Thanks everyone! I truly appreciate your kind words and thoughts.
As I have read through your responses (and re-reading my own post) I think i can better state my own theory....
As long as I was denying myself a drink - I was a mess! I was at war with my own subconscious monster that was screaming for a drink.
Once I was able to convince that monster TO NOT EXPECT a drink - I was fine. I was no longer denying my subconscious of anything. Thus - I experienced no conflict.
Again, all perspectives are greatly appreciated! Thanks again!