LSG- thanks. I know the happiness will be greater that the sadness and despair. I only wish I could hurry the process along. As we all do.
THA- wow, did you leave me with a great picture in my mind! You sound like you are doing well at the moment. I know what you mean about memories haunting you. They do me too. I know I was not in a good place for a while and didn't treat my W like she needed and she said it took her a year to say she had enough. While not completely true, I realized my mistakes with time and her actions, hopefully she will too. Patience and no pressure.
You're right: We WILL be okay with or without them!