I like Ruled's suggestions, too. My first instinct when you said you didn't know what to tell the kids if they asked where H was, was to tell them the truth--"Kids, I really don't know where your dad is." Better than lying to cover for him and later having them angry that you lied...

Me-35

Together: 18 yrs
M-12.5 yrs
S-8
D-4
D'd: Feb. 2010

The LORD your God is with you,
he is mighty to save. --Zeph. 3:17