As I just celebrated six months of sobriety, I wanted to pause and reflect on this journey using a framework that’s helped me process both the wins and the struggles: Rose, Thorn, and Bud. For those unfamiliar, it’s simple:

• Rose: The highlights and victories
• Thorn: The challenges and pain points
• Bud: The opportunities and possibilities ahead

I’ve never felt more alone than when I was in active addiction. But recovery doesn’t happen alone, and for that I am deeply thankful. Even though I still have work to do, I’ve climbed mountains since getting sober—both literally and figuratively. I’ve done things I couldn’t have done alone, and especially not while my life was consumed by alcohol.

The roses: what’s blooming

Clarity returned

After that trip to Stanley Hot Springs, something clicked. I remembered who I really was. I had clarity, and I wanted more of it. That wilderness adventure became a turning point—a moment when I realized I belong in wild places and that my sense of adventure wasn’t lost, just buried under years of substance use.

A sober partnership

Shortly after Stanley, Lawrence and I started dating exclusively. Having a sober partner who gets it has been incredible. Together we celebrated my first sober holiday season since I was a teenager. I used to use alcohol to cope with and get through the stress and celebrations of the holidays, but I didn’t need that anymore. No more hangovers, no more drunk regrets. Just presence.

Being the mom I want to be

One of my biggest motivations for staying sober is being a better mom. How could I do that while drinking? What kind of example was I setting for my kids? Some days I struggled and wanted to drink, but I stayed sober. It’s so nice to remember every moment together with my kids and family now.

Summiting Scotchman’s Peak

In September 2025, Lawrence and I decided to tackle Scotchman’s Peak—a notoriously difficult 8.3-mile hike with 3,700 feet of elevation gain. My friend Meagan was joining us, and we were all excited. It was a bucket list item, and definitely not for the faint of heart.

The morning started as complete chaos. I woke at 5 AM eager to start, but my childcare plans fell apart last minute. Thanks to a friend who came to the rescue, I figured out a backup plan, but it set us back almost two hours. Lawrence and I were both stressed and grumpy as we headed out.

We stopped in Sandpoint at Winter Ridge for breakfast and trail snacks, bringing our dog Freddy along. While we were inside, Freddy managed to escape from the back of Lawrence’s Subaru to the backseat, nearly crushing his camera bag. I thought, “Could this morning get any more stressful?!” Everything seemed to be going wrong.

Still, we pushed on to Clark Fork, losing cell service as expected. We finally made it to the trailhead nearly two hours late. Our friends had already started up without us—which I was glad about. Before we started, Lawrence and I made a pact to leave the stressful morning behind and just enjoy the hike.

I’d hiked this trail once before while I wasn’t sober, so I was eager for a new perspective. We hustled up, hoping to catch my friends at the top. About three-quarters of the way up, I suddenly felt sick—lightheaded, blurry vision, like I might pass out. I told Lawrence I didn’t think I could make it further.

We stopped, I had water and dark chocolate, and almost immediately felt better. We continued, and shortly after, we ran into our friends coming down from the summit! We chatted briefly, then pushed to the top.

The summit. This is why we came. Incredible, breathtaking views and an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. It was all worth it—the chaotic morning, the stress, everything became insignificant in that moment.

The lesson: Don’t stop short of your destination. Sometimes distractions get in the way, but the more we push through, the stronger we become—both mentally and physically.

A fresh start

Two months into sobriety, my roommates and I got notice that we had to move out of our rental. With help from loved ones and by the grace of God, I found a place of our own. A place for the boys and me to have our own space again. This felt like the fresh start we needed.

Spiritual growth

Through this journey, I’ve relied heavily on my higher power. Jesus has carried me through, and my relationship with Him has begun to grow. I no longer carry the guilt and burden of my mistakes and past. It’s such a relief to have that weight lifted off my shoulders.

Rediscovering running (and breathing)

I’ve fallen in love with running again, thanks to Lawrence, who’s an avid runner. When I first began running, I really didn’t enjoy it. But like sobriety, I’ve learned to embrace it all—even running stairs, which led me to quit smoking. Now I can breathe better, which makes me a better runner. Sure, I have days where I don’t “feel” like running, but I do it anyway. I’m always better for it, and I’ve never regretted doing so.

Finding my support system

I’ve found AA meetings to be extremely helpful. Recently, I even found a sponsor to help me work the steps. This journey is not meant to be walked alone, and having that community support has been invaluable. I’ve also started therapy again, and the power of that cannot be overstated.

Volunteering and giving back

I’ve had opportunities to volunteer with the Spokane Fatherhood Initiative, and serving others has been incredibly rewarding. It’s shown me that my struggles can become strengths that help others.

Rediscovering writing

I’ve remembered how much I truly enjoy writing. It’s like reuniting with a long-lost friend. Even after all these years, the love of writing never left—it was just buried deep inside my heart. It has taken the clarity of sobriety to rediscover it.

