Stew,

I wouldn't say it gets easier not being around your spouse, but keeping yourself occupied is the only way to do it. Plus, like anything, you do get used to it.

By the time August comes around, my wife and I will have only seen each other for 2 weeks out of 9. I miss her everyday, but thinking about her drives me nuts. Get out. Have fun. Read a book. I believe you said you're in north virginia, go hiking, canoeing. Check out a museum. Whatever you do, just don't obsess. I know, easy to say, but you CAN do it.

My latest

Me: 36
W: 35
2 D: 9 and 5
T: 16 years
M: 12
10/4/06: Bomb
10/5/06: Ended A
4/22/07: ILYBNILWY

I'm a beautiful butterfly.