Shoe-- Just caught up with you; sorry that your thoughts keep leading you back to the mess. Surprised you have any thoughts at all, with the heat being brain-melting.
Getting back to some basics...you using the stop sign, distracting with a list of fun-for-you stuff that you keep putting off, focusing on where you are right this second, writing a gratitude list...? If not, time to dust off the tried and true. But also know that the rollercoaster of emotions is still going to throw you some curves every now and again...all normal.
My x got a dog soon after the sep, too (then had to get rid of the poor thing, since he was never home and it was in a crate all day long, going stir-crazy--another instance of not thinking a damn thing through the consequences).
I remember you trying to keep the pups...I know that must be hard, too.
I am glad you are posting; not sure why you thought your issues might not be welcomed here...? Seems like it is all part of the process. Can't give too much advice about the dating thing, but I do agree that it is not a commitment, yet...maybe a break while you finish processing things on your own?
