7 months sober!
Hello!
I haven't been here in awhile...I read a lot of your blogs and I love them! I sometimes even post a comment. Well, I am here today, because 15 years ago today is when I became a daily drinker. September 11, 2001. My dad worked two blocks above the WTC and lived a few blocks below in Battery Park City. At the time, my youngest sister was living with him. After the 2nd plane hit, my dad ran out of his office, past the WTC, to his apartment to get my sister. As he entered his apt.. the first tower collapsed. His building filled up with smoke and he and my sister ran down 23 flights of stairs with wash cloths covering their noses and mouths. Then they were trapped in the lobby due to zero visibility. A police officer entered and told them all to run because their bldg. was going to explode. (It didn't). They physically leapt on a police boat that had already left Battery Park City. They had no fear..they just did it to save their lives. Somehow, they got to my house. To this day, they aren't sure how.
My husband worked downtown near the WTC. He also had to evacuate as his bldg. filled with smoke. In a strange sequence of events, my husband also got on a boat (this one hadn't yet departed) on a different river than my dad and sister...and there he got to NJ with another guy that was from our town! Then the 2nd tower collapsed and the air filled black. My husband got on that boat and then they found a taxi driver to take them to our home..which was about a 40 minute taxi ride. After he got home he said he needed to hug our kids so we drove to their schools and picked them up. I felt so badly for my kids as these two young boys could not understand why their father was crying. He is not a man who cries!
That morning, I was going to play tennis and I rec'd a call from a far away friend telling me not to worry about my husband, he got in touch with him and he is fine. I had no idea what he was talking about. Of course all of the phone lines were jammed. I eventually got in touch with my father, who told me that a plane hit one of the towers (which he could see from his office window). It was an accident. As I kept talking to my dad, I hear him screaming...Oh my God, Oh my God. I kept saying.."what dad? what?" Finally, he said, another plane hit the other tower. That is when he dropped the phone and ran to get to my sister.
I rushed home. When I got there, there were about 15 people on my front lawn asking me if Mark was alright. It was surreal. Thank goodness my friend had gotten in touch with him and I knew he was ok. But, I didn't know how or when he or my dad would get to me. My kids were 2, 5 and 7 years old. The older two were at school.
Then..my phone rang. It was my friend asking me to call everyone we know and start a prayer chain for her husband who was in Tower 1. My friend was 9 months pregnant with her 2nd child. And as miracles happen, my husband came into our house. An in shock husband...but I had my husband. I knew where he was. I didn't know about my dad or sister yet. I then had the opportunity to drive over to my friends house and she was outside her home with many people waiting for her husband to come home. We all prayed the rosary as a group. We kept watching TV searching for her husband. We called hospitals, police stations, news outlets...anybody. (Thank goodness she had a landline as the cells were still jammed). Her husband never came home. Her baby was born a week later.
I went home. Still no dad or sister. They eventually got to my house. If I remember correctly was around 1:00ish. We were all in a total shock. But, especially the 3 of them who were witness to the most horrible act of terrorism that our country had ever seen. The phone kept ringing and the news was bad...many many friends were missing. We didn't know what to do...so we opened wine. Bottle after bottle. I don't even think it had any effect on us because we were in such shock. The days after that were also extremely hard. The news just kept getting worse. News of another friend lost. News of another friend searching for her husband., The first responders who were at Ground Zero...
So, what did I do? I drank and drank and drank...at first (except on that horrible day) I only had one or two. But every day. It took a few years, but obviously it escalated to way more than 2 glasses per day. If I am honest, I feel like a really weak person. My stories that I share with you are NOTHING compared to what others went through. My friend who lost her husband and had a 2 year old and a newborn baby...did she turn to the bottle or drugs or another addictive substance? NO! Many other people I know whose stories are way worse than mine...did they turn to the bottle? NO! And yes, I am aware, that in the wake of a tragedy of ginormous proportions, there are people bound to turn to substance abuse. Why was I one of them? That day, I rec'd a blessing...my husband, my father and my sister...all physically unharmed.
So while I remember 9/11 as the worst day of my life so far..I also remember it as the day I started drinking daily. I can't believe it's been 15 years. I now pick myself up and move forward....it's taken me a long time....but here I am..7 months free from alcohol. This September 11, 2016, for the first time in 15 years, I can say that I am a non-drinker. On this sad day, I am able to find a sliver of happiness in that.
Love,
Sober mom at 53
Sunday, September 11, 2016
Saturday, July 23, 2016
Day 170 - Clean Colon!
July 23, 2016
Day 170
Hello!
One of my greatest fears when I was drinking was that I was screwing up my body. Especially my colon. I was convinced that my drinking gave me colon cancer.
I was diagnosed with breast cancer at 41 years old. 2 different kinds of invasive breast cancer, one in each breast. I had 2 surgeries, 8 rounds of chemo, and 6 weeks of radiation. I took tamoxifen for 5 years, had a 2 year drug free holiday, and now have taken arimidex for 4 years. My chemo put me in full blown menopause at the age of 42. My body made cancer. At the time of my diagnosis, I was a normal drinker....so I thought. I remember having a glass or two of wine in the middle of my two weeks between chemo treatments...who does that? In looking back, I realize that that was probably the start of my drinking problems! I couldn't even abstain during chemo! Most people are sick..but no, not me...I made sure that I had my wine (all cleared with oncologist of course, but she probably didn't know how much I "really" had!).
Since I was considered a young women at diagnosis, that was pre menopausal, especially whose body made 2 different kinds of invasive cancers at the same time in two different breasts, I was considered an anomaly. Therefore, they did a lot of extra testing. They made me switch my gyn to the cancer center. At my 5 year cancer free mark, the gyn required me to have a colonoscopy. All was clear.
Anyway, fast forward 5 years. I constantly found myself worrying about my drinking causing me colon cancer. After all, my body made cancer. I drank more than the recommended weekly amount for women....almost every day!!! It was a part of my body that I couldn't see. Sometimes I had lower left stomach pains. Sometimes my stool wasn't right (I know, TMI). I really needed /wanted another colonoscopy to make sure that my drinking wasn't hurting my innards. I asked my gyn at the cancer center for another one. The new protocol is 10 years for your next colonoscopy if the previous one was clear. There was no way I could wait 5 more years...no way! I needed this for my mental being. Yet, I couldn't tell the gyn why. I was too embarrassed. So, I made up a problem. (I know, very bad! Who in their right mind wants a colonoscopy? The prep is awful!) Well, yesterday I had that colonoscopy! and guess what? ALL WAS CLEAR! I stopped drinking in time! I was so worried that there would be something wrong related to my years of drinking! I feel like a HUGE weight was lifted off my shoulders. I feel like I can really see the sober path in front of me. I don't have that nagging thought in my head every day that I gave myself colon cancer.
Now, I wouldn't recommend asking for a colonoscopy if you don't need one. I was really positive that because my body had already made cancer, and then I beat it up with wine, that I really had colon cancer. I know it's a psycho thing...but I had these thoughts while I was drinking and because I convinced myself of it, they remained when I quit.
Now, I am so utterly happy. I know things can still happen. But, I know that I stopped drinking in time so that I did not give myself colon cancer.
Love,
Sober at 53
Day 170
Hello!
One of my greatest fears when I was drinking was that I was screwing up my body. Especially my colon. I was convinced that my drinking gave me colon cancer.
I was diagnosed with breast cancer at 41 years old. 2 different kinds of invasive breast cancer, one in each breast. I had 2 surgeries, 8 rounds of chemo, and 6 weeks of radiation. I took tamoxifen for 5 years, had a 2 year drug free holiday, and now have taken arimidex for 4 years. My chemo put me in full blown menopause at the age of 42. My body made cancer. At the time of my diagnosis, I was a normal drinker....so I thought. I remember having a glass or two of wine in the middle of my two weeks between chemo treatments...who does that? In looking back, I realize that that was probably the start of my drinking problems! I couldn't even abstain during chemo! Most people are sick..but no, not me...I made sure that I had my wine (all cleared with oncologist of course, but she probably didn't know how much I "really" had!).
Since I was considered a young women at diagnosis, that was pre menopausal, especially whose body made 2 different kinds of invasive cancers at the same time in two different breasts, I was considered an anomaly. Therefore, they did a lot of extra testing. They made me switch my gyn to the cancer center. At my 5 year cancer free mark, the gyn required me to have a colonoscopy. All was clear.
Anyway, fast forward 5 years. I constantly found myself worrying about my drinking causing me colon cancer. After all, my body made cancer. I drank more than the recommended weekly amount for women....almost every day!!! It was a part of my body that I couldn't see. Sometimes I had lower left stomach pains. Sometimes my stool wasn't right (I know, TMI). I really needed /wanted another colonoscopy to make sure that my drinking wasn't hurting my innards. I asked my gyn at the cancer center for another one. The new protocol is 10 years for your next colonoscopy if the previous one was clear. There was no way I could wait 5 more years...no way! I needed this for my mental being. Yet, I couldn't tell the gyn why. I was too embarrassed. So, I made up a problem. (I know, very bad! Who in their right mind wants a colonoscopy? The prep is awful!) Well, yesterday I had that colonoscopy! and guess what? ALL WAS CLEAR! I stopped drinking in time! I was so worried that there would be something wrong related to my years of drinking! I feel like a HUGE weight was lifted off my shoulders. I feel like I can really see the sober path in front of me. I don't have that nagging thought in my head every day that I gave myself colon cancer.
Now, I wouldn't recommend asking for a colonoscopy if you don't need one. I was really positive that because my body had already made cancer, and then I beat it up with wine, that I really had colon cancer. I know it's a psycho thing...but I had these thoughts while I was drinking and because I convinced myself of it, they remained when I quit.
Now, I am so utterly happy. I know things can still happen. But, I know that I stopped drinking in time so that I did not give myself colon cancer.
Love,
Sober at 53
Monday, July 18, 2016
Day 165 - Too Complacent!
July 18, 2016
Day 165
Hello!
It's been a month since I've written a blog post. I think I got to a point where I just didn't have anything else to say about not drinking. (I am still reading and commenting though!) I am also at a point where trying not to drink is not so hard anymore. It doesn't occupy my every waking moment. I am not spending all of my time trying to quit! In fact, it's gotten pretty easy. I do like my AF beer though!
I had a lot going on this last month. I was away for a week...part of it in Disney..and if you can make it thru Disneyworld without drinking, I think you've got a really good shot at permanent sobriety! hahaha
My sister and her family live in Sydney, Australia and they stayed with us for the last 2 weeks. 1st week we were away with them. It was such a wonderful time. And, I didn't miss drinking. Even though I was around it every night.
But.....on the night before my sister was returning home, we had a farewell party at my house. I honestly never thought about getting booze. It didn't cross my mind! But, many of the other guests drink. So, due to circumstances, it was up to me to go to the bottle shop (I am now officially calling a liquor store a "bottle shop" as my Aussie sister told me that is what it is called in Australia! I think it sounds much classier than "liquor store!") This was my first foray into my old stomping grounds. I got my cart and walked in and was overcome with extreme sadness. It was palpable. Tears welled up in my eyes and I stopped, looked down the wine aisle and breathed a heavy sigh. I had to get white and red wine. White was no problem since I never touched it. But the red...the sweet, sweet red...(sigh) oh how I have missed you! I decided to get bottles that I was not familiar with. Somehow it made it easier for me. I hightailed it out of the wine aisle and went to the beer refrigerator. That part was easy. It took me a moment to collect my thoughts when I got back in my car. I had no desire to drink, but I was so sad that I couldn't...because I abused it.
My point in this post is that I thought everything was going great and that I was in a really good place. But, I was too complacent. (dictionary.com definition of complacent: 1. pleased, especially with oneself or one's merits, advantages, situation, etc., often without awareness of some potential danger or defect; self-satisfied. I thought I was over the whole "drinking thing." But then BAM! It hit me like a brick wall when I walked into that bottle shop. So my warning is...be in a good place...but never get too complacent! I will not forget this experience. It happened 4 days ago and I'm still thinking about it! No more complacency for Sober at 53!
Don't get too complacent!!!
Love,
Sober at 53
Day 165
Hello!
It's been a month since I've written a blog post. I think I got to a point where I just didn't have anything else to say about not drinking. (I am still reading and commenting though!) I am also at a point where trying not to drink is not so hard anymore. It doesn't occupy my every waking moment. I am not spending all of my time trying to quit! In fact, it's gotten pretty easy. I do like my AF beer though!
I had a lot going on this last month. I was away for a week...part of it in Disney..and if you can make it thru Disneyworld without drinking, I think you've got a really good shot at permanent sobriety! hahaha
My sister and her family live in Sydney, Australia and they stayed with us for the last 2 weeks. 1st week we were away with them. It was such a wonderful time. And, I didn't miss drinking. Even though I was around it every night.
But.....on the night before my sister was returning home, we had a farewell party at my house. I honestly never thought about getting booze. It didn't cross my mind! But, many of the other guests drink. So, due to circumstances, it was up to me to go to the bottle shop (I am now officially calling a liquor store a "bottle shop" as my Aussie sister told me that is what it is called in Australia! I think it sounds much classier than "liquor store!") This was my first foray into my old stomping grounds. I got my cart and walked in and was overcome with extreme sadness. It was palpable. Tears welled up in my eyes and I stopped, looked down the wine aisle and breathed a heavy sigh. I had to get white and red wine. White was no problem since I never touched it. But the red...the sweet, sweet red...(sigh) oh how I have missed you! I decided to get bottles that I was not familiar with. Somehow it made it easier for me. I hightailed it out of the wine aisle and went to the beer refrigerator. That part was easy. It took me a moment to collect my thoughts when I got back in my car. I had no desire to drink, but I was so sad that I couldn't...because I abused it.
My point in this post is that I thought everything was going great and that I was in a really good place. But, I was too complacent. (dictionary.com definition of complacent: 1. pleased, especially with oneself or one's merits, advantages, situation, etc., often without awareness of some potential danger or defect; self-satisfied. I thought I was over the whole "drinking thing." But then BAM! It hit me like a brick wall when I walked into that bottle shop. So my warning is...be in a good place...but never get too complacent! I will not forget this experience. It happened 4 days ago and I'm still thinking about it! No more complacency for Sober at 53!
Don't get too complacent!!!
Love,
Sober at 53
Tuesday, June 21, 2016
Day 135 - Old Habits die hard!
June 21, 2016
Day 135
Hello!
I am not quite sure what to make of this...
My usual wine drinking occurred in the evenings. My husband would go to bed and I would sit down and watch TV and drink wine (in addition to the wine I had already drank!). OR, I would talk on the phone to my drinking friend.
Last night, I watched episode 4 of the new season of "Orange is the New Black." It ended at 10:50. And, as binge watching goes, I cued up episode 5...after telling myself I really should go to bed because I had to get up early to get my daughter to school (we are still in session here until Thursday). But, as usual, like when I was drinking, I didn't listen to that voice. I started to watch episode 5. Part of the way into it, at around 11:10pm. I went in the fridge and took an AF beer and opened it. And of course drank it. This was the same kind of thing I did with wine. It didn't matter how late it was or what I had to do the next morning, if I wanted it, I'd have it.
So now I am sitting here thinking if this was a bad thing? It doesn't feel right. It reminds me exactly of what I did when I was drinking, except I replaced the alcoholic drink with a non alcoholic drink. Why an AF beer? Why didn't I have a glass of seltzer, or make a cup of tea? It didn't even cross my mind!
Is watching TV at night a trigger for me? I have watched it in the last 135 days and don't think that I have done this before. Maybe it's a one out? Maybe "Orange is the New Black" makes me want to drink? (I did drink through the past 3 seasons!) Please tell me it's not a trigger!!!
I didn't even think about wine when I grabbed that AF beer. It's just an old habit...and it weirds me out that I did it. Old habits die hard! What really scares me is that I didn't recognize my old pattern until after I had finished that AF beer...then it hit me! I haven't changed nearly as much as I thought I have.
In the end, does it really matter? Isn't the main thing that I didn't drink? (Like I said, it didn't even cross my mind to drink!) I am not sure! But, it must not be good, because I have a bad feeling in my gut about it and you always have to go with your gut!!!
