Welcome, SoberRunner! What the others have said plus I'll just add that I was a chronic relapse r. I used to think I was doing everything I could but eventually discovered that there was more work I needed to do. The cravings can feel overwhelming for awhile so IMHO we need extra help. Many of us have found that making sobriety "Job #1" is the best way. This can mean avoiding gatherings and other situations that include alcohol for the first months. Other help such as AA (or other sobriety programs), intensive outpatient treatment groups, etc. are necessary for some.
GnikNus, good for you for hitting the smoothie shop!
