Farewell to Nova Scotia ...

Last weekend, "A" and I had the good fortune to return to the Heritage Gas Christmas Party and farewell event. It was great! I also was invited to another dinner event that was quite a nice surprise and was very touching. "A" and I will miss Nova Scotia deeply. The past 4 1/2 years was a wonderful experience but professionally and personally.

My main goal when I moved to Nova Scotia my primary goal was to maintain my sobriety, no matter what happened. I have done that and sometimes I am amazed. It was through the good folks at Club 24, my HP and help from "A" and others that kept me on the "wagon". Obviously the past 9 months have been quite a ride.

Fighting (or dealing) with the monster has been one of my greatest challenges. Where could I go to escape, even if it was for a few hours? There were times I wanted to take a "liquid vacation" but I knew that I would have to come back to reality. And reality would be worse after a "run".

So I decided to do 3 things at the end of March to make sure I stayed on the straight and narrow (so to speak). I commit ed to myself to: (1) go to more meetings than I normally do; (2) get more exercise and (3) do what the good Doctors tell me to do. The Plan has seemed to work, however, I am sure the Big Guy really had the ultimate influence in my recovery.

This brings me back to the Heritage Gas Party of last weekend. I had the opportunity to say thanks to every one for their support and have a few good laughs. It was nice to be recognized by my peers and commented for achievements we all shared. No one person is bigger than the whole. Someone told me that a long time ago (it was probably my Mom) and the saying is so true.

However, the best award I received was a simple plaque with 3 pairs of running shoes. It summarized my spring, summer and fall and it recognized "mans best friend". Thank you Craig for this wonderful creative gift!