Thinking I'll watch OITNB during the day!!
Love,
Sober at 53
Day 135
Hello!
I am not quite sure what to make of this...
My usual wine drinking occurred in the evenings. My husband would go to bed and I would sit down and watch TV and drink wine (in addition to the wine I had already drank!). OR, I would talk on the phone to my drinking friend.
Last night, I watched episode 4 of the new season of "Orange is the New Black." It ended at 10:50. And, as binge watching goes, I cued up episode 5...after telling myself I really should go to bed because I had to get up early to get my daughter to school (we are still in session here until Thursday). But, as usual, like when I was drinking, I didn't listen to that voice. I started to watch episode 5. Part of the way into it, at around 11:10pm. I went in the fridge and took an AF beer and opened it. And of course drank it. This was the same kind of thing I did with wine. It didn't matter how late it was or what I had to do the next morning, if I wanted it, I'd have it.
So now I am sitting here thinking if this was a bad thing? It doesn't feel right. It reminds me exactly of what I did when I was drinking, except I replaced the alcoholic drink with a non alcoholic drink. Why an AF beer? Why didn't I have a glass of seltzer, or make a cup of tea? It didn't even cross my mind!
Is watching TV at night a trigger for me? I have watched it in the last 135 days and don't think that I have done this before. Maybe it's a one out? Maybe "Orange is the New Black" makes me want to drink? (I did drink through the past 3 seasons!) Please tell me it's not a trigger!!!
I didn't even think about wine when I grabbed that AF beer. It's just an old habit...and it weirds me out that I did it. Old habits die hard! What really scares me is that I didn't recognize my old pattern until after I had finished that AF beer...then it hit me! I haven't changed nearly as much as I thought I have.
In the end, does it really matter? Isn't the main thing that I didn't drink? (Like I said, it didn't even cross my mind to drink!) I am not sure! But, it must not be good, because I have a bad feeling in my gut about it and you always have to go with your gut!!!
Thinking I'll watch OITNB during the day!!
Love,
Sober at 53
Wednesday, June 15, 2016
Day 129 - I am so mean!!!
June 15, 2016
Day 129
Hello!
A post by ASobermiracle really got me thinking! ASobermiracle is so very kind!!! Today she sent flowers, along with a compassionate note, to a woman who was arrested for a DUI fatality. In the past, she took her money she didn't spend on alcohol and purchased healthy snacks and brought them to a women and children's shelter.
Let me tell you....since I have stopped drinking, I have turned into a total bitch!! I have taken the liberty to say whatever is on my mind! For example, this weekend I was at my state's Special Olympic games. All of the athletes had special needs. All of the spectators were there to support someone with special needs...myself being one of them. Special needs parenting provides a kinship with other special needs parents. It's a community where you don't ever have to feel embarrassed for something your child does, you don't judge or receive judgement, and you support one another 100%. It's like one giant family....for me anyway! It's a very different dichotomy than it was with my typical sons. Anyhow, I digress. My daughter competes in the swimming. You go to the spectator area when it is your child's turn to swim. The mom next to me, whom I don't know, kept swinging her pony tail like it was a horse's tail! It kept whacking me in the face. At one point she saw me brush it away. She apologized, I said no problem, and then she continued to do it. When space allowed, I moved down. Guess what? So did she. So what blurted out of my mouth without any thought was "damn, I moved down so you would stop hitting me in the face with your pony tail!" She got all huffy, and changed seats with someone else. I really owed her an apology, but I am not that big a person! Plus, I was mortified that the words just flowed right out of my mouth!!
I also seem to have a bit of road rage! I am flipping off anyone who disses me on the road. I also will flash my high beams if the person in front of me is driving below the speed limit. The "F" bomb has also been used a gazillion times!
I was in the supermarket last week and the cashier had to wait for the manager to correct something on her register. The manager was speaking to an elderly woman right near us. I was in a hurry. I took it upon myself to interrupt their conversation and say that the cashier needed him and it looked like their conversation was going to go on for awhile! The elderly lady apologized to me (I felt awful) and the manager looked at me and shook his head (rightfully so!). I was embarrassed to say the least! I went back to that supermarket a few days later to apologize but couldn't find that manager!
I don't even dare write what I say to my family!!! Yikes!
I wrote a blog post at one point that suggested I had no filter when I was drinking and that I probably said and did things that were unkind. I also wrote a post regarding a book I read "The Four Agreements" in which one of the agreements is "Be impeccable with your word." I don't dare go back and read it because I probably spewed how the agreements gave me glorious revelations and I now live my life by them!! That didn't last long!! I think I'm worse than I was when I was drinking!
Was my temper always this short? Was I always so rude? I don't think I was...but I think I am now! I think that on some level I feel that I can do whatever I want because I am doing this really hard thing...sobriety! I think I should get a pass for my behaviors. Hah! wouldn't that be nice? But, you know what? I really have to think before I speak. I really have to stop saying what I am thinking! Who the hell am I to be so brazen and rude? Since I don't want you all to think that I am always mean, I am the type of person that gives a lot of compliments too! If you walk by me and I like your hairdo, I will tell you! If I like your shoes I will tell you! I smile at people all of the time! OMG! I am Dr. Jeckyl and Mr. Hyde!!!
So a big shoutout to Asobermiracle for making me think long and hard about my behaviors! You have inspired me to be a kinder person!
If you see someone on the road flipping you the bird...it's more than likely me! Sorry!
Love,
Sober at 53
Day 129
Hello!
A post by ASobermiracle really got me thinking! ASobermiracle is so very kind!!! Today she sent flowers, along with a compassionate note, to a woman who was arrested for a DUI fatality. In the past, she took her money she didn't spend on alcohol and purchased healthy snacks and brought them to a women and children's shelter.
Let me tell you....since I have stopped drinking, I have turned into a total bitch!! I have taken the liberty to say whatever is on my mind! For example, this weekend I was at my state's Special Olympic games. All of the athletes had special needs. All of the spectators were there to support someone with special needs...myself being one of them. Special needs parenting provides a kinship with other special needs parents. It's a community where you don't ever have to feel embarrassed for something your child does, you don't judge or receive judgement, and you support one another 100%. It's like one giant family....for me anyway! It's a very different dichotomy than it was with my typical sons. Anyhow, I digress. My daughter competes in the swimming. You go to the spectator area when it is your child's turn to swim. The mom next to me, whom I don't know, kept swinging her pony tail like it was a horse's tail! It kept whacking me in the face. At one point she saw me brush it away. She apologized, I said no problem, and then she continued to do it. When space allowed, I moved down. Guess what? So did she. So what blurted out of my mouth without any thought was "damn, I moved down so you would stop hitting me in the face with your pony tail!" She got all huffy, and changed seats with someone else. I really owed her an apology, but I am not that big a person! Plus, I was mortified that the words just flowed right out of my mouth!!
I also seem to have a bit of road rage! I am flipping off anyone who disses me on the road. I also will flash my high beams if the person in front of me is driving below the speed limit. The "F" bomb has also been used a gazillion times!
I was in the supermarket last week and the cashier had to wait for the manager to correct something on her register. The manager was speaking to an elderly woman right near us. I was in a hurry. I took it upon myself to interrupt their conversation and say that the cashier needed him and it looked like their conversation was going to go on for awhile! The elderly lady apologized to me (I felt awful) and the manager looked at me and shook his head (rightfully so!). I was embarrassed to say the least! I went back to that supermarket a few days later to apologize but couldn't find that manager!
I don't even dare write what I say to my family!!! Yikes!
I wrote a blog post at one point that suggested I had no filter when I was drinking and that I probably said and did things that were unkind. I also wrote a post regarding a book I read "The Four Agreements" in which one of the agreements is "Be impeccable with your word." I don't dare go back and read it because I probably spewed how the agreements gave me glorious revelations and I now live my life by them!! That didn't last long!! I think I'm worse than I was when I was drinking!
Was my temper always this short? Was I always so rude? I don't think I was...but I think I am now! I think that on some level I feel that I can do whatever I want because I am doing this really hard thing...sobriety! I think I should get a pass for my behaviors. Hah! wouldn't that be nice? But, you know what? I really have to think before I speak. I really have to stop saying what I am thinking! Who the hell am I to be so brazen and rude? Since I don't want you all to think that I am always mean, I am the type of person that gives a lot of compliments too! If you walk by me and I like your hairdo, I will tell you! If I like your shoes I will tell you! I smile at people all of the time! OMG! I am Dr. Jeckyl and Mr. Hyde!!!
So a big shoutout to Asobermiracle for making me think long and hard about my behaviors! You have inspired me to be a kinder person!
If you see someone on the road flipping you the bird...it's more than likely me! Sorry!
Love,
Sober at 53
Monday, June 13, 2016
Day 127 - The hardest day ever!!!
June 13, 2016
I've been remiss from the blogosphere because I am still trying to figure out why I am doing this sobriety thing! I'm trying to find a new reason, but haven't found one yet. Since I have seen no physical changes I am struggling with my motives. I still haven't drank but I find myself constantly saying "hmmm....maybe I'll drink today." But, I haven't done it. I really don't know what is stopping me. Could it be that I am a strong person? hahaha! But today, I might've found a reason to keep going.
Day 127
Hello!
I've been remiss from the blogosphere because I am still trying to figure out why I am doing this sobriety thing! I'm trying to find a new reason, but haven't found one yet. Since I have seen no physical changes I am struggling with my motives. I still haven't drank but I find myself constantly saying "hmmm....maybe I'll drink today." But, I haven't done it. I really don't know what is stopping me. Could it be that I am a strong person? hahaha! But today, I might've found a reason to keep going.
In the 127 days since I've quit drinking, today was by far the most difficult day that I have had. Something happened that greatly upset me. So much so, that I spent the day with a terrible stomach ache. The first thing I wanted to do was buy a pack of cigarettes. My next thought was, how am I going to get through this without drinking? It was 10:00 in the morning. I was never a morning or afternoon drinker. I couldn't imagine how I would or could get through my day without a vice! I was on the phone with a girlfriend and I told her that I wanted to smoke...she said "that's not going to help anything." You know what? She was right. I transferred that sentiment over to drinking. It was not going to help anything.
It certainly made me realize that when the going gets tough, Sober at 53 gets drinking! And...the day was really really tough. I decided to let myself feel my feelings (anxiety, sadness, fear). I talked to Mr. Soberat53 a gazillion times today to help get me through it! I bet he didn't get a lick of work done today! My book club had plans to go to the movies tonight to see a book we had read "Me Before You" so I knew that I could get through my night. (Highly recommend the movie to anyone who has read the book!) I am not sure that if I didn't have plans that I wouldn't have drank. That scares me that I didn't know.
While this did not get rid of my stomach ache (and I still have it at 11:00 at night as I type this) I didn't smoke or drink! I did eat popcorn with extra butter and chocolate covered pretzels when I got home! I treated myself to an AF beer as well. (That will surely help my stomach ache! hahaha)
So now it's 11:00 pm. My stomach still hurts. But, I feel much better. While the issues that made me super upset are still there and are not going away anytime soon, I am happy that I am dealing with my emotions. I am so glad I didn't drink. If I did, I know it would've made everything worse! There was no way in hell that if I were drinking that I could've started to really deal with the issues that confront me. I needed to be clear headed. I don't know what would've happened if I wasn't. That is how big this issue is. Maybe this is the reason that I need to keep me motivated on the sobriety path. Maybe how I deal with this is my "reward" for not drinking. It is not physical, but maybe I need to change that thought process.
And one thought....I have honestly not been dealing with any cravings in awhile. I've been lucky. It's been 127 days. But whoa....out of left field came this HUGE problem and all I wanted was my wine. So don't get complacent. You never know what's going to be thrown your way! And, you want to be clear headed to deal with it!!
Love,
Sober at 53
And one thought....I have honestly not been dealing with any cravings in awhile. I've been lucky. It's been 127 days. But whoa....out of left field came this HUGE problem and all I wanted was my wine. So don't get complacent. You never know what's going to be thrown your way! And, you want to be clear headed to deal with it!!
Love,
Sober at 53
Friday, June 3, 2016
Day 117 - Why am I doing this?????
June 3, 2016
Day 117
Hello!
I do not know why I am quitting anymore!! I thought so many things would change for me. And guess what? Im not seeing those changes I want and need to see!!
Today, I went for my breast cancer check up my cancer center in NYC. I am an 11 year breast cancer survivor. I had a bunch of tests today and they all came back great, for which I am very grateful. BUT, the test that I was really excited to see were the blood work for the liver panel numbers!
After my day long appointments, my husband and I went out to dinner. We went to a Basque restaurant in the city. The place was really cool. My sweet husband talked to the bartender and had him make me a delicious mocktail. Muddled cucumber and mint with rhubarb syrup. It was delicious. I was so happy to be there. While we were waiting for our meal, I looked up my blood test results. Guess what? THEY WERE EXACTLY THE SAME AS WHEN I WAS DRINKING!!!!!! I was so pissed. I was POSITIVE that they would be even better. They have always been great...but I wanted greater!
I also had a bone density test today and they take your height and weight. I AM EXACTLY THE SAME WEIGHT AS WHEN I WAS DRINKING!!!!! I was so pissed!
I was so disappointed that I almost ditched that delicious mocktail for a glass, or bottle, of Spanish red wine! It took nearly everything I had not to. In the end, it was Mr. Soberat53 that convinced me not to (all the while sipping his red wine!). He said I have come so far and that my drinking had been escalating. He reminded me of how good I feel in the mornings. He told me that he thinks I look better (I am going to believe him). He reminded me of how my head is much clearer.
I had been so proud of myself today. I finally, after 11 years, got to check the "NO" box on the medical update forms to the question "Do you drink alcohol." I even took a picture of my checked NO box!!! (nobody saw me do that....I hope!) After the appointments I came across this beautiful church and went in and actually cried as I thanked God for giving me the strength to quit and even lit a candle!
But tonight, I am really questioning if this is all worth it! Nothing physically has changed. Those are the things that were the impetus for me quitting drinking. All of that hard work for what???
I know quitting is the right thing to be doing but I really don't know why anymore. I am not going to go back to drinking today, but I sure have lost my mojo for quitting. Since I am a secret quitter, I could go right back and nobody would be the wiser. It's funny how in one day you can be so high, and then, go so low! And tomorrow I have a girls dinner out in NYC. It was going to be a tough one for me with not drinking BEFORE I started questioning myself tonight! Ugh!
So now I have to come up with other big reasons that will enable me to continue on this sobriety journey.
Just ranting again...I still really can't believe my liver function numbers weren't lower!! They were right in the middle of the range, where they have been for years! How could they not be lower after giving up over 117 bottles of wine and then some!!! I just don't get it! And all of those calories in those 117+ bottles of wine?? I should be emaciated....trying to put on weight for goodness sakes!
Arghhhhhhh!!!!!!!!
Ok..if you got this far, thank you for once again attending Soberat53's Pity Party!
With GREAT FRUSTRATION,
Sober at 53
Day 117
Hello!
I do not know why I am quitting anymore!! I thought so many things would change for me. And guess what? Im not seeing those changes I want and need to see!!
Today, I went for my breast cancer check up my cancer center in NYC. I am an 11 year breast cancer survivor. I had a bunch of tests today and they all came back great, for which I am very grateful. BUT, the test that I was really excited to see were the blood work for the liver panel numbers!
After my day long appointments, my husband and I went out to dinner. We went to a Basque restaurant in the city. The place was really cool. My sweet husband talked to the bartender and had him make me a delicious mocktail. Muddled cucumber and mint with rhubarb syrup. It was delicious. I was so happy to be there. While we were waiting for our meal, I looked up my blood test results. Guess what? THEY WERE EXACTLY THE SAME AS WHEN I WAS DRINKING!!!!!! I was so pissed. I was POSITIVE that they would be even better. They have always been great...but I wanted greater!
I also had a bone density test today and they take your height and weight. I AM EXACTLY THE SAME WEIGHT AS WHEN I WAS DRINKING!!!!! I was so pissed!
