Supposedly, his rationale is that he doesn't want to hurt my feelings, be "best friends' and for him to have access to the kids and house as he pleases. I am way past feeling hurt. I just want to move on.

Why you ask? I was not consulted, but rather informed. I am numb and putting up with this because the children love him. He feels guilty because he hadn't bonded with the kids in a very long time, and I wanted them to spend time with him and have at least some memories other than him being gone.