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Well It's official. I have a drinking problem and I am quitting drinking

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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 11:55 AM
Original message
Well It's official. I have a drinking problem and I am quitting drinking
Edited on Mon Jun-21-04 12:05 PM by ChavezSpeakstheTruth
I can't stand the way I drink anymore - It's killing me.

My fiance gave me an ultimatum this AM. I'm scared and feeling lonely and ashamed.
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Bunny Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 11:57 AM
Original message
Well the first step is acknowledging that you have a problem.
You are on your way. Good luck, wishing you the best.
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Hawkeye-X Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 11:57 AM
Response to Original message
1. Links for ya..
Edited on Mon Jun-21-04 11:58 AM by HawkeyeX
I'm recovering addict myself and do attend AA meetings.. They are a HUGE help.

http://www.aa.org

Find a local meeting and go to one. It's the first step to recovery.

Last Friday I met a lovely lady who has celebrated her soberiety that day for 33 years.

That's WAY before I was born.

Hawkeye-X
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TX-RAT Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 11:58 AM
Response to Original message
2. Good luck
Talk to friends and talk to relatives. You will be amazed how much help they can be.
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swag Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 11:58 AM
Response to Original message
3. I sympathize and wish you strength
Since I don't like groups or AA, I am using the book "How to Quit Drinking Without AA," which you can find on Amazon.com.

It works pretty well, but you've got to keep up with the homework for a few months.

If I can't finally win with this approach, I will try another until I succeed. Never give up. The end result will be worth it.

Don't feel ashamed. Feel great about this important and positive step you are taking.
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Hawkeye-X Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 11:59 AM
Response to Reply #3
4. With AA,
you never have homework, only processes to do.

What's wrong with AA that you didn't like about it?

Hawkeye-X
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 12:00 PM
Response to Reply #3
7. Thanks - I'm trying not to get choked up at work
thanks!
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LosinIt Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 11:59 AM
Response to Original message
5. Look up AA in the phone book
It's the only thing that saved my marriage. My husband has 11 months of sobriety after many, many false starts, or I guess they would be called false stops. He is so happy these days. AA isn't for everyone and each group has a different dynamic so shop around for a group you feel comfortable in. He loves his home group, I even go to the meetings sometimes because I didn't feel comfortable in the Alanon group here. The whole family is better. My son knows that certain bags of cookies are not for his consumption because they were purchased for 'the drunks'.
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Hawkeye-X Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 12:01 PM
Response to Reply #5
10. Have you attended Al-Anon?
My mom and wife are still looking for one here in Denver....

Any help would be great!

Hawkeye-X
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ret5hd Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 12:00 PM
Response to Original message
6. hey, its common...
you've got a good head on your shoulders. you'll be all right. sounds like your fiance is a keeper. if she sticks by you thru this, stick by her when she needs you.
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 12:07 PM
Response to Reply #6
18. Thank you
My fiance is the greatest part of my life and she is wonderfully supportive. Unfortunately she is away for the next 2 months so its only evening phone calls.

I've got her back no matter what.

Thanks for your words!
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Padraig18 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 12:00 PM
Response to Original message
8. Chin up, lad!
My 18 y/o brother has one, too. There's no shame in it, and admitting that you have a problem is the 1st step toward solving it.

:hug:
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 12:04 PM
Response to Reply #8
14. thanks - it's a really painful thing
but I'm trying to look at it as the best thing to happen to me
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SharonAnn Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 12:10 PM
Response to Reply #14
23. It is the best thing to happen to you. When someone you love
Edited on Mon Jun-21-04 12:12 PM by SharonAnn
and who you know loves you, tells you to straighten up "or else", it gets your attention. It's what happened to me. First my mother and then my husband talked to me about my drinking. My husband said he would "not have an alcoholic wife"! At first I denied it was a problem but the next day I realized that if someone who I know loved me told me that, then I wasn't fooling anybody and I was at risk of losing everything I cared about.

So, I called my Employee Assistance Program, met with them and they got me into an out-patient treatment program, I started going to AA and begin the first of what is now 19 years of sobriety. I was fortunate that my husband was incredibly supportive and let me do whatever I needed to do to stay sober. Even to the point of saying, "I have to go to a meeting" and suddenly leaving the house on a moment's notice.

It was the best thing that ever happened to me and it can be that for you too! Life is good! Being sober for it is even better!

I'm a little bit sorry that I can't drink, but it's not a big deal.

If we can help, let us know.
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 12:19 PM
Response to Reply #23
27. Thank you very much
I'm sure you'll here from me. I'm doing it for real!

When my fiance old me that I was going to take my life back it was an empowering feeling. If I think about it like that its exciting
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Lydia Leftcoast Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 12:01 PM
Response to Original message
9. Congratulations on taking the first step
Now get thee to AA or Rational Recovery or some other support group and work on your issues. You don't want to end up a "dry drunk" like a certain Pretzeldunce we know about.

You are not alone, and you should be proud, rather than ashamed, that you recognized your problem.

I have a friend who went to Narcotics Anonymous after much resistance and discovered a lot of people very much like himself. As he listened to their stories, he found himself thinking, "I did something just like that once."
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prolesunited Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 12:01 PM
Response to Original message
11. Just curious
as to what some of the behaviors and attitudes were that led you to this conclusion. Was there an incident that led to the fiance giving you this ultimatum? That is, if you feel comfortable sharing.

Coming out and saying it is a HUGE step. The hard work is figuring out what to do about it. Know that you have all of us in your corner to support you. :hug:
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 12:03 PM
Response to Reply #11
12. I got ridiculously drunk at a party and we fought about my drinking
at least that's what she told me as I blacked the whole fight out.
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prolesunited Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 12:06 PM
Response to Reply #12
17. Blacking out is NOT
a good thing. Do you confine your drinking primarily to social settings or do you do it home alone as well? Do you get shakes sometimes?

I've seen you post about your fiance. It's obvious you love her more than the bottle. More importantly, I hope you value yourself more than that. Good luck on you journey.
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 12:10 PM
Response to Reply #17
22. I do drink alone. I do get trembly. I aslo drink socially
I did a survey and scored very poorly.

I do love her and there is hope for me. It's hard at the moment.
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bratcatinok Donating Member (786 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 07:50 PM
Response to Reply #22
101. I'm a proud member of AlAnon since 1983!
It's oh so hard but it's oh so wonderful. You're beginning the first step on the road to recovery and I think it's wonderful.

Suggest to your fiance that she attend AlAnon meeting since it will help her understand you and it will also help her understand herself. Matter of fact, have her PM me if she'd like. I'll be glad to share my experience, strength and hope with her.

Oh, don't push her into going to AlAnon. It's her decision.
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jun-22-04 06:36 AM
Response to Reply #101
113. she checked herself into a clinic when she was a teenager for
substance abuse. She has a long history of therapy and an expertise in these things. She has a remarkable undestanding and sensitivity. The most fortunate thing that ever happened to me was falling in love with her.

Thanks for your encouragement!
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gypsy11 Donating Member (286 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Jun-23-04 10:51 AM
Response to Reply #101
136. I'm a proud member of Al-anon
as well. :hi:
I find it to be a very helpful program.
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histohoney Donating Member (584 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 12:04 PM
Response to Original message
13. Good luck
God bless, and know we're all for you here. Your in my prayers.
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 12:04 PM
Response to Reply #13
15. thank you kindly
it means alot
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VelmaD Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 12:05 PM
Response to Original message
16. Congratulations on taking that first step
Good luck in finding the path that works for you whether it's AA or some other method. We're all rooting for you. :hug:
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 01:01 PM
Response to Reply #16
38. Thanks Velma!
I appreciate it

:hug:
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MuseRider Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 12:07 PM
Response to Original message
19. Good for you!
Do not be ashamed, please. We are all human and we all have our unpleasant things that we do. I helped a person very close to me go through NA and it works very well. Take good care of yourself.
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 12:14 PM
Response to Reply #19
25. I'll do my best
There's so many overwhelming feelings in this. Sometimes excitement, sometimes shame. I'm a mess right now - and hungover
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ewagner Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 12:08 PM
Original message
Congrats!
You've taken a great first step.

