I almost forgot to mention that I have lost a noticeable amount of weight (like 20 pounds) from my face and from around my waist. This has been a huge benefit of my recovery. As a drinker, I was really hating the way I looked, and could not stand having a beer gut and a bloaty face. Mirrors and pictures were not my friend at that time. Anyway, in the past month or so people have told me I look good, like I've lost weight, and for the first time in a while, I look in the mirror or at a picture, and I agree with them.
I am taking pride in my appearance and this is a strong motivation for me to keep on this path.