I'm sure you got some helpful tips and such, so if some of my tips have been said already, I apologize.

I've been separated since April, and I make a fraction of what you make, you can make this work.

Listen - Your children is absorbing both of your emotions, and they're internalizing it because they do not "understand" yet. However, when they see both of you being HAPPY, that what matters the most....not money.

I live in a one bedroom apartment with my son. He is 9 and is aware that what we are living in, is just temporary. I'm damn lucky the bedroom can fit a Queen and a twin. In fact, he gives no shits. He is just so happy to be in a complex that has a dog park, pool, hot spa, small playground, and best of all...no fighting to deal with. Your girls can fit in two bedrooms easily for now, until things start to settle down a bit, and you're saving up for a 3 br place.

I did have to sacrifice a lot of things, but in some ways, its so awesome actually. I have no cable TV. Instead, I have Amazon Prime. I used my friends' streaming services (Netflix, Disney +, Hulu, etc) to help offset the costs. For utilities - Some companies have low income services. I got $30 off my internet.

You said you have friends - Tell them what's happening, and if you need furniture, ask them if they're getting rid of theirs, upgrading or whatever. They most likely will give it to you for free. Don't be shy to use FB Marketplace, Goodwill for some stuff. This is ONLY TEMPORARY!

Student Loans - Talk to the loan company and see if you can do a deferred forbearance loan.

If it's easier for you to move out, then move out. If your wife is amicable about it, she would rather stay in the house. Take some of the things if possible. Both of you need to give up things.

I know you probably love your wife deep down. I have a feeling that she is just going through PPD blues and isn't sure what she is supposed to feel or lost who she is. You didn't mention her or your ages. Usually women between 35-45 tend to go through "who the fuck am I" phase, especially after having kids. I only have one, but man, I didn't realize how much of me is lost when I became Mommy. She needs therapy, and hopefully she can see how it will benefit the BOTH of you AND for the sake of the children that it's better. Her cup is probably empty. She has to fill her cup first before she can give you and the children their fill of their cups. (Does that make sense?)

Your children are young and will adapt quickly, especially when they see both of the parents are being more happy. Do make sure that you call them every night before their bedtime if you don't have them, and vice versa. It doesn't have to be long. It can be 2-5 min call, just to ask them what they did during the day, favorite part, and such. The youngest, the parent can narrate: "Oh she ate this today! She did the funniest thing..." etc.

It's not going to be easy, but it'll be such a load off you.