The thorns: what still hurts

Let me be clear: things have not been perfect since getting sober. But I’m able to handle issues in a much healthier and more productive way now.

The cravings still come

There are still times when I want to drink or smoke. The urges don’t just disappear because you’ve made a decision to get sober. This is where my support system—AA meetings, my sponsor, my inner circle—becomes critical.

Financial strain

Having to move was extremely difficult and really stretched my finances. Even though it was a fresh start, the financial pressure has been real. Add to that being a realtor in a tough market, and the stress can be overwhelming at times.

Single mom challenges

Juggling single mom life, my real estate career, and co-parenting my boys is an ongoing challenge. Their dad and I don’t always see things the same way. One of my boys has special needs, and sharing custody has been extremely trying. However, I’ve been able to deal with these things with the support of my inner circle instead of using.

Learning to sit with feelings

I’m learning to be comfortable in my own skin and sometimes just sit with my feelings instead of trying to hide from them by using substances. This is harder than it sounds. For years, I used alcohol to numb discomfort. Now I have to actually feel everything, and that’s not always pleasant.

The buds: what’s growing

Running Bloomsday

I’m planning to run Bloomsday with Lawrence this year. It’s something I never thought I would do. But I have a new sense of confidence and self-worth now. I’m realizing what I really want and deserve in life.

Continued growth and service

I’m looking forward to continued growth and more opportunities to serve others. I’m excited about expanding my volunteer work with the Spokane Fatherhood Initiative and finding other ways to give back to the recovery community.

New opportunities

The clarity of sobriety has opened doors I didn’t even know existed. I’m excited to see where this journey takes me—in business, in personal relationships, and in discovering new parts of myself. I know there are new opportunities waiting. I will do this one day at a time.

Writing more

Now that I’ve rediscovered my love of writing, I want to do more of it. Sharing my story might help someone else find their way, and that makes every word worth it.

Present parenting

With more clarity in my life, I’ve been able to identify my blessings and areas of improvement. Being more present with my kids is at the top of that list. I want to be the best version of myself for them, and sobriety is giving me that chance.

Living one day at a time

Every day, I wake up and find something to be grateful for. This really helps set the tone for my day. I try not to stress about tomorrow because we may only have today. This has put things in perspective for me. My recovery journey motto is simple: one day at a time.

Having Lawrence in my life has been refreshing. When we met, I was already considering a sober lifestyle. I was tired of being sick and tired. Law gave me the push and encouragement I needed to get and stay sober. I am forever grateful for his presence and influence in my life. I love you, Lawrence!

Law and I have been on several adventures over the last six months—Stanley Hot Springs, Scotchman’s Peak, the San Juan Islands—each bringing us closer together and helping me remember how strong I really am.

My hope with this reflection is to encourage and inspire others. Recovery isn’t linear, it isn’t perfect, and it’s definitely not easy. But it’s worth it. Six months in, I’m grateful for every rose I’ve experienced, every thorn I’ve overcome, and every bud of possibility that’s beginning to bloom.

If you’re considering sobriety or you’re early in your journey, know this: you don’t have to do it alone. Find your people, embrace your roses, learn from your thorns, and keep your eyes on those buds. They’re there, even when you can’t see them yet.

One day at a time.

About the Author: Erika Solberg

Erika Solberg is a licensed real estate agent with The Agency Coeur d’Alene, serving North Idaho and Eastern Washington since 2019. She began her recovery journey in July 2025 and spends her time outside of work exploring the Northwest’s wilderness with her boys, training for races, and volunteering with the Spokane Fatherhood Initiative. Erika believes that finding your dream home and finding your authentic self both require courage, persistence, and accepting help along the way.

<p>The post Six months sober: my rose, thorn, and bud reflection first appeared on nEveresting Recovery.</p>

Triumph may become trial, and trial may become triumph. Today, as news of another Trump victory ripples through our community and world, I find acceptance coming with surprising ease. What once triggered desperate feelings of fear and anxiety in 2016 has now become an opportunity to lean in and grow.

The Transformation Through Recovery

Nearly a decade into my recovery journey, the profound lessons of acceptance, surrender, and deep introspection have transformed me. Where chaos once lived, serenity now dwells. I’ve come to understand that my greatest contribution to this world lies in three simple things: maintaining an attitude of appreciation and positivity, taking actions that serve others, and developing character that can withstand any trial with integrity, fortitude, and grace.

Understanding Day Zero: A Recovery Perspective

Today is always Day Zero of the rest of our lives – a truth that carries special meaning in recovery. Each morning offers us not just a clean slate, but an invitation to actively build who we choose to become. While our past may include days spent masking trauma and pain with substances and destructive behaviors, our character is not defined by those shadows. Instead, it’s built day by day through sober, purposeful choices and actions. We are who we choose to be now – not who we were when disease drove our decisions.

