Mark,
This is a very inspiring story!! You should most definitely be proud of yourself!! This hole that you talk about in your gym log of pulling yourself out of, is an amazing thing!! PAT YOURSELF MY FRIEND! I know alot of people that could not and never will go from where you were to where you are today!! I AM PROUD OF YOU!! I am also a very emotional woman right now, and this has brought tears to my eyes! Maybe there is something in your story that I can relate to, and it hit home!
Only someone who has been where you were could truly understand and appriciate what you have done and the fight that you had to succeed!!
GOOD FOR YOU!!
I do not drink, or very rarely do I, but at one time in my life, for years as a matter of fact, the drinking controlled me too! That life style was given up almost 20 years ago though.
But, I know many that can not give it up, and you did! You got healthy, and happy, and you have a young daughter to love and care for.
YOU ARE AN ANGEL, AND YES, PAT YOURSELF ON THE BACK!
YOU DESERVE IT!!

You have come a long way, and have done a Wonderful Job at SUCCEEDING!
Good For You Mark! I salute your efforts and your success!
Brenda