My ex broke my heart when i was only 21 and ever since then i was determined to be happy on my own and not be one of those people who needs another person or relationship to determine their happiness. Its been the best 5 years of my life by far, now im seeing a different girl for about a year now. its going well but im alot more pickey about who im with simply b/c i know i have my options. But my girl and i are good so far.
Im sure its gonna seem weird and maybe even a little intimidating to be single after being with the same girl for so long ( i honestly cant imagine) but it gets easier and easier day by day. It sounds like your going about it the right way though, and from what it sounds shes taking it kind of well and with maturity which is suprising. Usually if it comes out of the blue the other person is in denial. If the whole breakup goes through without a hitch count yourself lucky. If there's problems then at least you will realize your definitly doing the right thing.
Oh, and my girl has a friend. Shes cute, about 5'4", 105ish lbs, brunette, let me know if your interested.