There is always the question of what can I do without drinking? Without drugs? Without partying? How will I meet people? Where will I meet people? Why can’t I still hang out with the old group and just not drink or do drugs?

Starting a new way of living certainly comes with it’s challenges and sometimes it can be lonely. In the beginning it’s about developing a strong support system. A group of people that will keep you accountable, people that you can go to without judgement, people that care and want to help each other. How do you find this initial group of people? At meetings, you know the group meetings that everyone in recovery should be attending. No matter how long you can say you are recovering you never stop needing the support of people that understand you, people that have been where you are.This goes for parents and loved ones also. Everyone needs the support of a close group of supportive friends.

Honestly I’d like to see more sober clubs where people can hang out and meet other people. Places where you don’t have peer pressure. Places that are just plain fun. Maybe someday I will open one. In the meantime we are all learning a new way of living and need to find new things that can satisfy our desire for fun. Let’s see what we can find……

Please leave comments below with additional ideas, we all have them and by doing so we can help others.

It’s Winter and for a lot of us that means cold and snow. If you are one of the lucky ones in the warm weather some of these things might not apply.

1. Ice Skating

2. Snowboarding – rent the snowboard or skis and have some fun.

3. Maybe you’re not big on being outside in the cold. So maybe Game night is the best idea for you. There are many choices and some oldies to play too.

4. Ok maybe you don’t like games but what about escape rooms? You can go to one with a group of friends and see how well you are at figuring out the clues and puzzles to get out. You can also practice in your own home. I think this one is a good deal for playing at home because it includes three different games. Lets face it after you play and win you’re going to put it on the marketplace and sell it since you’ll already know the answers.

5. How about a book Club? Getting together with a group of friends to discuss a book that you have all read. Take turns picking the next book and hosting the next book club. Great idea for casual get togethers and conversation.

Maybe start with a book on the top 1000 to read before you die?

6. What about attending a sporting event? Winter = Ice Hockey and Basketball games. This could be anything from High School Friday night games, College games and Professional games. Or maybe form your own team and join a local league.

You might even want a little hot chocolate after your game. I just couldn’t resist on this one.

7. Have you thought about a painting class? There are many art studios around that offer classes using various art forms. Ceramics, Collage, Paint, Sculpture, drawing, jewelry making, etc. Look for something that interests you. Great way to meet like minded people too.
A great new trend is rock painting. Paint some rocks with positive messages and leave them around for others to find. You can always hashtag them to see who and where your rocks were found.

8. There are also Adult Coloring Books made to reduce anxiety and promote a calmness for you.

9. Firepits and toasting marshmallows promote good conversations and laughter.

10. Of course there is always movie nights. Either at the theatre or at home. If you’re staying home be sure to sign up for Amazon Prime to get some of the best original shows. I’d recommend quite a few.