I was so disappointed that I almost ditched that delicious mocktail for a glass, or bottle, of Spanish red wine! It took nearly everything I had not to. In the end, it was Mr. Soberat53 that convinced me not to (all the while sipping his red wine!). He said I have come so far and that my drinking had been escalating. He reminded me of how good I feel in the mornings. He told me that he thinks I look better (I am going to believe him). He reminded me of how my head is much clearer.
I had been so proud of myself today. I finally, after 11 years, got to check the "NO" box on the medical update forms to the question "Do you drink alcohol." I even took a picture of my checked NO box!!! (nobody saw me do that....I hope!) After the appointments I came across this beautiful church and went in and actually cried as I thanked God for giving me the strength to quit and even lit a candle!
But tonight, I am really questioning if this is all worth it! Nothing physically has changed. Those are the things that were the impetus for me quitting drinking. All of that hard work for what???
I know quitting is the right thing to be doing but I really don't know why anymore. I am not going to go back to drinking today, but I sure have lost my mojo for quitting. Since I am a secret quitter, I could go right back and nobody would be the wiser. It's funny how in one day you can be so high, and then, go so low! And tomorrow I have a girls dinner out in NYC. It was going to be a tough one for me with not drinking BEFORE I started questioning myself tonight! Ugh!
So now I have to come up with other big reasons that will enable me to continue on this sobriety journey.
Just ranting again...I still really can't believe my liver function numbers weren't lower!! They were right in the middle of the range, where they have been for years! How could they not be lower after giving up over 117 bottles of wine and then some!!! I just don't get it! And all of those calories in those 117+ bottles of wine?? I should be emaciated....trying to put on weight for goodness sakes!
Arghhhhhhh!!!!!!!!
Ok..if you got this far, thank you for once again attending Soberat53's Pity Party!
With GREAT FRUSTRATION,
Sober at 53
Wednesday, June 1, 2016
Day 115 - Blown off!!
June 1, 2015
Day 115
Hello!
Well, it seems like I've been totally blown off by one of my best friends. My friend M. was my drinking buddy. Besides Mr. Soberat53, she is the ONLY person in the world who knew how much I drank. She drank just like me. For years, we were drinking buddies, via phone..every night We told each other our darkest secrets while we were drinking (of course we would...alcohol enables loose lips!). Through our drinking, we also became very close outside of our drinking. We shared a lot of the same interests. We are both intense exercisers. We both have children with special needs. We both LOVED our wine! We really spent hours on the phone late into the night when our husbands and kids were asleep. It was like we were having a party over the phone. And we live close so sometimes she would sneak over here after work for some wine before she went home.
We have tried quitting together a gazillion times. Tried supporting each other through it. Even went to an AA meeting together. Of course we never made it. Years of this drinking and talking about quitting went on.
Then something happened...I quit. She didn't.
In the beginning, she was very proud of me. I gave her inspiration. She kept telling me I was her hero. I kept telling her to be her own hero.
She told me that she was jealous that I quit. She wants to so badly, but it just isn't happening for her.
She does go to a therapist that specializes in alcohol addiction. I mentioned in a previous post that she is working on why she drinks, so that in figuring that out and ultimately getting rid of those issues, she won't want to drink because there will be no reason to. A different approach.
She told me that she didn't want to call me anymore because she didn't want to trigger me. I told her that nobody could make me drink except for me. So, she kept calling...and yes, she was drunk,
I let her know, in no uncertain terms, how much I love and need her and I couldn't get through this without her. Only she could understand. She kept calling...and yes, she was drunk.
I do not judge her at all. I have walked in her shoes. Nor do I try to get her to quit. I listen when she talks about wanting to quit. I listen when she talks about her therapy appts. I only support her. I know that she has to find it in herself to quit...just like I had to.
Now, I haven't heard from her since last week. We spoke every day!!! And in thinking about it, it was generally me who did all of the calling of late.
I fully understand that I have something she wants...sobriety. But, I miss her so much. It pains me to think that our relationship was solely built on our drinking. It takes years to build a relationship like we had. I thought it was real. Her family spends Thanksgivings and Christmases with our family for goodness sakes! We even talked about me and Mr. Soberat53 becoming her child with special needs legal guardian should anything happen to her and her husband. Now, that is closeness!!!
I know she lost her drinking buddy...but I thought we had so much more! Mr. Soberat53 also lost his drinking buddy...but I guess since he lives with me, he still has to talk to me!
I guess I just have to let her find her way? Can I really be reduced to a small role in her life? I am so sad. I wish I could call her during the day, when she is not drinking...but she has a huge job, that she loves and is brilliant at, and cannot be reached while she is at work.
I am thinking that this relationship is one of the consequences of me not drinking. I am having a hard time wrapping my head around it though. I just thought it was so much more!!
I miss my friend!!!
Love,
Sober at 53
Day 115
Hello!
Well, it seems like I've been totally blown off by one of my best friends. My friend M. was my drinking buddy. Besides Mr. Soberat53, she is the ONLY person in the world who knew how much I drank. She drank just like me. For years, we were drinking buddies, via phone..every night We told each other our darkest secrets while we were drinking (of course we would...alcohol enables loose lips!). Through our drinking, we also became very close outside of our drinking. We shared a lot of the same interests. We are both intense exercisers. We both have children with special needs. We both LOVED our wine! We really spent hours on the phone late into the night when our husbands and kids were asleep. It was like we were having a party over the phone. And we live close so sometimes she would sneak over here after work for some wine before she went home.
We have tried quitting together a gazillion times. Tried supporting each other through it. Even went to an AA meeting together. Of course we never made it. Years of this drinking and talking about quitting went on.
Then something happened...I quit. She didn't.
In the beginning, she was very proud of me. I gave her inspiration. She kept telling me I was her hero. I kept telling her to be her own hero.
She told me that she was jealous that I quit. She wants to so badly, but it just isn't happening for her.
She does go to a therapist that specializes in alcohol addiction. I mentioned in a previous post that she is working on why she drinks, so that in figuring that out and ultimately getting rid of those issues, she won't want to drink because there will be no reason to. A different approach.
She told me that she didn't want to call me anymore because she didn't want to trigger me. I told her that nobody could make me drink except for me. So, she kept calling...and yes, she was drunk,
I let her know, in no uncertain terms, how much I love and need her and I couldn't get through this without her. Only she could understand. She kept calling...and yes, she was drunk.
I do not judge her at all. I have walked in her shoes. Nor do I try to get her to quit. I listen when she talks about wanting to quit. I listen when she talks about her therapy appts. I only support her. I know that she has to find it in herself to quit...just like I had to.
Now, I haven't heard from her since last week. We spoke every day!!! And in thinking about it, it was generally me who did all of the calling of late.
I fully understand that I have something she wants...sobriety. But, I miss her so much. It pains me to think that our relationship was solely built on our drinking. It takes years to build a relationship like we had. I thought it was real. Her family spends Thanksgivings and Christmases with our family for goodness sakes! We even talked about me and Mr. Soberat53 becoming her child with special needs legal guardian should anything happen to her and her husband. Now, that is closeness!!!
I know she lost her drinking buddy...but I thought we had so much more! Mr. Soberat53 also lost his drinking buddy...but I guess since he lives with me, he still has to talk to me!
I guess I just have to let her find her way? Can I really be reduced to a small role in her life? I am so sad. I wish I could call her during the day, when she is not drinking...but she has a huge job, that she loves and is brilliant at, and cannot be reached while she is at work.
I am thinking that this relationship is one of the consequences of me not drinking. I am having a hard time wrapping my head around it though. I just thought it was so much more!!
I miss my friend!!!
Love,
Sober at 53
Wednesday, May 25, 2016
Day 108 - Will I ever be safe??
May 25, 2016
Day 108
Hello!
In reading the blogs that I follow, I have noticed that there seem to be a lot of people who have abstained from drinking for long periods of time and then have started back up again. They are now in a position where once again they are trying to quit.
I appreciate the honesty in these blogs so very much! It is raw. It is scary!!! Some people have gone years without drinking only to return to it. I am at Day 108. I read a blog where the writer went back right around this time in their sober journey. And, for no good reason. (Will there ever be a good reason? I don't think so!)
I am scared that I will never be safe. Right now I spend a lot of time quitting! It is a lot easier than it was in the very beginning and I'm sure as I continue on it will get even easier (one can hope!). For all of us ex-smokers out there, I know one day you get to the point where you can't even imagine a cigarette. It will taste gross and you would feel physically ill if you were to have one. I hope that is how it gets for me with wine. BUT...when I look into my future...everyone around me is still drinking. It is socially acceptable, whereas smoking is not...In fact, smoking is demonized...and rightfully so! It is not cool to smoke. But, drinking is considered cool.
So what do I do in this world where drinking is socially acceptable? Will I ever reach a point where drinking is a memory from a long time ago? Will I be able to be free of "drinking and quitting" in a world where it is all around me? Do I have to be strong FOREVER? I kinda don't want to be doing this for the rest of my life. I don't mean I want to go to moderation (right! Like that was even possible!) but I certainly don't want to have to work on quitting forever! It's exhausting as it is, never mind having to do it for a lifetime! I'm 53 years old and I just want to get on with my life! (Ok, this is where I get really pissed at myself and berate myself for having to quit because I let my drinking get so out of hand!)
Will I ever be safe from relapsing? Do I wake up one day and realize that quitting is over? That I made it? That I'm done with quitting?
These are the thoughts that boggle my mind. I just want this whole quitting thing to be over...but will it ever be? Will I ever be safe? Please...SOMEONE...tell me I will be safe! Please! I beg you!!!!
Love,
Sober at 53
Day 108
Hello!
In reading the blogs that I follow, I have noticed that there seem to be a lot of people who have abstained from drinking for long periods of time and then have started back up again. They are now in a position where once again they are trying to quit.
I appreciate the honesty in these blogs so very much! It is raw. It is scary!!! Some people have gone years without drinking only to return to it. I am at Day 108. I read a blog where the writer went back right around this time in their sober journey. And, for no good reason. (Will there ever be a good reason? I don't think so!)
I am scared that I will never be safe. Right now I spend a lot of time quitting! It is a lot easier than it was in the very beginning and I'm sure as I continue on it will get even easier (one can hope!). For all of us ex-smokers out there, I know one day you get to the point where you can't even imagine a cigarette. It will taste gross and you would feel physically ill if you were to have one. I hope that is how it gets for me with wine. BUT...when I look into my future...everyone around me is still drinking. It is socially acceptable, whereas smoking is not...In fact, smoking is demonized...and rightfully so! It is not cool to smoke. But, drinking is considered cool.
So what do I do in this world where drinking is socially acceptable? Will I ever reach a point where drinking is a memory from a long time ago? Will I be able to be free of "drinking and quitting" in a world where it is all around me? Do I have to be strong FOREVER? I kinda don't want to be doing this for the rest of my life. I don't mean I want to go to moderation (right! Like that was even possible!) but I certainly don't want to have to work on quitting forever! It's exhausting as it is, never mind having to do it for a lifetime! I'm 53 years old and I just want to get on with my life! (Ok, this is where I get really pissed at myself and berate myself for having to quit because I let my drinking get so out of hand!)
Will I ever be safe from relapsing? Do I wake up one day and realize that quitting is over? That I made it? That I'm done with quitting?
These are the thoughts that boggle my mind. I just want this whole quitting thing to be over...but will it ever be? Will I ever be safe? Please...SOMEONE...tell me I will be safe! Please! I beg you!!!!
Love,
Sober at 53
Sunday, May 22, 2016
Day 105 - Why aren't you drinking?
May 22, 2016
Day 105
Hello!
What a whirlwind weekend it's been for me.
On Friday evening, we hosted a pre prom party for our daughter with special needs and 10 of her friends, also with special needs, sans 1 young man. (in fact, a NY news station did a story on him and his prom date on Friday!) We ended up having approx. 100 people at our house. I hosted similar pre prom parties for my sons. But the difference was, this time, I couldn't drink!!!
At my son's pre prom parties, we only served alcohol after the kids left for prom. Lead us not into temptation! hahaha At my daughters, we served alcohol during the pre-prom party. It was a "fun stressful" time having all of those people at my house...the getting ready in itself would usually cause me to drink! (I was outside the night before at 9:00 pm under my lights planting more flowers!). It seemed that everyone was drinking except for me! I grabbed an AF beer and promptly lost it when I put it down! But, I was so busy, that was fine.
When the kids left for the prom, a lot of people stayed. That is when it really hit me that I couldn't drink. And I was sad. So, I grabbed another AF beer and boy, did it prompt questions!!! (In hindsight, I should've put it in a glass and nobody would've been any the wiser!) Many questions! Along with the comments "you're brave".."I could never do it." "How could you go on vacation and not drink?" .."When will you start again?" etc. (I'll get to my answers soon!)
The very next morning, me and Mr. Soberat53 and 2 other couples went to another friends country home 3 hours away. These are my very closest friends. My absolute besties. I can tell them ANYTHING...except for my quitting alcohol. They knew I was a big drinker, but they really thought I was all talk! Little did they know! (and they still don't know)
We had a great day! This "urban girl" got her country on! We rode ATV's, shot shotguns, had a ginormous bonfire, and ate a great meal. After all of our country activities, you guessed it, the drinks were about to flow. I had brought a 6 pack of AF beer with me, so I started BEFORE anyone else started drinking so nobody would offer me wine and I would have more questions to answer! But, no, there were questions! Why? How long? Is it intentional?
How I answered: (and I had a captive audience..ugh!) Well, after a party in Feb. I woke up with a hangover. I was giving up wine for lent which was starting in a few days so I just started early. (that hangover did me in) After Lent, I decided I didn't want to drink because I liked how I felt....I slept better, I didn't wake up as much during the night, I felt better in the morning. I like the taste of alcohol, thus the AF beer, but I don't like how it makes me feel. I don't know when I'll decide to drink again. (I know damn well when I plan to start again: NEVER). As far as vacation, I just didn't drink. (Um, yeah, it was hard but I did it!)
During my explanation time, my sweet husband texted me from across the room asking me if I was alright. As the night continued, I tried to be the fun girl that I usually was. Everyone was sitting around and I suggested we play Left, Right, Center for $$. We all played, except for 2, and we had a lot of fun. Noteworthy: Nobody was drunk! (I would've been had I been drinking!) (BTW, I was exhausted and just wanted to go to bed but I was determined to be the fun one without drinking!)
On the way home today, Mr. Soberat53 told me, unsolicited, that I did great with the not drinking once the QandA was over! I told him that if I was still drinking, I would've been bombed and that instead of a game of Left Right Center, I would've done God knows what! I might've been hanging from the chandelier! (And it would've been an antler chandelier as it is a country house!)
It is interesting to be the only one in the room not drinking. You really see people in a different light! And, I slept horribly, so I didn't even get that morning benefit of feeling great!!!
And. my daughters prom was wonderful! A couple with special needs won Prom King and Queen. So cool!And I was able to drive them home from the limo drop and i got to hear a rich exchange between her and her boyfriend that I would've never heard. had I been drinking In fact, I would've arranged it so somebody else picked them up!
Hoping you don't have to go through QandA sessions about your not drinking! It's not fun! Especially if the "askers" did not know how much you really drank!
Love,
Sober at 53
Day 105
Hello!
What a whirlwind weekend it's been for me.
On Friday evening, we hosted a pre prom party for our daughter with special needs and 10 of her friends, also with special needs, sans 1 young man. (in fact, a NY news station did a story on him and his prom date on Friday!) We ended up having approx. 100 people at our house. I hosted similar pre prom parties for my sons. But the difference was, this time, I couldn't drink!!!
At my son's pre prom parties, we only served alcohol after the kids left for prom. Lead us not into temptation! hahaha At my daughters, we served alcohol during the pre-prom party. It was a "fun stressful" time having all of those people at my house...the getting ready in itself would usually cause me to drink! (I was outside the night before at 9:00 pm under my lights planting more flowers!). It seemed that everyone was drinking except for me! I grabbed an AF beer and promptly lost it when I put it down! But, I was so busy, that was fine.
