Wow, how fortunate you are to have been a stay-at-home-mom. I know so few moms who are able to do that. Your children are very lucky to have had you at home during those years! H may be a cold depressed fish, but he did give you that gift. One thing to be thankful for....
Yes, as a single mom you will have to work. The courts tend to push that, but I think working would probably be good for you. It will bring a positive change in your life and new meaning.
How old are your children?
Regarding MLC, most people don't realize it until after they've been through it. It's something you look back at and some people can define it while others just figure it's part of the process. Even as adults we go through typical stages of life like infants and young children. For example, MLC is sort of like a toddler going through the "terrible twos." Also, some people breeze though certain stages while others struggle. I've watched a few friends go through MLC. It's kind of fascinating to see and I'm always very curious about the end result. How they view the whole thing afterward.
Well, it does sound like you've thought things through. What's your first step? Do you plan to move out or file first?
There is no arriving, ever. It is all a continual becoming.
