My Intro: Thanks for Reading!

[RedSoxFan]

I realize I'm not addressing your specific question - but I don't know your wife, or the specific situation, or how you relate to your kids, so I'm sticking with generalities. I think the best place to show firm strong leadership is with your own life - exercise, health, career, spirituality (if applicable) - and even more importantly with your kids. If she wants you to take the kids, and you possibly can, do it - don't use the kids to create a burden on her.

Thanks for taking the time JF. It's great to hear your perspective.

As for exercise, health, career, spirituality and being a great Dad...I'm all over that part. Getting lined up on the subtleties and tactics is still a bit challenging. Unfortunately there isn't much in the DBing books that address my specific situation so I'm kind of winging it a bit.