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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 141 to 165 of 175. Go back in thread:
Posted by Lee05 on May 24, 2005, at 13:05:31
In reply to Re: Time for more homework » Lee05, posted by AuntieMel on May 24, 2005, at 12:58:51
Thanks guys--feeling good about this. I'll touch base tomorrow.
Have a great day!
Lee
Posted by partlycloudy on May 24, 2005, at 14:11:17
In reply to Thanks, posted by Lee05 on May 24, 2005, at 13:05:31
I'm here just about every day.
pc
Posted by Lee05 on May 24, 2005, at 14:19:54
In reply to I'm with you too, Lee., posted by partlycloudy on May 24, 2005, at 14:11:17
You guys are all so amazing--thanks a million!
Lee
Posted by Lee05 on May 25, 2005, at 11:21:21
In reply to Re: I'm with you too, Lee., posted by Lee05 on May 24, 2005, at 14:19:54
Doing well so far--I'm attending a therapy group and yesterday we had a really great session talking about self-esteem. I'm also butt-deep now into a few home reno projects, so I'm feeling pretty good. I think a lot of times my drinking stems out of sheer boredom, so I'm working at keeping out of that pit.
Hope you're all well--have a great day!
Lee
Posted by AuntieMel on May 25, 2005, at 14:29:10
In reply to Doing fine, posted by Lee05 on May 25, 2005, at 11:21:21
Good to know.
What type of reno projects? We just (finally) finished the dining room project. I used moulding to create a pattern on the ceiling (I love ceilings in old places), put up crown moulding, re-textured the walls to look like old (and peeling) plaster, put down a slate floor with a wood border and new large baseboards.
Now we're chiseling the grout out of the entry - it's in dire need of a redo - and will try to re-polish the terrazzo.
But that won't take long - and I'm trying to figure out what to do next. Our bedroom needs doing - and the kitchen could use a facelift.
Hmmmm.
Posted by Lee05 on May 25, 2005, at 14:44:23
In reply to Re: Doing fine » Lee05, posted by AuntieMel on May 25, 2005, at 14:29:10
That's the thing about home projects--one just leads into another, leading into another...
As for me, I'm doing some much needed repairs to the walls, and ripping up some patches of disgusting carpeting in favour of a much more polished finish. And as we speak, I'm charging up the electric drill so I can make some repairs to the backyard fence this afternoon.
And the fridge is all stocked up with some ice-cold non-alcoholic drinks for when I'm done and want to relax.
It's a good day!
Talk soon,
Lee
Posted by AuntieMel on May 26, 2005, at 10:09:07
In reply to Re: Doing fine » AuntieMel, posted by Lee05 on May 25, 2005, at 14:44:23
My goal is a carpet free house. I've got one more room to do and the downstairs will be carpetless and we've redone the big bathroom upstairs so it doesn't have any (carpet in a bathroom - gag).
Actually the bathroom upstairs was a huger project than that. We ended up having most of it done (instead of doing it ourselves) because it involved tearing down walls and rerouting plumbing. Good thing we hired someone - when we cut the wall out for the new window it had a 2" gas pipe in it. We don't do gas pipes - professionals only for them.
I guess the next project should be the one remaining room with carpet downstairs. But it's a room that only gets used on holidays so it never seemed a priority.
Sounds like you're doing great! Keep it up and keep checking in!
Any chance of making it to Chicago?
Posted by Lee05 on May 26, 2005, at 11:14:53
In reply to Re: Doing fine » Lee05, posted by AuntieMel on May 26, 2005, at 10:09:07
Yesterday actually went quite well. A friend came over for lunch and the two of us ended up hanging out in the backyard all afternoon talking (so much for repairing the fence). Funny thing is, I didn't even feel a hint of a craving for a drink. The next door neighbours invited us over for a drink on the patio, and even that didn't do it (I politely declined). I'm not so deluded to think I have this under control by any stretch, but I do feel good that I enjoyed myself safely yesterday in a situation that could have been big trouble. It lends credence to my boredom theory. I think if I'd have been on my own with nothing to do, the neighbour's invitation may not have been so easily declined.
So every day I'm learning more about myself and my disease, and I feel really good about that. I mean that's what it's all about really. That's what makes the set-backs useful instead of debilitating--learning from them. Yes?
As for Chicago, it's a bit of a hike--I'm out on the west coast and a bit of homebody to boot. But hey, if you're ever thinking of making it out this way, we'll plan :)
Have a great day!
