Gosh L.! I am so sorry to hear about your experience, and can feel your loss. I think that's something that happens, once you've experienced widowhood. I am 52 now. (Wow, that sounds old, but I certainly don't feel a day over 30!). I have six children. My youngest was 1 1/2 when Mike died. Seth now is 11. I married Mike right out of high school. We attended the same school. We were married 25 years, had built our home in a new area - and, just before it was finished and ready to move into - he was diagnosed with cancer. He was a strappin' healthy man. We'd had no forewarning before he began to struggle with something. Went in for a scope - and, bam! Our world changed immediately. From the time of diagnosis to death - we had 7 months. Seven months to say good-bye. It was horrible. The hospital became our "home away from home". He did die at home, which I am grateful for. There aren't adequate words to describe "becoming a widow". It becomes a lifestyle you did not choose. We were supposed to grow old together - enjoy our new home - watch our children grow up - and, enjoy our grandchildren together. Now, I enjoy our two grandsons - by myself. Leaves me always with a sting when I see our children accomplish great goals, and hear my grandson's first words. It's a "companion" that will always be with me. It does build great strength, though, when you face it and move on through life. I'm glad to have met you here, L.. Thank you for being courageous enough to share your story.
C.