I really agree with what Starfish said (from personal exp of having had gaps in my employment history thru illness, injury, firing).
It takes quite a while to see and feel the value of what you do outside the framework of "paid full-time employment" and to get used to the self-motivation required. To "do whatever you want" is actually quite difficult if you have a Strong Work Ethic. One thing I do in Big Decision-Makes is to ask myself: What would a woman not tangled up with all my "funny ideas" and endless self-examining conscience do in a similar situation? " It's usually a very clear answer; she would take the opportunity before you could say Jacqueline Robinson!
I hear what you are saying about the depending on the DH for money. I always said critically to myself (and others) that I was a prostitute!

Best of luck!