Oh Nannykay.....how awful for you.
But for you , Smileless and all those who are estranged, I'd like to echo what Annuebach said " where there's life, there's hope".
I have a very difficult relationship with my older son and his wife (who I'm sure hates me) . Hardly see them, except for bdays etc ....unless I ask to see the kids, they don't voluntarily offer to bring them over, and even then, I have to go there at an appointed time. But, I'm hanging in there!
She takes the kids to her mother every day, and visits my ex and his wife. It hurts, but there you go..
How's the retirement going Smileless ? Have you and Mr S planned any trips? It's lovely that you have each other. I wish I had someone....just never happened