Had the kids overnight - had a great time. Dropped them by the condo so I could go off to work - W was in a friendly mood... In fact, she was returning from a run as we pulled up - I thought she'd take the kids' bags and go in, leaving me to depart without me even going inside, but she was talking and engaging a bit, and started up the stairs, as though she was expecting me to come in (like usual)... So, I did.
We had short, nice conversation. Just before leaving, I asked her if we could meet this weekend, as I have something I would like to talk to someone about, and I really wanted her opinion, and advice about something. She asked what it was about, and I told her I didn't have time to get into it right now, but not to worry, it is nothing bad, I just would like to hear her thoughts on something... I feel comfortable with her advice, and would like to know her thoughts. She siad "Ok, well how about Sunday afternoon, I should have some time then...." I agreed to that, and offered that we could go up to the coffee shop, or even grab a lunch at that salad place we were talking about the other day. Whatever works, I am good with it. She said ok!
Funny, how she had been avoiding me for a while again, and this time it took only a little effort on my part, with a vague invitation, and she accepted it pretty readily.
So, now I have to rehearse what I want to say, about the living situation, the finanical situation, and figure out how to bring this up in an open ended way...without pressuring her into having to make a black or white decision, or cornering her. I will save the R conversation for later, maybe in a letter (per DB counselor's thoughts). Anyway, I'll do my best to keep it light, keep my cool...and if it starts to go off course, I can always drop the subject and try to make a nice date for her. I suspect I'll be moving to another rental soon anyway, and my mind is already there, so I haven't much to lose at this time, so I might not feel as pressured, as I am already getting things lined up there.
OK, that was kinda wordy... but at least I have something lined up for the weekend.
Me: 46 W: 46 M: 9.5 yrs D4, D9 D filed by her 11/3/08 Agrees to try rec at mediation 1/28/09 Says she still wants D in counseling 3/25/09 W and I back in DB counseling (!) 8/20/09 3rd Bomb 9/2/09