What Alcohol Has Taken From Me

Over time I've let a lot of things go, replacing them with sitting and drinking my evenings away or nursing a hangover.

What follows is a list of what I hope to do more of or begin doing again in the coming weeks as the booze slowly filters out of my body, my brain and my soul:

• Daily exercise - At age 57 I simply can't let lethargy and inactivity dominate my life any longer.  I will start slow as my Zen Habits guru instructs.  I will incorporate a few minutes of movement daily building up to a half hour of movement
• Personal Hygiene - Some days, rather than hopping in the shower or striving to look my best, I just mope and vegetate.  Sobriety will help me self nurture and taking care of this aging body will become a priority.
• Meditation - I have read numerous times that a daily short period of meditation is helpful in acquiring the presence of mind to follow through with a new habit or lifestyle.  I hope to incorporate this period of quiet time into my mornings.
• Hydration - Water, water, water is so valuable for vitality, energy, well being and a healthy, functioning body.  Wine dehydrates and so does coffee.  As my previous two drinks of choice, I was as dry as a desert.  Drinking lots of water is part of my plan
• Healthy Eating - As a daily drinker, cooking wholesome foods only went as far as gazing longingly at the food porn in the recipe books.  I will endeavour to create some amazing, life-giving foods for myself and my family
• Hobbies - Every time I gave up booze for a few days in the past, I naturally gravitated towards my beloved hobbies: knitting, playing the keyboard, reading and creative writing.  I intend to create knitted sweaters, sweet music and heartfelt stories in my sobriety.  I will re-read my favourite recovery books and spiritual writings.
• Presence - No more zoned out partner.  No more Granny with a Wine Glass!  My husband and I will enjoy picnics in the park, walks along the river, gardening and cooking together.  My little ones will enjoy storytelling and sleepovers with their Sober Granny.  I am so fortunate to be living close to them during their formative years.  If I can leave a positive imprint in their lives, my sobriety goal will be that much sweeter.

I know the above list seems quite in depth and insurmountable (or is it just me??) but taking it slow and allowing myself ample time to undo all the harm I've taken 12 years to inflict upon myself will be the way I'll proceed.