the next chapter of my life.

In my heart I’ll always be a Lenhardt girl which to me is defined by a man who worked hard for his family, did all that he knew to make a great life for us, showed us what it means to be an immigrant from Europe with $7 dollars in your pocket, not speak the language and make something of yourself. Provide for your family and show unconditional love. Teaching his daughters that you can do anything if you put your heart/mind and handwork into it. There were no “boy” or “girl” roles or jobs (especially around the house). And I will go on and teach my own two kids this same philosophy. BTW, my son’s middle name is the same as mine, Lenhardt. My son has asked me over the years why I gave his this name and I am proud to explain it to him. My twin sister picked Lenhardt for both of her children’s middle names (boy and girl). This is our way of preserving him forever. But after reading this article, I will seriously consider getting my first tattoo! 🙂 XO

Laurane! You’re back!! I’m so happy to see you here!! Your name is the perfect representation of who you are (at least from what I know of you). I love it, and I love that you’re here, and I love that you GET what I’m trying to say. Thank you for that. So happy to see you pop up. Don’t stay away too long!! Miss you!
XOXO R

No more perfect comment to kick this post off, especially considering you’ve been married for how many years and I still refer to you as Garber. Dr. Garber, but always Garber. I love that you get it. You always do! We (I mean she) is registered at Neimans, Saks and of course, Bendel. Love you forever, Garbs.