At 26 years old I noticed I was having a beer for breakfast and knew that wasn't normal. I forced myself to stop completely for a year and had to change my lifestyle and habits significantly to achieve it.

I now drink only on occassion and used to reserve binges for my annual "Dealer's Meeting", but even then, I would still watch my intake. After those meetings, I would have no desire to touch alcohol for WEEKS afterward.

Good luck.

Your success will depend on your personal commitment.
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 01:22 PM
Response to Original message
43. Thanks Velma!
I am going to do it for real

thanks for your words
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Mistress Quickly Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 12:08 PM
Response to Original message
20. Hi, don't be ashamed!
Edited on Mon Jun-21-04 12:10 PM by eye22004
I quit also, after blacking out and waking up reeking of puke at my m-i-l's house, I realized that I had a wee bit of a problem.

This was after years of black-outs, and binge drinking, and all the wonderful things that came along with that (how the heck did I get home?). Of course, the fact I bartended for 4 years didn't help! Very easy to drink, and heck, I was so friendly, lol.

Now if only I could put down the smokes, I'd be happy.

Good luck, I hope you realize there are a lot of us out there. Any support you can get is good. And you got a good person with you, at least you were warned!

:hug:
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 12:32 PM
Response to Reply #20
31. Thank you very much
I've experienced that and more. Really ugly stuff.

I 'm going to do it!
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matcom Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 12:08 PM
Response to Original message
21. No shame brother. And you are NOT alone
you got 40,000+ people who care about you here and want you to talk WHENEVER you need to.

stay strong.

you can do it.
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 12:11 PM
Response to Reply #21
24. Thanks Matcom!
You guys are the best

You're getting me all choked up!
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MuseRider Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 12:15 PM
Response to Reply #24
26. What matcom said!
We are always here.
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supernova Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 12:20 PM
Response to Original message
28. ((((ChavezSpeakstheTruth))))
Sorry to hear it's become a problem. It is good that you are realizing it early and thinking about ways to deal with it.

We're here when you need us. Please don't feel alone.
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 12:22 PM
Response to Reply #28
29. Thanks Supernova!
Everyone here is so great and supportive, it feels good to be in a community of good people!
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happynewyear Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 12:23 PM
Response to Original message
30. take it one day at a time
I know. I myself quit drinking in 1986. The first few months were the most difficult for me (physical withdrawals!). You need to stop drinking for yourself and no one else.

You'll be amazed once you quit how much better you will feel (give it some time).

I went to AA myself and it was a lifesaver for me.

About 2 mos. after I quit, my father had to quit as he began bleeding in the stomach. He went to a recovery home for one month because he decided it was the best thing for him to do being my mother was so pissed off at him.

He quit and he was at it hard and heavy for about 40 years. He died sober which is a tribute to him. I thank god for this every day of my life and I was there to help him too.

Hopefully you are young enough to be able to leave the wreckage of your past behind you and move along, hopefully with you fiancee.

Best of luck to you!

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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 02:29 PM
Response to Reply #30
66. Im 29 and have been drinking for about 8 years
I hope I haven't done too much damamge so that I'l have a long life with the future CStheT
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happynewyear Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Fri Jun-25-04 06:12 AM
Response to Reply #66
140. Chavez I was 29 when I quit too
Luckily, not much damage here either. What damage was done I've been able to deal with. Nothing physical luckily.

I wish you the best of success. You seem committed to beating this witch of a problem. Its amazing how we get caught up in it so very easily. In my case, my father was giving me booze at 16 years old being he was afraid I might smoke pot. *sigh*

That was the WWII generation for you!
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RetroLounge Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 12:35 PM
Response to Original message
32. Hang in there and remember you are not alone
Sober 14 years, myself. You'll be glad you did it...

RL
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mantis49 Donating Member (398 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 01:14 PM
Response to Reply #32
42. Me, too,
yesterday.
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Blue-Jay Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 12:45 PM
Response to Original message
33. Good luck, man.
This is going to be one of the hardest things you've ever done, make no mistake. What's important is that you never lose sight of WHY you are quitting. Not only for your health, but for the love of a woman who cares about you enough to make it an issue. You'll want to sneak a drink once in a while, but everytime you feel that way, picture her face. You've made a decision, and you already know what matters the most. Turn your addictive nature towards something more healthy and enjoyable, if that helps.

Again, good luck and you have my best wishes. It sounds like you're doing the right thing.

-Jay-
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 12:50 PM
Response to Reply #33
35. Thanks!
That's gonne be how I do it and I have to throw myself back into my painting which has been neglected during the past few years on drunkenness.

Thanks again!
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Blue-Jay Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 12:58 PM
Response to Reply #35
37. No problem whatsoever.
As one jazz fan to another, please don't hesitate to contact me if you feel the need. I've been told that I'm a good listener on occasion. Seriously, I'll slap you around if you deserve it.

-Jay-
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 01:24 PM
Response to Reply #37
44. I probably will deserve it!
Thanks again, brother!
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Donkeyboy75 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 12:46 PM
Response to Original message
34. It takes a lot of courage to get to the point
where you're ashamed and scared. It means you're facing up to things. You're a good guy. Congrats, and I mean that.

You're lucky to have someone who cares about you so much that she wants what's best for you, too. It will probably be hard while she's gone the next couple of months, so I'll just echo what everyone else has said: we're here for you. Good luck, and hang tough (sorry for the inadvertent NKOTB reference).
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 12:51 PM
Response to Reply #34
36. I'll let it slide this time :)
Seriously - thank you for your support. I feel so lucky to have people like DU to talk to. It really helps - and I've only just started!
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proud patriot Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 01:01 PM
Response to Original message
39. Hi , Congratulations ...Please Read This
My Dad helps runs this Secular version of AA
it's called LifeRing .

http://www.unhooked.com/index.htm

If you need anything please pm me , and I'll
help you get in touch with my dad . He's been through
it all and is a wonderful mentor .

My best wishes to you :loveya:
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 01:06 PM
Response to Reply #39
41. Thank you
:hug:
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demgurl Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 01:06 PM
Response to Original message
40. Good luck.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 01:31 PM
Response to Reply #40
51. Thanks Demgurl
I need all the help I can get
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scarlet_owl Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 01:27 PM
Response to Original message
45. Good luck and Congratulations!
Make sure you have a good support system. Loved ones can sometimes make all the difference. Hugs to you :hug:
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 01:30 PM
Response to Reply #45
49. Thank you. Hugs back to you.
:hug:
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GOPisEvil Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 01:28 PM
Response to Original message
46. Good luck!
I wish you and your fiancee the best.
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 01:29 PM
Response to Reply #46
48. Thanks
It means alot
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Insider Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 01:29 PM
Response to Original message
47. congratulations, CSTT
seven years sober here. choking up too, but it is all JOY at another person facing their own truth. you are not alone, and it WILL get better.

are you sober now? today? CONGRATULATIONS. just go one day at a time. that's doable.

:hug:
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 01:32 PM
Response to Reply #47
52. Thanks insider
I am hung over but thats better than stumbling drunk and incoherent.

