Writing is the big one. I talk to Charles a lot too...sometimes kinda mean, sometimes in tears. Writing seems to be a different skill set and helps in a different way, perhaps it makes you have to look back and actually think about what you want to say. (My journaling has changed in four months). He has also encouraged me to meditate (thinking about how my life will look in the future and the positives that I can see.) I think the idea, for me, is to discuss with someone, who is educated in the process, that can tell me what to expect in the future and that I am normal Today, i just set and cried in his office, and then felt guilt because I have this self-impossed timeline of when I should be better. He told me, again, there is not time frame and that I need to remember to be gentle with myself. He is also encouraging me to join an actually grief group and make some social contacts and get out of my house.
As for as reading, I have not really read anything except things online. I will tell you, however, last night (right before I melted down) I actually laughed so hard my sides hurt. That was the first time I think I have done that since Feb. Sadly, the thing I was laughing about made me think, "OMG... HAHAHAHA, I have to share this with Charles." 2 seconds later I remembered he was gone, 3 seconds after that I was a sobbing mess. Okay, forgetting the last part of that story...I laughed so hard I could have snorted soda out of my nose and it felt strange but really good. I hope some of this helps give you some more hope.
DeAnne