When the kids left for the prom, a lot of people stayed. That is when it really hit me that I couldn't drink. And I was sad. So, I grabbed another AF beer and boy, did it prompt questions!!! (In hindsight, I should've put it in a glass and nobody would've been any the wiser!) Many questions! Along with the comments "you're brave".."I could never do it." "How could you go on vacation and not drink?" .."When will you start again?" etc. (I'll get to my answers soon!)
The very next morning, me and Mr. Soberat53 and 2 other couples went to another friends country home 3 hours away. These are my very closest friends. My absolute besties. I can tell them ANYTHING...except for my quitting alcohol. They knew I was a big drinker, but they really thought I was all talk! Little did they know! (and they still don't know)
We had a great day! This "urban girl" got her country on! We rode ATV's, shot shotguns, had a ginormous bonfire, and ate a great meal. After all of our country activities, you guessed it, the drinks were about to flow. I had brought a 6 pack of AF beer with me, so I started BEFORE anyone else started drinking so nobody would offer me wine and I would have more questions to answer! But, no, there were questions! Why? How long? Is it intentional?
How I answered: (and I had a captive audience..ugh!) Well, after a party in Feb. I woke up with a hangover. I was giving up wine for lent which was starting in a few days so I just started early. (that hangover did me in) After Lent, I decided I didn't want to drink because I liked how I felt....I slept better, I didn't wake up as much during the night, I felt better in the morning. I like the taste of alcohol, thus the AF beer, but I don't like how it makes me feel. I don't know when I'll decide to drink again. (I know damn well when I plan to start again: NEVER). As far as vacation, I just didn't drink. (Um, yeah, it was hard but I did it!)
During my explanation time, my sweet husband texted me from across the room asking me if I was alright. As the night continued, I tried to be the fun girl that I usually was. Everyone was sitting around and I suggested we play Left, Right, Center for $$. We all played, except for 2, and we had a lot of fun. Noteworthy: Nobody was drunk! (I would've been had I been drinking!) (BTW, I was exhausted and just wanted to go to bed but I was determined to be the fun one without drinking!)
On the way home today, Mr. Soberat53 told me, unsolicited, that I did great with the not drinking once the QandA was over! I told him that if I was still drinking, I would've been bombed and that instead of a game of Left Right Center, I would've done God knows what! I might've been hanging from the chandelier! (And it would've been an antler chandelier as it is a country house!)
It is interesting to be the only one in the room not drinking. You really see people in a different light! And, I slept horribly, so I didn't even get that morning benefit of feeling great!!!
And. my daughters prom was wonderful! A couple with special needs won Prom King and Queen. So cool!And I was able to drive them home from the limo drop and i got to hear a rich exchange between her and her boyfriend that I would've never heard. had I been drinking In fact, I would've arranged it so somebody else picked them up!
Hoping you don't have to go through QandA sessions about your not drinking! It's not fun! Especially if the "askers" did not know how much you really drank!
Love,
Sober at 53
Thursday, May 19, 2016
Day 102 - Seeing the world Differently
May 19, 2016
Day 102
Hello!
A 17 year old boy in my town passed away unexpectedly on Sunday. I am so shaken up about it. He was to graduate HS this Friday. I did not know him or his family. It got me to thinking about if something like that would make me go back to drinking. I think it would. I hope to never find out. It also got me thinking that that boys family now views the world differently. When they now look out their window, their world is different. Horribly different. Nothing is the same. Nor will it ever be the same as it was on Saturday for that family.
I remember when on October 8, 2004, at 41 years of age, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. My world was rocked. When I looked out my window, my world was different. Nothing was the same. Of course not in the same way as the family who lost their son, but it was different. My world had changed. I no longer had the same view out that window as I had had on October 7, 2004. My view was isolating. I felt alone...I felt that only I had the bad view while everyone else looking out that same window had a different and better view.
How does this correlate to sobriety? Well, for me, when I quit drinking 102 days ago on February 8, 2016, the view out my window changed for me. But, it changed in a good way. Unlike the two very life altering examples above, our views out our windows can also become more beautiful...even sometimes with life altering changes...like sobriety.
It took sobriety to make me see that the view I had out my window when I was drinking was a very bad view. In hindsight, the scenery was foggy. It was like looking through a prism glass. There was no clarity. It was grey. After I conquered (very difficultly I might add!) my first week of sobriety...BAM!!! the view out my window changed. It was no longer foggy. It was clear. It was colorful. It was vibrant. But, it was, and still is isolating. But not in a bad way. Maybe it's because I am a secret quitter and it feels a bit strange that I can't talk with anyone about my new view? I feel like I am in a bubble. while looking out that window. Not a bubble that is waiting to be popped, but inside a bubble that only I can see out. It is a surreal feeling if that makes any sense.
So, while my new view out my window is much clearer, it is still isolating. I think that means that I still have a lot of work to do on getting my view out that window in even better focus. Maybe I will have to share my secret with others . I think for now, I kind of don't mind being in that bubble...as long as the view is still clear.
Hoping you have a great view out your window!
Love,
Sober at 53
Day 102
Hello!
A 17 year old boy in my town passed away unexpectedly on Sunday. I am so shaken up about it. He was to graduate HS this Friday. I did not know him or his family. It got me to thinking about if something like that would make me go back to drinking. I think it would. I hope to never find out. It also got me thinking that that boys family now views the world differently. When they now look out their window, their world is different. Horribly different. Nothing is the same. Nor will it ever be the same as it was on Saturday for that family.
I remember when on October 8, 2004, at 41 years of age, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. My world was rocked. When I looked out my window, my world was different. Nothing was the same. Of course not in the same way as the family who lost their son, but it was different. My world had changed. I no longer had the same view out that window as I had had on October 7, 2004. My view was isolating. I felt alone...I felt that only I had the bad view while everyone else looking out that same window had a different and better view.
How does this correlate to sobriety? Well, for me, when I quit drinking 102 days ago on February 8, 2016, the view out my window changed for me. But, it changed in a good way. Unlike the two very life altering examples above, our views out our windows can also become more beautiful...even sometimes with life altering changes...like sobriety.
It took sobriety to make me see that the view I had out my window when I was drinking was a very bad view. In hindsight, the scenery was foggy. It was like looking through a prism glass. There was no clarity. It was grey. After I conquered (very difficultly I might add!) my first week of sobriety...BAM!!! the view out my window changed. It was no longer foggy. It was clear. It was colorful. It was vibrant. But, it was, and still is isolating. But not in a bad way. Maybe it's because I am a secret quitter and it feels a bit strange that I can't talk with anyone about my new view? I feel like I am in a bubble. while looking out that window. Not a bubble that is waiting to be popped, but inside a bubble that only I can see out. It is a surreal feeling if that makes any sense.
So, while my new view out my window is much clearer, it is still isolating. I think that means that I still have a lot of work to do on getting my view out that window in even better focus. Maybe I will have to share my secret with others . I think for now, I kind of don't mind being in that bubble...as long as the view is still clear.
Hoping you have a great view out your window!
Love,
Sober at 53
Wednesday, May 18, 2016
Day 101 - Triggers vs. Cravings
Day 101
May 18, 2016
Hello!
Thank you so much for celebrating my 100 Days Sober with me y'day!!! I really appreciated all of the comments and emails!! Thank you so very much! So happy to have found this sober blog world!
That being said, this afternoon, while so happy about today, I thought to myself "I will have to celebrate with a drink tonight!" WTF? That got me thinking...is it a trigger or a craving?
The definitions:
trigger: something that causes something else to happen
craving: a powerful desire for something
I kind of always lumped them together. Today, my celebratory happiness was a trigger. Luckily, it didn't cause a craving. But, it was paralyzing! I couldn't believe it happened. And, it felt so natural! And, yes, when I realized that I don't drink, I was sad!
I wonder if a trigger always precedes a craving? Can you just have a plain old craving for wine? Does it have to be triggered by something?
I am realizing that the "triggers" are something I really have to watch out for. That trigger could lead to a craving! I am hoping, that over time, there will be little to no triggers. I guess I have to work on the triggers...can you even help them? Like today, should I not have been happy so I didn't have a trigger? What should I do instead? I can't avoid all things that may cause a trigger. Maybe you just have to recognize that a trigger is just a trigger and you don't have to act upon it. This led me to do a google search. I found an article in Psychology Today about triggers and cravings. Interestingly, it said this:
"...the simplest way to break the trigger-response connection is simply repeated exposure without the reward. As bizarre as this may seem, staying away from the triggers can make their ability to bring back the old drug-behavior stronger." Adi Jaffe, Ph.D.
So, I guess I answered one of my questions! Don't stay away from the triggers! Could that really be right? I don't know.
As I've moved along in my sobriety journey, I have found that the cravings are way less then they were when I first started, but the triggers are all still there.
So a wise word to myself:
BEWARE OF THE TRIGGERS!!! DO NOT REWARD THEM WITH WINE!
Hoping you have a trigger and craving free day!
Love,
Sober at 53
May 18, 2016
Hello!
Thank you so much for celebrating my 100 Days Sober with me y'day!!! I really appreciated all of the comments and emails!! Thank you so very much! So happy to have found this sober blog world!
That being said, this afternoon, while so happy about today, I thought to myself "I will have to celebrate with a drink tonight!" WTF? That got me thinking...is it a trigger or a craving?
The definitions:
trigger: something that causes something else to happen
craving: a powerful desire for something
I kind of always lumped them together. Today, my celebratory happiness was a trigger. Luckily, it didn't cause a craving. But, it was paralyzing! I couldn't believe it happened. And, it felt so natural! And, yes, when I realized that I don't drink, I was sad!
I wonder if a trigger always precedes a craving? Can you just have a plain old craving for wine? Does it have to be triggered by something?
I am realizing that the "triggers" are something I really have to watch out for. That trigger could lead to a craving! I am hoping, that over time, there will be little to no triggers. I guess I have to work on the triggers...can you even help them? Like today, should I not have been happy so I didn't have a trigger? What should I do instead? I can't avoid all things that may cause a trigger. Maybe you just have to recognize that a trigger is just a trigger and you don't have to act upon it. This led me to do a google search. I found an article in Psychology Today about triggers and cravings. Interestingly, it said this:
"...the simplest way to break the trigger-response connection is simply repeated exposure without the reward. As bizarre as this may seem, staying away from the triggers can make their ability to bring back the old drug-behavior stronger." Adi Jaffe, Ph.D.
So, I guess I answered one of my questions! Don't stay away from the triggers! Could that really be right? I don't know.
As I've moved along in my sobriety journey, I have found that the cravings are way less then they were when I first started, but the triggers are all still there.
So a wise word to myself:
BEWARE OF THE TRIGGERS!!! DO NOT REWARD THEM WITH WINE!
Hoping you have a trigger and craving free day!
Love,
Sober at 53
Tuesday, May 17, 2016
Day 100!! My 100 day Blog Party!
May 17, 2016
Day 100
Hello!
Drumroll please.....DAY 100!!!!
Because I am a secret quitter I have to celebrate here as nobody in real life knows to throw me a party! hahaha!
I am so excited to have made it this far! I never thought I could do it...but I did! I feel like there should be cake and fireworks!
But, I know that I am still not "safe" with a 100 sober days under my belt. I am not fooling myself.
I heard this quote on The Bubble Hour that resonated with me...it helps to keep me going:
"I am only one drink away from ground zero."
It is so true. One drink would wipe away my success..because one drink would NEVER be enough for me.
It is interesting, because I can now think that I will never drink again (most of the time anyway!). I still like to count days. I like to "see" my success. But, I try to picture myself in the future as a sober person. (A skinny sober person). I hate to rush my life, but I just want to get this whole drinking/quitting thing over with already! (hmmm....do you think that I should work on patience? After all, it is a virtue.)
My goals:
I want to get through all of the "firsts." (Someone please remind me of this when I am complaining as I am scared for my first sober summer!)
I want to go one day without even thinking about a drink (I hope that does not require me to be in a comatose state!)
I want to be able to learn how to deal with my feelings...properly (is there really such a thing? I am going to find out!)
I still have to lose that dang 20 lbs. 100 days and NADA! The scale hasn't budged. But somehow, my jeans fit me better?
I want to make a list of all of the great advice I get from the sobersvere so I can help someone else.
(that is going to be a very long list!)
And one of my "fun" things to do with this blog is to see the countries where people that read my blog are from. (Don't worry, there are no names, cities, etc. You are anonymous!) Someone read my blog from a country that I never even heard of! I had to get out the old globe!(I really just googled it and learned a lot about a country that I've never heard of! Watch out Jeopardy!)
I am happy today. Very happy. Pink Cloud happy.
Thank you for coming to my Day 100 blog party!
Love,
Sober at 53
Day 100
Hello!
Drumroll please.....DAY 100!!!!
Because I am a secret quitter I have to celebrate here as nobody in real life knows to throw me a party! hahaha!
I am so excited to have made it this far! I never thought I could do it...but I did! I feel like there should be cake and fireworks!
But, I know that I am still not "safe" with a 100 sober days under my belt. I am not fooling myself.
I heard this quote on The Bubble Hour that resonated with me...it helps to keep me going:
"I am only one drink away from ground zero."
It is so true. One drink would wipe away my success..because one drink would NEVER be enough for me.
It is interesting, because I can now think that I will never drink again (most of the time anyway!). I still like to count days. I like to "see" my success. But, I try to picture myself in the future as a sober person. (A skinny sober person). I hate to rush my life, but I just want to get this whole drinking/quitting thing over with already! (hmmm....do you think that I should work on patience? After all, it is a virtue.)
My goals:
I want to get through all of the "firsts." (Someone please remind me of this when I am complaining as I am scared for my first sober summer!)
I want to go one day without even thinking about a drink (I hope that does not require me to be in a comatose state!)
I want to be able to learn how to deal with my feelings...properly (is there really such a thing? I am going to find out!)
I still have to lose that dang 20 lbs. 100 days and NADA! The scale hasn't budged. But somehow, my jeans fit me better?
I want to make a list of all of the great advice I get from the sobersvere so I can help someone else.
(that is going to be a very long list!)
And one of my "fun" things to do with this blog is to see the countries where people that read my blog are from. (Don't worry, there are no names, cities, etc. You are anonymous!) Someone read my blog from a country that I never even heard of! I had to get out the old globe!(I really just googled it and learned a lot about a country that I've never heard of! Watch out Jeopardy!)
I am happy today. Very happy. Pink Cloud happy.
Thank you for coming to my Day 100 blog party!
Love,
Sober at 53
Monday, May 16, 2016
Day 99 - Last day in double digits!
May 16, 2016
Day 99
Hello!
Well, today is my very last day in the double digit number days of sobriety...hopefully forever! I cannot wait to get over this whole "quitting" thing. It is almost as time consuming as drinking was. But, I need the online support I get from reading all of the blogs, listening to the Bubble Hour and reading books about sobriety.
I am very much looking forward to tomorrow where I will turn the corner and enter the triple digit number of days! I can't wait to read the 100 day posts of those that are ahead of me!
I think tomorrow I will also read my blog in its entirety to remind myself how far I've come!
I know this sounds really strange, but it really is a surreal feeling being at Day 99. I never could've imagined it. I feel like that tomorrow, when I reach 100 days, I will be different! I know I am still in the early stages and there will still be cravings and triggers...and I still have a lot of work to do on how I deal with things. But, mentally, I will be different. I will have made it to a place that I NEVER thought I could get to. Remember....this time is the only time I've ever made it past a Day 1 in 10+ years!!!
I AM WOMAN HEAR ME ROAR!!! (old Helen Reddy song for you young ones!)
So, today is a big turning point for me! Tomorrow, I'll be another day older!!! hahaha!
Wishing you a great day!
Love,
Sober at 53
Day 99
Hello!
Well, today is my very last day in the double digit number days of sobriety...hopefully forever! I cannot wait to get over this whole "quitting" thing. It is almost as time consuming as drinking was. But, I need the online support I get from reading all of the blogs, listening to the Bubble Hour and reading books about sobriety.
I am very much looking forward to tomorrow where I will turn the corner and enter the triple digit number of days! I can't wait to read the 100 day posts of those that are ahead of me!
