Reading in another thread about custody got me to thinking...I was raised to not give up on anything and to fight like hell for what I believe in. What does this situation teach kids, especially when one parent is not aware of trouble and the other does it for selfish reasons.
It will teach them to fight like hell for what THEY believe in and that's an invaluable lesson to learn. Your children may not understand the lesson now, but they will as they get older and are able to judge the situation for themselves. I say this as a result of my own personal experiences growing up in a broken home.
On another note, I am so very sorry to read about your mom. I remember receiving that same news like it was yesterday and it's been almost 9 years. My only advice would be to cherish the time you have. I saw that time as a blessing and I took full advantage of it. My prayers are with you Jeep.
There is a difference between knowing the path & walking the path. – Morpheus
