Good posts
Being an ex. EK driver myself I have to say that Seaman Staynes posts in this thread are well balanced and true.
Life is expensive with kids and a wife on FO salary.However if you are the outdoors/ camping type of family, life can be quite good in the winter months.
We had lot`s of camping trips in the desert and mountains in UAE and Oman.
It all depends on your situation and your expectations if you will be happy.
It helps to have thick skin.