Yesterday was a low point; and today I feel better. These ups and downs seems to be pretty common for me, so I must remember not to be ground down by them when they happen. Thank you for all your support in your comments; I appreciate you all very much.
I can report that the cucumber and mint martini on Thursday night was a success. Only a hint of cucumber flavour, and the whole thing a good mix of sweet and fresh. Mocktails are still an important part of my sober routine – when I miss them, my evening doesn’t seem to go as well – so any new recipe ideas would be welcome.
Day 26 today, so day 30 is in sight. I know there is much debate about day counting in the sober sphere; I am undecided about it. I like building up sober days, but it is so awful if you slip up and have to start at Day 1 that I am beginning to question how helpful it is for me. Last year, I managed a 60 and 40 days stretch, and still I feel as though I haven’t got there yet. Is my ultimate aim total sobriety? Those of you who have followed my blog for a while will know that I am struggling to commit to that.
It sounds as though I am making excuses, and perhaps I am preparing myself for a fall. But for today, I am still not drinking.
A Dappled Path 
One day at a time
I don’t know why I keep straying from this mantra. Thanks for reminding me. Annie x
And slowly the good days will outweigh the sucky ones.
well done!!!!!
Lisa
http://www.thecword-compassion.com
Thank you, Lisa! Annie x
Today is what counts :). And how do you make this cucumber martini? I want one!
Put some mint leaves, 3 slices cucumber, 50ml cloudy apple juice, 10ml grenadine, 10ml elderflower cordial, 20ml fresh lime juice and 10ml cranberry juice in a cocktail shaker with plenty of ice. Shake it up and pour into a chilled glass. Enjoy! Annie x
Yum, thanks :)! I will have to figure out what is elderflower cordial, or if they even have it in US (or a sub), but this sounds delicious and I am going to try it this week.
You are doing well Annie. I sometimes wonder about the day counting too, but I can’t seem to stop. I am day 22 today. I don’t drink mocktails but yours sound lovely. A x
Try the recipe above, Angie. You may drink more mocktails after that! Annie x
I’m a huge fan of ginger beer with lime. Basically a Moscow Mule without the vodka. As far as counting days, only do it if it’s helpful for you. I think right now, though, it’s important for you to string together a bunch of sober days and get some solid time back under your belt.
I think you’re right about keeping track of the days for now. I’ll try that drink you suggest – thanks! Annie x
Hi Annie!
So glad you had some peace today.
I sure get the ups and downs!
You can do it!
Hugs!
Thank you! Annie x
One day at a time.
I liked counting months. I guess now i will count years…
We are leaving for disneyworld tomorrow. Plans that dont require accomodating alcohol are so much easier….
I am happy today was better for you.
Thank you, Anne. Have fun in Disneyworld. Annie x
I ummmed and ahhhhhed alot about counting days, but in the end, i found that building them up to high nunbers helped becauss somewhere after 40 I couldnt bear the thought of resetting that counter.
You’re doing so well, keep going x x x
Thanks for your support. Annie x
I’m late but I hope you feel today the way you felt yesterday. Are you on Mrs. D’s site? http://www.livingsober.org.nz/category/drink-of-the-week/. She has LOTS of mocktail recipes. And if you haven’t joined you should…it’s an amazing site full of really helpful information and insight.
I LOVED counting days. It’s the only thing that got me through the first 30 days. Every day forward made me think about how far I’d come and how much I’d hate to have to go through it again. At first I also couldn’t say forever but I gave myself 6 months which meant a booze free birthday. I thought if I could get through six months and a birthday wine free then I would be able to reevaluate.
Give yourself that gift…choose a goal (3 months, 6 months, 91 days…whatever but make it meaningful) and the see how you feel once you’ve reached the goal. If you still want to drink then drink, if you’re unsure then pick another goal, if you’re sure that you don’t want to drink then don’t).
The point is that you’re still in withdrawals and emotionally invested in your best friend to think about letting it go forever. So don’t. Don’t say goodbye forever, just take a break.
One thing I never did was think I could moderate…I knew that ship has sailed. I told myself that if I went back to drinking this time I’d go in with eyes wide open.
Whatever you do, do it honestly and treat yourself kindly. You’re worth the effort.
Sherry
Thank you for this advice. I love Mrs D’s website, and am using the day counter on there to help motivate me. Annie x
I totally count days…252 for me today! I think it’s like counting pounds lost when dieting…You count those positive numbers right? It’s counting days NOT lost to hangovers! Keep up the good work. However, I’m wary of mocktail drinking, seems a bit too close to the real thing. I’m afraid my brain would push too hard for the addition of alcohol.