I did sit down that day at my desk and continued to do my job (after grabbing my keys to head for the door). I already had a plan in the works to leave, and I'd been preparing for over a year to do so.
I left not long after, and that was at the end of 2009. I've been self-employed (writing) ever since. I do work one day per week as a rural mail carrier but I actually kind of like this job. It's exciting, believe it or not. And quite a challenge. Keeps me on my toes. And it's a welcome change from sitting at my desk at home. Pays well, too.
Now ... how to deal with a sexist husband?
That is infinitely more challenging.