Well, it has almost been one full year. I can not believe it. I have yet to talk much about this because it was a process. I did not understand how hard it would be at times, and now I look back and think, wow! 

This January 2023, I will not have had one drop of alcohol for one full year. Not a sip or one drink here or there, I mean not one drop. Why, you might ask?

There were a few reasons: 

• Once I was in full menopause, I found I had less tolerance for alcohol. The feeling the next day was not good. 
• While I was drinking, I experienced headaches or stomach issues. I did try more organic alcohols and wine; however, it still was not working for me. 
• As I began training for my race, I found that alcohol inhibited my performance. That is plain and simple. 
• Lastly, my need for alcohol increased when I felt stressed, sad, or overwhelmed. Alcohol is an anti-depressant and not the best option when you have all those other feelings. 

I decided not to drink for 30 days, then it went to 60 days, then 90 days, and I could not think of a reason to drink. I saw people bewildered that I was out and about, at bars, still having a great time and not drinking. Finally, I found great non-alcoholic drinks, and I promised myself that having a good time is not controlled by alcohol. 

As I go into 2023, I will continue with this process because I feel better, my skin is better, my mind is more precise, and I love not having that sick feeling any longer. What about you? What can you change for one day and then add another day after that?