I thought I knew what melancholy was and then Bette passed away; how wrong was I?

So many simple acts challenge me to overcome (even just a little) my despondency.

The grocery store and some of the aisles where I see a few of her favorites.

The writing of checks and copies of the previous ones done by her.

No longer to hear Bette “I’ll put the clothes in the washer and you the dryer.”

No longer to hear Bette “I’ll make the popcorn while you go through the trailers on the DVD so when I’m in the recliner all I have to do is push play.”

Getting a family member or friend on the phone is not what it used to be.

The willingness and thought of a ‘getaway’ weekend is gone.

Getting the fitted sheet on the bed used to be fun; for the two of us.

The word party is five letters measuring half an inch and signifying nothing.

During a commercial break Bette and I would talk about what we had just seen; I hardly watch TV now.

I have Bette’s meal recipes but I don’t know when the day will come; if ever.

I don’t know how to get through a morning, afternoon or evening without feeling devastated by her loss.

I have to ask and though she will be disappointed there is no helping it.

What good are tears if not for drowning?