September 2008 is

National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month

To celebrate National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month, we at SobrietyOnline.org had a contest for the best, most heartfelt, message on our message board during the month of September.

We would like to thank all who posted messages of hope and support.

The winner of the contest is "Harpo42" who posted the following message:

"Hi, Melissa. It sounds as if you already know what you have to do. I agree with the other poster that your friends may be impeding your recovery. You should consider removing yourself from the People, Places and Things which are enabling you to drink. A week at the shore with your drinking buddies must be so stressful on you! It's almost impossible for you to say no, so you give in and then beat yourself up for it by drinking even more. It's not your fault. It's not like saying no to a soda.

I spent most of my drunk years working in various bars - talk about enabling! When I made up my mind to finally admit defeat and ask for help, I spent one last night out telling my drinking friends that I'd be leaving them. A few were supportive, a few laughed it off, and a few actually got ANGRY with me. How dare I not be the drunk they could all count on to always be up for the next bar, the next cheap thrill, the next morning of waking up on some stranger's couch (or in their bed).

But now it's been almost five years and I realize now that those people weren't good for me. They all knew I had a problem and they encouraged it. I too am still amazed that I am not dead. I do check in with one person on an annual basis (ironically, on my anniversary!) and that is because I will always care about them. But I know I can't be with them anymore. It was hard to accept and it was scary to find new friends, but the ones I have now are nurturing and understanding and supportive in ways that I never could have imagined. It's truly amazing!!

Anyway, sorry I rambled on for so long. I hope I was even a little helpful. I have not been going to meetings much lately and I've noticed a huge difference in my outlook and way of life. You have also helped to remind me that I need to take this all more seriously or I will lose what I have fought so hard for. So thank you. And good luck and God Bless."

She will be going to the Washington Nationals vs Philadelphia Phillies this Sunday courtesy of Sobriety Online!

You're Invited to a New Years Eve 2009 Party!!!

It's never to early to think about a new beginning, a new start or just to celebrate the accomplishments of the past year.

We were contacted by Thunderbird Lanes Bowling Alley, with what we think is a great idea. A way to celebrate the New Year, with friends, but without having to be surrounded by people drinking alcohol. And still have a great time. Bowling!!!

Celebrate 2009 New Years Eve

at

Thunderbird Lanes - Castor Ave

3 Hours of Bowling Fun

Wednesday, Dec 31st, 2008 10:00 pm - 1:00 am

$100 per lane - $25 deposit must be paid to reserve

Up to 6 people per lane, extra non-bowlers $10 each

Includes: Shoes, Pizza & Hot Dogs, Souvenirs, Music, Fun

For more information please contact:

Thunderbird Lanes
5830 Castor Ave
Philadelphia, PA 19149
(215) 743-2521
www.tbirdlanes.com

* SobrietyOnline.com is not affiliated with Thunderbird Lanes. We are providing this information as a public service.

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