Lee
Posted by TamaraJ on May 26, 2005, at 11:25:27
In reply to Thursday » AuntieMel, posted by Lee05 on May 26, 2005, at 11:14:53
Lee,
> So every day I'm learning more about myself and my disease, and I feel really good about that. I mean that's what it's all about really. That's what makes the set-backs useful instead of debilitating--learning from them. Yes?
-- Yes, at least that's what made the setbacks useful for me. Typically very shy by nature, I was so much more outgoing (at times quite wild actually) when I was drinking that I didn't think anyone would want to be around me when I wasn't drinking and partying like a maniac. And, like you, drinking filled a void when there was one to be filled, and alleviated boredom if and when it set in. But, even when I stopped drinking people still wanted to be around me (go figure), and I found ways to amuse myself when I didn't have plans. I guess I learned to enjoy my own company after I got sober.
Anyway, I'm so glad that your holidays are going well, and that you are enjoying yourself without booze, keeping yourself busy and doing things that you enjoy.You have a great day as well, and keep enjoying your holidays (one day at a time :-))
Take care,
Tamara
Posted by partlycloudy on May 27, 2005, at 7:26:49
In reply to Thursday » AuntieMel, posted by Lee05 on May 26, 2005, at 11:14:53
And I'll do the same.
pc
Posted by AuntieMel on May 27, 2005, at 11:03:27
In reply to Thursday » AuntieMel, posted by Lee05 on May 26, 2005, at 11:14:53
Good job. Boredom is our worse enemy, isn't it.
West coast? I make it out there occasionally - hubby's family all lives there now. And my sister and nieces live there (different part of the coast) too. We may be heading that way this summer, or in October.
Which part? If you consider the coast from San Diego to the top of Washington, how far up (or beyond) would you be?
Posted by Lee05 on May 27, 2005, at 16:20:33
In reply to Re: Thursday, posted by AuntieMel on May 27, 2005, at 11:03:27
Top of Washington and then some--I'm in BC! But hey, if you make it to the top of Washington, I'm literally just a few minutes away--right next to the border.
I'm doing fine today, fixed the fence and got a little gardening done (actually, I just dug it up--nothing planted yet).
Tomorrow I won't be posting--I'm heading out at the crack of dawn for the day. So I'll pick it up again on Sunday.
Have a great weekend!
Lee
Posted by Lee05 on May 31, 2005, at 14:27:47
In reply to Friday » AuntieMel, posted by Lee05 on May 27, 2005, at 16:20:33
So sorry--I have a friend staying with me for a couple of weeks, and have been busy getting her settled, etc. I completely forgot to post. Everything is going well--been enjoying my time off, getting things done around the house, staying sober (almost 3 weeks now)--all good stuff.
Just wanted to say again how much I appreciate all the supportive postings and babblemail. What started out as an anonymous, safe forum to talk about my disease has become a lifesaving network of friends--I think you're all pretty amazing.
Everyone have a fantastic day!
Lee
Posted by AuntieMel on May 31, 2005, at 14:45:45
In reply to Tuesday, posted by Lee05 on May 31, 2005, at 14:27:47
Great job. It's an ongoing process and you are well on your way.
I went to a party (graduation - daughter of one of hybby's partners) and there was booze everywhere - and lots of people I didn't know. I was surprised at just how much the two of those things together would bother me.
Luckily hubby understood and we left early. But, what a trigger!
Posted by Lee05 on May 31, 2005, at 15:01:16
In reply to Re: Tuesday » Lee05, posted by AuntieMel on May 31, 2005, at 14:45:45
Not that I would wish a continuing struggle on anyone, but I have to say that it's comforting to me to know that even a two-year veteran still faces powerful triggers like that. Good for you for staying strong--and good for your hubby for supporting you.
Lee
Posted by Dieselman on May 31, 2005, at 22:34:50
In reply to NEW -?s help re: alcohol withdrawal (long,sorry), posted by marjorie on January 4, 2005, at 12:50:52
Hello marjorie ,
I hope you know that you are NOT alone. I have been through exactly what you discribe. My only words of wisdom are Melatonin (If sleep is a problem) and you are in my prayers.
Very Best Regards
Dieselman
Posted by AuntieMel on June 1, 2005, at 9:44:34
In reply to Re: Tuesday » AuntieMel, posted by Lee05 on May 31, 2005, at 15:01:16
I guess the lesson is that we should always be aware that there are triggers out there and that we can't let down our guard. In a way I'm glad it happened as it reminded me of the possibilities.
