I waited a year. At first I was thrilled to be single and then after a few months I started wishing someone would like me. When I had just over thirteen months I got back with my ex from before I got sober. It was ok but didn't last. We're still friends today. Then about 3 weeks before my 2 year anniversary, a man from my homegroup asked me out and we've been together ever since.

Our relationship is great. We have our ups and downs but we know how to talk to each other. Through being sober awhile and working the steps, I know myself now, which helps me be a partner.

I've seen relationships start in early sobriety that are still thriving, and I've seen people break up in early sobriety and still stay sober, but the saddest is watching someone go out and use in early sobriety after trying to get into a relationship.

I remember when I was a teen, my mom and Grandma at Grandma's kitchen table telling me that in some point in my life, I should try to live alone for a year, to just be with myself. I didn't do this until I got sober, and I can definitely say I'm grateful for the time I've had on my own. My boyfriend and I move in together next month, and while I'm looking forward to it, I'm gonna miss being on my own too.