There is no set time for grief Abby. This process can be short or long, and sometimes the ache of loosing someone we love, subsides but never really goes away. Our capasitiy to love, is why this happens. when you love deeply, the loss is very very difficult. Be gentle with yourself. Your loved your neice very much, and the good memories will come to the surface, not just the loss of this very dear person. ginnie