(((((((((((((((lynn P.)))))))))))))))

I'm so sorry you're going through this, but it sounds like it might be for the best. I'm not sure of Canadian law, but I agree with several of the others that mediation is likely your best option. That's what my husband and I are doing, and, like you, we want to keep things as civil and amicable as possible, for the kids' sake.

I would definitely recommend hiring an attorney to help guide you through the mediation process so you can be sure your rights are being protected, esp. since you've been married so long. It took me awhile, but I finally found an affordable one, and he's nice, not a shark who is looking to take my husband to the cleaners, which I don't want. He understands that it's to be an amicable mediation, but after 17 years of my own marriage, and staying at home with the kids since they were babies, I definitely did not want to go through mediation without someone to guide me.

Byzantine is right when he said there will be some serious grieving. It will be tough, but you sound like a strong (and kind) woman, and I have faith that you will get through this!

Our situations are so similar. Feel free to PM me any time if you ever want to vent.

Good luck!!!!