~ I realize even though I am very open about what has been going on in my life between my transition and my addiction I have never really thanked those of you who have supported me through my addiction and my recovery. I have always heard people say that the only person who can save an addict is themselves. I never really understood why this was until I was in that very situation for myself. I would like to point out though, it is very important to remember that we still need you to be there for us when we are ready.
I have decided to share this now because I am officially clean for 1 year. It has taken me a while to get here but I am in a lot better of a place this time around. Recovery, for most, is a long process and slips / lapses can happen. The important thing is to keep moving forward and not to dwell on the past. I have recently found a group called SMART Recovery, and I have learned a lot from this program. Once in recovery an addict has to re-learn how to live. We have a lot to overcome, our addictions made up most of our past, for most of us this means many years of bad habits and routines that we need to break. We have to re-learn every day behaviors. We have to re-discover what we enjoy doing and who we are. How to avoid triggers and how to deal with them if you can’t avoid them. How to be honest with ourselves and with others. Most of all we have to accept and take responsibility.
In the early stages of detox and recovery, we are forced to cut a lot out of our lives. We have to avoid certain people, places, and things that may remind us of our addiction. This is not easy to do and not meant to upset or offend anyone. This is, unfortunately, a necessary step for us to begin our path to recovery. As time passes and we become more confident in managing our addiction we may begin to re-introduce some of these things back into our lives. You must be patient, this has to be at their own pace. Thank you for listening. ~
This was originally written for my friends and family, but I wanted to share this here as well
So very happy for you @AshleyMarie!! Super huge congrats on your 1 year!!! And what a beautiful time to celebrate your accomplishment! 
You should be proud of all that you are doing! Congrats
Rock on! 
Congrats! You are an inspiration
Congratulations! Keep it going!
Huge congratulations @AshleyMarie!
One year 
that is one hell of a number. You nailed it girl and look good as ever 
Congratulations Asley!
You sure have had to deal with a lot of changes and look at you! 
Nice one @AshleyMarie. Nice smile!
Congratulations.
Congratulations. You must feel so proud X
AWESOME!!! Thank you for sharing this with us
Really awesome, well done, you look fantastic. 
Congratulations on your year of recovery x
Thank you everyone for the strong support and motivation.
Well done, amazing achievement 
Congratulations @AshleyMarie ! Love your intelligent and strong words you articulate our needs, struggles and hope for the future beautifully 