You say you wonder how this is affecting the children. Trust me ,it does. I have a 3yr old and a 1yr old. I have notice they act different , I at times see a sad face. But as soon i do, i make her smile by acting silly or telling her something funny or just telling her i love you. It's heartbreaking to see their innocent little soul being affected by their mother's decision to just give up. Hang tight ghost! Yes , it's a wild ride.
But everything starts falling into its place once you drop the rope and you stop caring for her.