Widows & Widowers Support Group

This community is dedicated to those who have lost a husband, wife, or partner. Anything is open for discussion here, with the hope that we can focus on grief, bereavement, life after loss, and continuing on after a great loss.

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ptorres 09/02/2015

After nearly 7 months of making every excuse possible not to go out of the house I am riding my Harley on a trip from Denver to San Diego on Friday, riding up the Pacific highway with stops at the Grand Canyon and Las Vegas.
I am very apprehensive and nervous although I have been riding for 40+ years. My father gave me my first Harley when I was 15.
My wife Amy also rode her own Harley. She was a member of the All Ladies Harley Drag Team out of California and was an excellent rider.
We rarely rode separately and I miss her terribly riding next to me or in my right mirror. I have not rode my bike much since she passed and her bike sits in the garage collecting dust.
We were talking about taking a beach vacation this summer and although we talked about Hawaii or somewhere in Mexico she loved San Diego so I will spread some of her ashes on Mission Beach where we are staying.
This will be the hardest trip I have ever taken and like everything I do from here on it will be in her honor.
As Friday approaches I feel myself becoming anxious and nervous but I feel this is something I must do.
I will let you all know how it goes. Peace to you all ~Pete

tothemoonalice 09/02/2015

Hi, Pete. I think you are about to do a wonderful thing in honor of Amy. It will be bittersweet, of course, maybe a little more "bitter" than "sweet" sometimes, but I bet you will feel a lightness and a sense of her presence helping you along, and you will be so happy that you took this big step towards recovery. Alice

laney77 09/02/2015

Dear Pete, this will be a very difficult trip. Peace be with you.

loveddogs 09/02/2015

Pete, have a wonderful trip. My trip to Estes with my girlfriend was fun, yet bittersweet. How wonderful that you will be spreading some of your beloved's ashes. She would be so very proud of you. And she would want you to keep on living! She will be riding even closer to you now, as you will carry her in your heart forever! Safe travels friend, can't wait to hear all about it! Hugs and Love, Michele

Coop84 09/02/2015

Hi Pete! I think it is a great plan. Art and I pulled a 5th wheel all over the USA and wintered in Yuma, Arizona, for 19 seasons. I promised Art when he was dying that I would go down Yuma this past winter and I did. I totally understand what it will be like to do this first road trip without your wife. I had a girlfriend help me drive down last October. OMG I missed Art!! I spread some of his ashes at our favorite spots, Bryce Canyon, Grand Canyon and Sedona on that trip. She will be there with you. I was so glad that I made the decision to go. I think you will too once you hit the road. Be safe and remember good times! Hugs. Sue

hgsdms 09/02/2015

Best wishes for a peaceful and safe ride Pete. Hopefully you aren't doing this alone.....doesn't sound that way when you said "where we are staying". Have as much enjoyment as possible because you know that Amy would want that for you.
Darlene
P.S. Enjoy our beautiful Grand Canyon. I think that alone will give you a sense of peace. It always does to me. Nature is pretty amazing in that way.

lmj90 09/02/2015

Pete,

You can do this. It won't be easy but you can. Your wife will be right there with you, you will feel her. I have yet to go out camping like I did with my husband but I commend you for doing this. Live for her not with out her. Sending strength and good thoughts

Lisa

handg 09/02/2015

Pete I am wishing luck with this trip and I am also wishing comfort and peace as this trip will be another stepping stone to moving forward while taking her spirit along with you. She may not be on the bike next to you in the physical sense but she is there in spirit each and every time you ride. As painful as it may be, the riding can be a good healing tool .xoxo

sandeestttn 09/02/2015

A friend of mine lost his wife in May. He rode 731 miles to my house, stayed with family and friends and campgrounds. When he got here I could tell he was anxious. But I think he did have a good time, stopped anywhere to site see. He took the back roads. But he was happy to get back home. I think he did well. Just be careful. Take your time. Good luck... Sandee

deleted_user 09/02/2015

Pete. I wish you peace and an easy ride.

Roz

staygolden3 09/02/2015

Amy would be so proud of you Pete. She was such a strong woman herself. Now you honor her yet again. I'm so proud of you and this huge healing step!
Enjoy yourself and just drink in that beautiful scenery that you're about to encounter! She'll b with u!
Good luck!
Darcie

statsmaster 09/02/2015

Pete,

You are living dude. That is what it is all about. Take that bike ride for you and Amy's memory will be with you. Love the Old Town Caf in SD. One of my favorites. Ride in peace brother!

Montana hug to you Pete!

Dewman

joannklingaman 09/02/2015

Oh Pete, what you are about to do I think is so courageous & she will be riding next to you in spirit.

Like you, I try to honor Larry in every way I can.

Will be looking forward to hearing about your trip, so have fun and be safe out there.

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