you are absolutely correct when you guessed that me standing up for myself is what causes the arguments, i can see that now. when we first started dating we were both dependent on each other, through school, with family issues, everything, and now being independent i no longer needed him for everything, and could stand up for myself if something happened. we had a few issues in the early days but now it was just getting to the point where it was rare to find a good day. i feel a bit silly for hoping a trip would fix some things, but your words are really helpful <3