Coparenting plans also mean that when he takes the kids camping, you can feel proud of him for helping the kids become healthy adults.
Even though it must hurt to be separated from your kids, you'll know what to expect with a plan. You could also be able to move from the pain sudden changes would cause as you sink into a routine. I think it is in the routine that the kids start feeling safety again. Instead of asking you, "why can't you go camping with us", your kids can get used to knowing it is dad's time with them.
As far as guilt, flowmom, remember that he left. He should feel guilted sometimes. I know that if I ended off leaving, while W may have begun this by asking for the D, I will always feel some guilt for what could have been. You do not need to worry about his guilt unless you are trying to make him feel that way, which would be manipulative.
I have a feeling that you would approach this issue with tact and care, and your H will respect you for it.
I can't remember if you said this before, but did ever ask him to try out Retrouvaille? You don't have to pay much if money's an issue, but before sorting out a partial step toward a D, why not ask?
