Hi Flybuy, I came on here, this forum and read people's experiences and vented my feelings also.
I did know though, for me, life doesn't stay the same. I kept away for a while from alcohol aisles in shops and triggers which would've in the past swayed me to pick up.
When I drank, though, I didn't need much encouragement to drink, celebrate, commiserate, it's raining, it's sunny, any excuse at all. I had to have a different mindset and be prepared for any unsuspecting cravings.
I did try many different soft drinks, ice cream also was one of my favourite pastimes.