I am focused on today.
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tishaLA Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 01:30 PM
Response to Original message
50. You'll face it with the spirit you show here
I certainly wish you the best. There is no reason for shame, but the fear is understandable. You may fall short sometimes, but just saying you have a drinking problem demonstrates your bravery.
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 01:34 PM
Response to Reply #50
53. I don't feel so brave but it is a big step.
I told a bunch of my friends at work which was difficult but they were really supportive. I can't wait to get my life back!
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stivrock Donating Member (9 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 01:36 PM
Response to Reply #53
54. well done
good to hear. congrats.
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 01:40 PM
Response to Reply #54
56. Thanks and welcome
:hi:
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Bluebear Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 01:38 PM
Response to Original message
55. Shame needn't enter into it
Life's tough enough, you're taking steps. Onto bigger and better things, yes? Hang in there!
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 01:43 PM
Response to Reply #55
57. Thanks
That's all I can do. If I don't stop I'll die - its that simple.
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smada Donating Member (311 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 01:45 PM
Response to Original message
58. Your honesty is a big first step
I've had friends with drinking and drug problems. Just getting to a point where they say "Yes, I do have a problem" was a huge step and a big weight off their shoulder.
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 01:49 PM
Response to Reply #58
59. I've known I have a problem for a long time
saying it outloud forces me to address it. It hurts though
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jpgray Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 01:51 PM
Response to Original message
60. I can cure you
Give me five months and a year's supply of Karkov vodka -- you'll never feel too good about drinking ever again. :)

Don't mean to kid around too much--it's a serious problem and I wish you lots of luck. I never had an addiction, but my first semester in school I drank at least a 1.75 liter bottle of liquor every weekend--it ruins you like nothing else can.

Think of it this way--you have it a lot better than most people who have been in your situation. You have your fiance to help you out, and you have a wide support network of DUers as well--we'll always give you a sympathetic ear when you need it. :hi:
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 01:58 PM
Response to Reply #60
61. I do feel very lucky
this place is great and I think it helps alot already

:)
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yardwork Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 01:58 PM
Response to Original message
62. Congratulations on taking the first, most difficult step!
If you think you have a problem, then you do. Don't look back. Take your recovery seriously starting now.

Go to lots of AA meetings. Keep going even if you don't like everything that is said, or you don't understand it, or you are convinced it's not for you.

Just keep going to meetings. Don't pick up a drink. No matter what. It will get easier.

You have a wonderful life in front of you. Things will get better in ways that you never imagined.

kat (sober four years - the happiest four years of my life)
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 02:00 PM
Response to Reply #62
63. I am excited to live again rather than just sit and drink beer
pretending its fun.
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eyesroll Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 02:02 PM
Response to Original message
64. ((((ChavezSpeakstheTruth))))
Best of luck to you. I know it's going to be tough.

It sounds like you've got a great lady to help you through this.

:hug:
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 02:06 PM
Response to Reply #64
65. She's the best but its wearing her down
She said some really great things this morning. She told me I will do it and that she's with me. Now that feels good.
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tigereye Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 02:33 PM
Response to Reply #65
67. bless you Chavez
you are brave and a smart guy. Good luck and we are all in support of your efforts. Just be patient and kind to yourself, since these things can take some time and effort. :)
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 02:38 PM
Response to Reply #67
68. Thank you.
Edited on Mon Jun-21-04 02:43 PM by ChavezSpeakstheTruth
Your support means the world to me

:)

Edit: stupid auto fill field
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No2W2004 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 02:48 PM
Response to Original message
69. Hang in there
From prior threads, you know seem to know your Jazz greats. You know that addiction has taken many great musicians from us far too soon. Bix drank himself to death before he was 30. That is truly a great shame for all of us, for who knows what great music we were robbed of.

Thank Goodness you have caught yourself and thank goodness you have a wonderful fiance to help you through it.

Don't be ashamed, and don't be afraid to talk when you need to.

Good Luck!
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 02:51 PM
Response to Reply #69
70. Thanks
Coltrane was sober for years but still died of scirrosis

I gotta stop this train wreck now
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PopSixSquish Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 03:51 PM
Response to Original message
71. Good For You Honey!!
I had a friend/neighbor of mine hit rock bottom a few weeks ago and without going into details, we had to call for police and an ambulance. But he's in counseling and going to meetings and I pray for him daily.

I'm sure there will be tough days, but you will get through them with the support of the group, your fiance, and the strange and wonderful folks here on DU.

I'll keep you in my prayers, hang in there CST, it will all be worth it.

:grouphug:
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 04:42 PM
Response to Reply #71
79. Thank you
Your prayers are requested and appreciated!
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put out Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 04:04 PM
Response to Original message
72. I admire you.
A suggestion which you may, of course, take or leave.

Talk to your physician. Let them know what has happened and what you are going through. You may need to be monitored for blood pressure and other health concerns, as well as nutrient depletion; believe that you can become very ill for a while, depending upon your personal physiology and the depth of alcohol dependence. Please don't flirt with that kind of crisis and try to "gut it out" alone, without some sort of medical support.

Some people in the initial stages of alcohol withdrawal benefit from pharmaceuticals, on a strictly prescribed regimen. Some folks protest at substituting one drug for another, and I understand that. But friend, you shouldn't suffer needlessly or endanger your health by withdrawing alone. Consider talking to the doc.

Peace to you. You are brave.
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 04:44 PM
Response to Reply #72
80. I am going to get in touch with my primary care physician
Just to be sure. Plus I'll need a referral for therapy - I've got to bite the bullet and go.

Thank's for the advice
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flamingyouth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 04:04 PM
Response to Original message
73. You know we're here for you when you need us
My mother is a recovering alcoholic with five years' sobriety. Your fiancee loves you very much to want to help you. And we love you too. My mom did Rational Recovery, which is like AA with you as the "higher power" (she has issues with spirituality). I've been to tons of Al-Anon meetings and I would recommend them for your fiancee.

I'll be thinking of you. Best of luck, and PM me anytime if you want to talk or if you have some questions about clinics, etc.

We love you lots.:loveya:
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 04:47 PM
Response to Reply #73
81. Thanks L - I do so appreciate it
My love has a lengthy experience with therapy and groups - I really am lucky to have found her.

Thanks for your words, I'm sure I'll be in touch!

:hug:
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laylah Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 04:10 PM
Response to Original message
74. You have taken the hardest
step, Chavez...BRAVO! One day at a time. Be kind and gentle to yourself and accept any and all positive support that may come your way. I, too, have battled for some time now...hopefully, I'll take "the step" again soon.

:hug:

Jenn
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 04:48 PM
Response to Reply #74
82. I thank you
I wish you all the luck as well

:hug:
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JayS Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 04:14 PM
Response to Original message
75. This may help.
Do some searches on Dr. Johnson and it will turn up some great stuff that you may want to discuss with your doctor.


***********
Epilepsy drug shown to reduce cravings for alcohol
http://health.nzoom.com/cda/printable/1,1856,206954,00.html


Scientists say they have discovered that an anti-epilepsy drug also dramatically reduces alcoholics' craving for a drink.

Topiramate, which is produced by Johnson & Johnson, was approved in 1996 in the United States for patients who suffer epileptic seizures.

But researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Centre in San Antonio reported in The Lancet medical journal that new study findings show it also aids abstinence from alcohol.

"Remarkably, all 150 patients were enrolled into this clinical trial while they were still drinking heavily," says Professor Bankhole Johnson, chief of the Centre's division of alcohol and drug addiction.

*SNIP*
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 04:49 PM
Response to Reply #75
83. Wow - I'll look into that
Thanks
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JayS Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 05:04 PM
Response to Reply #83
93. I hope it helps! Dr. Johnson has a lot of respect in his field. n/t
n/t
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GumboYaYa Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 04:16 PM
Response to Original message
76. Good luck Chavez....
Edited on Mon Jun-21-04 04:48 PM by GumboYaYa
You're a great dude and I wish you the very best.
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 04:51 PM
Response to Reply #76
84. I think I'm a pretty great guy too - thanks
I need to reaffirm that opinion right now!

