he sounds lovely Breda, a real find! My hubby is similar... he works his butt off and never complains so i can relate to you feeling bad about having gripes with him. Still, i stand by the fact that it is more than reasonable to expect quality time with him. I think the fact you stay home is even more reason for him to spend some time with you. when i was home fulltime, it was very oppressive/isolating and i needed the attention more. Now i am off working/studying, I have other people to do those things with. 1 or 2 nights a week is nothing to expect. it would make you feel more supported in the home and as a wife. if he was out boozing every night, you would be furious and resent him. The fact he is working hard for your family is highly admirable but he is still as absent as he would be if he were at the pub! its not WHERE he is that matters, its that you clearly need some time with him. im waffling but i think you are in the right. is it really isnt much to ask. its not like you are demanding that he be home early every night.. just 1 or 2! xxxx