October 9, 2022

 October 9, 2022

71 days

One of the things I find that I truly enjoy in my newfound sobriety is getting out of the house, and just enjoying the weather, my family, some good food, sometimes some good entertainment, and just being happy! I also know that I am bound to find triggers along the way, so rather than living a life in seclusion, I am slowly embracing this new life, very aware of my triggers, and implementing my "toolbox" of strategies as urges arise. 

Yesterday evening, we decided to go to Fort Pierce to meet up with Brad and Devan and adorable Hallie!  They also had some friends down there too, but it was truly a beautiful evening!  Did I have triggers? YES!  But, I am finding that communicating those triggers with my loved ones, has been so helpful.  We use the HALT (Hungry? Angry? Lonely? Tired?) strategy a lot!  I find that one of my largest triggers is HUNGER.  Once I eat, my urge to drink is quickly diminished.  

I don't want to live a life secluded from alcohol. Yes, I know I can NEVER drink again, but that does NOT mean the people around me have to stop. I don't want people to be uncomfortable with my sobriety or change their way of life to accommodate mine.  I feel all of those things are just more selfish demands added to an already selfish disease. So, I choose to do the things that bring my family happiness and me, as well, while still acknowledging on the daily (sometimes by the hour, or by minute) that I am an alcoholic. In order to stay sober, I will continually need to implement strategies when I feel I am being triggered, and eventually this will get easier. The triggers will get less and less.  

By doing these types of things, like I did last night, I get to enjoy the ENTIRE evening with my family...SOBER! I can laugh and feel TRULY good about what I am doing in the moment.  For example, during dinner, I was able to watch a beautiful sunset!  Moments like these drive my inspiration! I am finally finding peace! 


Photo taken at Manatee Island Bar and Grille in Fort Pierce. 


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