Posted by TamaraJ on June 1, 2005, at 11:17:53
In reply to Tuesday, posted by Lee05 on May 31, 2005, at 14:27:47
Hi Lee!
I'm so glad to hear that things continue to go well for you, and that your holidays have been enjoyable and productive. Hope you enjoy your visit with your friend. Is this your last week of holidays?
Well, I am thinking good thoughts for you, and wishing you all the best. Take good care.
Have a great day!!!
Tamara
> So sorry--I have a friend staying with me for a couple of weeks, and have been busy getting her settled, etc. I completely forgot to post. Everything is going well--been enjoying my time off, getting things done around the house, staying sober (almost 3 weeks now)--all good stuff.
>
> Just wanted to say again how much I appreciate all the supportive postings and babblemail. What started out as an anonymous, safe forum to talk about my disease has become a lifesaving network of friends--I think you're all pretty amazing.
>
> Everyone have a fantastic day!
>
> Lee
Posted by Lee05 on June 3, 2005, at 21:53:33
In reply to Re: Tuesday » Lee05, posted by TamaraJ on June 1, 2005, at 11:17:53
Hi All,
I had a fantastic vacation--fun, safe and sober! Found lots to do to keep me busy. I haunted the local garden centre and I've turned the back yard into a beautiful, peaceful place to relax--I'll enjoy it alot this summer. And my friend who is staying with me doesn't drink, so I've had good company to get out and enjoy it all with. It's been a good couple of weeks--thanks for all the support.
Hope you're all doing well--have a fantastic weekend everyone!
Lee
Posted by TamaraJ on June 3, 2005, at 22:06:29
In reply to Friday, posted by Lee05 on June 3, 2005, at 21:53:33
That's wonderful, Lee!!!! I am so glad you had a great vacation, and that you did things that made you happy. Your backyard sounds awesome! I am sure you will enjoy many, many pleasant and tranquil evenings and weekends surrounded by the beauty you have created there.
You have a fantastic weekend as well.
Take care.
Tamara
> Hi All,
>
> I had a fantastic vacation--fun, safe and sober! Found lots to do to keep me busy. I haunted the local garden centre and I've turned the back yard into a beautiful, peaceful place to relax--I'll enjoy it alot this summer. And my friend who is staying with me doesn't drink, so I've had good company to get out and enjoy it all with. It's been a good couple of weeks--thanks for all the support.
>
> Hope you're all doing well--have a fantastic weekend everyone!
>
> Lee
Posted by AuntieMel on June 8, 2005, at 9:16:10
In reply to Friday, posted by Lee05 on June 3, 2005, at 21:53:33
Posted by Lee05 on June 8, 2005, at 11:25:57
In reply to Re: How's tricks? (nm) » Lee05, posted by AuntieMel on June 8, 2005, at 9:16:10
Tricks is pretty good thanks! Work's been really busy, but in a good way--very productive. Looking forward to having my place back to myself--my friend has been a wonderful houseguest and I've enjoyed having her here, but I've just lived on my own for way too long to have someone here long-term.
Still sober--sneaking up on 30 (this Friday)!
Hope you're well and happy!
Lee
Posted by TamaraJ on June 17, 2005, at 15:29:17
In reply to Re: How's tricks? » AuntieMel, posted by Lee05 on June 8, 2005, at 11:25:57
for missing your 30 day milestone :-( Fifty lashes with a wet noodle for me, and a belated congratulations for you :-). Hope you are doing well, and have settled back into a pleasant routine after your holidays.
Take care. And, keep us posted when you have a chance.
Tamara
Posted by AuntieMel on June 21, 2005, at 15:18:37
In reply to Re: How's tricks? » AuntieMel, posted by Lee05 on June 8, 2005, at 11:25:57
Posted by Lee05 on June 22, 2005, at 10:46:07
In reply to Re: Lee - are you still out there?????? (nm) » Lee05, posted by AuntieMel on June 21, 2005, at 15:18:37
Still out here, and happy to say still sober (thanks for the 30-day wishes Tamara). Feeling pretty good these days. Had a couple of tough spots that I'm proud to say I made it through. I was seeing a guy (operative word - WAS) who just really didn't understand the whole concept of "one is too many", and kept insisting that surely I had enough self-control to stop after one. After trying unsuccessfully to educate him on how unforgiving this disease is, I decided we'd best part company. Don't need (and can't handle) that kind of input. On the up-side, I've really been enjoying that zen-like backyard I created (when it's not raining that is--we've been a little soggy around here).
How's everyone else doing? Happy, healthy and sober, one and all?
Lee
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