Happy New Year everyone, this is Ann P. A new friend and member of our site with 20 plus years sent me this article in memory of their friend. He owns a sober recovery house and we just want to put this up and show some love. Thanks to everyone whose been supporting us for so long. We hope to continue to grow together and support each other!

Have an awesome day!

Ann P.

      Finally, after a long drive far away from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles, a place I now call home, I am warmly greeted by a familiar site.  With a sense of urgency and relief, I slowly stretch my legs slightly cramped after countless hours behind the wheel. Standing before a tattered brown sign, I silently remind myself to resume a long forgotten yoga practice, once I return to the Pacific Coast. I smile widely as I am comforted by the words, “Welcome to Colorful Colorado”.   

      Excitedly, I hurry back into the confines of my truck breaking an earlier promise to take ten minutes to gather myself before the final leg of my journey back home. Continuing east, I become more and more moved by the sights of increasingly beautiful surroundings, slightly marred by a bug stained windshield. I become mesmerized by the darkened clouds that playfully scatter flashes of light harmlessly in the distance. Softly, the sounds of thunder quietly beckon me to absorb the refreshing moisture of a light drizzle that gently blesses the thirsty land. In a state of reverence and awe, I continue weaving my way along the winding Colorado River, darkened by the runoff from distant mountain peaks, still clinging to long forgotten winter storms. Two red tailed hawks playfully circle in unison far above green pastures glistening against the backdrop of jagged summits. Instantly, I become mesmerized by the tapestry of the natural beauty that engulfs me. 

      My truck clings to the dampened asphalt, as I quicken my pace, impatient to return to the Roaring Fork Valley. No longer my home, I am once again beckoned to return, as if by a friend who misses me as much as I miss her. I am flooded by an onslaught of pleasant memories. Countless hours spent in the majesty of her varied terrain, partaking in numerous activities, flood my mind. I become intoxicated by the remembrance of such a pleasant and storied history while a resident of the area. Lovingly, I recall the friendships nurtured over those years, many of whom I still remain connected to, some of whom I will see while on this visit.  

      Unexpectedly, a tear wells up in my eyes. I recall a friend who is no longer here. Mixed emotions swell in me as I recall her smiling face and a childlike essence that exuded a contagious mix of innocence, wonder, and joy. She was like a hummingbird, joyfully bestowing blessings, fluttering from flower to flower, gathering a sweetness that feed her soul. Sadly, the nectar she sought was clouded by the poison of alcohol and drugs. She and I once shared a disease that is similar to diabetes and cancer, her life was taken, mine was spared. Perhaps, if I would have mentioned my concerns, she would still be here. I don’t know. I grieve for her, her widower, her family, and friends. I grieve for all those involved in that tragic accident that took her life not too long ago.   

      My dear friend, I will always be inspired by you and the way you lived life to its fullest. When I return home, I will hang your picture above the door way, share your story and continue your legacy through the work I do. I miss you and love you. 

      In Loving Memory of Josanna Morningstar Reese

      8-14-82 to 4-04-05

      Jim Coddington, MSW

      Owner/Executive Director

      Eagle’s Gift Sober Living

      Los Angeles, CA

      310-591-0657

This message was passed along to us by a friend.  We wanted to share with everyone!  

 To all AA members: Greetings on our 10th Christmas, 1944. Yes, its' in the air! The spirit of Christmas once more warms this poor distraught world. Over the whole globe millions are looking forward to that one day when strife can be forgotten, when it will be remembered that all human beings, even the least, are loved by God, when men will hope for the coming of the Prince of Peace as they never hoped before. But there is another world which is not poor. Neither is it distraught. It is the world of Alcoholics Anonymous, where thousands dwell happily and secure. Secure because each of us, in his own way, knows a greater power who is love, who is just, and who can be trusted. Nor can men and women of AA ever forget that only through suffering did they find enough humility to enter the portals of that New World. How privileged we are to understand so well the divine paradox that strength rises from weakness, that humiliation goes before resurrection; that pain is not only the price but the very touchstone of spiritual rebirth. Knowing its full worth and purpose, we can no longer fear adversity, we have found prosperity where there was poverty; peace and joy have sprung out of the very midst of chaos. Great indeed our blessings! And so Merry Christmas to you all - from the Trustees, from Bobbie and from Lois and me.

 Happy Holidays from all the staff here at 12 Step Recovery!

P.S. We know everyone is settling in to enjoy a little R&R for the holiday. Some of you are still scrambling around looking for all those last minute gifts. When you get to the techie, music, and gadget lovers on you list, check out some cool sites. If you are looking for the latest Apple and Mac related products, have a look at Mac Reviews Blog. When it comes to the best personal music player on the planet, Apple’s mp3 player is the king. News, reviews and stories at iPod Reviews Blog.

Of course any support is appreciated, but if it’s not for you, no worries. Again, we here at 12 Step Recovery wish you a Merry Christmas! Happy New Year! and Happy Holidays!