I used to want to lie in bed and just go to sleep all day, no motivation. I wanted the day to end, I was clearly in a super depressed mode. Constantly think about decisions I have made and will never make again. I will get into my background as my blogs and soon-to-be Vlogs are progressing.

       Now, today, Sunday, May 4, 2025...I feel there isn't enough time in the day to do everything I have always wanted to do.

       For instance, I have a full-time job as a Behavioral Therapist. I have three online shops I manage, a website I can use as a tool to reach others like myself via my pride and joy of course  "andAMANDAsaid".

       I am a partner in two other business adventures. Taking courses to receive my Data Analysis via Google Certification and a fun class I have interest in is Ancient Chinese Medicine. My style isn't like most. I love movies, reading, creating graphic designs, Lego's, playing fun games with the family and just working hard, I really want to buy land by the time I am 40 to rescue animals.

       My passion and relaxation method is when I garden. I have so many different types of flowers, plants, and food I tend to. Now that it is Spring, the "dollar store" (should be called The Dollar and 25 cents store) has the gardening area, where I went crazy for the seeds. Throwin' dolla bills y'all! And quarters. lol I have germinated many types of flowers recently, sunflowers (my all-time favorite), vegetables, and herbs that keep me calm and focused. I can't wait to see the final product of my labor.

       I am blessed to be a part of my A.A. meeting home group, which I dedicate an hour to every day, Monday through Sunday. Connecting and staying in touch with friends and family...I would never have gotten to do all these things if I were drinking. I gave up the bottle and chose myself. I started investing in myself, and I can't remember the last time I felt this great and peaceful. I make sure I am always on my game and use my motto, "Just don't pick up."

       One thing I’ve learned is the power of giving back. 
Sobriety has allowed me to extend a hand to others who are walking the same path I once did. Whether it’s through volunteering, mentoring, or simply lending an ear to someone in need, I find a deep sense of purpose in being of service. Helping others reminds me of where I started, and it fuels my gratitude for how far I’ve come. It’s a cycle of healing—lifting others up helps keep me grounded and strengthens my commitment to living a life of authenticity and compassion. Every act of kindness, no matter how small, creates ripples of positive change not only in their lives but mine as well. I see it as a gift I get to give back every single day.

       Oh, another thing, in case you're thinking it... this isn't me boasting about how "perfect" my life is, it's far from that, but I am talking to anyone out there struggling, that today can be your day, and things will start looking up. That is a promise. "When you've reached rock bottom, there's only one way to go, and that's up!". I know, how cliche. Haha, Today, being sober, I genuinely love who I am – I feel vibrant, healthy, inspired, and clear-headed. There are many demons I have had in my life, but I have reconciled within. 

       This sober version of myself? I genuinely cherish her. I feel a sense of well-being, inspiration, and mental clarity that is truly trans-formative.

"Sobriety is not the absence of something, but the presence of everything you were afraid you would lose."

This quote beautifully captures the idea that sobriety isn't about deprivation, but rather about gaining a full and rich life. It highlights the fears that often keep people trapped in addiction and the abundance that awaits on the other side.