Thanks for the support!
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gpandas Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 04:20 PM
Response to Original message
77. constant vivilance is required...
don't ever let up, remember always why you are quitting, and the asshole things you did when drunk. don't "put it out of your mind" to justify drinking.
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 04:52 PM
Response to Reply #77
85. I've been doing that for far too long
And I keep trying to justify it away but I am standing firm - NO MORE!

I have way too much to live for
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gpandas Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 07:09 PM
Response to Reply #85
100. you can do it, a lotta people do. n/t
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bigwillq Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 04:22 PM
Response to Original message
78. I wish you luck in your quest to stop drinking
How much do you drink daily? Just wondering.
Look at it this way, if you realize that your drinking is a problem imagine how your loved ones and friends must've felt. It takes an individual a lot longer to admit they have a problem while all along those important people in your life have suffered because of the way you chose to live your life. In the long run, this will benefit not only you but those loved ones.

BTW, I am trying to stop smoking so I know how you feel. I'm not going cold turkey but gradually trying to stop without the use of any gums or patches. I feel this is best for me, those devices still contain the drug I'm addicted too.

I bought my last pack Saturday and I only smoked five on Sunday and so far I smoked only three today. You might say well that's still a lot but I am up to a pack a day sometimes a pack and a half so to only have 3-5 is an accomplishment already in my book!

Good luck. To both of us. I know I'm going to need it.
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 04:55 PM
Response to Reply #78
86. I didn't drink EVERY day but several days a week - let's just say
too much.

I wish you luck with your smoking. My fiance quit when we got together 3 years ago - I've never smoked. So it is possible.

Anyway - thanks for your help
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bigwillq Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 04:56 PM
Response to Reply #86
89. Do you get hammered every time you drink or
can you have just one and that's it?
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 04:59 PM
Response to Reply #89
90. rarely
I usually drink to get drunk
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bigwillq Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 05:29 PM
Response to Reply #90
98. Then yes you have a problem
and I'm glad you are doing something to stop it!

BTW, I usually drink to get drunk too. What's the point if you don't? I haven't figured that out yet.

But for now, O'Douls for you!
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Nikia Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 04:55 PM
Response to Original message
87. Congrats on acknowledging your problem
Good luck in your recovery.
My best friend has been sober for 5 years now. He says that giving up alcohol was the best thing that he ever did for himself and his family. I wish that for you too.
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 04:56 PM
Response to Reply #87
88. Thanks Nikia
I want that very much

very much
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Mikimouse Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 05:00 PM
Response to Original message
91. Your fiance must really love you...
to have told you. Many people simply walk away, as if the person with the disease is somehow damaged. Remember that the disease is not your responsibility, but what you do about it IS your responsibility. There is definitely a better life after addiction. It will take time, and the healing love that you get from other recovering individuals is the ticket. The first and probably most important thing is to get Sober, not just Dry. There is a big difference. Hugs and love going your way!
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 05:02 PM
Response to Reply #91
92. Thank you
I feel so lucky!

:hug:
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Prisoner_Number_Six Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 05:13 PM
Response to Original message
94. One day at a time. one drink at a time
That's the struggle you now face. You have to have the will to say NO each and every time, from now on, and it will wear on you. That is the commitment you have to make and keep.

The hardest part is going to be the sudden, intense "Who do they think they are telling me I can't drink!" rage impulse moments that are going to jump out at you just after you've said no. At that moment you're going to go through heaven and hell trying to justify picking that glass up, so that's the moment you must prepare for. "Just say no" won't be enough then. You're going to have to have a friend beside you to help you through it.

I've been there. I've said NO one drink at a time for the past twenty three years.

Strength, my friend. "Good luck" won't cut it now.
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 05:17 PM
Response to Reply #94
95. You're right
thank you

I am going to do this
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DancingBear Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 05:27 PM
Response to Original message
96. We are here if you need help
Edited on Mon Jun-21-04 05:28 PM by DancingBear
I have a very good friend, long time recovering alcoholic, and heavily involved in AA in North Carolina. He's always willing to help - if he can be of assistance to you at any time don't hesitate to PM me! He is more than happy to help anyone who needs it (he has told me this many times).

BTW, he's 67 years old and an absolute pistol.... :)


Remember - WWTD? (What Would Trane Do?) :) :)
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 05:29 PM
Response to Reply #96
97. Thanks
If and when things get bad I will take you up on that

:)
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 06:54 PM
Response to Original message
99. ***************THANK YOU EVERYONE FOR YOUR ENCOURAGEMENT*********
It really helps. You people are the best!

:grouphug:
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Jackpine Radical Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 08:39 PM
Response to Original message
102. Congrats on the first step. If I might make a suggestion...
Check out EEG bikofeedback (AKA neurotherapy).

http://www.unt.edu/neurotherapy/about.htm

"Research conducted on the addition of alpha-theta BWT to a traditional alcohol addiction treatment program has demonstrated abstinence rates of better than 80% at long term (18- month to 3-year) follow-up."

PM me if you want more information, including how to find a provider.
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BigBigBear Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 08:40 PM
Response to Original message
103. Good luck, man
I got handed this ball, and dropped it and kicked it away. I'm paying now.
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 08:50 PM
Response to Reply #103
104. Thanks
Does that mean you're fighting this fight too?
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BigBigBear Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jun-22-04 09:18 AM
Response to Reply #104
119. It means
that my wife fought this fight, and I didn't fight hard enough alongside her, and she lost, and she died from it 17 days ago.
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jun-22-04 09:56 AM
Response to Reply #119
120. Oh God, that's right. I am so sorry I misunderstood!
Much love to you man, much love!
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BigBigBear Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jun-22-04 11:57 AM
Response to Reply #120
122. No problem, my friend
you have my fondest best wishes for success. Please keep us informed.
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Pretty_in_CodePink Donating Member (256 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 10:41 PM
Response to Original message
105. No need to feel ashamed
Look around the world is full of people with drinking problems. Many never deal with it. So give yourself credit for taking this on.
As difficult as this is for you now, you can one day look back at your success in beating this. You will rejoice for all the happiness your new lifestyle provides. You will have more love and joy than ever with your beloved, your health will improve, your energy will improve, you will not miss the hangovers or black outs.

My husband has been sober for 14 years. He often says how grateful he is to not be drinking as the quality of his life is so improved. There is always the contrast of many who drink excessively and the repercussions are apparent in their work, relationships and health.

Best of luck to you. May you find the inspiration that will allow you to let go of this addiction. You will impress yourself with how strong you can be.
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jun-22-04 06:29 AM
Response to Reply #105
109. Thanks for your kind words
And welcome!

:hi:
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UTUSN Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 10:51 PM
Response to Original message
106. Why Do You Think We're Here?
For you, for me, for all of us. I'm your bro, Bro.
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jun-22-04 06:30 AM
Response to Reply #106
110. Thank you
I have a lot more family then I thought here :)
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Bat Boy Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 11:12 PM
Response to Original message
107. Been there, done that.
'Course my substance of stupidity was cocaine.

You can do this. And once you do, life gets a whole lot better.

Don't be ashamed. And for God's sake don't feel lonely. You're in damn good company. There are tons of us out here.
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jun-22-04 06:31 AM
Response to Reply #107
111. That's what I'm finding out
I had no idea!

