25, I appreciate your input so much. I cannot stress that enough. You have a way of targeting my flaws and pointing them out. Some of them you hit, RIGHT on the head. You are correct on some many things, and like usual, it has opened my eyes. Your words are always very clear and usually very on target. I do want to point out a few things that I feel there is some confusion about. I know you hate this and feel that I am arguing. I see it differently, simply because facts were stated that are not exactly accurate, and I want to set that straight.
First, W was not a STAHM, not exactly. She ran a childcare business in our home. The reason we chose this was, after the birth of our daughter, W wanted to be close to her. Prior to the birth of our daughter, W managed a cosmetics business. She brought home a pretty decent wage and benefits package. After the birth of our daughter, she took one year off to be with her exclusively. The following year, we both decided it would be best if she could spend time with daughter, but acknowledged that we could not do without the extra income. The childcare business was started and brought in roughly $2,500 of net income every month. W did the majority of the work, but I had a 4 hour window in the middle of the day that I was off work, so I assisted her on a daily basis with the kids or chores. Shortly before BD, W decided to change her direction. She no longer wanted to have her childcare business, partly because Daughter was now in school full time. After BD, W got licensed as an insurance agent, and now "CHOOSES" to work 12 hours a week. She has been doing this for well over a year with no effort towards increasing her income. She nets roughly $500 a month. You can draw a conclusion to what her intentions are yourself.
The second thing I want to point out is that I did have a counselor. I actually had two counselors, a marriage counselor and an independent counselor. I also spoke with a pastor from my church regarding my situation. I joined a small group, albeit religion based, it focuses on life skills, as well as Christ. That has been very helpful to my growth. During this process, I came here, which was also very helpful and continues to be helpful in my growth. I attended a one day parenting class, which was required by my state in order for a dissolution of marriage. I paid attention, and I did come away with a lot from that class. I have read several books, something I have NEVER done previously in my life. A few of them I have read multiple times to fully comprehend the messages. My point is, I am not simply wishing on a prayer and spouting off without putting in the work. I am working on myself, and I am continuing to grow.
I just wanted to clear these things up, incase there was any confusion.
