Day 55: Last Day of Paradise

I always get a little melancholy when I know we are about to leave here.

We have been lucky enough to have a home away from home in sunny Florida for over 10 years.  It’s an amazing excuse to see my dad AND soak up some rays after brutal Wisconsin winters.  And even though we butt heads on many subjects (both of us know evvv-errr-yeee-thing…just ask us) it’s always hard to say goodbye. 

I did think that most things would be easier if I wasn’t drinking.  Like, everything.  It turns out I am the same person I was two months ago and will be two months from now. My days may look different, but I still struggle with the same insecurities, albeit somewhat easier to care less about now.

Things that used to take the strength of a 10-ton elephant come with little to no effort now.  A small decision, such as taking a walk for instance, is exactly that; a decision.  I don’t spend minutes, or what could have been hours, debating on whether or not I “want” to or if I “feel” like it.  My health, mainly mental, but physical too, depends on it.  It’s become my top priority and ever since putting that at the top of ALL my lists, I haven’t regretted one single decision. 

I am convinced that those small decisions compounded over time will get me all the results I need. It might take a little longer, especially since the decision to have Haagen Dasz ice cream five nights this week was also made, but it’s okay, the time is going to pass anyway.

And damn that ice cream is good for the soul.

The hardest part of my first alcohol-free holidays wasn’t always the party. It was all the thinking about the party. Here’s what helped me navigate holiday traditions, awkward questions, social events and celebrations without drinking.

The holidays are magical, but they can also be a lot—family stress, packed schedules, and endless pressure to “just have one.” If you’re sober curious, this season might feel tricky, but it doesn’t have to.

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