Sultana

Basically, I need input on how to best conduct a marital separation. I know that some things are fairly relative and I need to go based on how I feel about that particular issue, but I have had no experience with this, and would *greatly* appreciate some input.

We are planning on continuing counseling for the duration, but we're going to a new one, because hubby feels that because I see our current couples counselor for my own personal counseling, she is no longer as objective as she should be (he pretty much feels she's "on my side, I think). I disagree, and don't look forward to recounting everything that got us to that point, but I figure if the new person says the same thing as the previous person, maybe he'll see that it's not a matter of "taking sides".

He has not yet moved out, we're trying to find an option that won't run our finances dry. However, I have been encouraging him to put more effort into it. I will help, but I'm not doing it for him.

Questions:

*How long should I plan for? Initially I was thinking three or four weeks, but nearly everyone has told me that's not enough time, including the hubby.

*Should we "date" during this time, or really not see each other at all except for necessities (financial meetings, etc. Business oriented)?
ADDED CLARIFICATION: I mean date each other.

I don't think we should cut off all contact, as this is ostensibly a last effort for growth together.

I plan to file separation paperwork. Don't really know how he'll feel about that.

I can't think of anything else just now, but if there's anything I haven't addressed (and I'm sure there is), please feel free to include that.

Thanks in advance.

__________________
"Love is a snowmobile racing across the tundra and then suddenly it flips over, pinning you underneath.
At night, the ice weasels come." -

Matt Groening

My goal? To fulfill my potential.