Kirk I really like what you wrote "I do what I need to do for me".
I've always let people unknowingly gain control over how I feel or what my level of motivation is. And everyone around me drinks. None have a problem controlling it, to my knowledge, but it's very embedded into my family social structure. I don't think anyone i know would agree I have an unhealthy relationship with alcohol either (although as a few other members have pointed out, this is probably at least somewhat due to their own denial about alcohol), but lately I've decided that I need to do this FOR ME as well.
Starw, I know it can be really difficult when your partner comes home with a bunch of alcohol - mine does it all the time. Have you told him how you feel? My hubby is on the couch with a beer right now watching the hockey game - and I haven't even seen it or smelled it because I am busy over here. Distractions are key for the first little while. But you need to set up your surroundings to be able to successfully distract yourself. What were your motivations for joining this site? Welcome :)
Kez