I didn't mean to say that's all there is to your "change" & new attitude, don't get me wrong.
I know that stepping out of your comfort zone no matter how much you hate it, is difficult, but when you remain in it, it soon becomes a vicious circle. I think that's what has been happening with you and your W and your M. The kids, timing, work... We all know the drill as FG I think once told me. I think you are now testing the waters to step out of this circle. It takes guts, courage but it can't go wrong.