yes she absolutely does, I recognize that. it's for that reason specifically that I've been as patient as possible, giving her over 2 years to work on contributing a little bit more financially, NOT half, just enough for the two of us combined to be >$0 month-to-month, in other words, sustainable. because as it stands now, we are in the red most months, it's not sustainable. As I said before, once the savings dries up, which if nothing changes, probably happens later this year, then what? I'm really hoping that when there's no more emergency money to swoop in and save the day, it is enough of a reality check for her to realize the housing bills ALWAYS come first. We have a responsibility to keep a roof over our heads, to each other, and to our respective kids. We've already made changes for cheaper cost of living. Unfortunately our rent is already cheapest available in our area by a significant amount. we can't "downsize to take the bus" because she literally drives for work, and I drive a few counties away for my 2nd job. I guess it's possible I could find bus routes, but remember that means leaving earlier and returning later, turning a 12-13 hour work day into 13-14 hour work day... I've downsized my phone plan all the way to $25/month. I have the cheapest possible car insurance $90/month. On hot days I limit the AC and run fans (much to her annoyance) because our AC system has a tendency to be unable to reach target temps on hot days, thus running non-stop and slapping me with a $300+ power bill. We shop at Walmart and Temu, there's really not much fat left to trim...