iceteaplease

I've noticed that there are a lot of New Yorkers in these forums...probably not a coincidence! Now that it is summertime, every block I walk down is full of bustling sidewalk cafes and restaurants. At every table there are frosty beers and cold glasses of chardonnay beading in the heat. Everyone seems to be enjoying themselves ALL DAY LONG with cocktails and libations, and I can't, and it irritates me. Any ideas for self-talk during these obstacle courses?

soberbrooke

I don't walk down the same street I use to. I walk down different streets. I am not in NY, but that is what helps me.
I wasn't an all day drinker, I was an all niter. So when I see people drinking during the day now, all I can think is how happy I am not there anymore. I can go to lunch, but I haven't gone to dinner. I am 6 months sober, and I had to change everything I use to do.
I just walk down different streets now.

duane1

There are also people running in the park. Even if you live in the country there is a country bar just waiting to greet you with open arms. I was once stationed in Kuwait. Nothing was easier than giving up drinking when it wasn't available. Since that probably isn't an available option, the best thing to do would probably be to find things to do that don't involve drinking. I'm sure there is plenty of that available.

Weasel1966

I spend a lot of time walking down the west side. The park like feel is great and with it being warm people have less on. Who wouldn't like that!

I agree every street corner does have people drinking. It seems in your face.
It is difficult.

I ignore it as much as possible. It will be their where ever I am at. If sober is what I want then I have to accept drinkers EVERYWHERE.

That's just not who,I am anymore.

Best to you!

Zee

Same in London (expensive), same in Paris (really expensive!)
Same in my town (its a seaside resort)
Roll on monday morning when there isn't so many people 'partying'!
Weekends are particularly depressing for a reletively new sober person like me.
Lets just take it on the chin.... its everywhere! Ho hum! Excrement happens! x

sugarbear1

Have you ever noticed the same thing about cars? I sold a mustang. All I saw were mustangs everywhere!

I had an accident in my blazer. All I saw were blazers, everywhere!

My sis in law had the first baby blue eggshell colored whatcha-ma-call-it vehicle when it first came out on the east coast, then I started to see them everywhere.

Today, I don't notice drinking or not drinking. Priceless!

wonderfullife

I know many of us should not do this. however, I have found that when I go to these places and order an iced tea or something like that, I feel just the same. It feels good to be there. it feels good to be refreshed instead of dulled. but again, not everyone should or can do this.

larrylive

I think Sugarbear is on to something, you tend to notice what you think about. So when you have to walk down those streets have a plan, something positive and constructive to think about. I like to think about God, it's infinite.

Larry