I decided that I and my own immediate (children and spouse) are the most important people on earth. I honestly don't care what anyone else thinks of me anymore. They are not in my life often enough, so what, I don't get calls every few weeks, or an invite to a BBQ. But I'm sober, healthier and there is not a better feeling in the world than being in charge of your actions. Of not worrying your children will smell alcohol on you. Of hiding away. DONT make excuses to drink. Get away from them, simple. IF I make mistakes now, I know it was a simple mistake, not one brought upon by booze.