Checkin In!!!

[dorrie]

Hi Everyone!! Hope everyone is doing well...lord knows summer is difficult for some of us!!!!
Take Care and check in when you can!!:grouphug:

[GladysD]

I'm going to CHECK-IN :D

DH has been recovering since 5/12/08...I stopped drinking myself on 5/5/08, I was a 'compulsive' social drinker..if that makes sense? Totally co-dependent, lol.

Anyways, HI, HELLO!!!

[dorrie]

Hi there Gladys!! Congratulations to you and hubby for making such a wonderful decision! It was so nice to see that you had posted! This is sure not a very busy forum!! How are the two of you doing?

[GladysD]

Thanks :)

We are doing alright. Dealing with the backlash from family members who just don't understand, but that's OK....one of them is complaining of numbness in their face, soo...to each his own to learn in their own way....*sigh*

One thing I've been enjoying....more time to do all those little projects that have added up over time...and more support with the kids. :D

[dorrie]

Hi Gladys!! It is such a change when we stop drinking and it sometimes takes a long time for family and friends to settle into the new us!! I am sure they will. It is good that you get at things that need to be done...it gives us a sense of accomplishment! Keep at it!!
I hope your family menber who has the numbness finds their way....best thing you can do is set the example. I remember wanting what the sober ones had so bad...they seemed so happy. I eventually came around and here I am!!!!!
Keep in touch Gladys...its so nice to have you here!!:hug:

[dorrie]

It is Canada Day here and I noticed the beer was flowing today at a lawn party as I drove past on my way to the library to drop off some movies and books that were due back. I am sure some of them will be feeling rough tomorrow! I am sure if I was still drinking I would be drinking tomorrow to feel better from today!!!
I always feel grateful on holidays now....at least I get invited places now!! I do not feel sick the next day...unless I really am...and by the grace of God...I am alive to see another Canada Day!! Hope everyone else is having a great day!:grouphug:

[dorrie]

Hey!! I love sobriety!! I woke up this AM...day after a holiday here in Canada.....I am feeling good!!!!! 8 years ago I would have been lining up at the door of the liquor store waiting for it to open.....thank you God!!!

[GladysD]

We have our 4th of July Celebrations coming upon us this weekend. I'm glad I don't drink....hot weather and alcohol....UGH...don't miss it:)

[dorrie]

Hi Gladys!! It is so wonderful waking up feeling good is it not!!! And yes booze and heat to some sounds great but I don't miss it!!!!!!!!

I love my sobriety:):):):):):):):)
i hope your day is delightful Gladys!!!!:D

[dorrie]

I am alive...sober and loving it!
Just checking in!!
How you doing Gladys?:hug:

[GladysD]

Had a Wonderful day!

Played with my boys, took walks, played ball. Got caught in the rain at the holiday festivities in town. Can't remember the last time we all laughed so hard, me included! We may have looked like wet rats, but gosh darn it....it was FUN!!! :D

Today was a day of LIVING!!! :)

[dorrie]

Hi Gladys!
Good to hear that your day was so full of life!!!:D
How old are your kids? I bet they appreciate you spending time with them!!!!
I cleaned my car out today...we are going camping next week and Saffire and I do make messes in the car at times...cookie crumbs, french fries etc. It is all ready to load up on Monday AM. I am looking forward to the trip!!
I can RELAX and leave all stress behind!!!!

[GladysD]

My babies...5, 2, 1 :D All boys too ;)

Though today is the holiday, we are enjoying a peaceful, quiet day. Recovering from the busy day yesterday, lol. Watching the Sox/Yankees game as I write this!! GO SOX!!!

Camping sounds like FUN!!! I bet you'll have agreat week!!!:hug:

[dorrie]

Hi Gladys!! I hope you enjoy the quiet day...Happy 4th of July!! I am in Canada so we had our holiday on the 1st.
Three boys!!! Wow!! Hubby and I have 4 kids between us. My kids are older, 22 and 18. My 2 stepsons are 12 and 9 and my Saffire, my granddaughter lives with us and she is will be 18 months old on the 7th of this month! The boys and Saff are going camping with us!
I have been busy getting our things organized and packing what I can. It will be lovely to relax!!
It is my intention to leave any and all stress here at home....hopefully it will be gone when I get back:p
I am really enjoying the chatting back and forth with you on this forum Gladys. It was so quiet here for so long! Hopefully more people will join in when they notice it is a happening place!!!
Have a lovely serene day:hug:

[GladysD]

My baby will turn 18 months on the 12th :D

January of 07....quite the month!!! ;)

I hope others join in on this thread, as well. I am certainly enjoying our chat back and forth, as well:wink:

I've decided that I will try to make this summer as serene as possible. Of course, I have my moments...then again, we all do :p That's the joy of life!

I've delved back into an 'old hobby' of mine....Reading! Lots of self-help stuff now, but I try to add fun reads to the mix....

