I have come to realize that new years is just another reason to party, and that's not me anymore. I too will be spending the new years counting sheep and looking forward to the awesome breakfast that has become the tradition for the last 3 years. To all, have a safe, happy, and SOBER new year!

Brian

Went out to the country bar with my partner. I go there often. It is the same bar I used to get trashed at. Same bar my ex passed out at and broke his face... It's hard to believe cuz now all it is, is a place to socialize. My partner line dances so I stand around and watch him, drink diet coke with lime, dance some myself, and talk to people. Who knew that most people go to bars to socialize? I thought it was to drink only. Strange that if you look around, the only alcoholics are the ones literally parked at the bar with multiple glasses in front of them (guess who used to be just like that?). Most folks in AA would say I am nuts and am going to get a haircut for hanging out in a barber shop. Whatever. I did not go to any bars or clubs at all for my first 2 years of sobriety. So I wouldn't recommend anyone new doing this. When I see really drunk people, I feel sorry for them and it makes me grateful I don't live in that prison any more. I can go out and do whatever I want - as long as I stay sober. It has given me freedom and I enjoy it.

Hence, we danced, socialized with friends. My partner had 2 drinks which is about all he cares for at the most...I had 3 diet cokes with lime - I found it's better to have a soda drink in your hand where there is alcohol because it greatly reduces the likelihood of people trying to give you drinks. The only time I have been uncomfortable was when my partner went to the dance floor once and told me to hold his drink (this was several months ago). I had to tell him not to ever do that because I never want to hold an alcoholic drink in my actual hands like that.

Going to parties and socializing is still me - Going to parties and wrecking them by tripping, passing out, making a fool of myself, driving drunk, arguing - THAT is NOT me anymore. Now I actually meet people, make friends, hold my head up high and enjoy myself because I am no longer that trainwreck I used to be.

Mark

Over 24 hours of HoneyMooners reruns,,7th heaven for me and my wife. Ahhh how the simple things in life, free from the "grip" can be so rewarding..Thank you dear God for your grace and mercy!! Happy New Year.(Fell asleep watching reruns and woke up just before Dick Clarks ball fell on Times Square,and to think I once spent time in those millions of people,wasted looking to find my way home..I once was lost but now im found!!!!