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testing123 Donating Member (617 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Jun-21-04 11:14 PM
Response to Original message
108. It's better then the cops giving you an ultimatum right?
Good Luck!
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jun-22-04 06:33 AM
Response to Reply #108
112. I was getting closer and closer - and frighteningly close to that
I am VERY lucky to have avoided that - 1 more bender and I probably wouldn't

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Burma Jones Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jun-22-04 08:12 AM
Response to Original message
114. You have a lot of company
Lots and lots of company. You'll do fine. I did have a friend that quit drinking by taking up heroin, but that didn't work out for him, so don't substitute. Although weed........

Anyway, you have a lot of folks here that support you, and that makes it a lot easier.
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jun-22-04 08:27 AM
Response to Reply #114
116. It sure does!
At least it has to begin with!

Thanks
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Skittles Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jun-22-04 08:18 AM
Response to Original message
115. Chavez, sweetie pie
you've conquered the first step - admitting you have a problem. And from what I understand, that is the HARDEST step. Now get the support you need and get cracking. You can do it - and you can lean on us for support.
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jun-22-04 08:28 AM
Response to Reply #115
117. Thanks Skittles
I do appreciae the support, indeed!
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MissMillie Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jun-22-04 08:45 AM
Response to Original message
118. Takes a lot of courage to admit you have a problem
and a lot of strength. You'll do fine. One day at a time.
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jun-22-04 03:45 PM
Response to Reply #118
125. Thanks Millie
That's how I'm taking it!