I'm considering adding a nightly walk to my life. I think it may serve me a world of good. All good things in time :)

Have a good weekend, and I hope you are able to leave the stress at home, even before you leave home :cool:

[dorrie]

You are right Gladys! All good things in time!!
I used to really strive for serenity in my life. It is there all the time I just need to notice it more.
When I am rocking Saffire at night I feel it. I look at her and feel complete joy and a wonderful sense of peace overwhelms me.
I love that feeling!

[dorrie]

Hello hello hello!!!
Just letting everyone know that I will be away Mon to Fri this week camping:D
I will miss everyone madly!!!
Have a good week and keep on posting!!!!!!:grouphug:

[GladysD]

Hope your week is great!!! Can't wait to hear about it when you return :D

[dorrie]

Hello there everyone I am back!!
I had a great time!! Relaxed and chased the baby but that was OK...she had a blast! We were in a good place as you really do not see alot of drinking or partying...makes for a much quieter holiday!
Gladys I hope you are well...pop in when you can!!:hug:

[Chemar]

(((((((((((Dorrie)))))))))))

good to see you back:hug: It sounds like a wonderful vacation:p

[GladysD]

((((Dorrie))))

Glad to hear you had a good time :) Glad to see you back :D

My week was well on the homefront. Just getting lots of enjoyment out of my kids, my dh, my neighborhood and myself...been spending lots of time reading and reflecting. Also got my hair highlighted for the first time in years, and found my new hairdresser ;)

[dorrie]

I love getting my hair done!! I was a hairdresser some 26 years ago!! I usually do my own but once in a long while I get it done by a stylist.
Always makes me feel fresh!
When I used to party and drink I used to have the hair to go with the lifestyle that I lead. Long blonde and a wild perm!!!!! I used to stick out like a sore thumb! Now I prefer to be alot more tame..however if I am going out I give it the ol flip to get some puff then spray it!!
I think I have been almost every colour going. My hair is naturally dark blondish, almost light brown...only a couple whits hairs in the side...not bad for 42!! I have been black, brown, red, platnium, purple, and pink and blue at the same time!!!!! I once sported a mohawk in pink and blue to attract attention to our hairdressing school!!!!!!! Amazingly enough I still have a good head of hair...fine but lots of it!!

[GladysD]

My whole life I've been a little consevative with my hair. The most I've done is some spiral perms and some highlights. I've often wondered how a reddish color would look on me, but each time I get highlights I'm swayed back to preferring the blonde.

Today was a nice day. My oldest has been playing with the neighbor kids this summer. They are having a positive influence on him. I like to call it positive peer pressure. ;) He's 5, she's 9? He's 11?

Today was just a nice day. Not perfect but serene. :D

I'd realized this week....I'd started drinking 20 years ago. My 'depression' {off/on} started 20 years ago. Hmmm... ;) Weird lil coikidink.... :D I'm optimistic for my future....

I cannot believe you are a grandmother at 42!! Do you realize you are younger than my DH? ;) :D

Toodles for now...I'm off to watch the HR Derby....up to 17...

How was your day??

[GladysD]

ARGHHH!!! It's HOT!!! I'm tired, I've got MS---so sometimes the heat gives me headaches and dizziness and nauseau!

I'm aggravated because though the alcohol is removed, the little underlying issues still exist in the marriage! Arguing over bills, housework, kids/parenting styles---you know the works!

I'm tempted to FINALLY attend my first al-anon meeting tomorrow. I feel everytime I think I want to go, somehow I allow myself to be lulled by being talked out of it. Convincing myself that things have changed.

Well they have changed, but still stayed the same...I hope that makes sense.

I need to know how to set up the boundary with dh---get into therapy or AA or something like that. I applaud him for not drinking. I applaud him for trying with his own anger issues...but desire alone cannot help one overcome....

I'm a reader. I read and read and practice techniques, etc that I've learned along the way. I'll start therapy soon and as of this evening, after a couple days of walking on eggshells---I'm ready for the in-person support!

I vow to get my lil ones off to bed on time or earlier tomorrow so that I can make it to the meeting on time!!! Before my blood boils anymore and I say something mean and nasty...and before my stress levels boil!!!

God Grant me the serenity!!! Please Grace me with peace....

[dorrie]

Hi Gladys!! Sorry I have been absent...hubby left the laptop at work for a few days!! I think he misses me:)
I really hope that you get to that meeting!! It is hard to motivate ourselves onto going but it is soooo worth it! I am sure that you will feel good about going! They can help so much but you have to go to get that help!!
Please go Gladys!! In the meantime you are in my prayers...may God wrap you in his warm blanket of love!!:hug::hug::hug::hug::hug:Hugs to you and your family!!

[dorrie]

Quick check in....I will pop in again later!!

[dorrie]

Hey! Only 11 days untill my 8 year birthday!!!:Dancing-Chilli: July the 30 is my AA birthday!!!!! Wow how time flies!!!:)

[GladysD]

Ooohh, Dorrie! We'll have to celebrate on your 8 years!! :D

Well, the other night I had the motivation...just the kids weren't cooperating, lol. Their bedtime is between 7 and 730 with the oldest at 8. 18month olds and 2 year olds...well...lol...it's tough to plan to make it out of the house a little after 7 on that note. I planned for it, but it fell through. I shall try once again this week to see if I can.

