Thank you, Dee. Made it through week 1 sober. Cant say there weren't a few tempting moments, especially after working in the high heat this weekend and attending a social celebration. But, I didn’t drink. And folks understood. I simply said I was having a DryJuly, and had goals to meet. Among those goals is self-(re)discovery. Can’t be done without a clear mind, in my case.

I hope we are all living our fullest this summer!

Lofty

Thanks for the kudos, Mirage and Dee. To answer your question, my longest stretch was the original one while in college; 2 years. I have also had a 1.5 yr period and several that were 2-6 mos. I have typically tried to take 40 days of Lent free from alcohol, but failed the last couple times. This time, I am disconnecting it from potential religious guilt. July is a great time for me to start because I like to be physically active in summers. And I dont mind sweating it out during the summers. I got used to heat by LA summers as a kid. In fact, I replenished this weekend with a gallon/day of decaf green tea. 8 tea bags per gallon pitcher costs less than $1. A lot cheaper than beer! And great antioxidants.

Right now my biggest challenge is the introversion that ensues my initial launch. It can be misunderstood by others, and I dont always feel the need to explain it to those who should already understand I am just trying to pull from inner strength. But, its their problem, not mine.

My life has not turned out as I had envisioned, thus far. I am a better, more capable person than I’ve represented. And I need to again live that potential, even if I must be alone in that endeavor. When I am drinking, I’m a soft malleable being who will sway with the wind, and regret actions and compromised decisions that are against my grain. Part of my goal is to regain my center in that regard. And, yes, it will have to be selfish at first to reach my true center again, which has been relinquished far too long.

When I live as a drinker, I live a fraudulent life. When I am sober, I live naturally, as myself. And I am weary of life’s games and others expectations. They haven't served me well.

Thanks for being here.

Lofty

10 days into DryJuly. AridAugust is next. What then? RememberSeptember? SoberOctober? Gotta have a theme, right? I am finding taking it by month is better for me than taking it by day. Not so much dwelling on the drinking as setting a short term, repeatable goal, with life objectives achieved as the reward. Productivity is increasing daily, as are health objectives. My repaired shoulder is near 100% and allowing me to do my putzing and piddling jobs around the house as time allows. Physical therapy is strengthening my body and I am starting to regain a physique and energy. Started riding my bike again this morning with the goal to return to 3 rides a week. Was able to build some things this week to help folks in need, and have another project slated for the weekend. Even got back on a ladder last weekend to power wash the house. I havent been able to do these type things for 1.5 years when I injured myself. And prior to that, had no resolve to do so in my pitiful situation. I’m beginning to realize gratitude and boundaries and gifts and limitations. The wobble of the inner gyroscope is beginning to spin with better balance.

Wishing all a great day today!

Lofty

Aussie, I am so sorry you struggled, but glad you are back. That's what is most important.

My wife and I scored free tix to see Peter Frampton’s Farewell Tour tonight along with Jason Bonham’s Evening with Led Zeppelin. I enjoyed this show so much better stone cold sober than most shows I’ve seen recently unsober. A lot of fun and really enjoyed the music. He played old songs and new from his recent blues album release. Good stuff!

hope everyone enjoys their weekend!

Lofty

Hey, Dee! I saw him in the 90s too, and in the 70’s and 80’s as well. Humble Pie opened for Van Halen, which was my first real concert venue I attended. Talented guy. Intro’d that voice sound effect that continues today.

On to the midpoint of Dry July! Going very well!

Lofty

Nice going Mirage! You put a smile on my face, as I understood that satisfaction of experiencing and retiring sober, especially recently. I’ve decided my habits and decisions are no one else’s business. And sobriety pays dividends. I’m still adjusting to that, but not shunning events and appearances as I have before. Just experiencing them differently.

My wife has tix for next week to see Train and GooGoo Dolls. I passed, as they are after my time, so she is taking a girlfriend. But, we are contemplating a pretty cool festival in Kentucky in September featuring a lot of great acts, including Robert Plant’s new project. We were gonna go to NOLA for their festival in May, as Rolling Stones were featured, but got in too late. Better anyway, as they had to cancel due to Jagger’s health.

Life goes on. Experiencing some illnesses among parents lately, which puts life in a more serious perspective for all.

Continuing to grow in sobriety comfortably each day.

Lofty

Hey there, Marchers!

like Dee suggested, I am owning this week. How about you, Aussie? It’s not too late to do so, the week is not half over.

Feeling a return of executive function skills. Man, do they go numb when I am in drinking mode. Decisions, priorities and intuition are starting to alight again in my mind. And it feels good. It’s also high time for it, as my wife and her folks need me to “be there” for them in a health crisis affecting her Dad.

It feels good again to be Lofty taking care of business.

Have a great day, everyone.

Lofty