[quote}I frankly was thinking of leaving him before he hit me. It's why I was looking at getting back to work. I guess I want the justification so I can keep the house. Maybe that should be the least of my worries, but I'm going to be raising three kids and dammit I want the house. I don't feel like I need the justification to leave for me, but I do wish I had something to show people so they wouldn't think I was making it up.
I do have a great family close by. My mom has my oldest son camping this week, but my dad is close by and I have friends I can call. Thanks. [/quote]

I don't know where you are and what the law is, but if you're married and the primary caretaker of your children, won't you have a certain claim on property/money if you divorce, regardless of circumstances? You may be able to keep the house. Either way, talk to your family and friends, and maybe get some legal advice regarding your position if you leave your husband?

Good luck. If anyone needs justification and won't believe you without a black eye, they're not a true friend anyway. Fuck 'em.