Since I posted my vent and frustration, dh and I had a bit of a chat. Also, the money frustration that I have being a stayathome may be coming to an end this fall/winter. I may end up babysitting :) I miss earning my own $$. I don't like to be dependent on others, if I can help it. This will be good for me. I'm planning to get back to the workforce once the littlest one is 5.

How's the summer heat treating you?

[dorrie]

Ooohh, Dorrie! We'll have to celebrate on your 8 years!! :D

Well, the other night I had the motivation...just the kids weren't cooperating, lol. Their bedtime is between 7 and 730 with the oldest at 8. 18month olds and 2 year olds...well...lol...it's tough to plan to make it out of the house a little after 7 on that note. I planned for it, but it fell through. I shall try once again this week to see if I can.

Since I posted my vent and frustration, dh and I had a bit of a chat. Also, the money frustration that I have being a stayathome may be coming to an end this fall/winter. I may end up babysitting :) I miss earning my own $$. I don't like to be dependent on others, if I can help it. This will be good for me. I'm planning to get back to the workforce once the littlest one is 5.

How's the summer heat treating you?
Hi Gladys!! Ever since Saffire came to live with us I have not been working at all. My pay was not good at all....Hubby has a great job as a Senior Technologist for an international Standards company. I miss work sometimes but I love being here with Saffire!
Summer heat has been OK here. Lots of rain lately!!
:hug::hug::hug:Hugs for you Gladys!

[GladysD]

(((Dorrie)))

Being home with your little Saffire is pay in and of itself ;)

I may be sitting a little girl :) That will just tickle me pink....as I'm the only female in a home full of guys! I know we won't be having anymore children, so this will give me a taste for what it's like to raise little girls. :D

We've been having nightly t-storms over here. Last night's were petty neat---those 'silent' t-storms :D

Hope you have a great Monday! My dh starts vacation on Saturday...woohoo...staying close to home, but it's still 2 weeks with him home :)

[dorrie]

Hi Gladys!! I love it when hubby is home but I find it hard to get things done!! We have had alot of rain here. Yuck!!

[GladysD]

We've been having scattered storms for a few days. I find that with dh home, we'll get things done, but then...he starts to get bored, and I hate that :)

[dorrie]

Checkin in!!! Still sober!!!!!My 8 year birthday is on Wednesday!!!!!!!!:D

[dorrie]

Checking in!! I am alive!!!!!!

[GladysD]

Checking In!!! :) Back from vacation !!! :D Doing Well....

[dorrie]

Hi Gladys!!! Where did you go what did you do!! Did you have fun...how about the boys!!! Fill us in!!!!!!

[GladysD]

We went down to the South Shore of MA to visit my dad, stepmom and sister. Only planned to stay a couple of days, but ended up staying for a week. :D Good times, very therapeutic and healing for myself. {spent a decade of no-contact with dad, so we've been building up to this :)}

My boys enjoyed swimming in the pool!!! A first time swimming for ALL 3 !!! You should have seen my 2.5 yr old! He took like a fish to water, I was impressed! My toddler loved it too. And so did my 5yr old, but with waiting as long with him, there's some fear factor for him, not much, but compared to his brothers...we could tell!

We went school shopping at one of the outlets....quite some deals, and quite some clothes! Ate lunch with a bunch of geese at the park after shopping.

Went on a 'date' with my hubby...first time in 6 months, lol. We went down to the outskirts of the Cape{Cape Cod} and I had this incredible stuffed scrod/scallop dinner! YUM...Dh had fried clams, of course :p Then we took a ride by the beach...DH has NEVER been to the Cape before, which is funny because he's lived in MA his entire life. Then we played mini-golf....laughed and giggled like we were on a first date or something. Then had ice-cream. Black Raspberry-chocolate chip{white & chocolate} frozen yogurt.....you should have seen me buldging out of my britches after this evening of food..heheheh...lol

We took the boys to the beach. The youngest 2 have never been to the beach and they got to 'swim' in the ocean. ;)

Then my step-sister came for a visit! We haven't seen each other since 1990! Just like old times....we always hit it off! She, DH, my 5yr old and myself went to a Seafood Festival in Rhode Island! What FUN! My son got to ride some rides, we ate some good clams and scallops, and enjoyed the entertainment.

Last night there was a rainstorm and a rainbow appeared in the backyard! It was pretty cool!

We are still ambivalent about the whole Manny fiasco....time will tell, lol!

I'm ready to sleep in my own bed!!!

Hope all is well in NT! :D :hug::grouphug:

[dorrie]

Sounds wonderful Gladys!!! I am glad you all had a good time!!! Welcome home! It is good to have you back:hug:

[dorrie]

I got a dozen red roses for my b-day last week:p

[dorrie]

I am home but really tired! I will pop in tomorrow! Hi Gladys...hope you are doing OK!

