Updated: Feb. 8, 2023
Originally Published: Jan. 30, 2023
Here I am, decked out in my comfy black yoga pants, with my hair color intentionally blending into a darker root to disguise any regrowth. My home is filled with the delightful chaos of sticky, giggling children. And while I used to sip my “mommy’s special juice” from a chic wine glass, something has shifted in my life.
I don’t drink anymore. Not a drop, not a sip, never again. Some might think that’s a bit extreme. But trust me, I’m not on some high horse here. I have no desire to launch an anti-alcohol campaign or take us back to prohibition days. Simply put, alcohol and I are not a good mix.
There was a time in my twenties when I drank quite a bit, and while I was probably a blast to be around, my memories of those days are hazy at best. I would spend hours drinking, smoking like a chimney, and racking up credit card bills without a second thought. I faced many weekends battling hangovers that kept me glued to the bed, only to jump back into the party with a “hair of the dog” remedy.
I recall one particularly wild night when my mom found me passed out in the basement and quipped, “Well, she’s finally done it. Your sister drank herself to death!” Of course, I was very much alive; I woke up to find a cheeseburger I had dropped on my chest. It sounds amusing, but looking back, it was a clear sign that I was spiraling.
I wouldn’t say I was addicted to alcohol, as I never woke up craving a drink. I just drank too much. What started as one beer quickly escalated to two, then six, leading to a buzz that I enjoyed. I want to be clear; I’m not dismissing the seriousness of alcoholism—many suffer deeply from it. My binge-drinking was a habit that, had I not stopped, could have turned into a more dangerous dependency.
Fortunately, my story didn’t end with an arrest or a tragic accident. Instead, I became pregnant and put down the cocktails and cigarettes for good. Like many expectant mothers, those two pink lines meant saying goodbye to my vices for the entire pregnancy. I thought I’d return to my old habits after giving birth, but that never happened.
Initially, my decision to stop drinking was tied to my desire to quit smoking, as the two went hand in hand. However, as time went on, I realized that life without alcohol was far better. I became a more engaged wife, mother, and friend. No more hangovers, no extra weight from late-night fast food runs, and my skin looked healthier. Now, after seven and a half years of sobriety, I can honestly say I’m happier without alcohol.
My lifestyle choices may differ from those of my peers, but they work for me. I still enjoy happy hours, sipping on a Diet Coke without needing to explain, “No, I’m not pregnant again!” I have no issue with others drinking around me; if they can handle their alcohol without feeling terrible the next day, good for them. My friends have come to understand this about me, and there’s no longer any confusion about whether I’m just goofy or a bit tipsy.
If you’re curious about the journey of self-insemination, you can check out this insightful blog post. For more on artificial insemination, Make a Mom has some great resources. Additionally, Cleveland Clinic offers excellent information on pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, my life has taken a different path since I quit drinking. I’m thriving without alcohol, and I’m proud of the choices I’ve made. Cheers to a fulfilling, sober life!