So, as I've told my gb gm, I moved out last week. It's pretty clear that this is final. Things were said and done that can't be unsaid or undone (I've really only given a small part of the story here).
I have a boss who may be the best boss in the known universe. She is working out of the Albuquerque office for two weeks, and handed me her keys before she left. Said that I am welcome to stay until she gets back; just clean up after myself.
So I have until next Friday there.
Also, as I've mentioned, my kid sister has been staying in the basement apartment (completely separate entrance; own kitchen and bathroom, etc.). She is moving out next week into her own 1BR apartment. So I talked to my wife, and she is ok with me staying in the basement apartment until we figure out what the best next step is. Her only condition is that she wants me to consider it as if it were a rental, and no traipsing around the house as if I lived there. Sounds reasonable.
I've been out since Friday, and I miss the kids something aweful. Like a hole in my chest. I've seen them a few times; this past sunday and again to carve pumpkins yesterday. So it will be nice to see them every day again.
I've got a couple of friends who have been sending me house/townhouse/duplex listings in the neighborhood. Some are actually reasonably priced. But I really need to do a budget. Wife still doesn't have a full-time job, and I'm not sure she's in a hurry to do it. Baby steps, i guess.
Anyway, that's my update.
Sorry, man. How are the kids? How old are they?
Daughter just turned 10, in 4th grade. Son will be 13 in January, in 7th grade.
My son is about the coolest person I've met. Fun and smart and funny kind and sensitive and strong. Going to be a good, strong, decent man. He's taking it in stride. Hell, my wife and me barely see him now, between school, homework, soccer, basketball, and hanging out with buddies. It's almost like he's got his own life/issues going on; he's not dwelling too much on our stuff. As long as he knows he's got a safe place at home and parents who would do anything for him, I think (hope) he'll be ok.
My daughter is perceptive, and witty, and smart, and beautiful, and a hellion. Just a ball of emotion ready to blow at any minute. In short, a woman/girl. I'm a little worried there. She still needs a little TLC. But i'm hoping she is ok. My wife, for all the issues we had, is an amazing mother.
I'm a little scared. Mostly that they will be ok. I have to give a public shout-out to GM, who has been a saint responding to my emails with encouragement and humor. Thanks, man.
A couple of family members have asked whether I would go back home if my wife would take me. I'm not sure. There was a lot of stuff broken. But I'm not sure I'd wish separating from your kids and family on my worst enemy, either. It's strange.