I guess what it is, is that to most guys, were they to feel overwhelmed by their fatherhood chores, they would tend to suck it up and say to themselves (or to other guys), "well, that's what it means to be a dad!"

I know it's sad, but in my experience, guys that get overwhelmed with fatherhood chores, just disappear into their caves and don't come out til the dust has settled.

I know how you feel Heather. I remember one time I had strep throat. I felt horrible. It was a chore just to ask H to watch the kids while I dragged my tired, sore aching body to the ER. When I was finally seen by the ER doc, I sat and cried silent tears because someone, a complete stranger, cared for me more than H did at that time.

NY, could it be your x feels unworthy of your continued support and understanding? She may feel that she has burned her bridges, hurt you horribly, and still you reach out to her with validation and caring.

Each experience in life has formed me, become part of me, made me stronger.