Dry July Begins!

This is it – one month (a month with thirty one days!) without alcohol!

This will be the first time I have attempted a Dry July challenge. In the past I have always thought “no way, not interested in that!” That was my inner addict making the decision for me, before my conscious brain could think about all the advantages.

Now I have a new perspective.

I am planning on an alcohol free life. I figure that I have drunk enough alcohol for a lifetime anyway, even if I live to 100!

My reasons:

1. I am too far down the slippery slope of addiction. It’s time to jump off or slide further.

2. I am fearful for my health. I worry about the effects on my liver, gastrointestinal tract and kidneys. I worry about my increased risk of cancer, heart attack and stroke.

3. I can do much better things with my money. The amount I have spent on wine in the last year could fund an overseas trip. I want the trip!

4. I don’t want a lifestyle of being drunk on the sofa watching telly. I want to run, hike, ride, explore, travel, have adventures.

5. I want my son to be proud of his Mum, and my late husband to be proud too.

I know the only way to do this is to quit altogether, no moderation. It does scare me a bit, the forever part.

To think I’ll never have champage at my son’s wedding, for instance. But honestly, a chilled glass of elderflower tonic is just as lovely. And it will contain more love and commitment towards a wonderful future, than any champagne.

So Dry July, bring it on! I am ready for it, in fact I have already done ten days. As for the forever part, I’ll just take one day at a time!

xx E