Toots - I missed your comments too. Great advice and insight, as always.
Fradley - It's magic when sobriety becomes the inherent reward. Glad you're feeling well.
Amp - I can relate to what you're saying. I felt lost and awkward at social events when I stopped drinking. I grew into my sober skin, though, and I no longer find myself fumbling like I did in the beginning. In fact, I may even be starting to feel stronger than I ever imagined I could.
After I stopped drinking, my alcoholic thinking didn't immediately disappear. I've got to attend my son's school open house. When I drank I felt like something I've got to endure while waiting to drink. After I stopped drinking it was something to endure while I waited to get home to dwell on my depression. It took practice and time to tease out that thinking. Like Toots said, small steps. Tonight, I'm totally fine with going. Sobriety is my reward, too.