Recently Sober? Here Are Some Ways To Avoid Alcohol This Memorial Day

Memorial Day is all about having fun, getting together with family and relaxing. For many people this includes drinking alcohol to have fun, but if you are recently sober you may want to avoid attending social events all together. This is ultimately your choice, but you don't have to miss out on family time just because of the alcohol.

Here are a few tips to help you avoid alcohol this Memorial Day:

Focus On Conversation. Don't make a party about the drinks or food, instead focus on conversation, and catching up with relatives you haven't seen in awhile. If it makes you feel more comfortable sit with family members that are the non-drinkers that won't pressure you to go grab them or yourself a beer. If you do get into a conversation with one of your relatives that is always the heavy drinker at family parties, politely decline if they try to offer you a drink. Most relatives that know your current situation will not pressure you, and if you start to feel that way, wrap up the conversation and move along to the next person.

Play Backyard Games. This year take full advantage of those "toss the bean bag" games that you have maybe rolled your eyes at previous years. Keeping active during a family gathering is a great way to keep your mind off the alcohol and drinking in general. If your family does not usually play games, why not set up a round of horseshoes or volleyball yourself? Sporting activities are a great way to bond with others, and especially get young kids involved in the fun. The importance of these games is to help you understand that you can have fun while being sober. Having a great time during a family party does not always have to involve alcohol, which you probably know by now. This may be the way you have associated it before, but it does not have to be this way, there are other ways of having fun.

Bring Some "Mock Tails." If you really want to enjoy the Memorial Day atmosphere, there are some great mock tail recipes available online to make you feel like you're indulging. Mock tails, are traditional alcoholic beverages without the alcohol. Some examples are a Virgin Bloody Mark, Mock-Margaritas, and a ton more creative your own mock tails that include fresh vegetable and fruit. There are tons of combinations, but this is a fun way to be creative and still feel a part of the atmosphere. These mock tails are also prefect for someone who is expecting, does not drink or even for the kids! Your host may appreciate the extra mile you went to make sure there was something for everyone!

In the end overcoming an alcohol problem is very serious. You have worked very hard to become sober and will continue to be conscious of your choices going forward. But just because you have changed your lifestyle does not mean you have to avoid alcohol like the black plaque. Remember you are in control and there are plenty of reasons for you to still have fun while sticking to your new alcohol-free lifestyle.