Guys, I really, truly appreciate the sentiments, but this is actually a good thing; at least for me. I finally realized what a low priority I was to her, and sometimes, well... ya just gotta take care of yourself for a change. <img border="0" title="" alt="[Smile]" src="images/icons/smile.gif" /> Once I cut the emotional tie to the marriage a couple years ago, it was only a matter of time. Since I was the only one with that tie to the marriage, once I was through, so were we.
As far as the kids, that's the hardest part. Our oldest (9) is being so amazing with all this, and I constantly tell him how much we both love him, and how difficult I know it is for him. He's got it roughest of everyone involved (his four-year old brother is easier... doesn't really know what is going on), and he's walking such a fine line, trying to be the best boy he can for us both, while at the same time trying not to alienate the other parent. I always tell him he *can't* do that, but of course the end of the family as he knows it is the toughest thing he can possibly go through. My heart breaks for him, yet all I can do is just love him more and more. Christmas is gonna be tough this year, but hopefully it'll all settle out by next year.
And Dave... re-reading the top of the post, I still can't imagine what you went through with the loss of your son. I've stood by a couple other online friends *as* they were losing their children to the same thing, and hugged my own Boys tighter each time. I just can't imagine.
Merry Christmas to you both, as well as anyone else who has had the good fortune to have found this place. I know I'll be using the MB Principles again at some point in the future... hopefully with better long-term results <img border="0" title="" alt="[Smile]" src="images/icons/smile.gif" />
