I stepped from Plank to Plank
A slow and cautious way
The Stars about my Head I felt
About my feet the Sea.

I knew not but the next
Would be my final inch -
This gave me that precarious Gait
Some call Experience.

Emily Dickinson, c. 1864

Sunday, March 22, 2026

A short update to my new world

I am beginning to get a litle accustomed to being a widow. After having gone through the first few weeks of pretty much grief and disbelief, I am now beginning to realize there is nothing that is going to be the same in my life. My sister Norma Jean came to be with me for a week, which was helpful in a helpless situation. I cannot really function very well, but I thought maybe it would help to try to reach out to my other family, the virtual one which you are a part of. I will try to write in here as I am able.

b
Black box with my beloved's remains inside

I received this box from the funeral home, which weighs about eight pounds after cremation. I still don't believe it fully, but I am getting there, slowly. I still awake at night and shout and scream in disbelief. But I am here, and eventually I will be back. I've stopped reading other blogs and feel grateful that I can still feel your love and caring.



9 comments:

Anonymous said...

I have not posted on your site before but have been reading your blogs for years. I find you an inspiration, and it hurts me that you are going through so much pain. Please know you are in my thoughts.

dkzody said...

I am here, checking in every day, whether you post anything or not, I am here. Just know that you have a whole lot of people who love you and care about you. Write when you can, and please check your blog because there is a whole cadre out there concerned for you. We will be glad to hear from you but we understand when we don't. Grief is a whole 'nother animal.

John's Island said...

DJan, great to hear from you. What an incredibly difficult time for you. It makes my Sunday morning to see your update on Eye. So many of your regular followers have been praying for you and sending comments of support. Suggestion: If you are not going to read other blogs we would love to hear from you in a short reply here. John

ApacheDug said...

We're glad to hear from you DJan, it's an awful, terrible time for sure. Take care of yourself.

Rian said...

DJan, I'm so happy to see a post from you... wasn't expecting it... just hoping. Can't imagine what you're going through, but we are stronger than we think (at least that's what I tell myself). Please try to post when and if you feel you can. We really look forward to hearing from you.

Anvilcloud said...

You are suffering loss of both your spouse and your eyesight, so it must be a doubly difficult time for you. I hope you are still able to get out for your breakfasts.

Marie Smith said...

Jan, you are on my mind often these last few weeks. Sending a hug across the continent, my friend. Take care!

Margaret said...

It's healthy to write about your feelings. Your life won't be the same; losing a partner means adapting to a whole different world with part of yourself missing. I lost my 59-year-old husband in 2012 and although my life isn't the same, it's still full of loving friends and family.

Far Side of Fifty said...

So good to hear that you are able to write on your blog. Grief is a journey and never the same for anyone. You are in my thoughts and prayers too! Be kind to yourself, you need time to heal and process everything. My sister is a grieving widow also and it is not an easy road to travel.