BBJ, it's so very hard when there is so much going on to just sit & "do" w/ the kids, but I think it makes a huge difference. Like I said, we've been having lots of issues w/ our 2 youngest and just changing our routine w/ no TV and reading and making sure we're doing something that is focused on them makes a huge difference in their attitudes. Have you ever read the "Llama Llama" books? They're wonderful! There are only 3 of them, the first being "Llama Llama Red Pajama" and the 3rd that just came out is really good to help them have fun at school.
Anyway, what you are going through w/ your kids is totally normal even though you also have the separation to deal with.
You're doing great w/ the cards you've been dealt. It's hard, but just hang in there.
Me: 38 H: 35 S4, S5, S10 Bomb 01/07 Wanted D - nothing would change his mind Numerous A's prior to D bomb; EA prior/during D bomb Piecing 04/07 Deployed for a year 05/07 Still Piecing 2010 M 11 yrs 05/10