lotsofcoffee

Logged back in and saw that I started back in 2014. I have changed that sobriety date more times than I like to admit. This note is for me to remind me why I came back.

When I Drink:
-I don't feel well,
-I can't think clearly
-I make poor choices
-I get lazy
-I embarrass myself
-I don't remember things
-I create relationship issues
-Get angrier easier
-I don't sleep well

When I Don't Drink:
-I feel better
-I am motivated
-I exercise
-My relationships are better
-I don't get as angry
-I make better decisions
-I have more money!
-I sleep better

The hardest time for me is from 4pm to 8pm. It's like a switch turns on and off. I get that weird tingly feeling. I'm having it right now. I can never just have one. The amount I can drink and function is scary at times. People call you a professional. You sneak and pretend they don't know. They know!

One day at a time - and I promise myself "Today I Won't Drink"!

Anna

That 4pm to 8pm period was by far, the worst for me, too. I could barely wait to get through making supper and starting the cleanup so I could drink. What worked for me was to get out of the house right after supper. I'd throw dishes in the dishwasher and head out the door. It helped me feel so much better physically. It helped me reconnect with my neighbours and neighbourhood, and it gave me time to talk, uninterrupted, to my husband, who often came along.

And, I also thought that no one outside of my immediate family knew I was drinking because I always drank at home. But, along with clarity came the realization that friends & neighbors did know something was wrong.

SteveAlex

Welcome back. Need to fill that void with something new in its place. You can do this

D122y

My crave starts around noon or when I get off work.

First thing I do when I crave is eat.

Then I hit the gym. Sometimes I take a nap.

Thanks.

Hevyn

So good to have you back, lotsofcoffee. You sound motivated & ready to do this.

Dee74

Glad you made it back

VigilanceNow

Glad you're back!!! I know what you mean about 4-8. Those happy hours were so hard for me to see...I made so many excuses to go to them with coworkers, all of whom would have a few and just go home. Not me! I'd have a few and act fine (convincing myself as well) then pass the liquor store on my way home and boom - next thing I know I'm waking up panicking. All of what you listed is true for me too! Such a great reminder, thank you!

Upstairs

Welcome back Lotsofcoffee! Those cravings in early recovery are scary things. They were worst for me when I was back in my comfort zone. As Anna said, just getting out the house might help at times

SoberLeigh

Welcome back, lotsofcoffee.

Soberwolf

Nice to see you