Hi Bobbijo I've been reading with interest about your letter and interactions with H. I can see you are at the next stage to me, so I'm watching and learning! I've just finished reading the Passionate Marriage. It is by far the best and most challenging relationship book I have ever read. Have you heard of it? He talks about what to do when couples reach the gridlock you describe above. If I could I would lend you my copy! I love how you turned on Desperate Housewives - that was a good move to look after yourself. And how you stopped the conversation once you had got to the 'dead horse stage'