I was so glad that I had given up the piss not long before I was diagnosed as a type 2er. I know that if I had been told during my drinking days I would not of been able to get it under control.
I was never a bloke that had to have a beer every day or had to have a drink early. I could have a carton in the fridge that would last me for weeks. But if someone rocked up of course we'd crack it open.
I loved going to the pub and if I went to the pub it was to drink schooners. Usually anything between 8 to 12 or more. And to the pub i went often, very farcan often.
I can never condone evil drunken heathens because I was one myself. Loved a beer with the boyz. Was a member of the Tradies at Gymea at 16. So I had a long run consuming the nectar of the gods.
But, just like the ad, I got sick of it. Decided it was time (was 50) to start looking after 'meself' as I had given the body beautiful a more then solid hiding for 34 years.
It is interesting to watch through sober eyes that over a lengthy time the blokes you drank and hung out with have slipped from super to mid strength to lite.
FUNNY THANG. It is amazing how many blokes side up to you and quietly say that they wish that they could give it up or at least cut back.
Good on you Quigs.
I have a mate who used to live in the Shire like yourself but has now moved away - he is in the Port Stephens area.
Back in the 80s when we were younger men, my mate would pretty much drink anything and try anything, get pissed every weekend, get high every weekend etc. He loved his beer but would put away equally pernod and cokes, sambuccas, bourbons, anything you could think of and while he was never into coke or speed or heroin, he was a constant use of the wacky tobaccy and we all did worry a bit about how long he would be on this earth. He himself said that he was here for a good time, not a long time and was 100% sure he would never make 50. It would be an absolute bonus if he made it that far.
So fast forward to 2022 and he is now 63 years of age and completely sober. He has been off the grog and the other stuff for more than 15 years, he is living with a lovely woman who I think rescued him and he is living the dream. He has no inclination to go back to the good old days and has accepted that he can no longer partake in the past pleasures of life. He loves the laid back life of Port Stephens, he has a good steady job, sells vintage records at the local markets and looks as fit as a fiddle. He loves his Sharkies too and is really enjoying this season.
Both yourself and my mate have shown that getting yourself into shape can be done and the good life can still be led.