I read a post that encouraged Gen xer's to record their life story to preserve a memory of American Culture circa 70-90 prior to numerous waves of brown immigrants who have no understanding of America. My youth was truly idealistic. To think that some of my classmates are on the other side is mind boggling. 

There are many sides to my childhood that were reflect the social fabric of the era. For instance, my neighborhood had a number of single mothers who had decent houses, a good school, and job opportunities nearby. Many of us were latchkey kids. I did not really understand there was another way until I visited friends who had their mother home with them to cook or ask about their day. There were always kids out playing on the sidewalks, or tossing a ball around. By middle school we expanded our boundary to include parks on Ford Lake. 

Has alcohol been involved in every bad thing that has happened to me? I don't know. That is a big accusation.  I did a lot of dumb things where alcohol was not involved. Beating up that poor Tina girl in 6th grade was just a horrible thing and alcohol was not involved. Mom marrying Dave and then getting pregnant sent me into a rebellion. I changed in 6th grade. Yes, I was happy for mom because that is what I was told to be. Just be happy for her. Bebe and Bare told me not to make any waves. Sure. Press those feelings down. I felt sorry for Dad being alone in Florida. I mean he did not say he was lonely and there were always women but he just seemed unhappy to me, I guess. 

I am just dipping in again to say that I have made it 22 days! The next benchmark is day 26-halfway to Florida, then 30 days AF, then it just keeps rolling along. I do feel clear headed and like I am on the right track. Today was tough because of the rain and poor sleep last night. 

I am so proud of you. That is what I want for me, us, how does one talk about their past self in present context? Anyway...I will be there even though I am sitting here at 4am drinking wine and eating pretzel rounds. The best 2 months of my life were those sober months last year. It was boring but I felt calm and good.