Moving Forward with Purpose

Let’s find triumph in unity, service, and recovery. May we keep our hearts warm, our minds open, and our hands occupied with work that serves humanity. Each Day Zero is another opportunity to contribute to the foundation of who we’re becoming, one conscious choice at a time.

<p>The post From Fear to Freedom: Recovery Principles in Challenging Times first appeared on nEveresting Recovery.</p>

In life, people are often measured by their worst moments, especially when those moments are for all to see online. In order to truly understand someone, we need to look beyond a single, shadowed moment to see the arc of their journey. Lawrence Long’s story is a powerful example of this arc. He isn’t defined by a dark time in his past but by the self-reflection, growth, and service that followed.

A Journey of Transformation

Since Lawrence began taking steps to rebuild his life, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing his dedication firsthand. He’s not only moved beyond the struggles of his past but has built a future grounded in sobriety, introspection, service, and meaningful relationships. His commitment to change goes beyond becoming a better father; it’s about becoming a better man.

Lawrence has proven that even in our darkest moments, we have the power to choose strength and commitment. His journey of self-awareness and growth is a powerful example to others who may feel defined by a misstep. He’s shown that real strength is in how we rebuild.

-Jennifer Loree Byrd

He’s invested years in developing emotional resilience and self-awareness, working to understand the patterns that led him down destructive paths. This deeper work, supported by friends, professionals, and community, has transformed him into someone who faces challenges with purpose and strength.

A Loving and Present Father

With nearly 30 years of experience working with children as a coach, teacher, and ropes course facilitator, I’ve seen countless parent-child dynamics, and witnessing Lawrence rebuild his relationship with Julian and Major was uplifting. When his sons visited my home in 2020, his love for them was tangible. They reconnected over art, outdoor adventures, silliness, and quiet conversations that deepened their bond after the years apart.

Despite the challenges of reestablishing a relationship over a short time, Lawrence’s commitment to his sons has only strengthened. Unfortunately, Ms. Long has chosen to keep the boys separated from him since 2020. I only hope he has that chance to reconnect with them again and be an integral part of their lives in their adolescent years.

Protection and Progress

As a mother myself, I deeply understand the instinct to protect one’s child. We make countless decisions with their health and well-being as our guide. In Ms. Long’s case, her choice to cut communication was, I believe, driven by a genuine concern for her sons’ safety, based on Lawrence’s past struggles.

However, while she acted out of caution, I’ve had the privilege of observing Lawrence’s journey firsthand and witnessing the steady, meaningful changes he’s made. Unlike Ms. Long, who knew only the man he once was, I’ve seen his growth in real time. I set boundaries but remained present, watching as Lawrence approached each misstep as an opportunity to learn, showing courage and resilience through the process.

Where some might anticipate the worst, I have come to see a man who has grown into a positive, steady force in his community. 

A Broader Dedication  to Fatherhood

Despite his inability to parent at this time, he’s extended this commitment to fatherhood as part of a team with the Spokane Fatherhood Initiative, where they mentor and train other men in healthy parenting strategies.

Through this role, Lawrence has helped raise funds, developed infrastructure, co-facilitated classes, and built a new class that helps fathers develop healthier relationships in mind, body, and spirit. This has given him opportunities to lead by example and be vulnerable by sharing his own journey.

A Positive Influence and Role Model

Lawrence’s impact reaches beyond his sons and SpoFI—he also became a vital influence in my son Trey’s life. As an adopted child himself, Lawrence understood the nuances of loss and identity and used his experiences to mentor Trey. Lawrence made a deliberate choice to be a stable, supportive figure in his life, teaching him the importance of self-reflection and maturity. Through his actions, he showed Trey that one’s true character is shaped not by isolated mistakes but by the choices we make to move forward.

More Than a Mistake: A Man Committed to Change

Lawrence’s journey isn’t about erasing a mistake or denying a dark time; it’s about proving that a single ugly period in one’s life doesn’t define a person. For those who only saw Lawrence at a difficult time, it’s easy to let that chapter define him. But those who know him now see that difficult period as a single sentence within the arc of his journey.

Lawrence has proven that even in our darkest moments, we have the power to choose strength and commitment. His journey of self-awareness and growth is a powerful example to others who may feel defined by a misstep. 

He’s shown that real strength is in how we rebuild.

About the Author: This personal account was written by a long-time educator and child development professional with nearly 30 years of experience working with families in the Spokane area. Jen Loree Byrd and Lawrence were partners and remain good friends.

Lawrence Long continues his work with the Spokane Fatherhood Initiative and Reclaim Project Recovery, helping other fathers build healthy relationships with their children through education, mentoring, and support programs.

<p>The post Beyond a Dark Time – Embracing the Growth of Lawrence Long, a Man Who Chose Change first appeared on nEveresting Recovery.</p>