Yes, coming home to an empty "house, condo, co-op, rented apartment, studio, 1 room walkup", - is awful when you have lost your spouse/significant other. Doesn't matter how large or small your "home" is. You lost half of yourself - coming to grips with this and moving forward is going to take awhile. Trying to fill the empty space your loved one left is just not "do-able" especially in the early months. Now, throw the holiday season on top of that loss.
I'm just trying very hard to get through this first holiday season without my husband. Going to do what I can do and that's all.

I've come a long way with this. I still have a few sad feelings when I see the driveway, but it doesn't take long for my mindset to change because I make myself walk my dog as soon as I open the door. My daughter gave her to me as a puppy right after Mike passed, so I have no memories of her with him, which is good, because now I have a new routine. It's amazing how a loyal pup can keep the blues away.

Absolutely. I would be good during the day while at work, but when 5 p.m. was approaching, the anxiety would build and become unbearable. After 5 months of trying to keep my head above water, I severely crashed and was hospitalized for 5 days. Turned out to be a blessing as it put me on the right track.

The hospital staff and counseling all suggested that I adopt a pet. My choice was a wonderful, 6 year old cat. I have had her a year now, and she is the love of my life. It is amazing how a precious little creature can turn an empty house into a warm home.

I did. I ended up moving to another apartment. I'm much happier here, creating a new life and memories. I can't say it's good for everyone, but it made a difference for me.

When I read this, it felt like I was reading about myself. I lost my husband on Nov 16, 2010. You're right in that the days are somewhat bearable but the overwhelming sadness when you come home to that dark house is so very hard. Everyone tells me to leave some lights on and I will try that. I have no advice but just wanted to tell you that you're not alone and that you'll be in my prayers.

I know if I didn't have my two little dogs waiting for me, driving up to this house would be one of my greatest sorrows. I pull into the garage and do every thing I can to ignore Johnny's truck. I purposely leave the utility door open to the house so the dogs will greet me as I step into the house.
On occassion I have to drive his truck. The CD he last listen to is still in it, The Judds, "Mr. Pain", "Mama he's crazy" and "Love is Alive". Needless to say I leave my hugh sunglasses in there. God help the cop that ever pulls me over for the cracked windshield.
So many things take me to my knees in tears.
This is what I tell people, " There is a road to my house, but there is no road home.
Diane

I ride the bus to work and home. People will say to me, doesn't that add a lot of time. You get off work at 1:30 and you don't get home until almost 3:30. Yes, but what am I going home to? An empty house. Why would I want to hurry home? It just reminds me that I'm all alone except for my two cats, Jody and Phyllis.

Carla

I forgot to mention that I do have a dog and some cats that I come home to...but it still feels empty without Larry. It is true there is no reason to rush home now, except to beat the night. I remember the first time in the store while I was shopping and thinking I needed to hurry, Larry will be worrying about me...then the hit in the gut ....there is no one to go home too...I also had a security system installed, so even though I did feel safe..I actually feel safer now...God bless...:)