Just in time for the warmer months, I finally found a non-alcoholic white wine (no bubbles) that I like! I wasn’t asking for much, was I? I prefer dry white wine. I am not a fan of bubbles (except when they’re carbonating my beer). But I’ve had a heck of a time finding a wine that suited me. I added cardamom bitters to most alcohol-removed whites to balance out an unforgettable grape juice flavor. But I wasn’t going to give up. I was on a quest to find a suitable substitute as I enjoy the evening ritual of sipping a glass of wine with dinner, after dinner, or during a social outing with friends.  

Walking into a quaint, locally owned bookstore in Crested Butte, I stumbled upon Margo’s Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe. As a single mom and a writer myself, I am captivated by stories that delve deep into the struggles and triumphs of single motherhood and addiction. The artwork on the cover grabbed my attention, and the recap on the inside sleeve solidified my purchase. This book resonated with me on a profoundly personal level and inspired me to continue crafting my narrative.

I somehow missed “Being Charlie” when it came out in 2016. That was a year of transition for me, the kind where survival takes precedence over curiosity. Looking back, I’m not surprised this movie slipped past me. I don’t think I was ready for it then. Meaning I wasn’t in a place where I could fully appreciate it.

I heard the hype on The Bear long before I tuned in. I think this was because of the strong association with Shameless, which I did not care for. The few episodes I watched felt hopeless and hit way too close to home when considering how lousy alcoholism can be. I could be completely off base, but what I saw of Shameless was disturbing and triggering, and I never went back for more. I was hesitant to dive into what could be another way-too-sad, sorry look at untreated addiction in action. I’m happy to say The Bear is nothing like that. It is a refreshing opposite of that.

Music has always been great therapy, and the words created by Gahan’s journey over the decades of struggle and recovery reflect the healing. Keep in mind Martin Gore writes these words. Gore, his friend and bandmate, has lived this journey with Gahan. As we know, the journey is ours, but the passengers are the people who stand with us.