LESS Alcohol ~ July 2025 ~ One Day at A Time

chicbuc · July 21

@NonnieDoiron That's where I am in my life, too. God is good and will take your burden. I fell away for a LONG time and have recently come back and it is so freeing to give it to Him and let him work.

itladyee · July 21

I absolutely love this strong, dedicated, determined group! You all ROCK!!!

Coming up on a few days to be AF (Mon, Tue, Wed). Thursday, having friends over to see the house/patio. Will cook dinner and probably have wine with dinner. Friday, going to a baseball game… TBD. Saturday, having DS, DIL and DGS X 2 over…AF as well.

Looking at a good week!

Michieb125 · July 21

Good morning LA friends!
Love your beautiful story of becoming a mom @chicbuc and your faith in God. I am grateful to God who takes on my burdens (when I willingly give them up)! Life feels more peaceful when I do. You are doing awesome by the way!!

You have a super plan in place for the week ahead @itladyee! Thanks also for the tip on how to speed up the comments with this new platform.

As always @globalhiker you such are an inspiration and always contribute great ideas for success! 11 months AF is truly incredible, a heartfelt congratulations.

Michieb125 · July 21

Each Sunday I set my weekly LA targets for the upcoming week. For accountability— Last week I accomplished 3 N.A. days and had 10 glasses of wine over 4 days. This week I plan on upping that to 4 days with a max of 7 glasses of wine over 3 days - Still on track to get my 12 AF days this month.

I’m also pretty bummed about the 7 lb. weight gain since last Fall. I thought my scale was broken this morning! Haha. Not so.
But I’m not giving up! I have only today to make new choices.

Going on a long walk now and have two reservations at the gym for this week. Thank you all for the kind and supportive conversations on this thread.
Take good care of yourself today!

nbruns83 · July 21

@globalhiker, Wow, you are incredibly strong, and spot on about so many things in life being harder than quitting a bad habit. For me it is a really bad habit, but if it's a physical addiction, it may take more, I don't know.

I tried for over twenty years to "treat" my depression with prayer, yoga, meditation, exercise, and medication, but it I couldn't do it alone. I knew finally that I needed outside help and it took eight months of weekly therapy before I felt ready to put all that practice and hard work into trying it on my own. That's what made me realize I had to go alcohol free because I was undermining all my treatment if I started self-medicating with alcohol. Like @chicbuc I still see a glass of wine as part of "gracious living" and I know that's a bunch of "advertising manipulation" and "comparison" thinking. That's why I so appreciate whatever support the folks on this thread offer.

Thanks for all your efforts, stories, and motivation. You are all courageous!👏

July Stats:
AF 15
LA 4
A 1

Womona · July 22

I just read 4 days worth of posts.
1) hello and welcome to all the newcomers!
2) thank you for sharing your stories. This is one resilient, brave and resourceful group of people. I find such inspiration and sense of community and support here. I hope you all do too, especially the newbies.

Super quick backstory: my parents were not really drinkers, only very occasionally had a drink. My great grandfather on Dad’s side was, quote, “a nasty drunk” so I think that put fear into my dad’s heart.

I did the normal partying in high school and college, nothing too crazy. Pretty much all that was available was beer, and I never really liked it, even though I drank my share.

Met my husband 31 years ago, and he introduced me to wine. OMG it is just delicious. So early into our marriage I was a daily drinker with him for the most part. Never really gave it much thought. I will say that I am apparently extremely lucky that I can moderate. I definitely have an off switch. But like most people, it’s an automatic activity when I transition from the end of a long day (even as a SAHM) into relaxing mode, using alcohol to numb out, or that it goes really well with dinner.

I started looking into drinking less when I had to get professional headshots taken in 2018. I was told by the photographer to not drink for 3 days before the shoot so I’d photograph better. Boy did that work. Thank God I listened to her because I didn’t realize that drinking made my skin look dry and a little haggard. However, those three days were TOUGH! That’s when I stumbled upon this group.

My goal is always 3 days AF during the week, only two each weekend night, but that’s been out the window for well over a year. A good day for me lately is only one glass of wine.

Here’s where it gets tricky… we have a boat that we stay on for a long weekend, and there is something about being on vacation every weekend that makes me have 3, sometimes 4 drinks per day which is way, way too much for me. Going away for vacation is the same problem.

I’m coming off one such weekend. I stepped on the scale today… and it was not good. I’m in the throes of perimenopause and my metabolism has slowed down considerably. The nutritionist at work said “how’s your nutrition going when you’re in the boat?” Ugh, not good between the alcohol and dinners out and salty snacks on the boat, I’m way over my calories every day, then get pissed at myself when I step on the scale on Monday.

Here’s one win. Today is the first AF say in recent memory, I met my protein macro and am under my calorie goal! Took a walk with my son this morning. I still think I’m a little hung over from Saturday so I’m going to bed soon.

