Tommy C. Shares his Recovery Hobbies

Am I wearing a kilt and do I look goofy? Yes, I do, but I think it’s all part of it. It’s been 6 months. Whew! How the heck did I get here?

Let me start off saying that next time I decide to make a life-changing decision, it won’t be at the beginning of a pandemic, that’s for sure! I must admit I’m blessed at home. I have a supportive wife and son, neither of whom drink, close family that is there to kick my butt when I start feeling off, and my faithful hound who keeps me moving and gives me unconditional love. But let’s be real, it doesn’t end there. My Mountainside alumni team (Kendall, Wendy, Conor) and everyone on the support meetings, speaker meetings, game nights, and open mic nights remind me that I’m not alone, even if I’m having the worst day ever.

But sometimes in recovery, we’re home, we’re lonely, and the isolation can get to us. I certainly don’t have all the answers , but if isolation is getting to you, find a hobby or project to do. Here’s what I did: I built a room in my basement – a master studio. I have always wanted to do something like this, but “something” always got in the way. I like to spend time in my studio working on a new song for open mic night, practicing drums, playing new jams on the keyboard, or my personal favorite, singing at the top of my lungs.

If you told me seven months ago that I’d be sober, building rooms, and playing music, I’d think you were crazy. But here I am living and loving it. I couldn’t have gotten here without Mountainside. Thank you!