Why Did You Choose Alcohol and/or Drugs Over Me?
It’s seven o’clock and the school play is starting. Or it’s your birthday dinner with all the relatives. You could be sitting awkwardly with your boss at an introductory lunch, or waiting at the agreed upon spot for a morning walk. Whatever the commitment, you are looking at your watch with your heart in […]
Healthy Nutrition Can Help Me Stay Sober? DO Tell…
In the musical Oliver, there is a scene where a long line of adorable, strategically smudged orphans imagine they are eating a feast instead of the gruel they are being served. They warble, “Food, glorious food – we’re anxious to try it! 3 banquets a day. Our favourite diet. Just picture a great big steak fried, […]
Early Morning Hikes Fortify Your Rehab/Recovery Experience…
I have started a walking group at Sanford House at Cherry Street. Two mornings each week, rain or shine, I turn up at the treatment center early for “Walks With Mare”. I lead (sometimes follow) a group of women for a four mile hike around the city. We are starting a similar walk for men […]
Sanford House at John Street for Men – Grand Opening
It was an evening for friends, family and business colleagues to gather at Sanford House Addiction Treatment Centers’ newest facility. Located at 221 John Street, Grand Rapids, Michigan, the restored mansion will serve as a residential and non-residential addiction treatment center for men. The Green family hosted a party to officially open the […]
What are My Kids Thinking (About my Sobriety)?
I have so many “how on earth could I be doing this if I was still boozing” moments nowadays, but none more so than when I’m driving my kids around in the evening to their activities. My Three Sons… This happens a lot given I’ve entered that phase of parenting when I seem to […]
Craftsmen & Artists – Restoring Men’s Addiction Treatment
What does it take to realize a big vision? When the vision includes restoring historic homes to serve as addiction treatment centers? For Sanford House founders, Rae and David Green, it takes a small army of craftsmen and artists (and a bit of patience). Following the success of their Cherry Street location for women, the couple are building […]
How to Be a (Sober) Legend in Your Own Lifetime…
You know the saying ‘The only constant is change’? I know it’s a terrible cliche, but boy is it true. I’ve been noticing this recently with regards to my emotional and physical health. I get in a good rhythm with things and I’m firing on all cylinders being happy and healthy and I […]
Who is The Highly Sensitive Addict?
One of the wonderful things about working (and playing) with fellow mental health professionals is that I’m constantly learning. Recently, I was introduced to the Highly Sensitive People theory (or “HSP,” or “sensory processing sensitivity”). Have you ever heard of Elaine Aron? I think you’re highly sensitive. It might help explain some things […]
9 Extraordinary Health Benefits of a Michigan Spring
Spring sneaks up on you when you live in Michigan. Suddenly, there is a fresher feel to the air – birds are tweeting, warbling and chirping as you amble to your car in the morning. And miraculously, the barren trees are sprouting a riot of flowers. The grass is lush and green. I have to admit, as […]
The Brain and Body Healing Effects of a Sober Tropical Vacation
I returned recently from a five-day, sober tropical vacation in Puerto Rico. To put the result into the proper perspective, I missed my connecting flight on the way home. I couldn’t muster enough rancor to be snippy to the customer service representative who rerouted me. What, Me Worry? My originating flight was an […]
