Suzieq17

There will be booze and smokes.

I am having anxiety about interacting with people sober.

It's a kid friendly party, so they are coming along.

I know we won't stay long due to the kids, but I am worried that instead of socializing I will find an excuse to do something with the kids (play, feed, run around after them) to avoid interacting with the adults.

I hide behind my kids. I can't keep doing it. Will I naturally come out of my shell or do I need to force myself?

I find myself interested in conversations lately, listening more, etc. and hoping I will learn to be an adult and conversate...

Any suggestions welcome.

FreeOwl

hang with the kids for a while... don't rush yourself... if you're comfortable with kids, then do what makes you comfortable.

This summer I went to several parties where almost every other adult was drinking and some were smoking.... I hung out with the kids, dipped in and out of a few adult conversations and focused on just being myself in my own ways and it was fine.

As time goes on, you'll naturally grow and deepen into your sobriety and these situations will become less daunting. What you're feeling now isn't forever, it's just now. What you're feeling can't hurt you.... it's just feelings and they're totally ok to have.

You can do it.... take it easy on yourself and don't go into it with any expectations. Follow your own comfort and take your time. It's fine.

Thepatman

The time you will spend with the little ones is far more valuable than with the drinking and smoking adults.

My 50 cents ;-)

Soberwolf

Do you really want to go/ Have to go ?

Anna

Is it usual to have booze at a kid-friendly party?

My memories of kid-friendly parties were ALL the parents goofing around with the kids. So, it was really family fun, no booze involved.

Elphaba

I think you should embrace being a healthy role model for the kids.

FreeOwl

in my area.... there are very few kid parties that DON'T have booze involved. I sometimes wonder why anyone became parents at all... if they have to be drunk to tolerate them.

Suzieq17

Went and it wasn't so bad.

No drinking and no smoking for me.

Hung with the kids, had a few quick adult conversations and left when the kids were ready to go.

Home, in bed and enjoying an early night to bed.

Thanks for all the encouraging words!

genesuu

Congratulations! Great job!

Ruby2

I saw this late but wanted to add that in the beginning I hid behind my kids. They were absolutely the perfect reason to leave when I got uncomfortable. No one questioned it. I am growing more comfortable socializing sober as time goes on but I know I won't be attending any booze soaked parties again. It's just where I prefer to be.

I'm glad you are home and comfortable.

Soberwolf

Awesome job Suzieq

livingnow

I find myself interested in conversations lately, listening more, etc. and hoping I will learn to be an adult and conversate...

yup- me too- Its kinda kinda like becoming non selfish I like it!
Good job on last night

PurpleKnight

Great stuff Suzieq!!