I like that you told your wife if she didn't want to go it was okay, only $6.50 and you could always take S instead and then take her another time when convenient. I think you handled it well. Just keep in mind you probably have a spirited woman (I've got a daughter who falls in that category so I deal with this pretty regularly) and they tend to "swing" emotionally. Also, my husband tends to get frustrated and overreact as well. I've FINALLY learned this is who they are and I try not to take any of it personally or too seriously.
By not taking it personally, I'm able to let a lot of it go and can still give love and affection after they cool down. I'm not hurt by it. I figure it's THEM. They can't help it that their emotions sometimes run on the hot side. I just try to stay calm, find humor when possible and support them the best I can.
BTW, I caught the conversation on PAs... it's funny how we'll draw a line and think, if our spouses pass it the marriage is over. But when we come to that line we sometimes have to rechallenge or thoughts and feelings and realize we still want to try and work though something we never thought we'd ever be able to do. I commend you husband for being a great dad and also being their for your wife. I believe that even if she doesn't fully see it now, at some point she is going to realize she was a very lucky woman to have such a patient and supportive guy. Keep up the great work!
There is no arriving, ever. It is all a continual becoming.
