hi frank...as the former spouse of a functional alcoholic, and as the mother to a young child, I would ask you to consider something. You say that your kids need both parents; I think what you mean is that your children need both parents to be healthy and happy. Right now, your wife isn't fulfilling that role, and you are having to compensate. Your children need a healthy family, even if that healthy family is you and them, together, away from the madness that your wife creates around her. They deserve better than this life.
By remaining with your wife, by tolerating what she does to you and to your children, you are silently telling them that *this* is how families should be. Do you want them to learn this message? What do *you* want for them? What do you want for yourself?
Please consider attending Al-Anon meetings, and perhaps even introducing your children to Al-Ateen.
When you are ready to leave, you will know. Until then, keep posting. We're here for you.
