I would have changed my name if there had been children.
I’m sorry that you went through a divorce. When you think about it that way, maybe it is a good idea for each of a couple to have their own little ‘stash’ of money.
(In the most beneficent possible instance, you could buy each other secret presents :-)
Money is one of the things that my husband and I have never really argued over. We just ask each other if it’s ‘ok’ to buy something, and we both usually say ‘yes’.
Sometimes something comes up that seems extravagant, or for which it is the wrong time; and we reason it out.
(But I recall a day in the thrift store when I wanted a pristine, really cheap vacuum coffee maker - and he said ‘no’. He was more concerned with storing it than spending money on it, though...and I’ll get one someday :-)
A very good reason to keep some money separate. :-)
Money is one of the things that my husband and I have never really argued over. We just ask each other if it’s ‘ok’ to buy something, and we both usually say ‘yes’.
That's what I'd call a perfect marriage. Talking honestly with each other about money (just as you do) is exactly what all couples should do.