Get Out Alive . . .

[Sandy_wants_to_try]

Emily, is there anyone you can call over to be there with you while you make the call? It might help...

Just tell them exactly that... that you're afraid of your H. Tell them what happened last night and that you would like to document it and get a restraining order to protect you and your kids. They'll take it from there.
You will probably have to take pictures and have a medical exam. Whatever they ask you, just remember that this is for you and the girls.
This isn't about him getting into trouble. This is about your protection and health.

The first and last time I had a black eye (not my H!), i had two friends over to help me get through everything. I know how you feel. It's not your fault, OK? Detach from what happened and just think about the future... what you should do from now on, not what happened or why or how...
My friends respected me more for being strong and other friends wish they had been with me to help me.
People want to help.