Hugs and prayers to you gab..... if your heart tells you that life will be easier without him for a while then stick to it. Hopefully you and the kids will get some mental and emotional peace to make more long term decisions.
You say you love him but I guess many of us know that sometimes love is just not enough - remember you need to be loved too!! And as you said, what kind of role model is he for the children he loves so much?
Keep us informed and let us know how you go - whatever you choose we will be here!
Aud.