"This Wasn't the Plan" is a poignant and introspective memoir. I am Darlene Curtis, a retired midwife, poet, and nonfiction writer. The story revolves around the sudden and devastating loss of my husband, Rick, after thirty-six years of marriage, leaving a profound impact on my life. Throughout the memoir, I highlight the stark contrast between my composed demeanor as a midwife and the chaos I faced when I found Rick lifeless in his shop, marking the beginning of my transformative journey through grief and healing.

As I weave a vivid tapestry of our life together, raising five children, there are moments of both humor and poignancy. Fearlessly, I delve into my emotions, allowing readers to connect deeply with my raw journey. Struggling with overwhelming grief and thoughts of self-harm, I reach a turning point, realizing that I am merely existing rather than truly living.

Seeking a change, I decide to embark on a solo road trip to the places that held significance in our love story. This transformative journey becomes an opportunity for introspection, healing, and rediscovering my identity as Just Dar, nearly a year after Rick's passing. "This Wasn't the Plan" serves as a testament to the strength of the human spirit and resilience in the face of loss, offering solace and inspiration to those navigating their own experiences of grief. My evocative prose and emotional honesty remind us of the power of healing and self-discovery, showcasing the enduring nature of love and the courage it takes to rebuild one's life after loss.