Much love to everyone! Laurel

tmbg1 · July 22

11 AF

3 LA

7 A

NonnieDoiron · July 22

AF-18
A-3

Tried to not think of work as an obligation today. Boy, that was a true struggle, and I definitely did not succeed. How many times is too many times in a day to look at your retirement account app praying for a miracle? Asking for a friend…

Walela617 · July 22

HI everyone,

12:00am, 07/22/25: 002 days AF

I love how everyone is so active in sharing here! Eventually, I will read ALL of your posts! I achieved my first, Sober Time AF milestone as of 12am on July 21st:

Screenshot_20250722_003939_Sober Time.jpg

Have a great day! 💗Carole

Womona · July 22

@NonnieDoiron oh sister, I feel ya! I think we’ve all had “that” job. The question of “why am I doing this to myself?” Always ends with “because I have bills to pay!” Well, it’s good motivation to clean up the budget and increase savings so you can reduce your time there! Hugs.

chicbuc · July 22

I was just looking at the spreadsheet. @NonnieDoiron and HYS? and @nbruns83, you're all killing it! Congrats on the hard work!

Still going strong here. I wanted a dry July and I may just get it 🙏 We're taking 2 of our grandsons on a little weekend cruise this Friday. I did not get the drink package. My SO did. I am determined to stick to my eating plan as closely as possible and remain AF! Please pray for me on that front…lol.

I'm not really having many cravings, and when I do, I stop and remember that I don't like the feeling of being tipsy and breathe and let it pass. I'm down ~12 pounds in just over 3 weeks. That's not just because of not drinking. I did make a major change in the way I eat at the same time as dropping the wine, and I've been so busy that I've been undereating too much. I need to work on that.

I feel pretty good. Still struggling with good sleep. I'm getting about 7 hours at night and most nights I sleep straight through, but my Apple watch says I'm only getting about 45 minutes of "deep sleep" per night…sometimes less…which is the restorative sleep. I'm not sure why my body won't go into deep sleep. I take magnesium at night and drink a cup of sleepytime tea most nights. I suppose it will get there eventually.

Y'all take good care today!

Jthanmyfitnesspal · July 22

Congratulations to everyone who is engaged in this life-changing effort. And thanks to @itladyee for taking over the management efforts.

I want to report both the good and the bad for me.

Good: I’ve done very little drinking on work nights. I even dumped out a beer last night after lazily pouring it from the main fridge. I went and got a NA beer from the drinks fridge instead, which really hit the spot. It was a good choice as I was still tired from a fun weekend away and badly needed a good sleep, which I got.

Fun, but less good: I drank 2-3 drinks on every evening of my vacation in July (10 days). I paid for it in being more tired, but I also had more time for rest. So 🤷‍♂️. I had no trouble kicking the habit when I got back home. My weight also dropped by >2lbs almost immediately after returning.

My “Everest” is a fun vacation without so much CH3CH2OH. Oh well, maybe one day!

BurnMode05 · July 22

Back from my first vacation this month — Arizona was amazing, but wow, it was HOT! 🔥 Had a great time, but definitely feeling like I need a day to reset and get back to normal.

Welcome to all the newcomers!

Staying AF the rest of the week to recharge before vacation #2 starts Sunday. Only planning on three more A days this month to stay on track with my July goals.

AF = 13

A = 8

Michieb125 · July 22

For the Rose’ lovers - this 12 oz can really satisfies!

SparkSpringtime69 · July 22

July:

AF=8
A=13

I've had a few A days in a row now and really need to get more AF days to reach my greater than 50% goal for the month!

Welcome to all the newcomers, and welcome back @looneycatblue

SparkSpringtime69 · July 22

@Michieb125 I've never been a huge rose' fan, but that looks tasty anyway. I can't wait until the Trader Joe's opens near us (supposedly sometime this year).

looneycatblue · July 22

Well… I had a few AF days in July, but just really started keeping track this past Sunday.

Sun, 7/20 AF

Mon, 7/21 Nope… very stressful day, business where I work got broken into and robbed Sunday night/Monday early morning. Spent all day on the phone with Alarm company, Fire Dept, Police Dept… and trying to fix it so if they returned they wouldn't be able to get in again (hopefully). On top of being tired (calls into the late night from Fire Dept, Police, Alarm Co and Boss)… and I was hungry (not much time to take a break and eat)…. etc…

Tue, 7/21, still a bit tired but got my AM walk in, and feeling like I am coping better. Planned AF tonight.

NonnieDoiron · July 22

Declaring tonight AF because the mother-in-law went by ambulance to the ER this afternoon because she was having trouble breathing. My husband is acting like he can’t keep his eyes open which means when it’s time to go get her, that’ll be my job. 🫤 (whispers to self… all things for love of Him… all things for love of Him… all things for love of Him…)

@Womona saving, saving, and more saving is the plan. I told our “money guy” I need to be a multi millionaire by next year. 😉 But, seriously, as soon as he tells us I can retire without losing any income, I’m DONE! I will retire so fast, and never look back! Until then, I guess I’ll keep on keeping on.

globalhiker · July 23

Today I am richer than I was same time last year and thinner too. Today I hit 14 lbs. thinner. Bank accounts are growing. Abstinence will do it.

