Welcome Sean (fellow Marylander). I know what you mean about finding it depressing in the past - to admit you're an alcoholic. In the end though, that admission saves our life. I was almost relieved to finally face up to it. No more trying to control my drinking, which I tried for decades. That was killing me.
When we first start coming out of our fog, it feels very strange. We've spent so many years being numb & not really growing or changing. We have to learn to cope with life without our crutch - some of us, for the first time. You sound ready to do this, and we look forward to hearing how you are! Be kind and patient with yourself as you get well, and don't expect too much at first. The sun will shine in your life again.