We had a lovely Thanksgiving.  My AH arrived home late Wednesday evening.  I had determined earlier in the week to enjoy the holiday, regardless of his attitude or behavior.  I had a Plan B and a Plan C in mind, if he had been surly and difficult.  I resolved to detach from his drinking and his abusive behavior.

Some time on Friday afternoon I realized he hadn't had a drink.  As far as I know, he didn't drink all weekend.  And while I was happy for *him* that he made that choice, it was a HUGE victory for me that his drinking/lack of drinking had no impact on my ability to enjoy the weekend.  It was his business, and I stayed on my side of the street.  There was a short time on Friday night when he tried to pick a fight with me.  At first, I started getting very emotional about it.  But I took a time out for myself, pulled myself together, had a talk with my HP, and I let it go.  I refused to engage, and the storm passed quickly.

I am very glad we decided to not travel for the holiday.  It was very nice to just enjoy our family and our own home, without the added stress of traveling with 3 kids, including an infant.

I stayed close to my HP all weekend, and used my Al Anon tools to focus on myself and my own behavior and reactions.

I cannot begin to say what a miracle Al Anon is, and how much peace and serenity this group has introduced into my life.  I am so very proud of myself for how much I've learned, and how much more enjoyable my life is.  I know I will always be an imperfect work in progress, but I embrace that in myself.

Thank you all.