I can't tell you how reassuring it is to hear your words, Astolfo. I think you may be right - the actions have provided a shield to the emotions. And the emotions can be absolutely bone crushing. I also think in some ways it is easier to be the one to leave than to be the one that stays in the home. Everywhere I look I see ghosts and memories, while he has a brand new space to make his own. Not that it matters who it is harder for - it is just awful period. I do agree it is a necessary part of the growth and it will either knit us together or split us apart and I keep telling myself that it is in the hands of the Universe/Higher Power/God/Supreme Being. For now, I am just trying to surf the ups and downs and trust what will come. It's great to hear from someone on the other side, who has made it through.