I used to say it was 'alcohol abuse' when I saw people not finishing their drinks and let it go to waist.
Tamtam, I am also new to the 'not drinking at social events' thing. This week I was going out with a friend for drinks, and kept my intake as low as possible. The next day friends came over unexpectedly and they brought wine. That was a tough one. While my husband was drinking with them I was drinking tea. Lots of tea. I said I was recovering from drinking the night before. No further questions asked.
Of course I could have popped a pill when they arrived, and joined the drinking after on hour. But I did not feel like drinking. Isn't that strange?
But even stranger is the uncomfortable feeling of not doing what others do. And yes, I also want to be a social drinker. Just not all the time. And I need to learn that it is ok to say: 'thanks, but no thanks' when alcohol is offered to me.
By the way, your progress looks good!