Nineteen years ago today, I white-knuckled my way through my very first sober day. One day. That’s it. I didn’t think I could go 19 hours, let alone 19 years.
Spoiler alert: I didn’t do it alone.
If you would’ve told me back then that this messy, ambitious, full-of-feelings woman would be living a life she actually wanted to show up for—without booze—I would’ve laughed in your face and ordered another round.
But here we are.
And I owe everything to the people and paws who’ve held me up, held me accountable, and held my hand when I couldn’t see the light. Thank you to my parents, my son (my biggest reason why), my sister, the incredible women who’ve mentored me and let me lean in when I needed it most, the fierce ladies I’ve had the privilege of sponsoring, my ride-or-die girl gang, every friend and chosen family member who never gave up on me, and—of course—my dogs, who always know when I need an extra cuddle.
God’s grace got me here, but it’s on me to keep showing up and doing the work. One day at a time, with gratitude and grit.
If you’re just starting out—or starting over—know this: the first day counts. And it might just be the first day of the rest of your best life.
xoxo, AB
