I did it. I made one year sober. It took a lot of effort, many meetings, and a change of scenery. I found through the meetings and the shares of other alcoholics that most have to change at least some of their friends along the way. I did not have to do that because I lost the majority of mine while drinking. I can count on one hand those I have remaining, but none are very close. It has been a journey of self-reflection. I have been progressing through the twelve steps of AA with my sponsor. I have learned that I need to make amends to people that I have hurt along the way. That’s a lot of pressure.

Having a supportive partner during this journey has been key to my sobriety, and I could not have done it without Dan by my side. He is retiring within the next few days. Having both of us retired opens the door for us to do more things. Our first adventure is a transatlantic cruise at the end of the month. Many more adventures will follow.

I will continue my daily AA meetings, prayer, meditations, and readings. For me, life is so much better sober.