Thrift Store Vlog & Try On plus I Went to an AA Meeting Alone

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** MY MOST POPULAR PLAYLISTS **
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Shoe Dances - tinyurl.com/ycley9jn
My sewing machine is a Singer 401A
video: tinyurl.com/y47zf2bw
Camera I use is a Canon Vixia HF R600
amzn.to/1RGPRAL

[@vivsalittlebitcrafty4854]

For what it's worth, I think you're bloody marvelous, Darlene. From the time I began watching your channel to now, there's been a huge transformation-not only in your appearance but also in the way you live your life. You are right to be proud of yourself!

[@Mrsstick07]

Couldn't agree more.

[@an-alechianeathery770]

I agree as well. I couldn't says any better myself.

[@karenavey2183]

So true! Drinking isn’t the first problem. The problem caused the drinking.

[@Whole180withAliyah]

Thank you so much for sharing this today, Darlene. I so needed to hear your words right now. I struggle with food addiction to boost my mood & I'm lingering in a deep depression, questioning whether to continue my marriage to a covert narcissist. Your openly sharing your thoughts, feelings, fears & experiences helps so many of us & I'm grateful you're here. Thank you! 🤗 And I'm proud of you, too. Good for you, taking loving care of yourself, even when it's scary & uncomfortable.

[@vivianp5962]

Leave IMMEDIATELY! pack your things & just go! Don't question anything. Just left ex-husband, few weeks back for 2nd time. BEST THING EVER HAPPENED TO ME, even though he has 5 of my most loved ones. I left them all to save myself. Known this man since I was 13 years old , divorced 15 years & knew I didn't want to marry him, red flags here & there over the years. But, it's kinda my fault "I have hope in people" which is my weakness. DON'T GO THROUGH LIFE WITH THIS NIGHTMARE! Just go, you'll be fine. Believe me. You'll be so much happier NO MATTER where your life path takes you. Good Luck 🍀

[@shirleylindsay5586]

Im sooooo proud of you Darlene. You have come so far. You have helped so so many others by sharing your life.

[@nancyjackson8690]

EXCELLENT video Darlene. You are one soulful woman. You express yourself like a teacher in front of her class. Lessons learned. And by the way, love the shirt!

[@user-ks3yf5bu3s]

Your ability to go so deep into your self-introspection is something few people can do. Much love to you Darlene. And that top looks great on you!!

[@bevbeck5049]

Darlene, this was such an impactful video. My Dad was in AA for many years and in time he came to understand why he drank. He drank because it made him confident and funny (in his mind) for a short time and before he could face life he needed alcohol to use as a crutch. I attended meetings with him and a brother as well. I learned so much about myself, my addiction is food. Before I could deal with the addiction I needed to work on my mental health. If I am not living a healthy balanced life it affects my family, marriage, job etc. So many people think that losing the weight, or stopping drinking will fix everything wrong in their life. I look forward to watching you as you process this revelation you have had. Thank you Darlene

[@big_ted]

I appreciate this video Darlene. I’m nearly a decade sober and the hardest thing to get used to was being in control and having agency over MY life. With control comes a little power and your analogy to get to the door and open the fucking thing is awesome. You don’t have step through, just poke your nose out and have a look around. Hope your week continues to get better. All the best.

[@user-uc2bh1wx6p]

Darlene, I hope you realize how valuable you are. You have such an authentic way of communicating -- anyone who takes the time to listen can't help but benefit from your insights. I spent much of my childhood at AA meetings because my single mother could not afford a babysitter. Looking back, I truly believe that my ability to navigate life came from repeatedly hearing people talk about the struggles of living a 12-step life. So, you're right -- AA is not just about the drinking, it's about the sobriety. Also, I am always amazed at your practical ways of coping and getting on with life no matter how crappy you feel. Most of all, I love your sewing videos -- you inspired me to get out the machine and start playing around with it. Keep carrying on -- lots of us find a real connection with you!

[@renestovall9226]

Good for you! You have so much to offer this world, please don’t go into seclusion. All of the followers you have and have had are rooting for you😊YOU ARE WORTHY

[@deedeewutke9697]

Darlene I have been watching you for years. I believe with you doing these videos that you have helped and are helping a lot of people go through what you have been through and what you are going through now.

