AmyInAtl, your post sounds so much like my sister's soror story that I thought you were her. She was in an identical situation. She and her husband (former military) married young and had been together for about 10 years. She didn't want any kids, but he was so eager to be a dad, that she agreed to at least one. Soon as she got pregnant he started acting funny. Didn't want to hear about the doctor's visits, wasn't try to buy any baby stuff, and stopped being attentive. As the pregnancy progressed she got very sick and couldn't work, that when the hostility kicked in. I've only met him once, when I dropped my sis off at their house for a meeting, but at the time he seemed very nice and cordial. It was hard to imagine him being so mean to his wife who is a sweetheart. But after the baby was born, things just got worse. She was still sick, he refused to pay for things (i.e. the mortgage), and she had no help with the baby. Eventually he left and couldn't find him for a minute and her parents had to come and take care of her and the baby. It's been a few years now. They're divorced and as far as I know there was never any explanation for why he changed so much. I also don't know how much of a dad he is to his daughter. I know he didn't see her for awhile, but last I heard he was at least in their life.
These guys that we grow up with as childhood sweethearts, seem to stay happy and cool, as long as thing don't change.
Too much change, then they can't cope, then they change.
The only reasons why I can think he has not up and left, is because he has no money and the car is in my name thank GOD.
I also tell him, when he goes, to please take his 3 kids with him, my son is 18. I lie and say I don't want them. That way, he thinks twice before he tries to disappear.
In addition I offer no hostility or aggression towards him, on the day to day living, so he feels pretty complacent and comfy. I am just too tired and bummed out to argue.
I think I may have to emotionally detach from him. Remain pleasant and nonconfronting. Focus on goals for independence. My girls can start school fulltime in 18 months. During those 18 months, I can work and try to save money. Finish up my RN degree with Excelsior online. Clear up my credit best I can.
And just stay busy, with a focus in my heart to know like an oppressed slave, freedom will come. Under and through this time of darkness I can not lose site of freedom and will have to work hard, strive and pray for it.
We do need that sticky for people going through relationship breaks, tough patches, seperation and divorces. It would sure be nice to be able to get through with heartfelt words from positive people.
I have taken one step towards independence. I have not worked in 40 months, Since this saga began. I start a new job tomorrow. Thank Allah.