It's late (well, 8pm -- late for me!) and I just got home from an AA potluck + speaker's meeting where I was one of two speakers sharing our stories. I was a nervous wreck! I've never spoken for such a long time (30 minutes) and it was a HUGE crowd. Tonight's other speaker, one of my absolute all-time favorite women in recovery, brought me flowers! I love her. I can't believe how much love I feel (and receive). We both got a standing ovation and after the meeting we were bombarded with hugs and love and kindness. My parents were there. They are so amazing in their support of me. One friend slipped me a note that said You were awesome! Even though I felt like I stuttered and stammered the whole time -- and I definitely sweated like a pig -- I'm really proud of myself for doing this. I love, love, LOVE Alcoholics Anonymous and being a sober woman.
I also love Gonzaga women's basketball, and we had our first game today. Go Zags! So, lots of excitement today . . . I should sleep well tonight . . . and tomorrow morning I'm going to pick up my dogs. YAY x 1,000,000! Tonight I feel like a lottery winner.
That is so wonderful to have such a great day where you go to sleep with a smile on your face.
Posted by: Anu | Sunday, November 02, 2008 at 10:42 PM
Congratulations, Carla! You should be so proud of being a sober woman, and a brave and authentic woman as well. I admire you greatly, Love, O
Posted by: Olivia | Sunday, November 02, 2008 at 11:04 PM
Congrats Carla - way to carry the message - HOPE and realness from you - much love and I am so proud of you - Cathy
Posted by: SisterCathy | Monday, November 03, 2008 at 09:58 AM
You did win the lottery - the lottery of life and love. Congratulations on a successful talk and for being sober. I am sure you are a role model for others. WAY TO GO!!
Posted by: martie | Monday, November 03, 2008 at 11:13 AM
Congratulations on being sober! Could not have been an easy road, but so worth it.
I love your blog!
Posted by: Libby | Tuesday, November 04, 2008 at 03:38 AM
Are you going to make your Barack Obama candle a permanent part of your collection?
Posted by: Anu | Wednesday, November 05, 2008 at 07:36 AM
yes.
Posted by: amy | Tuesday, December 30, 2008 at 10:50 PM