AIBU?
Actually I think through writing this I’ve answered my own question, and Yes, I am! However, if you can bear to read through my outpourings, I’d love some opinions/advice.
My husband of 24 years suddenly walked out on me three weeks ago. Looking back, there probably were warning signs, but I really did believe we were working through some issues and reaching a point of being stronger than ever. Turns out he is “in love” with a woman at work, and has been seeing her since mid-December, but I think she brought things to a head, rather than being the “reason” for him leaving. These last few weeks have been like a badly designed roller coaster ride… far more downs than ups!
My issue is that I decided I need a break from the responsibilities he has left me with – large dog and a 17yr old daughter going through final stages of IB studies and possible split from her boyfriend – to take some time to think about what I need and to lick my wounds. I plan to do this over Easter and he has agreed to be around for DD and DS (who will be home from Uni). He’s e-mailed me to say he’ll be around and will invite his dad and step-mum round for Easter Sunday lunch, but he’ll be a day later that arranged because he’s going away with his ‘girlfriend’ the week before. I have real problem with him living in the family home for the week and having a big family lunch, using all the store-cupboard ingredients I have bought (I really do know that bit sounds petty!), and carrying on as though everything is normal… BUT WITHOUT ME!!
I understand he wants to keep things ‘normal’ for the children, and I realise I was the one who asked him to be there for them. What do you think, AIBU??