:)
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ElsewheresDaughter Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jun-22-04 10:02 AM
Response to Original message
121. "how to tell if you're a drunk"....306 benchmarks?
How to tell if you are a Drunk
1. you never have a hangover (because your always tanked)
2. empty beer bottles serve as home decorations
3. you always piss clear
4. tequila worms fear your name
5. you're on the liquor stores mailing list
6. the only time you read newspapers is to find the cheapest beer in town
7. find its easier to study drunk
8. you have a top 10 beer list
9. the only goal you have is to drink a 6-pack everyday
10. you start to prefer puking up one beer over another
11. you have a notch on your belt for every keggar you've been to
12. you're on your fifth liver transplant operation
13. Saint Patrick's day comes around and everybody already knows you're Irish
14. all girls look hot at the party
15. you're on a first name basis at the detoxification center
16. empty kegs serve as a pretty cool television stand
17. you think drinking light beer is like making love to a woman in a canoe....just too damn close to water
18. you think somethings wrong because the room stopped spinning
19. you write a top 20 drunken bastard list from your own experiences
20. you take communion and go back for seconds
21. you have to hold on to the grass to keep you from falling off the earth.
22. You spend Wednesday night sending ridiculous messages to people on the Internet ending with, "By the way, what are you drinking?"
23. in the morning your hair hurts and you think that someone has painted a base coat of fuzz on your tongue.
24. Somebody has painted a base coat of fuzz on your tongue.
25. you frequently urinate outdoors.
26. The only reason that you cuddle up to the Mrs. is to cop her Bud Light.
27. beer ads make sense.
28. You are so dehydrated from drinking that your genitals are shrunken
into your body and you can't see them.
29. When you are reading the beer page while you are in school
30. You get the "Frequent Rider Discount" on the Porcelain Bus.
31. You vist this site every night because you were too shit faced the night before to remember!
32. you go to brush something from your shoulder and it turns out to be the floor!
33. You wake up to the sound of your dog drinking out of the toilet, and you are so dry that it sounds mighty thrist quenching.
34. Your sporting heroes are George Best, Alex Higgins, and Jimmy Greaves.
35. wake you the next moring and drinking a few of the half empties left sitting around the room.
36. when you apologize to the nice lady in the restroom, only to find
37. You know you're a drunken bastard when,for the first 5 minutes of your shower, no water hits the tub, because it is absorbing into your dehydrated skin
38. you have to send your old lady to the beer store that's 40 minutes away, on a Sunday, because you were too STUPID to buy enough beer for the week-end!
39. You can belch the alphabet forwards and backwards, then follow it with a stirring rendition of the National Anthem.
40. ... after a night out, you often have more furniture than you did the day before.
41. You get the operator to give you an early morning wake up call to make
42. When none of the women in the bar look ugly at last call.
43. The space on your drivers license that tells your eye color reads "bloodshot".
44. You get the 2 at 10p.m. and the 10 at 2a.m. syndrom every time you go to the bar.
45. You find yourself saying " Honesly occifer I only hads tree bears tonight!" and your snickering at his funny hat.
46. You fall down a flight of steps and DON'T spill a drop of your beer.
47. While your laying upside down on the steps you've just fallin down you decide to do your impression of a water cooler!
48. ...your "Missing" photo appears on a bottle of scotch instead of a milk carton.
49. ...the number one characteristic of your dream girl is that she owns a liquor store.
50. ...your Family Tree is firmly planted in the front lawn of the Betty Ford Clinic.
51. ...you need to take witnesses with you to confession because you can't exactly remember what you did and the priest wouldn't believe you anyway.
52. the only workout you get, is the trip to the fridge, then the trip to the john..
53. you tell your mom to stay out of your room 'cuz she'll drink it on me
54. you finally return all those beer bottles and you leave the liqour store two thousand dollars richer.
55. there is photographic evidence that you didn't know about
56. metho begins to taste like Vodka
57. you find it challenging not to have toilet marathons
58. your mom asks who you went out with last night and you say Jack Daniels and Jim Beam.
59. You wake up, open your eyes and you both say "shit did I shag that?!"
60. you find yourself making a rum and coke at mcdonalds.
61. you kiss your girlfriends neck insearch of spilt beer.
62. you start to think that Popov tastes good.
63. you mix your coctails by the liter.
64. you think your a genius because you found a way to make a beer funel out of a used douche.
65. you grow a beard because it stops beer thats running down your chin.
66. you put off urinating in hopes of reaching that ear orgasmic zen like piss.
67. you watch amatures getting drunk with the glee of a redneck watching a cock fight.
68. the liqour store owner has your order ready and waiting before you even come in.
69. if beer companies gave frequent flyer miles you would own an airline.
70. your fiends call you at noon to ask if you want to go out drinking that night and you have to refuse because your already too tanked to drive.
71. you find yourself substituting irish cream for milk on your wheaties.
72. Your life savings is contained in an empty fosters can.
73. Your life savings are kept in a full fosters can.
74. "You know your're a drunken bastard when you wake up in the morning with rice up your nostrils, yellow-brown patches over your clothing, and a new set of ethnic salt & pepper pots"
75. you do not remember receiving a speeding ticket the night before until the next night you reach into your wallet for money and it finally dawns on you that you had a "very close call" the night before with the "occifer".
76. you reach into your wallet the next night at the bar and find a speeding ticket from the night before and it finally dawns on you that they had you sitting in the back seat of the squad car that does not have any inside door handles
77. you get so liquored up you pass out while admiring the stars... and fall from the third floor balcony.
78. You first wake up and you're afraid you're gonna die and a half hour later you're afraid you won't.
79. every pub, beer store, and liquor store in town sends you a Christmas card.
80. the police name the drunk tank after you
81. you're on a first-name basis with every bartender in town
82. you have a private parking spot at the liquor/beer store
83. You fall asleep taken a dump.
84. When people start yelling "turn him over...he'll die like Jimi Hendrix"
85. the store you buy beer at holds your 2 cases a night at the front counter for you because they know you can't make it to the back of the store
86. when you walk into a frat party at Radford University and everyone stops what they're doing to yell your name.
87. you use the automatic teller 37 times so you can get some statements to use for toilet paper when you shit in the road
88. you puke your lungs as a palette cleanser
89. your kidneys hurt but you figure a few schooners should take care of it
90. you go to bed with Cindy Crawford but wake up with Ru Paul
91. Formula 1 teams call you offering big dollars for your urine
92. you find yourself reading, or especially, writing a homepage devoted to the subject.
93. you drag your balls over ten miles of broken glass just to sniff the tire tracks of the truck delivering the last beer to your county before it goes dry.
94. Breakfast becomes cold pizza and another stubby
95. you have actually read this entire list-and enjoyed it.
96. other people say "you are too drunk !!". And you say "No I'm not drunk at all!!".
97. when you are pouring some beer in your hand and your friend asks, "What are you doing?", and you say, "I'm giving my date a drink!".
98. you find that puking allows you to continue drinking for a couple more hours.
99. your patio furniture has the "Property of" label of every bar you've been to.
100. You wake up in the gutter, spit our several broken teeth, haul yourself to your feet, brush yourself off, and think "Shit, this is no way for a Bishop to behave..."
101. you tear the little plastic pouring spout out of your half gallon of booze because it's not coming out fast enough.
102. you need to shut one eye just to see double.
103. you read this entire list and wonder what all the fuss is about.
104. you send your liver out to get dry-cleaned regularly.
105. your organ donor recipient wakes up with a hangover.
106. it takes 6 weeks to put the fire out after your cremation.
107. you wake up vaguely remembering throwing up the night before and see your friend wondering why his shoes are filled with vomit and Sour Cream Bugles.
108. you take brewery tours more often than you visit your relatives
109. When apologizing, about the aquarium or the glass coffee table, to the host of every party that you crash, becomes an automatic habit.
110. The bouncer dosent ask for id, but says "You really like this place, dont you?"
111. You have to practically tackle the barmaid to change your order cause when she sees you getting up, she starts pouring.
112. Your counter lunch is twice the size of everyone elses.
113. When the girl with you topples from too much alcohol and the first thing you and her boyfriend do is check that the glasses you were smuggling out in her handbag are okay
114. When the same girl fell over, her shoes also fall off.......and you find nothing wrong with that.
115. anything anyone says immediately becomes a drinking euphemism to you.
116. you're muttering "oh please... oh PLEASE" as you frequent the alt.drunken.bastards home page in search of the next C.C. date.
117. You keep having "good" nights out with your mates but none of you can piece together what actually happened. A really good night is as above with the addition of unexplained multiple injuries.
118. you reason with people by saying "sure drinking kills brain cells, but only the weak ones"
119. When you stop drinking your faorite liquor/beer for a week and that company's stock drops %50 that same week.
120. Beer brewries come to you for advice.
121. You go home with a fine-looking, long-haired blonde and wake up next to the San Diego Chicken.
122. You have more traffic cones than the Department of Transportation.
123. You know more drinks than the bartender.
124. You piss on the grill instead of using lighter fluid.
125. You cut yourself to drink something stronger than a Long Island.
126. You're dumb enough to come home sober and you get attacked by your dog.
127. When you come home and spend ten frustrating minutes trying to change channels on the T.V., only to find you still have the garage door opener in your hand
128. -You find yourself saying,"This stuffz not to bad!" and look down at the bottle in your hand to see the words Zima
129. -You don't understand what the fuss about Virtual Reality is because all you need be in your own little world is a bottle of Wild Turkey
130. -too many unknown kids come up to you on the street and call you "daddy!"
131. -You ask your Boss if you can be paid in six-packs
132. when you rip up your clothes just to make bar buddie puppets.
133. when calling Ralph doesn't mean using the telephone.
134. when warshiping the porceline god includes communion in the bathroom.
135. You get a mysterious 'phone call at work asking for your home address. It turns out to be a bar you frequent holding it's 4th anniversary party and they want to know where to send the invite...
136. you buy pepto-bismol on a daily basis.
137. your only bragging right is the enormous number of keg push-ups you can do.
138. ...you explain to your bank manager that you speant your overdraft "mainly on beer and women; the rest I just wasted".
139. When you feel the need to wave to every passing beer truck...possibly even blowing them a little kiss as they pass on by...
140. Your friend strikes a match to light a cigarette and you think a low--yield nuke jus wnent off!
141. You ask the bartender when you're not cut off anymore
142. you're willing to drink a can of natural light ice.
143. your friends call you "the alcoholic" and you don't care.
144. you haven't driven your car in weeks cuz you weren't sober enough.
145. *your toilet has a customised chin rest and handles.
146. *you bite your tongue and it tastes like a pickle.
147. You go to the bar to get drunk, not to hit on the women.
148. ...you kick your girlfriend out of bed in order to sleep with your wastebasket.
149. ...the wastebasket isn't big enough and you sleep with an empty five gallon pail of fertilizer.
150. The liquor store gives you complimentary ice.
151. You quit smokin' pot to buy more King Cobra (or Special Brew in England)
152. an eye-opener in the morning changes from a cup of coffee to last night's bar tab receipt.
153. You talk to your friend for five minutes after the taxi leaves, and he thinks you are still in the taxi.
154. You find yourself telling the bouncer "But I walk this way normally!"
155. You host a party and pass out several hours before the end.
156. When the bottle says 20 standard drinks but you only get 5.
157. I'm hungry so I think I'd better get a drink instead
158. You believe that spilling a beer is Alcohol abuse.
159. You spell Alcohol with a capital letter out of respect.
160. You find yourself licking the spilled whiskey over the pavement of main street after some other drunken bastard dropped and broke the bottle.
161. ... you have a list of reasons why a beer is better than woman.
162. ...you find you and your friends making frequent trips to the nearest interstate overpass to see who can piss on the most vehicles.
