Ok: any and all opinions and advice welcome.

I need to make a financial decision. Here's the crux:

H said he will not be coming back (said he is afraid the changes he sees are only temporary, he loves me but he's too afraid to take a leap of faith, blah blah blah). At least he noticed the changes, huh?

He expressed concerns over money. He convinced me it was ok to change careers right before he left. I quit my job, am now a full-time student and then he walked out with the promise the money would not be an issue. Well, now it is. He had worked out a budget (without consulting me), and grossly underestimated how much money I need to live off of within reason.

I am selling my car ($275/month) and he is giving me his work truck. So, free car! But, still need money to support the house,etc.

I kicked around the idea of selling my house- not going to be practical right now. I would end up paying at closing.

H suggested I file for separation so I can get public assistance. Here's where I need advice!!! I don't want to file. Everything in my soul is screaming not to file. For moral, personal and practical reasons:
1. He wants out, he should do the work.
2. Sorry that this is costing him more money than he thought- he should be obligated to support me until I graduate (this time next year). I WOULD HAVE NEVER QUIT MY JOB IF I KNEW THIS WAS GOING TO HAPPEN! Yes, it was a joint decision, but he had a vital piece of information that he did not share before "we" made the choice.
3. Will this affect my future alimony, if it goes to D? I have struggled with the alimony thing a bit. I almost feel guilty going for it, but there are reasons why I feel it is appropriate in this case. So, if I'm going for it, I want the most I can get in the long run.
4. I don't want to be the "plaintiff". This is not what I wanted.

I'm going to make an appointment with a couple attorneys next week to figure out the business side of it. How about some opinions from you guys???

***also: he was over today to fix the dishwasher. I was not home (running a 5k). He was here when I got back. I kept very neutral/business like. He basically forced a long hug. And then stood there and tried to tell me all about how stressed he is at work. What do I do about that? I told him 3 times I'm not going to be his friend. (But, he did come over to fix the dishwasher).

This was a long one for me! Any comments are appreciated!!!


Me: 39
H: 45
Second marriage for both
H left 12/2013
M:4 T:5.5