...Up the kudzu and L-Glut. I think you said you're awaiting topa? You'll need enhancement to keep those neurotransmitters in check. If you're using kudzu capsules, match the amount used in the clinical trials: 3,000 mg. daily in three equal doses. If you're using powder (such as that from the Happy Herbalist) use a level teaspoon or so divided in a couple of doses over the day. He provides tea bags, but you can also stir it into hot or boiling, then mix cooler water and just drink it. And sprinkle it on everything: salsa, soup, stews, etc. You'll be amazed at what a different kudzu makes. Really can't overdo kudzu; go here for more info.

If possible, modify your schedule a bit, this is important...

* For when you're home, identify which hours are *worst* for you, particularly with the stress and challenges of kid care taking. We all know how that can set us over the edge--particularly when our spouses are gone. Can you plan some special outings (to movies you'll all enjoy) those nights your husband is out; then dinner at a place that doesn't serve drinks, so you won't be tempted. Avoid Chucky Cheese at all cost.

* Call on a friend or babysitter on at least one of those nights so you can go out for a treat: pedicure, shopping, volunteer activity, etc. or if earlier in the day (several hours before you go to bed so it doesn't keep you up) go to the gym. Then home for a hot soak, tuck the kiddos in, and straight to bed for you with hypno.

* Fill your fridge with all kinds of substitute beverages. Try new herbal teas. Buy a new tea mug and in your hypno make it your recovery mug. Incorporate it into you visual cues...every time you see it, touch it, use it, you become stronger, the craving subsides, and this reinforces all you've accomplished.

* Consider non-alcoholic drinks (tricky for some). One beer drinker I know "cheats" with non-alco Coors or St. Pauly Girl. Or perhaps a non alcoholic wine. Others tell me this actually frustrates them, so you'll have to see if this works for you. But the *act* of drinking a fake beverage in a wine glass or out of a "beer bottle" has been calming to others.

* Turn on the tube and find a good movie...then indulge in something to keep your hands busy (popcorn, nuts that must be shelled, etc.) along with a healthy beverage.

* Come on the board when you feel the craving is getting the better of you, and read what you posted earlier about how great you feel. The craving will pass and you'll feel like a million bucks in the morning. Once you've incorporated the entire program, it will not be this hard, although you're absolutely right: we must remain vigilant.

* Find that book you've been dying to read and get started. (Can't remember who's read what, but yes, Caroline Knapp's "Drinking, A Love Story" is brilliant. Totally unrelated, but fascinating book I just finished: "Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking by Malcolm Gladwell")

* And speaking of the internet, once you have the kids to bed, if you're up and still craving, start surfing until you get lost. Look around on Ebay for some eclectic gift for a friend--buy it for her early this year. Do a little genealogy research. Do a vanity search, that's fun (look up your name or photo under Google Images.) Whatever...get lost on line for a couple of hours while you drink water, tea or whatever. Surfing can be such a time sink and it can help you get past the "craving hours" if they're late at night. (On the other hand, if your association with surfing is tied too strongly to drinking, this may be ineffective.)

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MWOJewell