https://community.aarp.org/t5/Grief-Loss/Tis-the-season/m-p/2577669#M15991 <P><SPAN>It has been some time since I shared thoughts as we all go through our grievance journey. &nbsp;Although it has now been 3 years since my husband died, I still miss him as I continue as a single person (still hard to say the word). &nbsp;I have been somewhat successful in building new memories and friendships. &nbsp;I noticed that I have more "better days" now and at times feel more fulfilled and self-confident. &nbsp;Long journey. &nbsp;As I have already shared, take your time as you relaunch and take small comfortable steps. &nbsp;I gradually started to plan and attend social functions with the goal of one a month. &nbsp;These social events are not too long or ambitious until I see how it goes. &nbsp;The right company matters, and I am getting good at identifying kindred spirits along the way. &nbsp;Try new things if you are inclined. &nbsp;My life has been truly a balance of reflecting, learning and trying some new activities. &nbsp;My tree last year and some modest decorations set the tone for the holiday season. &nbsp;Also, a combination of new and older ornaments helped blend the past and present. &nbsp;This year I kept better track of some photos of new adventures, like participating in the 3-mile Crop Walk, joining a friend in pumpkin carving and giving Halloween treats to the children of our refugee families. &nbsp;Gratitude and generosity are a powerful combination of emotions and have helped me to lighten the load. &nbsp;Wishing you all the best, your friend, Sue</SPAN></P> Thu, 14 Nov 2024 14:52:36 GMT SueS788527 2024-11-14T14:52:36Z https://community.aarp.org/t5/Grief-Loss/Tis-the-season/m-p/2577669#M15991 <P><SPAN>It has been some time since I shared thoughts as we all go through our grievance journey. &nbsp;Although it has now been 3 years since my husband died, I still miss him as I continue as a single person (still hard to say the word). &nbsp;I have been somewhat successful in building new memories and friendships. &nbsp;I noticed that I have more "better days" now and at times feel more fulfilled and self-confident. &nbsp;Long journey. &nbsp;As I have already shared, take your time as you relaunch and take small comfortable steps. &nbsp;I gradually started to plan and attend social functions with the goal of one a month. &nbsp;These social events are not too long or ambitious until I see how it goes. &nbsp;The right company matters, and I am getting good at identifying kindred spirits along the way. &nbsp;Try new things if you are inclined. &nbsp;My life has been truly a balance of reflecting, learning and trying some new activities. &nbsp;My tree last year and some modest decorations set the tone for the holiday season. &nbsp;Also, a combination of new and older ornaments helped blend the past and present. &nbsp;This year I kept better track of some photos of new adventures, like participating in the 3-mile Crop Walk, joining a friend in pumpkin carving and giving Halloween treats to the children of our refugee families. &nbsp;Gratitude and generosity are a powerful combination of emotions and have helped me to lighten the load. &nbsp;Wishing you all the best, your friend, Sue</SPAN></P> Thu, 14 Nov 2024 14:52:36 GMT https://community.aarp.org/t5/Grief-Loss/Tis-the-season/m-p/2577669#M15991 SueS788527 2024-11-14T14:52:36Z