realise that it is not the same as having a partner to share things and grow together. The youngest of my children is about to leave home for uni, and I find myself wondering what to do next. I am not sorry that I stayed and gave the children a wonderful childhood -I probably wouldn't have coped alone.  And, let's face it, my lover betrayed me -he was seeing someone else! So, the grass was certainly not greener on the other side for me... I can't say what I think you should do -everyone's situation is so different.  I have a very good friend who was in this situation not so long ago -she hated her husband cos he was so controlling and even hurt her sometimes.  She split a year and a half ago and is now in a new relationship with a man who has children the same age of hers.  She cannot believe how much better her life is now. it is a balance though and as you say you do not have a job you are in a difficult situation.  I suggest that you tackle this first -time to look for a course.  What is your background? I think you should worry less about your relationship -after all, you know P is not an option.  Set a goal for your career and start to head towards it -what do you want to do? I did this, and now I earn more than my husband!! It is