Going4more,

I think you're right. In recent weeks, before I became ill, there were nights that my craving was down, but I'd drink anyway almost for the hell of it -- just out of habit. My old binge habit would kick in and I'd drink 8-10 units, but my craving was down. I could easily have stopped after this first 1-2, but didn't -- no idea why. It is a strange situation, but I've heard similar experiences from Springer Rider, N101CS, and Marby.

After a couple weeks with very limited drinking, I'm finding that my old drinking habits don't influence me hardly at all. In the afternoon, I think about drinking, but when it comes down to actually drinking, I just don't have a desire to.

Sunday night, my wife and I went to our fav. Mexican joint for dinner. We each ordered a Margaretta, then I ordered a second towards the end of dinner. I ended up given the entire thing to my wife.

There is no doubt, looking back at where I was 3 months ago, that extinction has occurred in a big way for me. Those high craving levels (say 5-6+) just aren't there anymore.

I'm still not out of the woods yet, but my goal is most definitely in site.

Q

Thank you for the note! I'm really glad to be over that crude too. It was no fun at all.

I'm encouraged to see your progress in the last couple weeks. It's really about baby steps isn't it? Day-by-day or week-by-week it may not seem like much is happening, but when you look back to where you were when you started it is like "wow, this really works."

Keep it up!

Q

Yes, I'm glad you're feeling better too, Q. I've been battling 'something' for the past two or three of weeks. . .can't say I'm really sick. . .but I just feel like crap. Started out having strained, blood-shot eyes, and then developed an on-again, off-again cough and tightness in my chest and a 'blah' sort of almost-headache. Ick. Yesterday I was really, really feeling down - and think it has a lot to do with feeling so crumby for so long. It would be easier to just GET sick for a few days, and get over it.

Stinkin' weather doesn't help.

There, I've vented!

Week 11 update in original post.

Great progress Q - I feel the binge part of my addiction will be the toughest part of my battle, and I so appreciate learning that you're seeing results with that. I also believe the tendency to binge will take longer to resolve, and I don't think "rats" understand that!

Really encouraging Q - thank you for continuing to post. It's really helpful to see significant progress continue out past the second month. Gives all of us hope that this isn't done yet when we are struggling at week 8 or so.

great to hear of your progress Q. PS I just saw a rerun the other day of the Star Trek episode where Q turned Piccard into Robin Hood. Anyway I just poured myself my first glass of wine in 6 af days and have a 2 tiny sips and don't want it. Actually can't stand it. I am likely going to throw it down the sink. I don't know why I bother sometimes anymore. I think I want it, take my pill and then don't want it anyway. I am happy to hear of your progress. In my experience this really does work.

Week 12 update in original post.

Week 13 update in original post.

Q, could you please elaborate on the meds. and time frames that you used when you were sick and forced to use some form of pain killers? I think i is important for all of us to know in case of an emergency situation. Thanks