Hey Shocked.... I think you did the right thing. Taking this process as slowly as possible is the best thing to do for everyone. It's potential impact is mind blowing, so yes, slow things down. A trial separation is good. Whether she agrees with you or not that this is a good move for her too, the trial separation vs. divorce, is not that important as long as you believe its the right thing to do.
Here's a quote for your wife: "Don't worry that children never listen to you; worry that they are always watching you." Robert Fulghum
Here's a quote for you: "The most important thing a father can do for his children is to love their mother." Theodore Hesburgh
