Ken, you are one messed-up dude. You got our sympathy when you told us your dog had passed. So now you ask for advice on what kind of dog to placate your wife with, so when YOU TELL HER YOU WANT A DIVORCE, the blow of THAT news won't be as bad for her? I mean, that is nice, that you want to soften the blow, but bad in that you think you giving her divorce papers out of nowhere will not hurt her a great deal? Unless she already knows it is coming, of course. I read it like you are going to surprise her with divorce. Am I wrong, and you guys have this plan set in motion together? Uncontested?
Maybe she doesn't want a dog...Is just dealing with the grieving (both the dog and divorce). She needs to be totally on board with a new dog. Can you see the new dog come up in the divorce decree?? It has come up millions of times over the years... Was thinking of those new car ads...Where they surprise their spouse with a new car without telling them!! Good communications...
Cabin makes a good point, if she isn't onboard with a dog or is pissed it came from you and you are dumping her, the dog is going to end up at a kennel.
Good point. But yes, given she is unhappy, doesn't like Colorado, argues constantly etc. It's worth it to have peace and quiet. Plus I'll get girlfriends much younger, 25-32 yo and have fun vs toxic situation. Like the old russian(?) joke I'll trade the one 56 year old in for 2 28 year olds. One thing I will miss is her cooking, it was like being married to a lady chef, always handmade food for 20 years.... long ago I found most women are awful cooks (microwave mainly).... I doubt that's changed.. ?
Ok, let's pretend you left all the decisions moving forward completely up to her. In other words, she can live where she wants and create whatever life for herself that she truly desires. That may include you or not include you, but it's ultimately her choice. What life setup do you think she would want most if she could wave a magic wand and instantly create it tomorrow?
Ken, have you thought of hormone replacement therapy for both you and the missus? You're already a walking erection, with a bit of medicinal help you and the missus might bang like teenagers.
Great question.... She'd be living in Japan, without me.... so I'll help her with that. After twenty years, empty nest, time for the next chapter.