Not to be left out--I'm not too keen on "widower" either. I'm glad Tracy brought up the topic because I've been wondering if I'll ever get used to it. I've had to check that box on various medical and insurance forms. Checking that box is like getting stabbed again.

Tracy, can you may share more of the thoughts you went through before you took that step? Thanks.

Wendimac and Dcheramie-I will TOTALLY be careful of "friend requests" from strangers. PROMISE. I am anyway.

Roz-Your car ride story is priceless! Thanks!

Shaneslove-You're stronger than you know. Don't compare your journey to anybody else's. You're doing the best that you can with what you have and nobody can ask for more than that. You're awesome!

Slimbear-My biggest fear was how people might react. I didn't want alot of attention on the change. It made me worry that I might be perceived as less of a family member to his family. It also made me worry that I'd also be perceived as a "clich widow" by some, with all of those awful stereotypes. I asked a friend who lost his partner early last year about changing his status. His answer was basically, "sadly...we are widows." Then it just felt like another hurdle to jump over (more like a flaming hoop to jump through). I love him, love him, love him, but he's not here and I am.

I guess I haven't even thought about changing my status. In fact I have never even filled out most of the personal info on my home page. I guess it doesn't really matter much to me what my info is as I never check anyone else's either. I get friend requests all the time, but if I don't know who they are I just ignore them. I am a "dork magnet" by nature, so I don't need to attrack any more. Maybe someday I will change it, but for now, I wear my rings, (can't get them off) and feel I am Mrs. and can't imagine life as any other. But, never say never. Hugs to all, Michele