Thanks everyone for your input.
H has always wanted his way, I see him as controlling. Of course, he sees me as controlling.
So, in light of that, I feel if I were to “give in” to his suggestion, he will feel he’s “won”.
I honestly think the kids are looking forward to the apartment I’ve chosen because of things they’ve said.
The downside to me financially is that I want to buy my own place but will be renting for a year before that can happen due to uncertainty of settlement and its timing and me needing to get the heck away from him ASAP.
Living in the house with him now is just very uncomfortable and I look forward to getting stuff that I choose. It’s always been for him about getting cheap used furniture, for instance, doing updates in the cheapest manner, and I am ready for a little nicer things. This sounds so petty when I read it back!
He buys so much junk food all the time too when it’s his turn to shop. He tries to help with laundry and ends up leaving his clothes in the washer or the dryer for days sometimes. (I refuse to take care of his stuff anymore as he’s home more than me as it is) I can see that wouldn’t change if we shared the house.
He also wants to do some other maintenance on the house yet and I’m suspicious that he would try to get that done and make me pay half if I’m still in it. He’s already threatened that, and I’ve told him that sort of thing could be negotiated during the settlement.
Ah well, I will still miss the dog the most!