Hi Douglas, I haven't read all of your posts, but I'm an adult orphan too, and o is my husband, so I have lost mom/dad + mother-in-law/father-in-law. Lost my dad 32 yrs ago, mom 3 years ago. 

My mom was my best friend too - I was an only child and parents divorced - she was my world. I cry every day.

Therapist told me to write down the "good things", but I haven't. I need to. I try to remember them, but it's all filled with the sad and vividly challenging memories...bad memories and sad and guilty thoughts that are ruining me... the thoughts of things right before she died and all of the things I wish I had done differently.

I am going to work on a book of good memories. I think that's all I can do right now. 

Seems like the best thing to do...focus on the good, and be glad they were in our lives...and bring more good thoughts to NOW.