I think tomorrow I will also read my blog in its entirety to remind myself how far I've come!
I know this sounds really strange, but it really is a surreal feeling being at Day 99. I never could've imagined it. I feel like that tomorrow, when I reach 100 days, I will be different! I know I am still in the early stages and there will still be cravings and triggers...and I still have a lot of work to do on how I deal with things. But, mentally, I will be different. I will have made it to a place that I NEVER thought I could get to. Remember....this time is the only time I've ever made it past a Day 1 in 10+ years!!!
I AM WOMAN HEAR ME ROAR!!! (old Helen Reddy song for you young ones!)
So, today is a big turning point for me! Tomorrow, I'll be another day older!!! hahaha!
Wishing you a great day!
Love,
Sober at 53
Friday, May 13, 2016
Day 95 - Secret Quitter
May 12, 2016
Day 95
Hello!
I read a blog by "Find a Sober Miracle." The other day she wrote a blog entitled Paranoia, which was about blogging anonymously (and it was quite humorous). The comments that followed that post showed that many of us do just that. My comment had the word "secret quitter" in it. Because that is what I am...a secret quitter. I was a secret drinker that has turned into a secret quitter.
And guess what? That secret bit me in the arse tonight!!!
I was at my book club mtg. which happened to be at my best friends house. (and no, she doesn't even know about my secret quitting, nor did she know about how much I drank secretly at home each night!) I have been in the same book club for 18 years! True to form, our book club, revolves around a lot of wine! We do have great book club discussions though!
The hostess and I had this exchange when I arrived:
Hostess: Have a glass of wine.
Me: No, thank you. I'll have something else.
Hostess: But I bought you your favorite cabernet.
Me: That was so nice of you, but I don't feel like drinking right now.
Hostess: Come on, just have a glass. I bought this for you! I know how much you like it!
Me (as I want to run out of her house!) There are a lot of people here who love Cabernet. I'm sure it will get drank!
Hostess: Well..ok.. (and I could tell she was a bit hurt)
I wish I could've just shouted "PLEASE LEAVE ME ALONE!!! I AM NOT DRINKING ANYMORE! I HAD A PROBLEM AND I AM WORKING ON IT!"
But, because I'm a "secret quitter" I couldn't say that! I couldn't say anything!
I had heard on a Bubble Hour podcast that when you go to someone's house always bring your own drink so it wouldn't be a problem. I brought my SWELL bottle filled with peppermint tea. It was no biggie. But, I did get asked why i brought my own tea! I made us some BS excuse...Oh, I am trying to get hooked on herbal teas to cut down on my Equal habit in my morning tea." I really couldn't have come up with a worse reason! That is how I am on the fly! NOT GOOD!
So, this secret quitter thing is hard! At first I felt empowered by being a secret quitter. Then I felt isolated. Now I feel frustrated...I need to get back to that empowered feeling!
Maybe I don't want anyone to know how weak I was? That I drowned my evenings in Cabernet? That I haven't dealt with my emotions for a long time because I drank too much? I just don't want to come clean. But, it is hard without the support in real life. But, I don't want the stigma attached to me about being an alcohol addict. I don't want anyone to know how bad I was!!!
I guess I have to keep pushing on and knowing that because I made the decision to be a secret quitter, then I have to just deal with that and the situations that come up!
Wishing you an easy "secret quitter" life!!
Love,
Sober at 53
Day 95
Hello!
I read a blog by "Find a Sober Miracle." The other day she wrote a blog entitled Paranoia, which was about blogging anonymously (and it was quite humorous). The comments that followed that post showed that many of us do just that. My comment had the word "secret quitter" in it. Because that is what I am...a secret quitter. I was a secret drinker that has turned into a secret quitter.
And guess what? That secret bit me in the arse tonight!!!
I was at my book club mtg. which happened to be at my best friends house. (and no, she doesn't even know about my secret quitting, nor did she know about how much I drank secretly at home each night!) I have been in the same book club for 18 years! True to form, our book club, revolves around a lot of wine! We do have great book club discussions though!
The hostess and I had this exchange when I arrived:
Hostess: Have a glass of wine.
Me: No, thank you. I'll have something else.
Hostess: But I bought you your favorite cabernet.
Me: That was so nice of you, but I don't feel like drinking right now.
Hostess: Come on, just have a glass. I bought this for you! I know how much you like it!
Me (as I want to run out of her house!) There are a lot of people here who love Cabernet. I'm sure it will get drank!
Hostess: Well..ok.. (and I could tell she was a bit hurt)
I wish I could've just shouted "PLEASE LEAVE ME ALONE!!! I AM NOT DRINKING ANYMORE! I HAD A PROBLEM AND I AM WORKING ON IT!"
But, because I'm a "secret quitter" I couldn't say that! I couldn't say anything!
I had heard on a Bubble Hour podcast that when you go to someone's house always bring your own drink so it wouldn't be a problem. I brought my SWELL bottle filled with peppermint tea. It was no biggie. But, I did get asked why i brought my own tea! I made us some BS excuse...Oh, I am trying to get hooked on herbal teas to cut down on my Equal habit in my morning tea." I really couldn't have come up with a worse reason! That is how I am on the fly! NOT GOOD!
So, this secret quitter thing is hard! At first I felt empowered by being a secret quitter. Then I felt isolated. Now I feel frustrated...I need to get back to that empowered feeling!
Maybe I don't want anyone to know how weak I was? That I drowned my evenings in Cabernet? That I haven't dealt with my emotions for a long time because I drank too much? I just don't want to come clean. But, it is hard without the support in real life. But, I don't want the stigma attached to me about being an alcohol addict. I don't want anyone to know how bad I was!!!
I guess I have to keep pushing on and knowing that because I made the decision to be a secret quitter, then I have to just deal with that and the situations that come up!
Wishing you an easy "secret quitter" life!!
Love,
Sober at 53
Wednesday, May 11, 2016
Day 94 - The Impossible
May 11, 2016
Day 94
Hello!
I heard this quote today by the comedienne Tina Fey and it reminded me of drinking and sobriety. (I am concerned that every "quote" I come across I can somehow relate to either drinking or sobriety! I think I might need to work on changing that!)
Day 94
Hello!
I heard this quote today by the comedienne Tina Fey and it reminded me of drinking and sobriety. (I am concerned that every "quote" I come across I can somehow relate to either drinking or sobriety! I think I might need to work on changing that!)
You go through big
chunks of time where you're
just thinking,
'THIS IS IMPOSSIBLE
-----------OH THIS IS-----------
IMPOSSIBLE'
And then you just keep going
and keep going, and you sort
of do the impossible.
That is me, and so many of us. Drinking for years and trying to quit many, many times but not being successful because we thought it was too hard or impossible! But, then, one day, after one of our many attempts at putting down the bottle, we succeed! We start to accomplish the impossible!
If you are just starting out on your journey, keep going and going and going. No matter how many times it takes. Eventually, you will sort it out. And if that means you need help to do so, get it! That is the part of "keep going." You have to sometimes try different avenues. Ask for help. Go to a recovery program. Blog. Do whatever it is you need to do to keep going so you get to the other side of the Impossible!!! And, you may have to do it all!
And for those that are well on their way to the other side of Impossible, keep doing what you are doing. And, if you get stuck, ask for help. You are already well on your way! Keep the momentum going..show yourself that you can overcome the impossible! (I am going to hold onto this as I have no bigger critic of myself than me!) And, please share your success stories with those that are struggling. While misery does love company, so does happiness!
Hoping you keep going and going!
Love,
Sober at 53
Saturday, May 7, 2016
Day 90 - Not me this time!
May 7, 2016
Day 90
Hello!
Yesterday was my oldest child's graduation from college! It was a beautiful day! Lots of happy tears were shed (by me). It was such a celebratory day. And I wanted to celebrate...with wine! Badly! But...I had a few mocktails and made it thru the day!
That night we had a late dinner with one of my sons friends family. I had only ever met the friend and never his family. We had to wait a half an hour at the bar before our table was ready (and this was after a reservation that was made 2 months ago!). Again, I had a mocktail and an AF beer. I was ok. The mom asked me what I was drinking and I explained that I liked the taste of alcohol but I don't like how it makes me feel so I stick to AF drinks! Of course she was drinking my favorite...red wine! Which I was trying hard not to longingly look at!
At dinner, the wine was flowing...I think they went through 5 bottles of red (only 2 out of 11 of us weren't drinking...me and my daughter). Well, the mom of the friend drank too much and had to leave before dinner was over! She could barely stand up without wobbling! One of her kids had to call her an Uber and take her back to her hotel! In all fairness to her she didn't eat a lot at dinner. BUT...all I kept thinking was "IT'S NOT ME THIS TIME!" I looked at this woman and saw the old me. I feel badly for her because she's probably going to be embarrassed in the morning and she's going to have a hangover. I don't judge her...I feel for her. And I fell so happy that "IT'S NOT ME THIS TIME!"
And...its Day 90 for me! Woohoo!!
Hoping you have a lot of "IT'S NOT ME THIS TIME" days!
Love,
Sober st 53
Day 90
Hello!
Yesterday was my oldest child's graduation from college! It was a beautiful day! Lots of happy tears were shed (by me). It was such a celebratory day. And I wanted to celebrate...with wine! Badly! But...I had a few mocktails and made it thru the day!
That night we had a late dinner with one of my sons friends family. I had only ever met the friend and never his family. We had to wait a half an hour at the bar before our table was ready (and this was after a reservation that was made 2 months ago!). Again, I had a mocktail and an AF beer. I was ok. The mom asked me what I was drinking and I explained that I liked the taste of alcohol but I don't like how it makes me feel so I stick to AF drinks! Of course she was drinking my favorite...red wine! Which I was trying hard not to longingly look at!
At dinner, the wine was flowing...I think they went through 5 bottles of red (only 2 out of 11 of us weren't drinking...me and my daughter). Well, the mom of the friend drank too much and had to leave before dinner was over! She could barely stand up without wobbling! One of her kids had to call her an Uber and take her back to her hotel! In all fairness to her she didn't eat a lot at dinner. BUT...all I kept thinking was "IT'S NOT ME THIS TIME!" I looked at this woman and saw the old me. I feel badly for her because she's probably going to be embarrassed in the morning and she's going to have a hangover. I don't judge her...I feel for her. And I fell so happy that "IT'S NOT ME THIS TIME!"
And...its Day 90 for me! Woohoo!!
Hoping you have a lot of "IT'S NOT ME THIS TIME" days!
Love,
Sober st 53
Thursday, May 5, 2016
Day 88 - Vacation Pregnancy!
May 5, 2016
Day 88
Hello!
Happy Cinco de Mayo...NOT!
We are in Miami for my sons college graduation tomorrow.
This is my 3rd time away since I quit drinking.
The first time was a novelty...while nervous, I was all "cheerleader like" with rooting myself on for not drinking....but I let myself smoke cigs. I needed a reward for my good behavior!
The second time, while hard, I was with my SIL whose been sober for 5+ years so I told her about me and that gave me some ownership...and, I also let myself smoke!
This time is really really hard! And, I am not smoking...haven't since that last vacation! I digress...today we went for lunch to what we thought was a Brazilian restaurant. As luck would have it, it was a Mexican restaurant and it is Cinco de Mayo! Every single table had beautiful large margarita glasses on them...giant glasses! Now, that was never my drink! But I still wanted one! Funny, how I was only a red wine drinker and now I think I would drink anything with alcohol in it! We decided to stay because I thought I could get through it. I asked for an AF beer and they didn't have any...the waiter told me hardly anybody asks for one so they discontinued carrying it because it took up too much space at the bar! The stupid waiter then asked me, after our AF beer conversation, If he could get me a margarita! Really? WTF? I just asked you for an AF BEER! Why in hell would I want a margarita?!?!?! I think that started my downward spiral! I had to go to the old standard...seltzer water. My husband had 2 margaritas. I was really struggling...thus, I overate and now my stomach hurts (and we have a dinner planned for tonight) and I was crabby! Once again, I felt left out! And I was pissed at that waiter!
We walked back to our hotel and it is gorgeous weather. It was hard to stay upset. On our walk back I spotted a pregnant woman. And I thought to myself.."she's like me...she can't drink!" So, now, when I go out to a restaurant I am just going to say I'm pregnant!!! That should raise a few eyebrows! I am going to have some fun with this! I'm 53 but don't look a day over 45! Hahaha! And I will have my 3 kids (22, 20, 17) with me! This is going to be fun! I will report back with reactions! And I'm not going to tell my kids that I'm doing this! The look of shock they will register will be so funny!
That stupid waiter! Now he has me resorting to a pretend pregnancy!!! I know this will get old fast but it makes me laugh to think about doing it! Vacation pregnancy!! Turning that negative into a positive!
I am also laughing because I keep thinking of other "creative" ways to throw off those people that are like my stupid waiter!
(And no offense to anyone who has any of these ailments!)
Sorry, I can't have alcohol because I have a bad yeast infection and alcohol makes it itch more!
Sorry, no alcoholic beverage for me! I am using toenail fungus medication and it has an interaction with alcohol!
None for me thanks, I have a bad case of diarrhea tonight! Oh..and can you please tell me where the ladies room is?
You get my drift!
Please send me some pretend vacation pregnancy vibes and pray I don't get a yeast infection, toenail fungus or diarrhea!
Love,
Sober at 53
Day 88
Hello!
Happy Cinco de Mayo...NOT!
We are in Miami for my sons college graduation tomorrow.
This is my 3rd time away since I quit drinking.
The first time was a novelty...while nervous, I was all "cheerleader like" with rooting myself on for not drinking....but I let myself smoke cigs. I needed a reward for my good behavior!
The second time, while hard, I was with my SIL whose been sober for 5+ years so I told her about me and that gave me some ownership...and, I also let myself smoke!
This time is really really hard! And, I am not smoking...haven't since that last vacation! I digress...today we went for lunch to what we thought was a Brazilian restaurant. As luck would have it, it was a Mexican restaurant and it is Cinco de Mayo! Every single table had beautiful large margarita glasses on them...giant glasses! Now, that was never my drink! But I still wanted one! Funny, how I was only a red wine drinker and now I think I would drink anything with alcohol in it! We decided to stay because I thought I could get through it. I asked for an AF beer and they didn't have any...the waiter told me hardly anybody asks for one so they discontinued carrying it because it took up too much space at the bar! The stupid waiter then asked me, after our AF beer conversation, If he could get me a margarita! Really? WTF? I just asked you for an AF BEER! Why in hell would I want a margarita?!?!?! I think that started my downward spiral! I had to go to the old standard...seltzer water. My husband had 2 margaritas. I was really struggling...thus, I overate and now my stomach hurts (and we have a dinner planned for tonight) and I was crabby! Once again, I felt left out! And I was pissed at that waiter!
We walked back to our hotel and it is gorgeous weather. It was hard to stay upset. On our walk back I spotted a pregnant woman. And I thought to myself.."she's like me...she can't drink!" So, now, when I go out to a restaurant I am just going to say I'm pregnant!!! That should raise a few eyebrows! I am going to have some fun with this! I'm 53 but don't look a day over 45! Hahaha! And I will have my 3 kids (22, 20, 17) with me! This is going to be fun! I will report back with reactions! And I'm not going to tell my kids that I'm doing this! The look of shock they will register will be so funny!
That stupid waiter! Now he has me resorting to a pretend pregnancy!!! I know this will get old fast but it makes me laugh to think about doing it! Vacation pregnancy!! Turning that negative into a positive!
I am also laughing because I keep thinking of other "creative" ways to throw off those people that are like my stupid waiter!
(And no offense to anyone who has any of these ailments!)
Sorry, I can't have alcohol because I have a bad yeast infection and alcohol makes it itch more!
Sorry, no alcoholic beverage for me! I am using toenail fungus medication and it has an interaction with alcohol!
None for me thanks, I have a bad case of diarrhea tonight! Oh..and can you please tell me where the ladies room is?
You get my drift!
Please send me some pretend vacation pregnancy vibes and pray I don't get a yeast infection, toenail fungus or diarrhea!