[GladysD]

Glad to hear you are back in one piece ;) :p Can't wait to hear all about the trip!

I've been busy with the boys and getting ready for my oldest's very first day of school :eek: Also hard to believe that my 2yr old is close to 3 :eek::eek: And the baby...well, he Ain't no baby no more ;)

These past two nights I've been a bit of an insomniac, guess my mind is churning a mile a minute, lol....just had my neuro appt today...went well, back in 6 months. :cool:

[dorrie]

Hi Gladys!! Glad to hear that your appointment went well:) Our trip was good for the first week. Saffy and I share a tent of our own....you know how sleeping with 3 others males could be....they sweat, bedhog, and fart all night!!!:p The last 1/2 Saff started getting these big red welts all over her. I took her to the docs thinking that she had chicken pox but they were sand flea bites and she happens to react horribly to them. She also has an ear infection...so I spent alot of time at home with her...we popped in for visits at the campsite...it is only 20 mins from here. Over all it was good but Saff and I are still off our scheduale!!!!!!!! I just got her laid down after 11pm!!
I'll pop in tomorrow....good to hear from you Gladys!!!:hug::hug::hug:

[GladysD]

Sounds like you had quite the adventure :hug: Hope the sand flea bites are all cleared up?! And an ear infection, to boot?! :hug: :hug:

We are doing well over here...enjoying the end of summer :D

[dorrie]

HI EVERYONE!! I miss everyone so much!! Hubby is away again on business this Mon to Thurs so I will only be here for the weekend!
I hope everyone is able to pop in this weekend...I hope you are all doing ok.:grouphug:

[GladysD]

Hi Dorrie!!

I've been popping in here and there. Been busy, my oldest just started Kindergarten...My how fast the time flies, :)

Hope all is well in your home:hug:

[dorrie]

Gladys...your mood says you are brooding....are you OK? Need to talk? Not trying to be nosey...I just care:D:hug:

[dorrie]

Hubby celebrated 8 years yesterday!!!!! Hope everyone is doing OK!
Please everybody check in when you can:grouphug:

[GladysD]

Hey Dorrie!

I just realized there was message here about my 'brooding' mood. I was feeling rather moody this week. I think a combination of being female :rolleyes: and just feeling 'blah' about my in-laws. I'm also getting reconnected with my mom after the summer off/away from her. With my in-laws, my sister in-laws mainly, I just don't feel that 'connection.' Was feeling a bit sad, realizing more and more why my DH stayed away from his family for a while(before me.) Not they they are bad/terrible people or anything like that, au contraire, it's just we live on different wave-lengths and have differing views on the world. I guess before in my little polly-anna, naive view on the world, I thought we would somehow 'feel' like 'family' just by virtue of my being married to their brother. Yeah....that ain't happening :rolleyes: Somewhere along this summer, I grew up in so many ways, on so many levels. Is that what sobriety brings? A newfound sense of maturity? So I guess I've been brooding over the 'what never was and what never will be's.

ON the brighter side of all this. I had always hoped that they'd teach me how to make their rices and empenadas. Well, all these years later, it just is not happening. So tonight, was my first attempt at the rice. It came out awesome! :) Later this week I'm going to try my hand at empenadas. I hope they come out just as well. :D

Well, I'm just checking in! Hope your weekend was well! :hug:

[GladysD]

Hubby celebrated 8 years yesterday!!!!! Hope everyone is doing OK!
Please everybody check in when you can:grouphug:

CONGRATULATIONS!!!:grouphug:

[dorrie]

Thank you Gladys:hug::hug:

[GladysD]

Happy or (un-happy ;) ) Monday!

I spent the weekend getting the two littles one's winter clothes together. Packed up all the outgrown size and have that washed folded and ready to go to familia. Hard to believe that the two little ones are wearing the same size:eek: I knew it would happen eventually since they are only 15months apart. My youngest is one very big kid! All my kids are big, but my Brett...he's going to be one very tall man! He was 34.5inches at his 18month check-up...and I know he's grown this summer, lol. Will find out in January :p

My weekend was well. Wasn't too thrilled with football yesterday, but what can you do? ;)

Hope everyone is well this week :grouphug:

[dorrie]

Hi everyone!! I am planning to go to a meeting this weekend. Hubby and I have not been out ot them in quite some time. He has went to the last few but I figure I best let them see me alive and in person...I am looking forward to it!

[Fogbrain]

Hi everyone!! I am planning to go to a meeting this weekend. Hubby and I have not been out ot them in quite some time. He has went to the last few but I figure I best let them see me alive and in person...I am looking forward to it!

Going tonite for my weekly special out of the county.

Didn't go to meetings for 14 years...reclusive due to illness and other excuses.:D Been going since last year and HEY! it helps with my quality of life. Plus I need to be giving some back, eh?

Sobriety date 7/4/85. The most precious of gifts.

