Just wanted to check in with MIP and let you know that I have made it to my 1st year anniversary.  I went to a meeting pretty much daily for this first year, which is just want this alcoholic has needed.  There were plenty of ups and downs, but through everything, i was able to not pick up a drink or substitute to deal with life.  I have had, and still have plenty of thoughts of drinking, today I don't like to sit with those thoughts for too long as I have done in the past.  Life's pretty good today, and one hell of a lot better than it was a year ago. 

So I had made up my mind that I was going to quit smoking on my year anniversary, I had bought 2 cartons of cigs when I was home and got them cheap at a reservation which I thought at the time should get me to about my year anniversary, maybe a little short.  Anyways, the timing was perfect and after going to my meeting the night before my anniversary, I stood on my deck and had my last cig looking up at the stars and saying goodbye to my other friend.  So if the timing of running out just when I needed to wasn't enough, I became so sick the next day.  So even if I wanted to give up on quitting, I was too sick.  That lasted a few days, now I am on day 3 of not smoking and feeling much better.  My higher power had some part in that I am pretty sure.  I did have to miss a meeting on my anniversary though, but i will be celebrating at my home group tomorrow.  I like dates I can remember, my sobriety date is 11/12/13, and no smoking date so far is 11/12/14.  And just for kicks, my wedding anniversary is 07/07/07.

Thank you all for being here.