Love,
Sober at 53
Wednesday, May 4, 2016
Day 87 - Emotional Toolbox
May 4, 2016
Day 87
Hello!
For me, one of the most difficult things about quitting drinking has been having to deal with all of those negative emotions and feelings that I had masked with wine. (Happy feelings are not requiring any work at this time!) Sometimes, I almost feel like my emotional being has been stunted. It's been 10+ years of heavy drinking...so that means 10+ years of no emotional growth. Sometimes I feel like my kids can deal better than I do! (Can I think that I gave them the skills? I am going with that! hahaha) I seemed to have forgotten how to handle them...that is, if I had really known!
So, now all of my family and friends, and sometimes strangers have to deal with a 53 year old BABY! Seriously! I am working so very hard on not going to the depths of despair when I am sad or depressed, not blowing up when I am angry (this one is VERY hard for me) not be harsh on MYSELF with judgement, not letting my self feel victimized because I can't drink, recognizing my anxiety so I can prevent some of these negative emotions.
I am a work in progress!!! It is a very slow path forward. But, I have found a few things that are helping me...and I am looking for more so post away!!! Please!
Sober53's Emotional Toolbox:
1. Going to a therapist. I go once a week. I talk about things that happened during the week. For example, blowing up at Mr. Soberat53 because he left a glass of wine in my plain sight on a Friday night. Usually I have no problem with this. But last Friday night, when I came in and saw it I lost my mind. Therapist explained that Mr. Soberat53 was probably confused as I keep changing the rules and how is he to know? So, she suggested that a.) I make my anger about me and not yell at him for leaving the glass in plain sight, (me: How could you do that, knowing I am in early sobriety, it's a Friday night, yada, yada, yada) (Instead: Seeing that wine glass really bothered me. It made me feel like I wanted to pour myself one. It brought a lot of my drinking struggles to the surface) After all, how was he to know it would bother me when it hadn't before? and b.) Explain to him that sometimes I am fine with seeing the wine glass and sometimes I am not. Therefore, if he could keep it in a more discreet place then I wouldn't have to ever worry about seeing it.
2. Reading the book "The Four Agreements" by Don Miguel Ruiz. I wrote a post about this. (https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=7562529066027046102#editor/target=post;postID=312885625019780993;onPublishedMenu=posts;onClosedMenu=posts;postNum=9;src=postname)
Here is a recap:
Agreement 1: Be impeccable with your word.
Agreement 2: Don't take things personally
Agreement 3: Don't make assumptions
Agreement 3: Always do your best
I LOVE this book. And, I really try to use the agreements. It is so helpful. I wish you all could read it.
3. Sobermummy wrote a post on 3/25 quoting a poem "The Guest House" by Rumi. You know when you read a blog and something just really "clicks" for you? This did it for me. The poem is below. But you should really read her entire blogpost that day. For your reading pleasure..and I hope the link works, if not look up 3/25//2016, post entitled "Conscious Uncoupling" (http://mummywasasecretdrinker.blogspot.com/2016/03/conscious-uncoupling.html)
When I am experiencing a negative emotion I remember this poem and just let it in. I sit with it and ruminate about it and am able to make a plan of action (most times anyway!)
The Guest House - Rumi
Now that I have some tools in my emotional tool box I am trying hard to "just sit" with whatever emotions I am currently experiencing. I LOVE having things to help me out. And, just for the record, I am NOT always successful! Sometimes these emotions just suck and I handle myself poorly! I am a work in progress!!! Just ask Mr. Soberat53!!!!
What is in your emotional toolbox?
Love,
Sober at 53
Day 87
Hello!
For me, one of the most difficult things about quitting drinking has been having to deal with all of those negative emotions and feelings that I had masked with wine. (Happy feelings are not requiring any work at this time!) Sometimes, I almost feel like my emotional being has been stunted. It's been 10+ years of heavy drinking...so that means 10+ years of no emotional growth. Sometimes I feel like my kids can deal better than I do! (Can I think that I gave them the skills? I am going with that! hahaha) I seemed to have forgotten how to handle them...that is, if I had really known!
So, now all of my family and friends, and sometimes strangers have to deal with a 53 year old BABY! Seriously! I am working so very hard on not going to the depths of despair when I am sad or depressed, not blowing up when I am angry (this one is VERY hard for me) not be harsh on MYSELF with judgement, not letting my self feel victimized because I can't drink, recognizing my anxiety so I can prevent some of these negative emotions.
I am a work in progress!!! It is a very slow path forward. But, I have found a few things that are helping me...and I am looking for more so post away!!! Please!
Sober53's Emotional Toolbox:
1. Going to a therapist. I go once a week. I talk about things that happened during the week. For example, blowing up at Mr. Soberat53 because he left a glass of wine in my plain sight on a Friday night. Usually I have no problem with this. But last Friday night, when I came in and saw it I lost my mind. Therapist explained that Mr. Soberat53 was probably confused as I keep changing the rules and how is he to know? So, she suggested that a.) I make my anger about me and not yell at him for leaving the glass in plain sight, (me: How could you do that, knowing I am in early sobriety, it's a Friday night, yada, yada, yada) (Instead: Seeing that wine glass really bothered me. It made me feel like I wanted to pour myself one. It brought a lot of my drinking struggles to the surface) After all, how was he to know it would bother me when it hadn't before? and b.) Explain to him that sometimes I am fine with seeing the wine glass and sometimes I am not. Therefore, if he could keep it in a more discreet place then I wouldn't have to ever worry about seeing it.
2. Reading the book "The Four Agreements" by Don Miguel Ruiz. I wrote a post about this. (https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=7562529066027046102#editor/target=post;postID=312885625019780993;onPublishedMenu=posts;onClosedMenu=posts;postNum=9;src=postname)
Here is a recap:
Agreement 1: Be impeccable with your word.
Agreement 2: Don't take things personally
Agreement 3: Don't make assumptions
Agreement 3: Always do your best
I LOVE this book. And, I really try to use the agreements. It is so helpful. I wish you all could read it.
3. Sobermummy wrote a post on 3/25 quoting a poem "The Guest House" by Rumi. You know when you read a blog and something just really "clicks" for you? This did it for me. The poem is below. But you should really read her entire blogpost that day. For your reading pleasure..and I hope the link works, if not look up 3/25//2016, post entitled "Conscious Uncoupling" (http://mummywasasecretdrinker.blogspot.com/2016/03/conscious-uncoupling.html)
When I am experiencing a negative emotion I remember this poem and just let it in. I sit with it and ruminate about it and am able to make a plan of action (most times anyway!)
The Guest House - Rumi
This being human is a guest house.
Every morning a new arrival.
A joy, a depression, a meanness,
Some momentary awareness comes
as an unexpected visitor.
Welcome and entertain them all!
Even if they are a crowd of sorrows,
who violently sweep your house
empty of its furniture,
still treat each guest honourably.
He may be clearing you out for some new delight.
The dark thought, the shame, the malice,
meet them at the door laughing,
and invite them in.
Be grateful for whoever comes,
because each has been sent as a guide from beyond.
Now that I have some tools in my emotional tool box I am trying hard to "just sit" with whatever emotions I am currently experiencing. I LOVE having things to help me out. And, just for the record, I am NOT always successful! Sometimes these emotions just suck and I handle myself poorly! I am a work in progress!!! Just ask Mr. Soberat53!!!!
What is in your emotional toolbox?
Love,
Sober at 53
Sunday, May 1, 2016
Day 84 - Feeling left out
May 1, 2016
Day 84
Hello!
Yesterday I ran in a local race with a group of about 20 friends...some besties, some acquatainces. It was a a tutu race for a local charity. 1000 people in tutu's..over our running clothes of course! It was on the ocean, only 2.2 miles, cool temperature (a little too cool!). Most of our group of 20 walked the course. One of my girlfriends and I ran it.
Why did I run it? Not because I am any kind of great runner. I ran it because the race ended at a beer garden and I wanted to get the hell out of there as fast as I could without any questions! I also didn't carpool with any of our group because I wanted to have my own car so I could leave. I told my group that I would be leaving afterwards because I had something to do for my daughter. Which was the truth, but I honestly could've stayed. I just didn't want to go to the beer garden. First off, beer was not my drink, but in a huge party atmosphere I know it didn't matter what the booze was! The first beer was free too! It was also 10 am (you would be surprised how many people can drink a beer at that time!..I would've too!)
I had it all well planned out...no questions asked. I was proud of myself for planning ahead. BUT...when I saw all of the pictures of the beer garden on Facebook that my friends posted, I felt so left out. I was so sad and angry at myself at the same time! I seem to keep coming back to asking myself "how the hell did I let myself get here that I can't drink!!!" Am I going to have to avoid these kinds of events FOREVER? I literally missed having a fun experience with my girlfriends. I missed being part of that memory that they will always share and I won't. They all had such a good time....and they only each had 1 beer. I would've had WAY more. I feel so left out...
Hoping you don't feel left out because you are sober!
Love,
Sober at 53
Day 84
Hello!
Yesterday I ran in a local race with a group of about 20 friends...some besties, some acquatainces. It was a a tutu race for a local charity. 1000 people in tutu's..over our running clothes of course! It was on the ocean, only 2.2 miles, cool temperature (a little too cool!). Most of our group of 20 walked the course. One of my girlfriends and I ran it.
Why did I run it? Not because I am any kind of great runner. I ran it because the race ended at a beer garden and I wanted to get the hell out of there as fast as I could without any questions! I also didn't carpool with any of our group because I wanted to have my own car so I could leave. I told my group that I would be leaving afterwards because I had something to do for my daughter. Which was the truth, but I honestly could've stayed. I just didn't want to go to the beer garden. First off, beer was not my drink, but in a huge party atmosphere I know it didn't matter what the booze was! The first beer was free too! It was also 10 am (you would be surprised how many people can drink a beer at that time!..I would've too!)
I had it all well planned out...no questions asked. I was proud of myself for planning ahead. BUT...when I saw all of the pictures of the beer garden on Facebook that my friends posted, I felt so left out. I was so sad and angry at myself at the same time! I seem to keep coming back to asking myself "how the hell did I let myself get here that I can't drink!!!" Am I going to have to avoid these kinds of events FOREVER? I literally missed having a fun experience with my girlfriends. I missed being part of that memory that they will always share and I won't. They all had such a good time....and they only each had 1 beer. I would've had WAY more. I feel so left out...
Hoping you don't feel left out because you are sober!
Love,
Sober at 53
Thursday, April 28, 2016
Day 81 - Questioning my methods
April 28, 2016
Day 81
Hello!
I have a very good friend whom also drinks too much and is struggling getting to sobriety. She also has had a lot of Day 1's. She decided to go the Addiction Specialist route. Today was her first appointment...it was a 3 hour appt. The Addiction Specialist (AS) works in a way that I had never considered...thus, it made me wonder if my "white knuckling" it will ultimately be successful (I am VERY hopeful that it will!) The AS explained to my friend that when you excessively drink, you are using the alcohol to medicate your problems. If you work on your problems, and ultimately get rid of them there will be no need for you to medicate, thus, you won't drink to mask anything. (I liken this to someone who takes medicine for high cholesterol..If you work hard with diet, exercise, etc. to reduce your cholesterol, you can eventually stop taking the medicine or cut down on your dosage.) She went on to say that maybe one day my friend might be able to go to a restaurant once or twice a month and have 1 or 2 glasses of wine each time!!!
Now, my friend was very honest about how much she drank. Very honest. She was so surprised that this was the method...and she was a bit excited about the possibility of MODERATION!!!!
I really wonder about this method. I've even googled it using various phrases and still couldn't find anything! I've always wanted to be a moderate drinker..but know I can't! I am skeptical. And, also, probably a bit jealous...MODERATION!!!!
I am happy for my friend that she is trying to stop drinking. I know the saying "whatever works for you" is the right answer for each of us. I chose the the white knuckling route, some go the AA route, some go the AS route...etc. But I have NEVER heard of this other route! I wonder if it is easier? Can you work on your problems while you are still drinking? I don't think I could've...but I never even tried! I didn't even realize what they were....In fact, at day 81, I am sill discovering what they are!
Of course, I did not voice my doubts to my friend. Maybe this will be her way. Who am I to say that this won't work for her? Who am I to say that she can never moderate?
What if my method of quitting is not the best way for lasting success?
I am curious to what you think of this other method of working on your problems to be able to stop drinking (medicating). It really has me perplexed!
Wishing you success in whatever method you use to quit the booze!
Love,
Sober at 53
Day 81
Hello!
I have a very good friend whom also drinks too much and is struggling getting to sobriety. She also has had a lot of Day 1's. She decided to go the Addiction Specialist route. Today was her first appointment...it was a 3 hour appt. The Addiction Specialist (AS) works in a way that I had never considered...thus, it made me wonder if my "white knuckling" it will ultimately be successful (I am VERY hopeful that it will!) The AS explained to my friend that when you excessively drink, you are using the alcohol to medicate your problems. If you work on your problems, and ultimately get rid of them there will be no need for you to medicate, thus, you won't drink to mask anything. (I liken this to someone who takes medicine for high cholesterol..If you work hard with diet, exercise, etc. to reduce your cholesterol, you can eventually stop taking the medicine or cut down on your dosage.) She went on to say that maybe one day my friend might be able to go to a restaurant once or twice a month and have 1 or 2 glasses of wine each time!!!
Now, my friend was very honest about how much she drank. Very honest. She was so surprised that this was the method...and she was a bit excited about the possibility of MODERATION!!!!
I really wonder about this method. I've even googled it using various phrases and still couldn't find anything! I've always wanted to be a moderate drinker..but know I can't! I am skeptical. And, also, probably a bit jealous...MODERATION!!!!
I am happy for my friend that she is trying to stop drinking. I know the saying "whatever works for you" is the right answer for each of us. I chose the the white knuckling route, some go the AA route, some go the AS route...etc. But I have NEVER heard of this other route! I wonder if it is easier? Can you work on your problems while you are still drinking? I don't think I could've...but I never even tried! I didn't even realize what they were....In fact, at day 81, I am sill discovering what they are!
Of course, I did not voice my doubts to my friend. Maybe this will be her way. Who am I to say that this won't work for her? Who am I to say that she can never moderate?
What if my method of quitting is not the best way for lasting success?
I am curious to what you think of this other method of working on your problems to be able to stop drinking (medicating). It really has me perplexed!
Wishing you success in whatever method you use to quit the booze!
Love,
Sober at 53
Wednesday, April 27, 2016
Day 80!! - Love yourself!!
April 27, 2016
Day 80!
Hello!
I cannot believe that I am on Day 80 of a sober free life!!! I really can't believe it! I had never made it past a Day 1 before...EVER! So, in honor of my Day 80 I am going to start doing some self-loving! This is something NONE of us have while we are drinking! Self-loathing is more like it! But boy oh boy it feels AWESOME not waking up in the wee hours of the morning hating myself!!
I am loving myself today for having the courage and the will power to make it this far...and it hasn't been easy. The good days are really good but the bad days are really bad!
I am going to love myself in that I am starting to learn how to deal with my emotions. This is even harder work than quitting drinking in my opinion!
I am going to love myself for becoming a better mom, wife and friend in the last 80 days. I am more present and am a good listener! When I was drinking, it was all about me!
I will leave you with this quote by Dr. Steve Maraboli (I have no idea who he is, but I love the quote!)
LOVE YOURSELF enough to take the actions required for your happiness.
LOVE YOURSELF enough to cut yourself loose from the ties of the drama-filled past.
LOVE YOURSELF enough to move on!!!
Hoping you can love yourself today! You deserve it!
Love,
Sober at 53
Day 80!
Hello!
I cannot believe that I am on Day 80 of a sober free life!!! I really can't believe it! I had never made it past a Day 1 before...EVER! So, in honor of my Day 80 I am going to start doing some self-loving! This is something NONE of us have while we are drinking! Self-loathing is more like it! But boy oh boy it feels AWESOME not waking up in the wee hours of the morning hating myself!!
I am loving myself today for having the courage and the will power to make it this far...and it hasn't been easy. The good days are really good but the bad days are really bad!
