Thanks everybody for the advice and support. The event is on Wednesday so I'll let you know how it goes. I may even be giving you all play by plays depending on how loud the AV is while I am there. Regardless of what the AV says, I'm not going to drink. I might go to the bathroom every 5 minutes to talk to you all but I'd rather let everyone think I have a medical condition rather than compromise my sobriety! I really am so glad for all of you. I think the anticipation and the nerves of the event happening at all was more of a trigger (I have pretty bad social anxiety) than the event will even be. So thank you all for keeping me sane these last few days.
Originally Posted by
thwsmith33 
I would probably suggest NOT turning anything back around on a co-worker, especially if you're new at the job and there's higher-ups there...it can come across as a bit pious and arrogant... That being said, I'd also say to set yourself a time deadline - if the HH starts at 5:00, plan to be on the road by 6:00 (or whatever). Take initiative in the conversations so you don't feel bored and want to order up. Plan to do something else tonight when you get home...maybe some exercise, like a long walk. Just my thoughts...
I agree, I am going to stay until 550-555 and tell them when I'm leaving that I have to catch the 615 train (which won't be untrue!) The benefit is that the next one is an hour after that so if anyone asks why I don't stay longer, I'll have an honest and valid reason. I feel so much better having all of this planned out in my mind, just because I know how I'm going to react and respond and most importantly: protect my sobriety. I think if I feel that tempted while I'm there, I'll feign a stomach ache and leave earlier.
I agree, I probably won't turn it around on my coworkers since they don't know me and people in the city tend to pry unintentionally. I definitely think I'll turn it around on my friends and family members when they are tempting me though!
Thank you everyone again!!!