[retteacher]

Hi Everyone:

I'm up early, but I'm surprised to be the one to start this thread. It's good to be home, & last night I got some quality sleep. Crossing many times zones is exhausting (as those of you who travel for a living must know for sure). The biggest bonus is that I didn't come down from the trip & the exhaustion w/AL. That was my pattern.

Yesterday, I got back into my daily life & didn't feel any desire for AL at all. When I thought about drinking, it was to be grateful that I don't do it. I told my brother & SIL that I no longer drink (wo/going into specifics as to why). It felt good just to acknowledge the fact that I like to stay clear-headed & self-possessed instead of bleary & confused. There's no contest (between sober & drunk) when it's put like that.

I'm having some people over for dinner on Sat. We'll be serving wine, & I'm going to be totally prepared in advance. I want to be able to be around mod drinking wo/giving in...especially in my own house.

Take care everyone. I'll try to check in later.

Mary