Thanks, Jaba and Newlife. Cool, clear, fall nights are the best time for the hot tub. We went out last night and I brought sparkling water instead of wine for the first time ever I think.

Jaba, you are so active here and give so much advice to so many. It would be wonderful if you had a progress page. I think it would be great for all the new people you counsel to see where you came from and where you are now. I think it is helpful to read about other people's rollercoaster rides.

I'm right there with you, Deena! I feel the same way about the Nal... I realize it's still way early for me, but I want to feel SOMETHING just so I know it's truly working. It's not a placebo... we just need to believe in that and give our brains some time to do what they're supposed to do!

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D,

Sounds like you did amazing with the house guest and all the activities. Compare it to before NAL and I think you would agree that you have come a long way baby!

Jaba, you have read many progress pages and supported people as they work through their process. You weren't disappointed when someone wasn't doing well, you had encouraging words. Don't you ever feel the need for the encouragement? You are deserving of that. Plus, you are always there for newbies. It would be nice for them to know something about this kind woman who puts so much time and effort into supporting people new to TSM. You have to do what is comfortable for you, but isn't it time to put your mother's voice on the back burner? You certainly have not failed at being a wonderful support to strangers.

It was a bad week for me, as I totaled up my numbers. I really went overboard on Saturday night, probably for only the second time since week 12. I knew that there would be lots of partying with the group we went out with on Saturday night and I gave myself a good talking to when I took my nal before we left. I guess that talking to fell on deaf ears. I had six drinks. It is okay. I am still better off than I was before and this is a new week. I have done something to my left shoulder and was in a lot of pain yesterday. Is there anything that numbs pain better than red wine? So, I had four glasses of wine while feeling sorry for myself and watching the games. I cannot wait until I have changed enough of my behaviors that habits start to fall away.

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I started a cleanse last Monday so I ended up last week with 4 drinks and 6 alcohol free days.

I ran out of characters in my signature box so I have my full progress chart on the first page of my Progress post.

Woo Hoo!!!! 4 drinks and 6 AF days... you go Dee!

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Dee,

Don't know how I missed your post this week - but 6 AF's! Wow that is awesome! At the risk of sounding a little behind the times - what exactly is cleansing Is it strictly a liquid diet? I have done that before but only with AL Just curious. I have heard it mentioned a few times but if it gave you 6 AF days might be worth looking into.