Strength to take control of one's life is something that is developed over time and it comes with abstinence. Please don't hate me now. Only my perspective and take it or discard it. I still have feelings like I want a drink when my stress is high or I am tired and hungry, maybe my cortisol or blood sugar is a bit off. Strategy- I go eat an apple or two and in a minute, feeling is gone and I am onto doing something else.

nbruns83 · July 23

@LittleSurferGirl7, I'm sending prayers your way; I hope you can make it AF tomorrow. You can build that "Resistance Muscle," one day at a time. I know you want to get back on the path to a healthier life.

@chicbuc, thanks for your encouragement, posting to this group is making me want to report those AF days.

I had my favorite Mexican beer on tap, Jalisco Estrella, with lunch today. I was planning AF, but going out to eat is definitely a trigger. It's no excuse, but at least, I didn't get a margarita.

July stats:

AF 16
LA 4
A 2

Michieb125 · July 23

While on my walk today I listened to a Sunnyside podcast found on YouTube. It was about being in the drivers seat on this journey whether it’s to be abstinent or toward mindful drinking (or thinking drinking) - I’m not a passenger anymore!
The message ended with “make a plan and stick to it.” So I did.

Here’s my replacement found at Bev Mo today - This one ticks all the boxes for citrus and lime and I poured 2-6 oz. glasses. Delicious!

Michieb125 · July 23

I believe you can begin where you are as hard as it “seems” @LittleSurferGirl7

You may find extra support beyond this group (as many of us have) by listening to some podcasts or YouTube videos. They can be super helpful when individuals want to cut back or cut out alcohol.
Some are listed at the beginning of this thread…..others you can google.
Or there are paid apps with coaches that many people find immensely helpful. One day at a time, one moment at a time they say. Looking forward to your update.

Walela617 · July 23

Hi everyone,

No alcohol since 7/18/25 (Stopped drinking around 9:30pm that night.)

Counting days reset on 7/20/25 [DAY 001]

At midnight, 7/23, the Sober Time app will award me my 3-day milestone "badge"!

I will post a screenshot tomorrow.

Have a great day and night,

💞Carole

chicbuc · July 23

@LittleSurferGirl7 I hope you were successful in staying away from the liquor store yesterday and continue on in sobriety today…just for one day at a time…but if not, we're still here for you. I appreciate your struggle more than you know. I hear your frustration with yourself because you just can't seem to do it. I think we've all been there. Sending you prayers for success and comfort no matter what. I think @Michieb125 is spot on with outside resources. Order some books. Listen to podcasts…even if you're still drinking!

Have a great day, everyone!!

Womona · July 23

@ globalhiker so you are human after all! You get the occasional craving, just like the rest of us! Hahahaha! I am so inspired by the way you can move past it. I know you feel so much better, and I’m loving the weight loss too! Goals!

@LittleSurferGirl7 hang in there girlie! I know you were counting down the clock like Mission Control counts down a rocket launch.

@Walela617 congratulations on the three day badge!

@Michieb125 I love that. “Make a plan and stick to it.” So simple, really. I also love be in the driver’s seat of your life. Thanks for the podcast recommendation!

Did I mention that last night was my 2nd AF night in a row? Going for three tonight!

Womona · July 23

@Jthanmyfitnesspal oh those vacation drinkies, I am right there with ya. It really is hard to resist. Being on the boat every weekend is my vacation, so I really struggle to cut back. Yay for us for getting back at it!

@nbruns83 dinner out is my trigger too! I have taken to only ordering one wine and micro/sipping it to last the meal. Plus I know how many calories I’m dealing with. If I order a cocktail before dinner, I know that I will order a wine afterwards, so it’s best if I just go to the wine.

@Michieb125 dang, I was right by the Trader Joe’s yesterday! Need to try those rosé drinks you recommended.

Have a great day everyone!

Womona · July 23

https://community.myfitnesspal.com/en/discussion/comment/48697639#Comment_48697639

OMG so sorry to hear this! How much was stolen? What a PIA to have to clean it all up with the police reports, insurance, etc. sounds so stressful and annoying! Hope they catch whoever did it!

Womona · July 23

@NonnieDoiron sorry to hear about your MIL. Did they keep her overnight? Breathing problems are very scary.

tmbg1 · July 23

11 AF

3 LA

8 A

Walela617 · July 23

Hi everyone,

I have just passed my 3-day milestone (officially, even though I actually stopped on the night of July 18th. Here is my milestone badge:

Screenshot_20250723_095733_Sober Time.jpg

Have a great day!❤️Carole

LESS Alcohol ~ July 2025 ~ One Day at A Time

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