Normally lurk due to difficulty writing.

Best to us all,
Jeff

[dorrie]

Hey there Jeff!! Welcome to the addictions forum!!
Wow 23 years...that is wonderful!! Congratulations:hug:!!
The meetings really help me too! I am nervous about going back...don't know why...they are my friends!!!
I have only been to 1 meeting in the last year or so...but I know I will be glad once I get there!!!! I used to go to 4 a week for the first 5 years or so...then life starts to really happen!!!!! Glad to have you here Jeff!!

[dorrie]

Still alive....still sober....still happy!!
hope everyone else is OK too. Check in when you can everyone!!:grouphug:

[GladysD]

I'm around :) Still sober, still living in a 'dry' house :D

My second son turns 3 next week, we are keeping it simple, YAY! Getting ready for the big financial crunch of the wintertime...we will survive, we always find a way :)
This year will be a little tighter, but that's a great thing, since don't want to replace the savings on alcohol with more 'stuff' ...timing couldn't be better for us.

For the kids, will be shifting from a monetary budget, to a limit on the number of toys. I'm thinking 5 each? The amount of kids stuff has been getting quite overwhelming. Though we toss out the 'broken' stuff, doing so barely makes a dent. I find with less trips to the liquor store, there are less trips to the toy store? ?

Also been doing 'fall' cleaning, lol....my own version of 'spring' cleaning, but swapping out the seasons.

Well, the empanadas came out fantabulous....got some good, economical recipes added to the menu, yay me....

Welcome, Jeff!! :hug:

Well, that's it on my own personal update :D

Hope everyone is well! :grouphug:

[dorrie]

Oh Gladys...you made me think...about how all of the sudden I had money when I stopped drinking! I really had not thought about it in years but I did have extra cash then.........since then I guess I have found new things to spend it on because I sure do not have an abundance anymore!!! It went from booze bottles to baby bottles and now sippy cups!!!!!!!!:p

[GladysD]

Oh Gladys...you made me think...about how all of the sudden I had money when I stopped drinking! I really had not thought about it in years but I did have extra cash then.........since then I guess I have found new things to spend it on because I sure do not have an abundance anymore!!! It went from booze bottles to baby bottles and now sippy cups!!!!!!!!:p

At the 'end', I realized how much was actually being spent on booze. Wayyy too much. Of course living in the world of denial, it was always justified. Though bills are still tough and things are tight, it's not as hopeless as before. Alcohol made it worse. Glad that world has ended for us...moving on to greener pastures, so to speak ;)

{can't wait for the days of diapers to come to a screeching halt, lol ;)}

[dorrie]

{can't wait for the days of diapers to come to a screeching halt, lol ;)}
__________________

I know what you mean!!!!!!!!!:D

[GladysD]

Well, I'm still choosing the sober path! :) MY patchwork brain doesn't need to come undone by using anything that alters it, I have a tough enough time keeping to a rational state of mind as it is, some days :)

I can't imagine what I was doing to my brain before...I'm glad I'm sober! It brings a little relief to those tough days, because my brain just don't work right on those tough and tired days.

Glad to be here! :hug:

[dorrie]

:hug::hug:Hugs for you Gladys!:hug::hug:

[dorrie]

:Wave-Hello:Hi everyone!! I have missed you all!! Checkin in...hope everyone is doing OK!!:grouphug:

[GladysD]

:hug: Checkin In :hug:

Had a busy weekend with my middle son's 3rd birthday! Wow, hard to believe how quickly time flies by!

Also celebrated my 1 yr anniversary for my MS dx and am about to celebrate 1 year on Copaxone for the MS. Busy week ;) :hug:

Think I'm getting a cold or something, I've got a sore throat, and have been feeling fatigued....other than that ;) :D ....Life is well :D

I actually stopped drinking around this time last year, when I started meds....started back up in March, then stopped for good in May, after I realized my mind could no longer tolerate the drink.... :hug:

[dorrie]

Oh Happy Birthday to your son:hug:and a hug too!!

Good to hear from our Gladys!!! I am happy to see that you are OK! Hey...you wil have 6 months next month...Yahoo!:Dancing-Chilli:

[GladysD]

Good Wednesday!

Checkin In! Just got back from the dermatologist and the moles of concern get to stay on my back, as well...they are normal looking :D Yay! Kind of figured, as the 'one' that always seemed to freak out the nurses, et al...I've had since I was born.

Going on 6 months next week, today! Can't believe how quickly the time flies by. I just stumbled upon a website today, as I was looking into acoa. www.recoveryissexy.com
It has info about almost every imaginable addiction one could be trying to recover from.

I haven't meant to disappear from here as sporadically as I have. Life just seems to catch up to me that way, sometimes:) If I'm not posting as much, it doesn't mean I'm not reading :)

:hug: :hug: :hug:

[dorrie]

Don't you worry Gladys! I know you are around helping others!! Isn't that something...6 months coming up!!! WOW!
I started going back to meetings and oh my goodness I feel so much better. They really help me there. I have been so stressed out...I go there and I can dump my ***** on the table...I have felt much better and got to see so many people who have helped me so much...I never realized how much I have missed them!!! Hope all is well with you and the boys Gladys!!! Good to hear from you!!:hug:

[GladysD]

Just checking in on this Sunday Night. 6 months will be here before I realize it, WOW!

