Taking out the trash.

*****

A friend and I have been in the habit of early-morning texting on a daily basis, 

if for nothing else, to acknowledge each other's existence and like-mindedness. 

We began this many many months ago when she was looking forward to retirement, 

and I decided to help her along in her excitement and looking forward by texting the days

she had left until she could walk out the doors and become a retiree. 

And, now, we continue to say, "Good morning" to each other. 

This morning, when she typed out a note to me, she wished me a happy 28th birthday. 

(If you haven't figured it out yet, the clue is in an image above.) 

I looked at that number and it set me back a bit. 

Really? I have been sober 28 years now? Doesn't seem possible. 

I needed this joyful lift today. I have been working on steps 4 through 7 all week, 

coming to a finality in comprehension that my thinking is alright,

my health is improving, 

I am loved by many, 

and it is time to set healthy boundaries. 

I'll be eating cake tonight and sharing a bit on how I came to accumulating 28 years of sobriety, 

one day at a time. 

Until then, it's time to boot-up the Allies, zip some "recall treats" into my pocket, 

and enjoy this life I live here in the Hinterlands as we do our walkie up Coyote Hill. 

Really, life c'ain't get no better.

*****