Merrick and Betsey sitting in a tree ... kissin... or is it Bridget, um, er is it Christine, um er is it Karen, its too hard to see from here, I have to get closer.
Sorry, I couldn't resist. Sounds like you guys are talking without venemous slams against you, at least not all, I think that is a huge step.
If W hates an either or statement, what about not doing that? Telling her you have a blank slate for a mind and are willing to entertain any options, at least talk about them. If the dialogue is open, keep it open. Or I could keep my opinions to myself.