Hi Coldfeet,
A lot of these posts on this thread hit home with me too, and I completely understand where you're coming from.
Like Peakbagr, I have returned to hiking after a couple year hiatus to raise a family. I used to go out a couple times a month, and when I wasn't hiking, I was planning the next trip, reading the guide books, or checking the latest and greatest gear. EMS Bargain Basement was my second home.
Then I met my wife and had the kids and thought my life was now complete, so I gave up my hiking days to be a dad and husband.
Unfortunately, I felt that something very important to my physical and mental well being was missing, and I am glad that I have returned to the trails.
Each of us have some form of escapism that keeps us going and you need to express this to your wife so she understands what a critical part of the balance in your life this is.
Some people fish, some play sports, some just kick back and read....all of which are their way of leaving the day-to-day grind we constantly face to go to our own nirvana and get away from the pressures even for a few fleeting hours.
Raising a family in todays society is a struggle and we are constantly pulled in all directions to "make it work", but being stressed too much isn't healthy either. It doesn't do you or your family any justice if you are totally stressed all the time, but on the other hand it doesn't do any good if you're not there for them either.
Try cutting a deal....explain the importance of hiking to your mental well being, and then see if you can work on a 2-times-a-month hiking deal, but let her know which days you are planning well in advance (yes, I know things change when it comes to hiking plans, but we're just starting here).
This will give her piece of mind that she knows when you'll be there for family activities (and when you won't), plus it gives you peice of mind that you have something to look forward too and work towards.
Honest communication will be your key to keeping your life in balance.
All the best!
Bill
PS Take Puck's advice too....just in case.
PSS MarkS, I think this is what you were trying to say.....maybe.