Thanks Orbert, King, Cram, Kattelox, and Count. I really appreciate your kindness and it helps.
The last few days I've been experiencing a delayed reaction to the grief. I'm normally a pretty happy, go-lucky guy and after Maggie's death I just picked up life like nothing was wrong. I couldn't even summon a good memory to relive...when I thought of her at all, which wasn't much, I could only recall the image of her lying on that cold, stainless steel, table at the veterinary clinic.
But the last few days things have changed. I expect to see her everywhere I go. Unexpected memories leap to mind bringing a stunning sorrow along for good measure. Grief is a gleefully wicked guest, isn't it? It callously takes up my Kodachrome memories and morbidly tints them in grays and reds. What should be a joyfully thing, now grips my throat and stings my eyes. I think I may have let all this fester a bit too long.
Last night I was finally able to talk with Mrs. P about my poisoned memories. She and I had a good cry and I think it helped. We'll see.