Had a busy, yet fun family weekend! Enjoyed the nice weather and the boys had a blast between Trick or Treat, playing in piles of leaves and going to a Fall Carnival-where my oldest spent time with schoolmates.

Good times!

Hope everyone had a good weekend :hug:

[GladysD]

I actually Missed my 6-month marker, here! ;) Like OMG! {I've been teaching my oldest to say O-M-G instead of Oh My G*D---he's catching on :D}

I've been dealing with a cold all week long, been a bit on the exhausted side of life, but it's all good.....

Other than dealing with the stressors of having an almost 2 yr old and definitely having a 3 yr old in my home, well....I don't envy myself, LOL :eek::winky:

My 3yr old goes for an informal speech evaluation next week. From there, they will determine whether to go all out with the formal evaluation. I'm taking it in stride, I realize what the ramifications are of this, but hey, it's not like it doesn't happen to what(?) 1 in 40? Darn genetics, lol ;) :cool:
He's a smart and cheerful young man, I see the opportunities in this all. Life is certainly much different today than it was 30 years ago....all of our children and grandchildren are and will be better off for all the changes and awareness this world has gone through....but I digress.

I suppose in the past, I used to drink and smoke my woes be gone. Of course, the woes never really seemed to leave me behind....

So here I am, saying, Hi, Hello, It's me GladysD and I'm checking in....it's been over 6 months and I'm a much better person (and writer too) for it!!!

:hug::grouphug::hug::grouphug::hug::grouphug::hug: :grouphug::hug:

[dorrie]

Oh Gladys I am so sorry I missed your 6 month mark!!!
CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!! You are doing great! Hope the boys are all ok....Hubby is away all week so I will try to pop in next weekend. Life has been stressful lately...will catch up later..take care...Luv Dorrie:hug:

[GladysD]

Hi :) Checking In...

This week has been quite busy. The youngest had his crib converted to toddler bed over the weekend and now all the boys are sharing a room.....it's been an adventure in parenting as the bedtime routines have changed to accomodate the room changes. So far so good, although I'm starting to get used to seeing the three of them in the middle of the night when I check, curled up on the floor sleeping next to one another----kind of precious when you think about it :wink:

Also this week has been busy, as my 3yr old decided this is the week he's going to use the potty....he's doing great, I bet he'll be out of diapers before I can say diapers, lol....

I also sent in the paperwork to get the formal evaluations started. At the least he's going to need speech therapy twice a week. In a way, good for me if he can get enrolled into the preschool program :cool:....although I'm shaking my head in disbelief that sooner than I planned, I may be down to just one kid in the house....*breathing a small sigh of relief* :winky:

Hope all is well.....

[GladysD]

Checkin in. Just wanted to share that I've gone to 2 meetings so far and plan to go to more. I've found a good group :)

[dorrie]

That is great news Gladys...are they alanon meetings? I have been in both AA and Alanon and both groups were wonderful!!
When I read that your youngest is in a big bed I giggled....just last week Saffire moved into her big girl bed!!!! It has been really good....she gets up earlier...makes for nap changes and I am really tired at night...but so is Saff!!:D I started going back to my AA meetings as did hubby...we take turns and that is great too...I missed everyone there and have been able to really put my issues out on the table!! Good to be here...I miss it here!!:hug:

[GladysD]

Yep, I started Al-Anon. I'm finding it a good fit, thus far :D

How ironic about Safi and Brett both moving into the big kid beds the same weekend :hug:

[dorrie]

I am so happy about your going to Alanon!! A friend of mine asked me to accompany her to one.....I did and it ended up that I kept going back for quite some time. I lived with a practicing alcoholic and his 4 kids with my 2 kids.....I was very very unhappy but I was used to being a doormat.....I ended up being able to make the decision to make me and my kids the most important things in the world....I knew in my heart he was using me as the do drop in and one day I had had enough and kicked him to the curb.....best thing I ever did for me and the kids....I was about a year sober and had a clear enough head that I knew that I did not want to be part of the relationship anymore....I was a babysitter for him...for the kids but more so him! I was soooo happy afterward that I ran to my room and bounced on my bed with the kids shouting and cheering!!! I found it really helped me to take control of myself...the focus was on ME for a change...not him. Mind you I kept going to AA....the focus there, for me, was what I had did to others and making it about them.... the combo gave me a life...thank God!!! :hug:

[dorrie]

Still sober! Check check checkin in!!!! Hope everyone is doing OK!! Hugs to all:grouphug:

[GladysD]

Hi Dorrie!!! Still here, still sober as a bright sunshiny morning and still loving the 'dry' life ;)

