Regarding being away from D8, I feel for you. Being away from my kids when my W and I separate, especially my super sweet D3, on my off week is really going to be tough- I'm dreading it. I tuck my kids in bed every night too so it's just going to be hard.
Sounds like you are making the right moves- staying busy, going out with friends, GAL, etc. I'm in the same boat you are in- W is taking the kids with her and a girlfriend for Trick-R-Treating on Halloween and I'll get the kids for Thanksgiving. I can live with that deal. Not sure what I'm going to do with myself- maybe just hang out here at the house, pass out candy and watch horror flicks on TV.
M: 41 W: 39 S: 11 S: 10 D: 4 1st contact w/OM: 1/19/09 EA began: 2/14/09 EA discovered: 3/1/09 I file for D 8/25/09 to protect myself _______________________________