I don't think there's any "right" length of time. You feel what you feel. It doesn't make you a lesser or worse person, because you grieve longer or shorter then somebody else. Depends on the individual and the circumstance.

When Maddie died, I didn't get Gulliver until 6 mos or so. I thought I was ready, but as it turned out, I probably should have waited a lil' longer. I cried the first week I had him, because he wasn't Maddie. I recognized in my mind that I was comparing and that I shouldn't, but my heart needed that lil' extra show of love for Maddie, before I could let go, I guess. I still love her, but I was able to open up my heart to Gull too. Can't imagine life without the Gull man now. It sure wouldn't be filled with as much laughter as it is now.

Par...