I think getting sick is what enabled me to finally put the focus on ME :) Going to Al-anon helps reinforce that. I used to be reactive and bend over backwards to be everything to everyone and after having my third child and getting the dx of MS, and all that goes along with that...well....I realized I can't be 'that girl' anymore! It was time for me to take hold of the reigns and become the woman I am becoming :) I didn't even know/realize that I was a child of this illness until this past spring. What an enlightening awareness that has been for me. When I look at all the things that are/what an Adult Child are, I realize how much applies to me. And now I can focus on changing and becoming a better, stronger person.....one day at a time :)

I'm just checking in and saying hello! It's been a busy couple of weeks, and the next couple should be just as busy preparing for the holiday :)

Well Wishes to Everyone! :hug:

[dorrie]

Hi Dorrie!!! Still here, still sober as a bright sunshiny morning and still loving the 'dry' life ;)

I think getting sick is what enabled me to finally put the focus on ME :) Going to Al-anon helps reinforce that. I used to be reactive and bend over backwards to be everything to everyone and after having my third child and getting the dx of MS, and all that goes along with that...well....I realized I can't be 'that girl' anymore! It was time for me to take hold of the reigns and become the woman I am becoming :) I didn't even know/realize that I was a child of this illness until this past spring. What an enlightening awareness that has been for me. When I look at all the things that are/what an Adult Child are, I realize how much applies to me. And now I can focus on changing and becoming a better, stronger person.....one day at a time :)

I'm just checking in and saying hello! It's been a busy couple of weeks, and the next couple should be just as busy preparing for the holiday :)

Well Wishes to Everyone! :hug:
Hi Gladys....your post made me really smile..I am so happy for you!!!

http://ts3.images.live.com/images/thumbnail.aspx?q=139429478506&id=d53ab831a532ac5a7f6ea87a08c2d1d6 (http://search.live.com/images/results.aspx?q=Alanon+graphics&FORM=ZZIR5#focal=981b997c37f315b8d387d47522074d2e&furl=http://liquidgraphyx.com/6%20-%20Alanon%20Chip.jpg)

I really like this!! I love the butterfly in the center of it all as well!!

[dorrie]

Hi everyone....I was reflecting just now. I remember one christmas...my last christmas drinking. My kids were at my Mom and Dads place...I was not welcome there I let on like I did not care! I was cooking a turkey for me and my kids....I remember feeling very sorry for myself when my new boyfriend arrived with a friend of his to meet me for the first time. I had bleach on my hair...in my pjs...drunker than drunk. I was cooking my turkey....did not clean it out....cooked the bag in....did not dress or baste it...made nothing else with it and even though the kids said later that they did not mind eating it...I tossed the whole bird..upset that it looked ridiculous....blamed the world...drank some more...ruined it for everyone...etc This will be my 9th sober christmas!! I can cook a turkey worthy of eating now. I am welcome at my parents home..I do not pick Christmas day to dye my hair now...no longer have that boyfriend ( he liked to drink!) and it is now very important for me to be sure that everyone has a wonderful christmas...it matters now!!! Thank God for my sobriety !!!!
PS...Sorry for rambling..just a remember when...I need them sometimes!!!:grouphug:

[GladysD]

This was 'that' Christmas/Holiday season of realizing why it is that I used to like to drown those stressful feelings! Tough, but well worth it!

[dorrie]

Hey Gang!! Hope the Holidays were good to all!
How did everyone do? I know that sometimes it can be tough at holiday time. I did fine but I have been so sick for the last month..been home alot...at least I can come here and not give all of you my germs!!!!!!!:grouphug:

[dorrie]

Hi All!! Just popping in to say hello....Gladys I hope all is well!! Have not seen Fogbrain around either. Hope everyone is sober and loving it!!! I am!!:grouphug:

[GladysD]

Checkin In!

Hard to believe it's the middle of January already! I've been absolutely wiped out parenting these days. I find the winter months the hardest, because you are inside more. Of course, being inside is when my own anxieties come out to play and today I'm just a bundle of nerves and stress...probably hormone related, but still anxious nonetheless.
Next week, I'll get the results to my 3yr olds testing, and find out what the education plan is for him. This process has been a bit stressful on many levels. One of those stresses being that I'm not quite emotionally prepared to see my little guy go off to school so much sooner than I'd originally imagined....yet, getting down to just one child during the day, it''s kind of a relief for me...these days are long, long, long.....
My 'baby' turned 2 last week.....he's a big boy! They all are, they are growing like weeds this winter and it's kind of mind boggling, lol... ;)
This has been the first sober winter in many moons and I'm grateful for it, yet gosh...kind of resentful in the thought of why can't I just have a drink or two to unwind like everyone else seems to be able to, yet...I know it would turn into 3 or 4 or more...and then i'd feel like crud. And then I remind myself, just because 'everyone else' seems to be able to...maybe 'they' aren't sooo healthy afterall, kwim?
So I just wanted to check in. I know I haven't been around much these past few months....motherhood has taken a turn for the uber-busy and I just don't have the energy to try and keep up on-line sometimes, :blush:

I hope everyone is doing well....and I hope cabin fever isn't kicking anyone's butt too badly:cool:

[dorrie]

Hi Gladys! Good to hear from you! Glad things are OK. I am OK as well. I too am tired out alot from grama-ing...this week I hope to get back to swimming with Saff. I do know what you are saying when you say it would be nice to have a couple aand relax..like everyone else seems to be able to. I remember going thru that...it went away for me. Now I feel like that re not smoking. I just cannot wait till spring!!!!!:hug:

[GladysD]

Gosh, it's been a while since I've checked in ;)

My middle son started pre-school a couple of weeks back, and last week, the kids were all home from school on break.

