18 months of Living

18 months, 1 year and 6 months, 548-ish days:  No matter how you spin it, that is how long I have been sober...as of today.  I still have a hard time wrapping my brain around the fact that I made it this long and how lucky I am to even be alive.  I sure as hell never expected all the support I have received along the way, and am extremely grateful for all of the kind words and notes of encouragement.  My 18 month journey has, in part, taken on a life of its own through sharing my trials, errors, as well as all the positive aspects of cleaning up my life.  This blog has definitely helped me see things in a different light, as I hope it has been able to help others too, regardless of the issue at hand.

I still have my day to day struggles in dealing with my emotions, a consequence of using alcohol as a kid to cover them all up.  Anger is a constant battle, but a much less frequent occurrence since I started lifting again.  I now live my life one day at a time in search of making myself a better person while taking the time to enjoy the little things, instead of living my life dictated by an alcohol induced buzz.  What began as a questionable and almost humorous statement of "I am done drinking", has turned into a personal challenge full of accomplishment.

I have proven to myself, and hopefully others, that it can be done.  An alcoholic can, against all odds, become a sober successful person.  I have not made this journey alone and attribute much of my success to those who, knowingly or not, were there when I needed it the most.  From the continued love and support of my best friend, Brooke; to the assistance of my therapist; to meeting the greatest lifting coach, motivator, and friend, Jill, at a time when I was at a crossroad; to the development of the Barn Crew, a great group of friends and lifting partners...and a source of constant entertainment; to the continued support of co-workers and friends from far and near; and last but not least my long time friend, mama Peeler, who has never given up on me and made dreams of mine become reality.

Today, I will celebrate with Big Red Zero and my favorite cookies, along with a brutal squat and deadlift workout...followed by an evening with my family and I am sure a few good cigars.  A perfect day in my new life.