I’m stronger than I thought I was.

Listen when it is recommended not to make any major life decisions in the first year.

I couldn’t tell you anything that happened the first few months, maybe even the first year after my husband died.  I worked, paid the bills, and did my best to keep my house clean and my pets fed and healthy.  The fog cleared and I realized that I had to start living again. 

When will it happen, it depends on each individual, just as how you deal with your loss.

Finding a great counselor/minister/pastor/rabbi/doctor or a group for widows - such as janenation - to talk with about what you are feeling is some of the best medicine. 

My husband’s death was very difficult for me. Talking with someone was beneficial for me to be able to move forward.

You aren’t alone even though you may feel alone.  Talking with someone who is sympathetic, empathic, and impartial can help deal with grief. 

It seems as if everyone else is part of a couple but you’ll be okay alone.

When I first lost my husband it seemed like everything was for couples and everyone was in love.  Thankfully as time passed I realized it was because I was missing being part of a couple that I saw all things “couples”.

While I enjoy going out to dinner and spending time with my friends, I have learned its okay to be by myself.  I took a trip to Hawaii by myself.  I did end up meeting with a friend and she showed me around the island but I spent most of the time on my own.  I will go to a restaurant and eat alone.  Sometimes I’ll bring a book, magazine or homework other times I’ll sit and people watch.  I’ve wanted to take a cruise and one day will but I think I’ll be going with a friend.  If you’ve taken a cruise by yourself, please share your experience.

I've learned that if I had to do all again, loving my husband only to lose him in such a short time, I'd do it in a heartbeat.