Originally Posted by Coz

Wow - you are keeping busy and active! That is great news (it took me a while to get off my butt and start doing things).
I too decided to pick up my guitar for the first time in about 15 years to try again to learn to play. So far, all I have managed is to tune it and learn a few chords.
Summer here so snowshoeing is not an option, although I am only assuming it requires snow?
I agree that there are times when a drink or two has been really enjoyable and I retain some sorrow that I am unable to participate in those enjoyable drinks anymore - one drink for me tends to turn into many drinks followed by hair of the dog in the morning which start the cycle again. But I guess the benefits of being free to live a real and meaningful life out ways the very brief pleasure of a drink.
Love your attitude towards living life to its fullest - a great start to your life changing decision!