Nicker, I know how you feel. All of a sudden, you feel like the whole world is noticing that you are alone. However, I'm glad you made the effort today, and the next time will be a little bit easier. At least that is how it has been for me. Good luck!
(((Hugs)))
Kathleen

Sometimes I feel better when I go out, and sometimes I regret it. I'm glad you tried, though. I hope the next time is more comfortable for you. (I promised myself earlier today I would go out for coffee tomorrow morning. Keep your fingers crossed for me.) -Shelli

That was a hard thing to do. I havent done that yet. Good for you...:)

I was walking home from a friends tonight and the feeling of being so alone in this life was overwhelming! I have my grown children and grand kids but I still come home to a lonely apartment and go to sleep alone. I have made so much progress since his death yet I can't figure out this loneliness... no one and nothing fills the emptiness.

Goneforever...only my faith in Jesus is what gives me the strength to get through this loneliness....I cant do this without Him or have any kind of peace in my life....blessing to you...Debbie

I feel no need to go out and eat alone- I know it would be torture, so I choose not to put myself in that situation. It works for me.

I know that this is apart of being a one. Good for you....... You are very brave and are moving into yourself. Keep it going. I'm not there yet. I admire the people who are. You all give me hope ac

Nicker, you tried, that is a good thing. I can`t go there yet. I hope it will get better in time, hugs Lu Ann

I am more comfortable now, after 2 l/2 years of being without J.R., about going out to eat alone. Usually, when they ask me "is there just one" -- I come back with -- "yes, unless you can find a good looking guy who wants to sit with me.." It's an ice breaker, to be sure!! This may sound contrite - but I'd much rather be by myself than be one of those couples that I observe, who never talk to each other and seem to only tolerate the other's company -- TALK ABOUT HOW LONELY THEY MUST BE.

There are sooooo many single people in this world - yet, they don't take the chance to cross that line and speak to others; they read books, newspapers, sit in corners, etc. when out eating alone..

I learned a long time ago, that "nobody should be a stranger and that everyone out there is a potential friend." It's how you perceive yourself and wonder how others perceive you, that's the problem...

So, I just sit tall, use my manners and smile at everybody; gives them something to think about!!! BTW - Nicker, your palomino is gorgeous!!! Hugs, Nancee

I can relate, too. My comfort zone when it comes to eating out by myself has been a local diner. I take my newspaper and visit with the staff if the place isn't busy. I have also felt very alone at shopping malls. My wife and I always shopped together. When I'm browsing by myself I still expect to see her in the next aisle.

I admire you for trying. I haven't been able to get up the nerve to go out by myself yet, except for a fast food place at lunch time.

I have eaten by myself a few times, when I traveled for work, and was still married. Now, I haven't done it at all. Take out is all I do, but mostly eat at home. I have a friend, that has been single her whole life, and she eats out all the time by herself. She brings a book, and doesn't have a problem with it. The whole concept of eating out, has been a social gathering. It was always something my husband and I did, to treat ourselves. I guess I don't feel like treating myself to a meal on my own.
Paula

I spent Saturday afternoon with my son and his family, watching one of their boys play hockey. It brought back memories of when my own son was a little boy (where did the last 30 years go?). I felt happy to be with them, yet so alone, so terribly alone as if just peeping into a little bit of their lives. Standing on the outside, looking in at a Saturday afternoon. I knew that after the game, they were anxious to get back home and do whatever married couples with children do on a busy Saturday. I remember those busy years well and I miss them too.
I went home alone to an empty house and nothing to do.

I know, I know I need to learn to focus on the happiness, not the pain. But sometimes it's just so darn hard! And I agree with Paula - a meal out is a treat. And with hubby gone, I don't feel I want to treat myself to a meal alone in a restaurant.

Good for you! I have to admit I haven't done that yet, unless you count a quick McDonald's lunch; I always go with a friend. It takes real courage, especially in a smaller community where people may know you. ((((HUGS))) to you, and I love your new profile picture!

I had a hard time going anywhere by myself for a long time. Always had that other person with me. I was new to a small town when my husband passed so didn't know too many people. I now have been out and about enough to know people wherever I go. I don't feel bad going by myself to most things. Even went by myself to my work christmas party. It takes time, lots of time to adjust to being the only one again. Give yourself that time and you will find sometimes it's not so bad.