[@deedeewutke9697]

PS love the blouse that you had on when you were doing this video and like the new one

[@thelastgeneration5862]

The principles of AA are a really good guide to living day to day life and caring about loving yourself and others. Just like The Sermon on the mount. Sobriety is a nice side effect of learning how to navigate this life. I always find the personalities the most difficult to navigate. But it beats the heck out of the safety of those 4 walls. At least for me it has. My social anxiety and agoraphobia almost killed me, drunk or dry, it was lonely.❤

[@elainemcnary2788]

If you only knew how many people relate to you on so many levels. Some of us hang on to every word, living our lives through you. One of your subs said something about you writing a book. I think that’s a great idea. Maybe a book compiled of many short stories, different mountains you have had to climb and success results you have felt. Today’s vlog was a perfect short story.🌸

[@KLeonardM]

So glad you saw that the top wasn't brown....This top looks lovely on you Darlene. Breathable, long enough and you don't like it but you could push the sleeves up when dancing if hot. I love it.

[@pookiebear9200]

Very beautiful and inspiring talk Darlene. You have a gift for expressing your inner most thoughts and deeply touching the recipient. Thank you for sharing this personal message. I know you helped many people today who are processing their own journey of sobriety. ❤️and people like myself who have to consciously push myself out into the world. I really could relate with much of what you shared.

[@user-gt7wv6hy3g]

Love the shirt and you're talk on AA really speaks to me. Thank you.

[@hld123]

Darlene - I commend you for being brutally honest about your life. Not many people have the courage to open up about their life. I totally agree with you that you are WORTH it - to do whatever you want in life. I also believe that your honesty about your own life experiences is helping many others. I hope you have a wonderful week, as you so well deserve it! BTW, I love your shirt, as it looks not only very comfortable, it appears to be very soft.

[@deehahn2992]

Darlene, you are so worthy of everything that life has to give! You are beautiful and have the cutest personality. Always remember that!

[@ThumbprintCreationsbyKerry]

I celebrated 8 years in February. When I feel like my world is caving in on me, going to a meeting makes all the difference even if I don’t share. I know a number of people that don’t believe in God and they have long term sobriety for decades. Even after all this (short) period of time I find myself on the fence about that too at times. But today I have a living and thinking problem. I was told my first thought is for entertainment purposes only, and your third thought is closer to the solution than the first two. I enjoy your honesty. I find it very refreshing. 🙂

[@susangriffin-byrne8393]

You go girl! You spoke a lot of pearls of wisdom in this video. AA teaches another way of living and we do it one day at a time. Everything happens for a reason. Loved this video! ❤

[@conniehansen303]

You are a brave woman. You are smart and a great role model. You have given me enough courage to try to live again. Thank you.

[@margealbanese1818]

Darlene, that shirt is darling! It’s a henley style which is my very favorite. Sonoma brand is most likely from Kohls. Also, I have been single for 35 years after a 25 year marriage. Not so much now anymore but in the early stages of divorce, Sunday nights were so hard. I think it’s supposed to be a family night which my husband was never around for. Anyway, hang in there. You are smart and realizing what you have been through and it will take awhile for it to all settle down. You are also grieving a lost relationship which is so very hard.

[@pinksquidink7256]

I'm so proud of you! You've done something that I only dream of doing. Pushing myself to do something that's outside my comfort zone. So often, I really want to do something and end up talking myself out of it. You're brave and inspiring! Thanks for sharing Darlene!

[@lenalyles2712]

Thank you for being you, it helps more than you will ever know.

[@wooliswhyfibercraftskathle9058]

Thank you Darlene

[@bonniewalker5225]

Love the shirt and the color. It's something I'd wear. Thanks for the modeling of it.

[@joanyoder5880]

Darlene, you have great way to explain a situation.

[@MsSluggoP]

You are talking very positive and it’s nice to hear. Crafts are my sanity. I love quilting and sewing. Sonoma is Kohl’s, cute top!

[@connie651000]

You are an amazing lady you have come so far Don’t give up you got this.

[@susannegalligan8600]

I don’t have a drinking problem, however I got ALOT out of what you said today. Thank you so much.

[@jeanchittum1677]

You know , Darlene, you can be very inspirational...you may have found you place, in this world....

[@susannetyree7217]

I totally understand the narcissistic mother. My mom was all about herself. In your case it could have been your mom was insecure and said negative things to you so you wouldn’t leave her. I think you are doing a really good job. Honestly, leaving Maine and moving is not easy and scary in a way. I’m glad you are closer to your son and granddaughter. You seem so much happier and it is perfectly normal to have good and bad days. I’m a widow of over 11 years now, a retired nurse of 30 years. I’m basically a homebody and love my quiet time knitting, crocheting and sewing quilts. I have 2 grown daughters, one grandson. Girl, do what makes you happy. I enjoy your videos and your fabric sales. Rooting for you on the weight loss journey. It can be a bitch, but you are getting there. Thank you! ♥️

[@elena3831]

Great top! You could even layer it in the winter. Bravo on moving forward . You have done so much to make your life better. Just keep on keepin’ on❤❤

[@marysmith5544]

Thanks for your insights on sobriety and the challenges you have faced and are coming to terms with even all these years later. And that shirt looks great on you!! Will be great for cooler evenings when summer starts to fade. Have a great week Darlene!!