163. ...you find a true "drinking buddy" is one who will buy the beer and drink socially while you proceed to get sloshed.
164. ...you rate women by the number of beers needed to make you want to get on her.
165. ...you make a complex game out of throwing empty bottles at signs.
166. ...you find it funny that your puke is neon colored.
167. ...you gag yourself to throw up then are able to lick off the puke left on your finger.
168. ..you regularly wake to the greeting "Guess what YOU did last night!"
169. ..you go to the john to hurl, but you take your beer with you.
170. Your morning breath keeps the house free of bugs
171. The pub goes broke cos you've left town.
172. The pub is named in honour of you.
173. You start pissing in the empty stubbies cos you're too pissed to walk.
174. A network does a scientific doumentary on you to determine the prolonged effects of alcohol, and pronounce you as scientifically dead.
175. You begin feeding the kids on Black Jim Beam because it's piss weak.
176. you shit ashes and piss yellow dust.
177. you wonder why you have a bag of books on the floor and wonder how you got in this strange hotel, and why no one comes to clean it.
178. ... the only reason you have a job is to pay your bar tab.
179. ... you know for a fact that your tab alone paid the bar's rent for the month.
180. ... Guinness Extra Stout tastes like Coor's Light.
181. ... you miss reading My web page, but you had to pawn your computer for beer money.
182. ... your favorite bar serves 132 varieties of beer, and you've tried them all, this week
. 183. ... your ideal woman is the one that can outdrink you.
184. You ask for a beer at the bar, and the give you a Tuborg Gold (a strong beer).
185. You are a Dane!!
186. You think it's a bad night because you didn't puke.
187. You think it was a bad night because you can remember where you where.
188. You never drink and drive cause you might spill some.
189. You wake up the night after a party to put your clothes on and there aren't any.
190. you think South Australian beer actually tastes good.
191. the bottle shop closes down because you've moved town.
192. Life is good. I am drunk. This is all I ask.
193. When you put alka seltzer in your drink to cure your hangover.
194. Or, if you have ever given your mother a case of beer for Mother's day.
195. Or, if you only look for apartments that are close to your favorite bars...
196. You have deep intellectual conversations of the brillance of Olde English 40's
197. You think of beer during masturbation.
198. you have that dream where you're drinking in your sleep and you cant sleep because your drinking in your sleep and you wake up, and your drinking.
199. I DON'T GET DRUNK ANYMORE, I JUST SOBER UP 1 OR 2 AFTERNOON A MONTH
200. you don't want to have sex with your girlfriend because it cuts into your drinking time.
201. you look at the many bottles on your table and say "I couldn't have drank those all by myself", then go get another beer..
202. you start drinking scope instead of rumplemintz
203. You go and talk to a girl, make a total idiot of yourself in the sure hope you wont have to face the consequenses. The next morning you realise you went to school with her. Later that week you realise she recognized you.......
204. - upon entering your neighborhood pub, the bartender calls a cab to be delivered at closing time.
205. - when friends try to convice you that drinking a 26 of vodka straight from the bottle might be a bad idea, you reply, "oh don't worry, it NEVER hits me!"
206. - you realize it's called 151 in regards to how many days it will take you to recouperate.
207. - the pub you frequent is conveniently located in the lobby of a hotel, and every night someone is paid to wait to escort you safely to your room.
208. - you are always the last person up and drinking at the party.
209. - a common phrase is, "good thing we bought more beer for after the bar!"
210. - a dreaded phrase is, "damn, we should have got more beer for after the bar!"
211. - you know exactly how much everything at the liquor store costs, before and after taxes.
212. - you plan your social events for the week around drink specials at bars.
213. - you can relate to most of these!!!
214. When you use Cuervo™ as a sex lube.
215. ... your natural instinct is to go to the fire escape to piss instead of the john.
216. ... when you spend the next day passed out on the bathroom floor, rolled up in a Union Jack, with your head aimed at the toilet.
217. ... when doing a keg stand you can finish the keg in one attempt.
218. you feel like you have to stop drinking or die, so you go to bed sober for the first time in months, and wake up feeling so healthy and refreshed you end up drinking twice your normal amount.
219. ...The color of your urine after a long night of drinking strongly resembles that of radiator coolant...
220. ...You grab your slingshot and go out on the prowl for the cat you're convinced shit in your mouth while you were sleeping...
221. ...you tell a concerned nurse at a party "Oh, it's OK, I pass out in the recovery position". Then she comes up to you the next morning and says "You were right, I checked"
222. When you go to church just for the Holy Wine
223. ....you put your cat to bed and throw out your wife.
224. ....when the brewery lowers its flag to half mast the day of your funeral.
225. ....the drunk tank has a plaque with your name on it.
226. .... "last call" instead of taps is played at your funeral.
227. ...."last call" was the one you made before they locked the cell door.
228. You say to the traffic police occifer "Honestly Drinkstable, I havn't had a Cunt all night!"
229. You know your a DB when you realize that Pepsi/Coke tastes terrible without Jack Danials.
230. you find that the tonly reason for buying a pickup truck instead of a car deals withthe fact that pickups can haul more kegs.
231. the Budweiser Frogs are petitioning to have you become their fourth member.
232.your only excuse for not killing yourself is that there is still beer left in the world to drink.
233. your definition of a high-speed accident involves drooling while doing a funnel or keg-stand
234. you avoid elevatoors because the motion might make you puke.
235. drinking and driving laws are specifically aimed at getting you arrested, prosecuted, and executed.
236. you think the death penalty wouldn't be so bad if the condemned party got to drink a forty before he/she died.
237. you find yourself putting a coaster on the small of your partner's back.
238. When you are so drunk you do a street show in New Orleans and actually get paid!
239. There are thirsty people in Ethiopia and you want a COKE!!!!
240. You automatically fall asleep lying on your side with your mouth over the edge of the bed.
241. Your payment for babysitting is a half bottle of vodka, a bottle of pepsi and a spliff.
242. You and your friends have long involved conversations about how none of you are really alcoholics - while sitting in the pub.
243. You wake up not knowing how you got home from the bar.
244. You can't figure out where you left your car last night.
245. You wake up with a ringing in your ears, from you so-called friends lighting off M-80s under you bed in a futile attempt to wake you up for a beer run.
246. When you spend twenty minutes trying unsuccessfully to start your car, only to realize its not your car you're sitting in.
247.When you wake up next to the most beautiful women you ever seen, and can't remember her name, what you did together, and most importantly how you got her to your place in the first place.
248.When you wake up so drunk, that you fall down in the shower, and consequently have to call in sick.
249. When you sick days are know as the beer flu to you co-workers.
250. When a women is hinting at a party that she wants you to go out to her car with her, and your so drunk you won't go, because you think What she can't find it herself?
251. When you're in college and go home to visit your drinkin' buddies, wake up after the visit and don't ever remember leaving the campus!! (true story)
252. youve passed out so many times you are now president of the magical world youve created for yourself in there
253. WHEN YOU WAKE UP IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT TO TAKE A PISS AND THE NEXT MORNING YOU AWAKE TO FIND YOURSELF IN BED WITH YOUR BEST FRIEND'S PARENTS.
254. WHEN YOU WAKE UP IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT TO TAKE A PISS AND THE NEXT MORNING YOU REALIZE YOU NEVER LEFT YOUR BED.
255. YOUR DOG IS LICKING YOUR FACE AS YOU LAY ON THE FLOOR OF YOUR LIVING ROOM AND SUDDENLY YOU REMEMBER, 'I DON'T HAVE A DOG!'
256. IT WASN'T A DOG, IT IS SOME UGLY GUY, AND YOU HAVE NO IDEA HOW HE GOT IN YOUR LIVING ROOM
257. you know that you're a drunken bastard when you name your kid samuel adams.
258. You're boss calls the local bar and asks the bartender if you'll make it in to work the next day.
259. when THC stands for "the Total Hang over Cure"
260. You try to pick up women ten years older with the line "Are you seriously thirty?"
261. You do something to a bouncer, he turns around ready to smack someones head in, sees it's you and just sorta laughs and walks off shaking his head.
262. You try to pick up women here (brown hair, hazel eyes, seeks loving female to share a six pack.) 264. You look around the night club and realise you are the only non-staff there.
265. You suddenly blurt out in the middle of conversation (with females present) "Hey, do you think she's wearing underwear?"
266. You wake up and spend an hour trying to work out what you want to do: either Piss, Fart, Crap or vomit? Then you realise you have to go tO the same room, reguardless of what you want to do.
267. the energy you have only enables you to get to the cooler and nothing else.
268. A vampire get buzzed after sucking your blood.
269. your at a party and end up with one of your shoes and one of someone elses.
270. you believe that people die driving drunk because the don't practice driving drunk
271. it takes you an hour to walk a 1/4 of a mile
272. you have to check the stamps on your hand to remeber which bars you went to
273. you get drunk and fall off a cliff in to the ocean (UC-Santa Barbra)
274. you keep a list of different beers you've had
275. You fall out of bed and don't get up because there isn't any beer left
276. You have two bathtubs, one for bathing and one you use as a distillery.
277. It's finals week and you can't take your tests because you've been drunk so long you've forgotten what classes you're in.
278. You're so drunk you can't finish...
279. you leave a keg on your front porch so you will never run out of beer!!
280. You're reading this list while preparing for a big meeting at work, but it takes a long time to get through it because you have to keep going to the bathroom to puke...
281. You are drunk ,sitting in class and you find this SHIT so funny you disturb the class
282. when you say that THUNDERBIRD taste good(THUNDERBIRD is nasty as hell!!!!!
283. your wife wakes you up and tells you to close your mouth the bedroom smells like a brewrey.
284. the bottle shop guy kisses the ground you walk on.
285. 911 sounds more like the number of stubbies you drank last night
286. you're that hungry that you find a heap of licorice pizzas to eat,
only to find in the morning that you've eaten you're record collection
287. ...You take the ferry from Dover to Calais just to buy duty-free liquor.
288. When you start an A.A. group called Alamore...for the Alcoholic who wants to drink more. It's a 10 year program with two 15 year follow ups!
289. Your'r on a first name basis with every traffic cop in you state and the
290. When you wake up in the morning in seacrh of the cat that shitted in you mouth.
291. When you are convinced that beer is the perfect subsitute bread.
292. When you can distingush brands of beer just by the smell.
293. When you would rather piss yourself than give up your barstool.
294. when all your buddies have gone out to get drunk and you didn't feel like it so you go and buy a 12 pack of beer and a 26'er of vodka to stay home and relax.
295. you fall asleep with a beer in your, not spill a drop, and wake up the next morning and drink it.
296. you whistle your favourite march melody in the morning, expecting those little dwarfs to march out of your mouth and take along their hammers.
297. You read 250 of these things just to convince yourself that everybody drinks alot and that you're not an alcoholic.
298. You puke in your mouth and swallow it while hitting on a girl, and pretend like nothing happened!
299. You have to report your car stolen, because you forget where you left it.
300. You report your car stolen and then find it in your driveway!
301. When you have to get all your friends together from the night before in order to put together all the bits and pieces of everyone's memory.
302. You know once you all get together, YOU'LL be getting together again tomorrow!
303. when you are driving home from cowboys and your friends says "can you see the road" and you say "yes" and she says "good, because i can't" and she is driving off the road and we are heading towards the ditch.
304. you makeout with your best friend and don't remember it.
305. You wake up at noon and your idea of lunch is another "sandwich in a can"
306. ...you stop brushing your teeth in the morning because the toothpaste clashes with the taste of your beer.
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jun-22-04 03:47 PM
Response to Reply #121
126. Lol
That's great!
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Westegg Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jun-22-04 01:04 PM
Response to Original message
123. I KNOW how you're feeling. You are NOT alone...
You're doing a big thing here just by addressing this issue. I don't mean "here" on DU---I mean in general. You've said all that needs to be said: you recognize that what you're doing is hurting you, and also that your important relationship is at stake.

