One year and counting.

Yesterday was the year anniversary of my last drink. It's crazy to think that I lived my life thinking the way I consumed alcohol was normal for me, it was never normal. Now I think about drinking, which is still more often than I would like to admit, and I still think I can do it. But you know what? Some people should NOT drink, I fall into that category. My life has grown exponentially better than it was a year ago. I often remind myself that nothing bad can come from not drinking, but many things can happen if I decide to pick up where I left off.

I stopped drinking last year for a few reasons, I was just 'trying it out' for a bit. My father, being the active alcoholic that he is, has shown me some of the worse things that can happen when someone who shouldn't drink continues to lead this lifestyle. This was my leading factor. I had also begun to date the Sailor, and he doesn't drink anymore. It was easier for me to continue to connect with him and get to know the wonderful person inside if I wasn't consuming, and getting to know him was a wonderful gift, one I wouldn't trade for a drink. Lastly, I had put on a few extra pounds throughout my drinking career. I had kept swearing that I was going to start working out again, eating healthier, etc. But I didn't. When I started with my experimental wagon ride, I quickly noticed how much more energy I had and soon began to work out more. The pounds literally melted away. Within the first two weeks of not drinking and working out somewhat regularly I was back in my favorite jeans! This was one more reason why my decision to not drink was a good lifestyle change.

This last year has not been easy. I have wanted to drink wine with dinner. Unwind with a glass of Maker's after work. Do a shot at the bar. My girlfriends, not all, but a few, were very reluctant to be supportive. Insisting I was doing it "for a guy", and continued for months to show their displeasure. This was really difficult, my friends are my family, my sisters. I wanted them to respect my decision and trust it was about me, not him. When he and I officially split, and I continued to still not drink, I think that's when they finally got it. Which was about seven to eight months later... not easy.

So, yesterday was one year. I'm ready for many more, because this life is actually starting to feel pretty good....

xoxo,
Christina Marie