January 1, 2023 - I had been "sober curious" for years (maybe decades now that I think about it) and I had a situation where I drank too much around other school parents at a party and I realized that even though my boys were safely somewhere else overnight, that my actions could affect my sons STILL by fracturing or losing the trust of other parents. The mental gymnastics it took to moderate became not worth it anymore, even though I really only drank on the weekends. When I brought it up to my spouse, he wanted to try to not drink for a year so we did it together. While he drinks occasionally, his relationship with alcohol has completely changed and I haven't drank since!

The confidence! I had no idea how confident I'd feel at social events or otherwise and turning down alcohol and still being able to chat, talk, and dance in the middle of a circle no matter what!

The judgment. The peer pressure during my first year felt like high school all over again. I understand that when you choose to go alochol-free, you become a mirror for others. But it was absolutely unexpected just how much I would trigger others, which I hate to this day.

@suzannawarye - this account and her podcast were HUGE in my first 6 months. I don't lean on her as much now but always think of her fondly!
@sober.powered
@asobergirlsguide

Floral Beverages are my go-to now!
But I loved so many you had at your shop. HiYo and Kin - Sunshine were my FAVES! Kin Sunshine was crucial for me since mimosas were my favorite! It was the perfect substitute!

Don't put a date on it. Just try it and see how long you can go. The first "firsts" are the hardest: first vacation, first wedding, first social event that makes you anxious, first girls weekend, etc. You truly DO get to a point where you don't think about it anymore and it's not even a conversation you have with people.