[splitimage]

I have to go out to dinner with everybody from work on Thurs. because the new VP that Canada is reporting to is coming to town to inspect our operations and meet everybody. It's at the second most expensive restaurant in town, with a reputation for fabulous food. I know this dinner is going to be really triggering for me, because I'll be meeting all of the sales reps / sales managers for the first time, plus I'll be stressed out at not being able to drink while everyone else is drinking. Plus, aside from drinking for the sake of drinking, I used to really enjoy pairing really good wine with really good food, so I'm probably going to be feeling sorry for myself over not being able to drink. This will only be my third time in sobriety where I'll be around people who are drinking at a social function and I found the first two times really hard.

I know I won't drink. I just know that I'm going to find the evening hard.

--splitimage

[Visioneer]

When I first quit drinking, I found it helpful to always have a non-alcoholic drink in my hand during social situations, especially if it's something tasty that you will enjoy anyway (like a virgin daquiri or pina colada, at least I enjoy those). It's sort of a habit-replacement approach.

Best of luck at the dinner, and be strong!

[Stiv]

I can relate totally and hate those situations too.

If I can't avoid it I also do like the previous poster does with a soft beverage and try and entertain myself by reveling in the fact that I'm sober they are not, plus many of the folks there are functional alkies or lightweights and watch them get juiced and act dopey is a vicarious form of perverse fun.

Especially if they start to really carry on

[StarPonysMama]

</font><blockquote><div id="quote"><font class="small">Quote:</font>
Stiv said:
I can relate totally and hate those situations too.

If I can't avoid it I also do like the previous poster does with a soft beverage and try and entertain myself by reveling in the fact that I'm sober they are not, plus many of the folks there are functional alkies or lightweights and watch them get juiced and act dopey is a vicarious form of perverse fun.

Especially if they start to really carry on

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We have a Xmas party that is out of this world. Open bar, DJ and Karaoke, Dancefloor, PARTY TIME. Even the people who don't drink, drink at this occasion. I don't look forward to it this year......hoping by then (December) I will have a better outlook - it's hard.

**BIG HUGS**

You'll make it.