Thank you for all of the supportive words. I was never very good with the holidays and usually drank more because I was uncomfortable or felt pressured to get the approval if my family. I feel like I have a false memory of being happy drinking, when most of the time I ended up feeling angry and embarrassed. I didn't spend the holidays with my family this year, which made it a lot easier to stay sober. I have a sister who is in recovery as well, so at future gatherings we can drink soda in solidarity.
Looking forward to celebrating in 2014 without all of the unnecessary, self-inflicted suffering!