Time to take action.

I'll say what others have said: going to an AA meeting is a great move. You might find what you need there. So many have. It's so goddamn great to walk into a room and find a bunch of people who know exactly what you've been going through. In AA, you find complete acceptance. You may be scared at first, but very quickly you'll realize you don't need to be.

There are options outside of AA as well. I say this as one who got sober through AA but needed something more to sustain it. So I'm now participating an outpatient rehab program which is based on cognitive behavioral therapy.

Bottom line: there is hope for you. Feel free to contact me privately if you want to talk further.

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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jun-22-04 03:49 PM
Response to Reply #123
127. Thanks Westegg!
I'm sure I will

My fiance is very interested in CBT. I'm looking into it!
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Westegg Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jun-22-04 05:15 PM
Response to Reply #127
133. Babe, I'm with you all the way . (n/t)
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JayS Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jun-22-04 02:15 PM
Response to Original message
124. Doctor visit
I forgot to mention, you may want to make an appointment with your doctor for a checkup and maybe ask him about the work of Dr. Bankhole Johnson in case he/she wants to try something like this with you.

I do know that alcohol is hard on the insides and it would be a good idea to let your doctor check your blood and your vitals to make sure nothing is wrong. A heart stress test later on would be a good idea also.

Hang in there! We are all rootin' for you!
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jun-22-04 03:51 PM
Response to Reply #124
128. Thanks again Jay!
I have to get a new primary care doc (mine just retired) so that is in process!

:thumbsup:
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CaptainClark23 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jun-22-04 03:58 PM
Response to Original message
129. You are never alone.
"I'm scared and feeling lonely and ashamed"

Sacred? Be thankful for being scared, it might have just saved your life.

Lonely? Just hook up with one of us. I don't know you from the next guy, but if you want, PM me for my home phone, work phone, and cel. Why? Because someone went that far for me, and told me to call him instead of picking up a drink. 8 years later, I still haven't had a drink, but I've made ALOT of calls. So I'll be on the other end of the phone for you if you want it.

Ashamed? More ashamed than when you wake up and know you've embarrassed yourself, AGAIN, and can't for the life of you remember why? This kind of shame is good, and you know it.

I'm pulling for you CST, I really am. I don't know where your "bottom" is as opposed to mine, but if I can stop, so can you.

This might be the best day you ever had, Brother.
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jun-22-04 04:17 PM
Response to Reply #129
130. Thank you my friend
I will definately seek your help should the danger arise!

I am in your debt because you're right - I know exactly what you're saying in all its intimacy. It's amazing when you hear how similarly this affects people. I know EXACTLY what you're saying

Thanks again!
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nomatrix Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jun-22-04 04:32 PM
Response to Original message
131. Back when they had treatment center commericals
"If you think you have a problem you probably do"

"Lonely, Lonely, Lonely"

Those IIRC came from Charter House, but they were on late at night and I could identify.

Don't procrastinate. Call AA. Go to a meeting. Something will move in you and you will hear sincerity at the deepest level. You'll also hear B.S. but take what you need and leave the rest. Keep coming back and one day at a time, if you are willing to suit up and show up, your life will start to change.

I believe the statistics are only 1% of alcoholics recover and stay that way. The rest die from something that related to alcohol. What it does to your body. It pickles you. Women hit bottom quicker.

It takes courage. Remember, you may never get this chance again.
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jun-22-04 04:56 PM
Response to Reply #131
132. Thanks
I'm bracing myself!
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myomy Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Jun-22-04 05:18 PM
Response to Original message
134. Hang in there, you’ll soon realize you’re entering the best days
of your life.
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JayS Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Jun-23-04 10:33 AM
Response to Original message
135. On a lighter note, for a look at the "humorous" side of addictions...
...read the book Infinite Jest, by David Foster Wallace. It is a long, hard read but well worth the effort.
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gypsy11 Donating Member (286 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Jun-23-04 10:53 AM
Response to Original message
137. Good for you
You've taken the first step... Take it one day at a time.
Good luck to you!
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bigwillq Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Jun-23-04 05:37 PM
Response to Original message
138. Chavez, I need some help here
I bought a pack of cigarettes and I've been smoking a lot. How are you doing in your quest to stop drinking?
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ChavezSpeakstheTruth Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Fri Jun-25-04 07:43 AM
Response to Reply #138
141. Well I'm on day 5 and going strong. My thought is to stay as busy as
possible. I am exercising, walking everywhere I go, drawing, writing on DU - in short staying busy with my mind off the booze. I have never smoked but almost everyone I know does. My fiance smoked for 10 years and quit when we got together. It was hard for her but she was inspired by my love for herto quit.

I don't know how to quit smoking but I know it can be done. I'm here for you bigwillq. Be in touch with me and we'll try to get you through this.


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CBHagman Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Jun-23-04 05:59 PM
Response to Original message
139. You are doing the right thing, and you have a good deal of company.
First off, I wish you the best, and I wish you every possible support you could have. If you're comfortable talking to a doctor or a member of clergy about it, perhaps you could get a referral to a group and/or therapist. At any rate, you need support, it's out there, and I hope you get it.

And you're in GOOD COMPANY. Ann Richards, the feisty, charming former governor of Texas, goes to AA. She's open about it. Good for her, I say.

I would venture to say that many of us at DU know what you are about to embark upon, or we have relatives/friends who have done the same. Consider yourself patted on the back for taking the first steps.
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