I'm really doing my best to adjust to having a 2 AND 3 year old in the home, it's demanding and hectic. I've been claiming this would be a real busy year for me, and so far, it's true.

Another thing, I've been going through is a bit of cabin fever. This time of winter, I'm always crawling out of my skin for warmer, open-window type weather. And I tend to crawl back a bit into my shell, lest I say something/write something upsetting ;) Just keeping myself out of trouble, lol....

Hope you are well :hug:

[dorrie]

:hug:Hey Gladys...I get you with the cabin fever thing....I am going kooky!! I cannot wait untill it is just a little milder...I may stick my toe out the door then!! March is right around the corner...and so is better weather...hang in there with me Gladys...cuddle those boys to stay warm!!:hug:

[dorrie]

Brrrrr!! It has been COLD here....-21...5.1 F! I cannot wait for spring!!!!!

Hope everyone is OK! Hubby and I have been sober for 8 1/2 years now and I am just amazed at how well we handle life....stress!! We have been thru so much emotional turmoil for the last year and a half....I never would have been able to stay sober years ago....Thank God we got sober!! :grouphug:Hugs for all!!!!

[GladysD]

Hi :)

I'm checking in and just forwarning that I am GRUMPY, today! No major reason, just life itself. But, wanting a drink because of feeling this way, is not at the forefront of my brain, so that is certainly a good thing!

We just got about 10inches of snow Monday, kids had the day off from school. Of course, left me confused and yesteday I sent my oldest to school in jeans on a gym day, oy!! lol ;)

I did a whole bunch of spring cleaning over the weekend, (yes, I started uber-early!). It feels nice to have my house back to being organized....clutter and disorganization irk me. Can't believe how long it takes to get a home back to order once you move the crib from your own bedroom---that was a couple of months ago, too, hehehe.....

Now that my middle son is in school, I find myself a little less demanded, and a little more able to get the little things done, the little things that help keep the home functioning....

Ay, my grumpiness, nothing to do with kids....nothing to do with dh, at least not this time...and nothing to do with anything in particular.....just UGH and ARGH.....

Hope all is well in the land of NT?

:hug:

[dorrie]

Gladys...........:hug::hug::hug::hug:I will say a prayer for you!!:hug:

[GladysD]

Gladys...........:hug::hug::hug::hug:I will say a prayer for you!!:hug:

Thanks :)

Spring is around the corner and am looking forward to getting outside more. I believe that will help me overcome the end of winter 'funk.' On a good note, I submitted my resume to my former employer. Who knows, maybe by the end of the year, I'll be back to work? :cool:

Hope all is well here :hug:

[GladysD]

Checkin In!!! Almost at my 1 year marker for being alcohol free...woohoo!!! On the 5th!

Been busy lately with kids, enjoying the nicer weather and enjoying getting the garden started for the summertime.

Hope all is well. I've been mia from nt for a wee bit :hug: :hug:

[Grizabella]

I'm new here and just thought I'd check in. Come next Tuesday, May 5th, '09, if I keep thinking what I'm thinking now and doing what I'm doing now, I'll be celebrating anniversary #24 and I'm ever so humbly grateful for every day of my sobriety! I'm glad to see there are others here who are sober, too, and walking this path with me. :D

[Grizabella]

Gladys, I just read back where you said you were feeling grumpy. I find that for a month or so before my sober birthdays, I get kind of grumpy and flaky at times, too. Just hang in there. You'll feel so much gratitude and elation when you see the first anniversary that it will all be worth it!

Congratulations to others here for their recovery and, for those sneaking up on the coming week who have birthdays then, Happy, happy birthday!:grouphug:

[GladysD]

1 year TODAY!!! WAHOO!!! 'tis Cinco de Mayo!!!

Congrats to you, Griz...24, wow!!!

[Chemar]

congratulations Gladys & Grizabella :grouphug:

[Grizabella]

Congratulations Gladys! It's an honor to be able to share my birthday with you!:hug: You're a walking miracle!

I'm humbly grateful to my Higher Power and the fellowship of other alcoholics through AA for my sobriety. I just live it one day at a time, which may sound cliche' but it's way easier said than done. Trying to master that principle to the best of my ability, one day has stacked onto another one till now it equals 24 years. What a miracle for me, too!