I can't really claim this as a "progress" post as I'm only on day 2 of NAL, just something I realized...

I'd attempted to purchase a shot glass at my local liquor store tonight to help me measure units with no success. I thought, hey, I'll just buy a single "shot" of rum, pour it in a glass, and measure that out for reference. ... So 6 "units" in, feeling pretty fine if I must say, and I decide to look at how many ML's are actually in that little bottle. 50. DOH!!
And, to be honest, that count will climb before the evening is through. *shrugs*
That's why I'm here.

I know the NAL is in there, doing something.
I've taken it at 4pm while at work, because as soon as I'm off work at 5 it's usually 15 minutes later to the AL store and then 5 more minutes until I'm home, then I'm cracking open the rum.

I can tell the NAL is mucking around because tonight, when I got home, I had 15-20 minutes after stepping in the door before I did the deed. I've had a good process in place for a while now, get home, unload groceries, animal food, etc, then crack the rum and take a mighty pull off of it. Then carry on. Only time that changes are when I have things that involve needing to be fairly sober to complete after work. Pick up daughter/son at such and such time. Which f'ing sucks... (divorced father of 2, kids live primarily with their mom) "Can you pick up Suzy from cheer at 8" *GROANS* Yes... God I hate those times. What I hate most is being THAT father that feels compelled to complain because I'm an alcoholic who fights to abstain for any amount of time. "You're digging into pop's drinking time kiddos!"
NAL is messing with my timer... 15-20 minutes by last count. I'm keeping tabs on you MR. Trexone...

Anyway. I'm onboard this NAL train, folks. Sorry if I put my legs in the aisles or accidentally kick the back of your chairs. I'm just trying to make it to the same destination you all are. Wherever that may be.

As I've read many times on here before.

*clears throat*

NAL ON!

AK

Welcome! Just don't kick your shoes off.
Steve.

You're on the right track, AKguy. Patience, persistence! I hear you about your guilt with the kids, and needing to be there for them, without AL. In AK, probably elsewhere as well, it's a hefty penalty for getting a DUI with kiddos in the car. Something that can't be risked. You won't have that problem forever, look to the time when it won't be an issue and smile!

AKGuy - it is truly early days - at least you have started the Nal - which is a great thing ! I totally understand the kids and the car thing - I was lucky in that I was not drinking much when mine were at the ages needing to be run around everywhere - it was only since they were old enough to drive that I have had a problem really - which is great 'cos then they can drive me !!! But I do understand - still - you ARE on your journey now so settle in, be patient and always follow the Golden rule !!

Hugs, Maggie

welcome AKguy. it works for many of us. keep taking it and don't cheat out on the golden rule!

Well, I've been on the NAL for over a week now, and I've seen my consumption drop around 50% in past 2 days. I realize this is probably the "Honeymoon period", and I'm alright with that. Also in these past couple of days, the NAL and AL combo had made me feel like doo-doo right after I start to drink. First couple of shots made me feel almost insta buzzed with a light headache. The feeling goes away after an hour or so though. I have also switched up the type of AL I consume, I think this is helping with the lowering numbers. I used to be a straight rum drinker, which allowed me to blow through the NAL pretty quickly, I've switched it up to a couple of shooters and then beer for the rest of the evening. I might even get away from the shooters since I've felt bad after drinking them when I first start imbibing.

Anyhow, here are my numbers, good luck all!

Wow AK guy - those numbers are impressive ! And even if you are in the honeymoon period - I hear tell that if one gets that, that Nal will work for us ! Please do not be discouraged if the numbers do go up again - they might not, but just be aware! Great reading and am so pleased to hear how well things are going !

Hugs, Maggie