My husband of 55 years passed away almost a year ago. This was devastating for my family and I've since moved in with my oldest daughter, and in doing so I left behind my close ties with friends and family in the east coast. I miss my husband every day, and as much as I appreciate spending time with my children and grandchildren I miss my independence and feel as though I am a burden. I'd like to have a chance to socialize with people my own age and make new friends. What can I do to regain my own life back, I don't need babysitting!

First I want to send my condolences to you and your family. It is perfectly normal for you to feel the way you do. A grieving person will often go through a wide range of emotions including, shock, guilt, sadness, fear, and anger for many months after the loss of their loved one and these feelings can be overwhelming.   [more...]