I am so, so, sorry that you guys go through these cycles of your H coming and going.
I can see how devastating it must feel for the kids - almost like they are being abandoned yet again every single time their dad leaves...
I am not sure what would be a good way to help them cope better when the time to say goodbye comes, except for what you have been doing all along - giving them all your love and showing them you are their rock.
But I am no expert and I don't know if perhaps a family therapist could have something else to add to help make those transitions smoother for the kids.
You must feel so helpless when that happens - I admire you, dear friend for all the strength you show throughout.
You are an amazing, amazing woman and mother. Keep focusing on the positives, on what you have accomplished, on how far along you've come and don't worry about the D, or filing or not filing - if and when you are ready, you will know.
(((((((busting))))))
Me & H: 44 D7, D6, S3 Together: 20y, M: 17y EA: 11/13/10, Sep: 12/23/10 EA becomes PA: Spring 2011 H filed for D: 09/06/12 D Negotiating began 2/15 OW seemingly gone on 3/15 Still negotiating D