The Unique Journey of Loving a Widower When I first met my husband, I knew I was stepping into a love story that began long before I arrived. The past was not just a memory but a living presence in our daily lives. I remember the first time I realized just how deeply woven his history was into our present. It wasn't just the photos that adorned the walls of the home they lived in; it was the friends who would share their intimate experiences and memories that were constan

Dear Transplanted But Not Taking Root, Oh honey, you're describing what psychologists call "relocation depression," and it's as real as the Spanish moss hanging from those Southern trees. After a year, feeling lonely and missing your roots isn't a character flaw—it's your heart doing precisely what hearts do when transplanted to new soil. Here's what the research tells us: relocation depression affects your sleep, appetite, concentration, and ability to connect with others, a

Dear Phoenix Lover: For my new readers, a "Phoenix" refers to a widower who has risen from the ashes of his past to find new love. This journey is not an easy one for him. It takes courage to step back into the dating world, which can be a daunting and incredibly challenging experience. Let's address the elephant (or perhaps the grizzly bear) in the room: grief can cause people to behave in unpredictable ways. His children are not attacking you personally; they are trying

An online widows' group contacted me to discuss my experiences dating a widower. One member was unsure whether to continue or end her relationship, and listening to the members' challenges was enlightening. I developed these tips to help them better grasp the complexities involved. Experience is the best teacher, and after almost nine years, I've learned some valuable lessons about dating and marrying a widower.