I am going to love myself in that I am starting to learn how to deal with my emotions. This is even harder work than quitting drinking in my opinion!
I am going to love myself for becoming a better mom, wife and friend in the last 80 days. I am more present and am a good listener! When I was drinking, it was all about me!
I will leave you with this quote by Dr. Steve Maraboli (I have no idea who he is, but I love the quote!)
LOVE YOURSELF enough to take the actions required for your happiness.
LOVE YOURSELF enough to cut yourself loose from the ties of the drama-filled past.
LOVE YOURSELF enough to move on!!!
Hoping you can love yourself today! You deserve it!
Love,
Sober at 53
Tuesday, April 26, 2016
Day 79 - Suffering
April 26, 2016
Day 79
Hello!
In my area of the US, we are inundated with anti smoking TV commercials. They scare the bejesus out of you!!!!
Well, one, keeps being played over and over. The message, while brilliant for smokers, is also brilliant for drinkers. It goes like this:
"A little suffering NOW can stop A LOT of suffering later!"
That is so true for us drinkers!!! While smoking affects you physiologically, drinking affects you physiologically and mentally!
Think of what could happen if we continue down this road of drinking each day! There are so many illnesses that long term drinking can cause: cirrhosis of the liver, esophageal cancer, breast cancer, chronic pancreatitis, high blood pressure, damage to the central and peripheral nervous systems, heart disease...and the list goes on!
As far as the mental aspect, we can lose our jobs, our homes, our drivers license, be in financial distress, lose our families..and this list goes on too!
So much at risk...and some of it, YOU CAN NEVER GET BACK!!
Think of all that possible suffering...really think about it. I know I will from now on! The ramifications are horrific!! BUT, if we can do a little suffering now, by quitting, we can stop a lot of suffering later...just look at what you can suffer from...and by our own hand!
I am on Day 79...It's been a tough 79 days! Quitting drinking is HARD!! But, it's not as hard as going through alcohol related diseases and possible death...and all of the mental consequences it can cause. So when I feel like I want to throw in the towel, as I did the other day, I am going to conjure up some images of what my future might look like if I kept on going the way I was....It isn't a pretty picture.
So, my new mantra is "A little suffering now can stop a lot of suffering later!"
Hoping you can do a little suffering today by staying off the booze, to save your self from a lot of suffering that it will cause you later!
Love,
Sober at 53
Day 79
Hello!
In my area of the US, we are inundated with anti smoking TV commercials. They scare the bejesus out of you!!!!
Well, one, keeps being played over and over. The message, while brilliant for smokers, is also brilliant for drinkers. It goes like this:
"A little suffering NOW can stop A LOT of suffering later!"
That is so true for us drinkers!!! While smoking affects you physiologically, drinking affects you physiologically and mentally!
Think of what could happen if we continue down this road of drinking each day! There are so many illnesses that long term drinking can cause: cirrhosis of the liver, esophageal cancer, breast cancer, chronic pancreatitis, high blood pressure, damage to the central and peripheral nervous systems, heart disease...and the list goes on!
As far as the mental aspect, we can lose our jobs, our homes, our drivers license, be in financial distress, lose our families..and this list goes on too!
So much at risk...and some of it, YOU CAN NEVER GET BACK!!
Think of all that possible suffering...really think about it. I know I will from now on! The ramifications are horrific!! BUT, if we can do a little suffering now, by quitting, we can stop a lot of suffering later...just look at what you can suffer from...and by our own hand!
I am on Day 79...It's been a tough 79 days! Quitting drinking is HARD!! But, it's not as hard as going through alcohol related diseases and possible death...and all of the mental consequences it can cause. So when I feel like I want to throw in the towel, as I did the other day, I am going to conjure up some images of what my future might look like if I kept on going the way I was....It isn't a pretty picture.
So, my new mantra is "A little suffering now can stop a lot of suffering later!"
Hoping you can do a little suffering today by staying off the booze, to save your self from a lot of suffering that it will cause you later!
Love,
Sober at 53
Sunday, April 24, 2016
Day 77 - I MADE IT!!!!!
April 24, 2016
Day 77
Hello!
I cannot believe it! I made it through last night without a drink!! I am so proud of myself. I honestly didn't know what was going to happen because I was so tired of trying. I didn't think I had it in me anymore...but I do!!! I am so relieved...and happy! I am sitting here crying because it is a major relief and I still can't believe it..that's how hard it was! Here is a little recap:
On the car ride in to NY, it was a bit odd. I didn't know that the the wife of the other couple had invited two of her best friends, her cousin and SIL. I was definitely the odd man out. While they were very nice, they talked about a lot of things that required knowing their family. I tried hard to be that girl that I was when I was drinking....I would've had no problem insinuating myself into their conversation...whether they wanted me to or not. The booze did that for me! Then I realized...I am not longer that girl. I let the feeling of not being fully included sink in. I sat there and listened and commented when I had something to offer. They were all very nice but I was really left on my own! And only the men in the limo drank! I did bring a diet soda in the car with me so I wouldn't be tempted!
At the concert....the alcohol was readily available. Anything you wanted except for AF beer. Mr. Soberat53 even went to the bars in the venue to purchase some for me, and one bartender made a phone call and there wasn't one AF beer to be had in the entire place! An arena that holds 18,000 people!!! That is ludicrous!!!!! So I stuck with club soda and lemon!
But the miracle of all miracles for me last night was that the wife of the other couple WAS NOT DRINKING!!! I WASN'T ALONE! For some reason that made all of the difference in the world to me. A switch immediately flipped for me and I was able to enjoy the concert immensely. This tells me that I need to hang out with more AF people! And, I enjoyed my first concert without booze!! Wow!
I ended up having a GREAT time! Bruce Springsteen was just amazing! I think it was the best Bruce concert that I've seen. That man is amazing. If you ever get the chance to see him...go! He is 66 years old and just went right from one song to the next...no break and he played for over 4 hours. I wish I had that kind of energy!
I woke up this morning feeling fantastic. I thought of what last night would've looked like if I had been drinking. It wasn't pretty!
And a HUGE thank you to Ripleybelle, Northwoman1996, Sobermummy and OneSoberKiwi!!! Your comments got me through!! You have no idea how much you helped me. I am so very appreciative and grateful for you!!!
Today, Mr. Soberat53 and I celebrate our 28 year wedding Anniversary. Another first....no alcohol! This one, easy peasy! (well, I hope so!)
Wishing you a day of success with not drinking! Those "firsts" are hard! But, doable..with effort and great support!
Edited to say: I am crying so hard right now..happy tears...because one of the girls in the car just sent me a Facebook friend request. I know that's not a big deal at all, but I really thought that I didn't bring much to the table last night. To know, somebody actually liked me (why else would you send me a friend request?) as the "real me." The me without booze. Maybe the "real me" is ok.
Love,
Sober at 53
Day 77
Hello!
I cannot believe it! I made it through last night without a drink!! I am so proud of myself. I honestly didn't know what was going to happen because I was so tired of trying. I didn't think I had it in me anymore...but I do!!! I am so relieved...and happy! I am sitting here crying because it is a major relief and I still can't believe it..that's how hard it was! Here is a little recap:
On the car ride in to NY, it was a bit odd. I didn't know that the the wife of the other couple had invited two of her best friends, her cousin and SIL. I was definitely the odd man out. While they were very nice, they talked about a lot of things that required knowing their family. I tried hard to be that girl that I was when I was drinking....I would've had no problem insinuating myself into their conversation...whether they wanted me to or not. The booze did that for me! Then I realized...I am not longer that girl. I let the feeling of not being fully included sink in. I sat there and listened and commented when I had something to offer. They were all very nice but I was really left on my own! And only the men in the limo drank! I did bring a diet soda in the car with me so I wouldn't be tempted!
At the concert....the alcohol was readily available. Anything you wanted except for AF beer. Mr. Soberat53 even went to the bars in the venue to purchase some for me, and one bartender made a phone call and there wasn't one AF beer to be had in the entire place! An arena that holds 18,000 people!!! That is ludicrous!!!!! So I stuck with club soda and lemon!
But the miracle of all miracles for me last night was that the wife of the other couple WAS NOT DRINKING!!! I WASN'T ALONE! For some reason that made all of the difference in the world to me. A switch immediately flipped for me and I was able to enjoy the concert immensely. This tells me that I need to hang out with more AF people! And, I enjoyed my first concert without booze!! Wow!
I ended up having a GREAT time! Bruce Springsteen was just amazing! I think it was the best Bruce concert that I've seen. That man is amazing. If you ever get the chance to see him...go! He is 66 years old and just went right from one song to the next...no break and he played for over 4 hours. I wish I had that kind of energy!
I woke up this morning feeling fantastic. I thought of what last night would've looked like if I had been drinking. It wasn't pretty!
And a HUGE thank you to Ripleybelle, Northwoman1996, Sobermummy and OneSoberKiwi!!! Your comments got me through!! You have no idea how much you helped me. I am so very appreciative and grateful for you!!!
Today, Mr. Soberat53 and I celebrate our 28 year wedding Anniversary. Another first....no alcohol! This one, easy peasy! (well, I hope so!)
Wishing you a day of success with not drinking! Those "firsts" are hard! But, doable..with effort and great support!
Edited to say: I am crying so hard right now..happy tears...because one of the girls in the car just sent me a Facebook friend request. I know that's not a big deal at all, but I really thought that I didn't bring much to the table last night. To know, somebody actually liked me (why else would you send me a friend request?) as the "real me." The me without booze. Maybe the "real me" is ok.
Love,
Sober at 53
Saturday, April 23, 2016
Day 76 - So tired...
April 23, 2016
Day 76
Hello!
I am so tired of trying to not drink. It takes so much energy. Here I am in Day 76 and I am so drained from the effort I've put into it. I am really so so tired of it.
Tonight, my husband and I were invited to a concert in NY for my favorite singer. This is a work thing for my husband so we are getting to watch the concert in a luxury sky box. Food and Drink included! (why oh why couldn't we get invited to this when I was drinking!!!!) I have seen my favorite in concert a gazillion times.....NEVER without alcohol in my system! Never! So, this will be a change! I hope I still enjoy him! My very first sober free concert with free food and drink...NOT looking forward to it!
I am trying so hard to plan some sort of strategy for myself...like the ones I used last weekend, but unfortunately they are all being knocked down!
First off, we are going with another couple whom I have never met. I don't want to explain that I am not drinking. I think I will do the "antibiotic" lie.
They are picking us up via car service. (again, why oh why couldn't this happen when I was drinking!) And, they are returning us home. So, I cannot drive. That would've forced me to be on the straight and narrow path!
Second, the luxury skybox is stocked with drinks. There will be no mocktails or alcohol free beer! At least I could've pretended I was drinking and that would've made me feel better!
Third, I have to be "on" when in the skybox as this is a work thing for Mr. Soberat53. (I think that I will be better than when I was drinking but I sure won't come across as my usual fun party girl!) But how can I be "on" when I am trying so very very hard not to have a drink? I don't know if I can do both things at once. So much effort...I'm tired just thinking about it!
So much effort has to be put into tonight. I know I sound like a baby....my favorite singer, luxury sky box, car service. free food...but again, why oh why couldn't I have that when I was drinking???? I am so tired just thinking about tonight. I don't even want to go. I told Mr. Soberat 53 and he was wonderful, and said we didn't have to go. But, I don't want to disappoint him. And, it is a work thing.
Will I ever get to that place where it is just easy? No thought or effort involved? I really hate that I let myself get to this place. Why did I ever have to drink so damn much that it became a problem?!?! So, I will now take a deep breathe and get ready to go. I will try and look good so I will feel better about myself. That helped last week. (Nothing like a good blow out!) I am going to give this the old "girl scout" try. I hope I can do it.
Hoping that you have to put minimal effort into quitting! And, if you do, please please let me know your strategies!
Editing to say: the other couple just texted Mr. Soberat53 and said "hey, can we bring you guys a roadie?" Oh man...I am in trouble!!!!! Fuck! I told Mr. Soberat53 just to say "bring one for me (meaning him)"
Love,
Sober at 53
Day 76
Hello!
I am so tired of trying to not drink. It takes so much energy. Here I am in Day 76 and I am so drained from the effort I've put into it. I am really so so tired of it.
Tonight, my husband and I were invited to a concert in NY for my favorite singer. This is a work thing for my husband so we are getting to watch the concert in a luxury sky box. Food and Drink included! (why oh why couldn't we get invited to this when I was drinking!!!!) I have seen my favorite in concert a gazillion times.....NEVER without alcohol in my system! Never! So, this will be a change! I hope I still enjoy him! My very first sober free concert with free food and drink...NOT looking forward to it!
I am trying so hard to plan some sort of strategy for myself...like the ones I used last weekend, but unfortunately they are all being knocked down!
First off, we are going with another couple whom I have never met. I don't want to explain that I am not drinking. I think I will do the "antibiotic" lie.
They are picking us up via car service. (again, why oh why couldn't this happen when I was drinking!) And, they are returning us home. So, I cannot drive. That would've forced me to be on the straight and narrow path!
Second, the luxury skybox is stocked with drinks. There will be no mocktails or alcohol free beer! At least I could've pretended I was drinking and that would've made me feel better!
Third, I have to be "on" when in the skybox as this is a work thing for Mr. Soberat53. (I think that I will be better than when I was drinking but I sure won't come across as my usual fun party girl!) But how can I be "on" when I am trying so very very hard not to have a drink? I don't know if I can do both things at once. So much effort...I'm tired just thinking about it!
So much effort has to be put into tonight. I know I sound like a baby....my favorite singer, luxury sky box, car service. free food...but again, why oh why couldn't I have that when I was drinking???? I am so tired just thinking about tonight. I don't even want to go. I told Mr. Soberat 53 and he was wonderful, and said we didn't have to go. But, I don't want to disappoint him. And, it is a work thing.
Will I ever get to that place where it is just easy? No thought or effort involved? I really hate that I let myself get to this place. Why did I ever have to drink so damn much that it became a problem?!?! So, I will now take a deep breathe and get ready to go. I will try and look good so I will feel better about myself. That helped last week. (Nothing like a good blow out!) I am going to give this the old "girl scout" try. I hope I can do it.
Hoping that you have to put minimal effort into quitting! And, if you do, please please let me know your strategies!
Editing to say: the other couple just texted Mr. Soberat53 and said "hey, can we bring you guys a roadie?" Oh man...I am in trouble!!!!! Fuck! I told Mr. Soberat53 just to say "bring one for me (meaning him)"
Love,
Sober at 53
Friday, April 22, 2016
Day 74 - The Devil made me do it!
April 21, 2016
Day 74
Hello!
Today I was in NYC for a Dr. appt. It was a GORGEOUS day so I decided to walk from the train station to the dr. office. It's a 2.5 mile walk each way. I didn't take a direct path, but followed the sun (working on that tan :) which had me walk past the infamous, beautiful St. Patrick's Cathedral. St. Pat's is one of NYC's most famous landmarks. It is an icon of New York City. I always love going in there as it is just so beautiful and peaceful, amongst a bustling city. (Just an FYI..you now have to have your bags checked to go in!)
When I walked in there was the votive candle stand in which you can light a candle and say a prayer. I lit a candle and said a prayer for everyone I know who is trying to quit drinking and who wants to quit drinking that they will succeed and be happier. Of course I included my blogger peeps (those that I know and those that I don't!)
So, I left out a side door, which coincidentally was The Door of Mercy. (Pope Francis has dubbed 2016 as the Year of Mercy.) Across the street was the St. Pat's gift shop. I thought I'd go in and by a Saint card for the patron Saint of Addictions. (I figure it couldn't hurt and I need all the help I can get!) I didn't know who the patron Saint of Addictions was and the girls working there were busy. So I googled it! And the first answer that came up was brilliant: The patron Saint of Addiction is THE DEVIL!!!! OMG! Ain't that the truth!!! Have you ever heard the saying "Alcohol is the Devil's Brew?" It makes me so mad to think that the devil had such a hold on me for so many years! Now, I am not a religious person. I used to be. I wonder if that is what of the things that alcohol has taken from me. I was most likely too hungover to get to mass on Sundays! Again, the devil made me do it!
