Lori, I'm sorry for your loss. You sound like you'll make it, though. You're already finding things to be positive about. And yes, your passion for cycling does really help.
I have no children, but recently lost two cherished pets in one week.They were my family members. One I had for 11 years, the other for 24. The biggest thing that's helped me through is to go out and just ride. A few times I've been riding with tears flowing, but it beats sitting home.