I hear you loud and clear.

Tonight my family went to a hockey game. We are season ticket holders to our local WHL team. We live and breathe hockey around here. I'm the regular anthemist at the games but I've been on "leave" since injury. (I'm a singer)

Anyway I stayed home. But I am happy for my family, especially my caregiving husband, that life for them marches on as it was. I'm sure they miss me a bit. Lol

But it's so important that our family members get guilt free outings and get to enjoy their lives as before because they take on our burdens; they need the release too. They get stressed seeing us unwell and they absorb our anxiety. So you did VERY well, my friend, to hide how you felt and bid your wife a great girls night. Kudos.

My husband keeps texting me the score so I know I'm on his mind at the game. Can't ask for much more!

When wife gets home give her a big smile and ask about her night. You know how we sometimes need to get out of our own heads? Caring for another person is the best way to forget the self, for a bit.

And like rmschaver says, your life will not always be this way. There are work-arounds for socializing once we get to that stage. We'll be alright. Just know you're not alone in the frustration!