I really think that to equate alcohol to the devil is not only clever, but the truth.
Tonight, I once again googled the patron Saint of Addictions and it is Saint Maximillian Mary Kolbe.
Here is why:
It is very interesting to me that he was made the patron saint of addiction. He certainly was NOTHING like the devil! While I find his story beautiful, I was looking for a saint that had a real drinking problem and overcame it! I think I would find hope in that. Oh well...we really know that the Devil made us do it!!
Wishing you the insight to fight that damn devil ! And also praying that you will be successful in your endeavor to quit drinking!
Love,
Sober at 53
Day 74
Hello!
Today I was in NYC for a Dr. appt. It was a GORGEOUS day so I decided to walk from the train station to the dr. office. It's a 2.5 mile walk each way. I didn't take a direct path, but followed the sun (working on that tan :) which had me walk past the infamous, beautiful St. Patrick's Cathedral. St. Pat's is one of NYC's most famous landmarks. It is an icon of New York City. I always love going in there as it is just so beautiful and peaceful, amongst a bustling city. (Just an FYI..you now have to have your bags checked to go in!)
When I walked in there was the votive candle stand in which you can light a candle and say a prayer. I lit a candle and said a prayer for everyone I know who is trying to quit drinking and who wants to quit drinking that they will succeed and be happier. Of course I included my blogger peeps (those that I know and those that I don't!)
So, I left out a side door, which coincidentally was The Door of Mercy. (Pope Francis has dubbed 2016 as the Year of Mercy.) Across the street was the St. Pat's gift shop. I thought I'd go in and by a Saint card for the patron Saint of Addictions. (I figure it couldn't hurt and I need all the help I can get!) I didn't know who the patron Saint of Addictions was and the girls working there were busy. So I googled it! And the first answer that came up was brilliant: The patron Saint of Addiction is THE DEVIL!!!! OMG! Ain't that the truth!!! Have you ever heard the saying "Alcohol is the Devil's Brew?" It makes me so mad to think that the devil had such a hold on me for so many years! Now, I am not a religious person. I used to be. I wonder if that is what of the things that alcohol has taken from me. I was most likely too hungover to get to mass on Sundays! Again, the devil made me do it!
I really think that to equate alcohol to the devil is not only clever, but the truth.
Tonight, I once again googled the patron Saint of Addictions and it is Saint Maximillian Mary Kolbe.
Here is why:
Our Lady appeared to Saint Maximillian Mary Kolbe and showed Saint Maximillian Mary Kolbe two crowns; one white representing purity, and one red representing martyrdom. Our Lady asked Saint Maximillian Mary Kolbe if he wanted them, and he replied, "Yes."
At 16, Saint Maximillian Mary Kolbe entered the Franciscan monastery in Lviv, which is now in the Ukraine, but was a part of Poland at that time, and he was ordained a priest at age 24. In 1939, the Nazis conquered Poland and arrested Saint Maximillian Mary Kolbe and his friars releasing them on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.
In 1941, Saint Maximillian Mary Kolbe was again arrested by the Nazis and this time was sent to Auschwitz for three months where he was severely beaten.
A prisoner escaped from Auschwitz, and the commandant announced that ten prisioners would die as punishment for the escaped prisoner. Saint Maximillian Mary Kolbe, Number 16670, was not selected to die by the commandant but stepped forward and asked to take the place of a man who had a wife and children. The commandant agreed to the exchange.
Saint Maximillian Mary Kolbe and the other nine were placed on death block without clothes and in the dark, for the slow and painful death of starvation. One by one the prisoners died, but when four remained, including Saint Maximillian Mary Kolbe, who had almost no flesh on his bones, the jailer appeared with a hypodermic needle filled with carbolic acid which is an alcoholic, corrosive, poison used in insecticides. For this reason, Saint Maximillian Mary Kolbe is known as the Patron Saint Against Drug Addiction.
Saint Maximillian Mary Kolbe was beatified in 1971 and canonized in 1982.
Saint Maximillian Mary Kolbe feast day is August 14.
It is very interesting to me that he was made the patron saint of addiction. He certainly was NOTHING like the devil! While I find his story beautiful, I was looking for a saint that had a real drinking problem and overcame it! I think I would find hope in that. Oh well...we really know that the Devil made us do it!!
Wishing you the insight to fight that damn devil ! And also praying that you will be successful in your endeavor to quit drinking!
Love,
Sober at 53
Tuesday, April 19, 2016
Day 72 - Memory Problems!
April 19, 2016
Day 72
Hello!
I can't remember what I was going to write on this post!!! hahaha...just kidding...But seriously, I am suffering from some memory loss! WTF? I thought that being off the wine, I would be bright eyed and bushy tailed!!! I would be very into the conversation that I am having with you. I would be very alert in the TV show that I am watching. I would remember all of the great advice from the wonderful non drinkers blogs that I frequent, where I put my phone, etc.
Guess what? I am missing a lot of pieces!!!!! For example, I can have an in depth conversation with you and be ever so present, but later, I can't remember what we talked about!!!
Today, I was excited to find a new blog! After I read the first post, I read the comments and I HAD LEFT A COMMENT....YESTERDAY!!!!
Tonight, I went to to do a load of wash, as I wanted a particular pair of exercise pants for tomorrow. Yep, you guessed it, I had already washed the load...last night!
I am a list maker...every night I make a list of things I need to do the next day, things I need from the grocery store, appts. to make. I add to it each morning. But, I am forgetting to put things on the list!!!
I am forgetting such silly things! I was NEVER like this when I was drinking. My lists were complete! I didn't forget things (well, maybe if we spoke on the phone and I was drunk, I might forget..as well as some FB posts and emails)! It never even occurred to me that my memory might go and I would become forgetful!
I wonder if when I was drinking, that I was so intent on not feeling like someone who drank too much, that I overcompensated in my lists and subconsciously forced myself to remember things...maybe it was some sort of defense mechanism so I wouldn't feel like such a drunk!
I googled "quitting alcohol and memory" and the jury is out! Some studies say I should have improved memory within 2 weeks after quitting. It's been 10 weeks. Other studies say that I could possibly have alcohol dementia from my heavy drinking (oh FUCK!) One study said it is due to lack of nutrients. (I don't think that this is it as I am a healthy eater...but I have been forgetting (see, another forgetfulness) to take my vitamins and I was always vigilant about taking them. Another study said it is due to lack of vitamin B1. If I remembered to take my vitamins I would be taking a B Complex!
I don't know what it is and I am a bit concerned. It's not like I have more things on my plate since I quit drinking. It's the same stuff, albeit, without the liquor store runs! And, I have more time at night because I'm not drinking, to remember things and create new memories! Heck, I wish I could forget all of my drinking memories...but no such luck!
So tonight I sit here and look at my list for tomorrow...there are only 2 things on it. I KNOW there should be more! I guess some things are just not going to get done...or maybe I already did them and just can't remember!!!
Wishing you...oh I forget what I wanted to wish you!!! Seriously, wishing you full lists, a day of creating new memories, and not forgetting anything!!!
Love,
Sober at 53
Day 72
Hello!
I can't remember what I was going to write on this post!!! hahaha...just kidding...But seriously, I am suffering from some memory loss! WTF? I thought that being off the wine, I would be bright eyed and bushy tailed!!! I would be very into the conversation that I am having with you. I would be very alert in the TV show that I am watching. I would remember all of the great advice from the wonderful non drinkers blogs that I frequent, where I put my phone, etc.
Guess what? I am missing a lot of pieces!!!!! For example, I can have an in depth conversation with you and be ever so present, but later, I can't remember what we talked about!!!
Today, I was excited to find a new blog! After I read the first post, I read the comments and I HAD LEFT A COMMENT....YESTERDAY!!!!
Tonight, I went to to do a load of wash, as I wanted a particular pair of exercise pants for tomorrow. Yep, you guessed it, I had already washed the load...last night!
I am a list maker...every night I make a list of things I need to do the next day, things I need from the grocery store, appts. to make. I add to it each morning. But, I am forgetting to put things on the list!!!
I am forgetting such silly things! I was NEVER like this when I was drinking. My lists were complete! I didn't forget things (well, maybe if we spoke on the phone and I was drunk, I might forget..as well as some FB posts and emails)! It never even occurred to me that my memory might go and I would become forgetful!
I wonder if when I was drinking, that I was so intent on not feeling like someone who drank too much, that I overcompensated in my lists and subconsciously forced myself to remember things...maybe it was some sort of defense mechanism so I wouldn't feel like such a drunk!
I googled "quitting alcohol and memory" and the jury is out! Some studies say I should have improved memory within 2 weeks after quitting. It's been 10 weeks. Other studies say that I could possibly have alcohol dementia from my heavy drinking (oh FUCK!) One study said it is due to lack of nutrients. (I don't think that this is it as I am a healthy eater...but I have been forgetting (see, another forgetfulness) to take my vitamins and I was always vigilant about taking them. Another study said it is due to lack of vitamin B1. If I remembered to take my vitamins I would be taking a B Complex!
I don't know what it is and I am a bit concerned. It's not like I have more things on my plate since I quit drinking. It's the same stuff, albeit, without the liquor store runs! And, I have more time at night because I'm not drinking, to remember things and create new memories! Heck, I wish I could forget all of my drinking memories...but no such luck!
So tonight I sit here and look at my list for tomorrow...there are only 2 things on it. I KNOW there should be more! I guess some things are just not going to get done...or maybe I already did them and just can't remember!!!
Wishing you...oh I forget what I wanted to wish you!!! Seriously, wishing you full lists, a day of creating new memories, and not forgetting anything!!!
Love,
Sober at 53
Monday, April 18, 2016
Day 71 - The Four Agreements
April 18, 2016
Day 71
Hello!
As we all know, when you stop drinking, you have to learn how to deal with your emotions. I find this to be VERY challenging, as I masked my true emotions with wine...cabernet to be exact!
The "good" emotions are just that..good to deal with. No problem there except I can't have my "celebratory" glass/bottle of the grape! But the "bad" emotions..Yikes!
I had mentioned previously that I started to go to a therapist. In explaining to her how poorly I have been dealing with those bad emotions, she made me think about how my emotions were when I was physically drinking and then, the next day, when I was tired and crawling my way through the day (I hate to call them hangovers..because then I would have to dub myself the Queen of them!)
She suggested I read this book "The Four Agreements" by Don Miguel Ruiz. Honestly, it was a life changer for me. I HIGHLY recommend it (although the first chapter was very difficult to get through for me...the rest went by like a breeze)You can also download it as a free PDF file.
So, what are the Four Agreements? Here is a summary by the author:
Day 71
Hello!
As we all know, when you stop drinking, you have to learn how to deal with your emotions. I find this to be VERY challenging, as I masked my true emotions with wine...cabernet to be exact!
The "good" emotions are just that..good to deal with. No problem there except I can't have my "celebratory" glass/bottle of the grape! But the "bad" emotions..Yikes!
I had mentioned previously that I started to go to a therapist. In explaining to her how poorly I have been dealing with those bad emotions, she made me think about how my emotions were when I was physically drinking and then, the next day, when I was tired and crawling my way through the day (I hate to call them hangovers..because then I would have to dub myself the Queen of them!)
She suggested I read this book "The Four Agreements" by Don Miguel Ruiz. Honestly, it was a life changer for me. I HIGHLY recommend it (although the first chapter was very difficult to get through for me...the rest went by like a breeze)You can also download it as a free PDF file.
So, what are the Four Agreements? Here is a summary by the author:
the four agreements - don miguel ruiz's code for life
agreement 1
Be impeccable with your word - Speak with integrity. Say only what you mean. Avoid using the word to speak against yourself or to gossip about others. Use the power of your word in the direction of truth and love.
agreement 2
Don’t take anything personally - Nothing others do is because of you. What others say and do is a projection of their own reality, their own dream. When you are immune to the opinions and actions of others, you won’t be the victim of needless suffering.
agreement 3
Don’t make assumptions - Find the courage to ask questions and to express what you really want. Communicate with others as clearly as you can to avoid misunderstandings, sadness and drama. With just this one agreement, you can completely transform your life.
agreement 4
Always do your best - Your best is going to change from moment to moment; it will be different when you are healthy as opposed to sick. Under any circumstance, simply do your best, and you will avoid self-judgment, self-abuse and regret.
So, how does this relate to the emotions that I now have to learn to deal with?
Agreement 1..Be Impeccable with your word...when I was drinking, ANYTHING flowed out of my mouth! I had no filter! I was NOT impeccable with my word. How many things must I have said that hurt someone? My husband, my children, my friends? I can't even begin to imagine because I'm really scared of the answer to that question. But now, I am trying hard to have a filter, think before I speak and not gossip! It is an effort and I keep catching myself, but it helps me to think about others and not speak about them or to them negatively. It makes me a better, kinder human being.
Agreement 2..Don't take anything personally...oh boy...that one hits home for me. I was so the "woe is me" type when I was drinking. I was always the VICTIM!! Anything that anyone did I would take it as a personal affront. Mr. Soberat53 didn't take out the garbage? he must not care enough about me, because now I have to do it. My friend said she'd call me back in an hour and it's been 3 hours? What did I do wrong? How rude of her not to keep her word. she must not really like me! You get the idea. But now, I realize that what somebody else does is really a reflection of THEM and not me! Mr. Sober53 forgot to take out the garbage? Not about me...he is just always so forgetful (that's about him!) My girlfriend didn't call me back? Not about me...who knows what she got tied up with and couldn't call back (that's about her!) This agreement REALLY helps me. It takes away the "woe is me" factor and now lets me realize that everybody has their "stuff" and it's not always about me. I almost think it was selfish of me to think that it was all about me! This agreement really set me free. It helped me to get rid of some angry, sad and fearful emotions that I felt were just "part of life." They aren't anymore! It took away the VICTIM in me. I so LOVE my new way of thinking! It actually makes me happy!
Agreement 3 - Don't make Assumptions - This is one that I also love! For me, it ties into Agreement 2. I just assumed that my girlfriend didn't like me anymore because she didn't call me back when she said she would. That was an assumption that I had made. When I spoke to her the next day, I would be kind of quiet because I was hurt that I wasn't the most important person on her list!!! That was me assuming. Instead, I could've asked her WHY she didn't call me back. Maybe she had a sick child she needed to tend to, maybe she had a headache, etc...I made it about me because I made an assumption as to why! What makes me love this one so much is that I now often think "What do people assume about me?" The flip side really really makes you think. Because, most likely, since we all make assumptions, and a lot of them incorrectly, the assumptions people make about me are most likely incorrect. Oh, I didn't call YOU back when I said I would? How are you to know that I was on the phone for hours with my child, who is away at college, who was having a bad day? You probably assumed that I just forgot. But, you would be wrong! And on the converse side, if you don't ask me why I didn't call you back, it would be kind of me to tell you! So, never make assumptions about anyone else! We never know what's going on in someone else's world! It helps to alleviate some worry that I had. Plus it feels good not to assume!! It is such a freeing feeling And, it's all about COMMUNICATION, COMMUNICATION, COMMUNICATION!!!!!!! And good communication can help alleviate or prevent some of the bad emotions!
Agreement 4 - Always Do Your Best - I find this difficult! It's hard for me to figure out what my best is. Should I be pushing myself harder at things? What if my best isn't good enough? The author explains that your best IS always good enough. So, I try to just do my best in my day to day endeavors. I am doing my best to keep the Agreements. I am doing my best not to drink (and that is a biggie!) I am doing my best at just being. It's not easy, because sometimes I find that I'm doing my best on being angry, and sad, and jealous...etc. But then I remind myself of the Agreements and I am trying my best to keep them, thus helping me to reduce my feelings of angry, sad and jealous. I am trying to be the Best person that I can be..today. Tomorrow, my best might be different! In an hour it might be...but I am trying!
Emotions are part of life. We all have them, we all have to deal with them. I am finding that the Four Agreements are helping me to deal with them a little bit better! And that my friends, is a good start to emotional healing!
Wishing you a great day of dealing with your emotions!
Love,
Sober at 53
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