I'm a stay at home husband, or as I call it, a "kept man"...

[Sheldon Cooper]

2. Thanks for your perspective.

You raise some interesting points. The housework issue is a big one, and I agree with you that many men aren't as particular about cleanliness as many women are. (I am trying not to generalize, but it's inevitable that someone will complain that I'm stereotyping them.)

I think that men aren't as conditioned to recognize and deal with dirt as women are - everything in our environment portrays the woman as the concerned party, and men as either unconcerned, or in most cases, incompetant, when it comes to dealing with dirt. Communication is vital, as you say, and both parties making their expectations known so compromises can be reached is the only way this thing will work. That goes for cases when both parties work outside the home, as well.

I hope you get your children and your chance to experience all the joy they can bring. Good luck to you!