Lost, alone, and in pain

[HurtHus]

Had a pretty good day. W actually acknowledged how much I do with the kids and how she couldn't handle doing as much as I do. She offered to let me go out alone today and go shopping. I said that was fine, but we could all go out shopping and let the kids play at the park and then grab dinner. She liked that idea. We had a fun night without incident.

I asked tonight if we could carve out time tomorrow to talk. I said things had seemed to be going well and just wanted to touch base. I validated her concern about things being too forced, but she said "no, you're right we should talk." She was rather touchy and affectionate after that.

One thing I am going to do to assert myself is get a new dog when our dog dies. I know that sounds morbid, but our dog is 11 1/2 and the average life span is 8-10 years. I work from home and for 5 years have had a constant companion. I clean up after him and care for him. The only challenge is when we travel, but I want a dog in my life. If she leaves I don't want to think I should have gotten that dog. W has said she doesn't want a dog after this one. How do I handle it?