[@judithfrench2665]

I like it too.

[@imadandy8145]

I quit drinking in 1998 and I totally get what you’re saying. So many layers to alcoholism. Good for you for going to the AA meeting alone last night. I know how fucking hard that is…. I’m proud of you too!

[@joane8651]

I can't tell you how many times I drove to an Alanon meeting and sat in the car, not going in until I screwed up my courage. Then, when I finally did go, remember pulling in the garage afterward and feeling so calm and settled.

[@kayeprescott8228]

Enjoyed hearing you speaking from your heart❤ Very proud of you❣️

[@campinglady81]

You are so brave for putting this all out there. This is so deep & I know it helps other people. 💙

[@anoldladi]

Sounds like all good stuff in a positive direction.

[@stephaniestuff]

I stumbled across your channel a few days ago as I was recently inspired to try quilting. This inspiration came from a month-long anxiety caused depression and when my brain feels fried, I often need creative escape that keeps my hands busy (sewing, scrapbooking, etc.) From the first 30 seconds of that video I watched, I knew I was a fan and subscribed right away. Some of your older videos have become my favourite and I’ve rewatched many already. This afternoon I made the decision to stop drinking (at least cool it for awhile) and then tonight I see this of yours. In more than one way, you have helped me out a dark time - thank you for your honesty, sincerity, and vulnerability. Much love from Vancouver 🇨🇦

[@jordansmom143]

What a DAMN GOOD video!!!!

[@WhatJacKnots]

I know this video is very much not about things I've experienced in life, but it was very insightful for me with my life. I have watched you a long time and I want you to know im so proud of the progress you are making for YOU.

[@bothybird]

Hi Darlene, I've been watching you for a few years and applaud your positive attitude and the changes you have made. You look amazing!! That shirt is fabulous and is so flattering on you. Love the 3/4 sleeves and long body length.

[@donnalevi7446]

Hey I am happy for you and proud of you! You will make some friends and also do some more healing if you keep going. I love that Thrift Store also. I live sort of far from it but I make the trip since I like it . I wasn’t ever an alcoholic but was raised by one and I understand there is more to it than alcohol… the fact you mentioned opening the door helps more than recovering alcoholics!

[@audreynanapreps2543]

You look beautiful today and you have every right to be proud of yourself!

[@lauriemagee8776]

I have 1 friend. We just go for rides , shop good will, get groceries, just talk. My high school reunion is this year and after 30 + years that's all they want to do is party & drink. I'm not into that. So I'm not going

[@ritamangus5969]

The shirt looks great on you. Thanks for your insights on life.

[@pamelatheado6484]

I love the shirt. It really looks nice on you. The brand Sonoma is sold at Kohls and Amazon. This video is great. I think it has given me some things to think about myself. I think you are a brave woman and you inspire me. Thanks.

[@RecoveringCarboholic58]

I’m loving all of your videos. Doing both of your quilt projects. And enjoying these thrift store vlogs. Thanks for all you do Darlene.

[@debfarrell2505]

Loved this video,evenbthough I am not working on sobriety. Your wirks sre just very encouraging no natter ones situation. That top is fabulous. Sonoma is one of my favorite brands!!

[@rochestermanagementservice6082]

Profound, Darlene. Great video, today. Proud of you! From Cheryl in AZ

[@donnahart823]

I love when you talk about AA and your sobriety. I will not go to where people are drinking. I would rather stay home alone than put myself in an uncomfortable setting. I do not like smelling alcohol, it scares the shit out of me. I’ve come too far. My sobriety IS the most important part of my life even after 29 years, I whole-heartily believe that we are all only 1 drink away from a drunk. By the way, I love the shirt. Sonoma is from Kohls, nice find.

[@darlene.michaud]

I’m not uncomfortable at all around alcohol and certainly not around night clubs. That’s where I get to dance. That’s where I get to hear some of the best music I’ve ever heard. That’s where I get to watch my 10 year sober son play on a stage. I don’t believe that we who have sobriety are only one drink away from a drunk. And I want others who might be reading this to know that it’s not a prison like that. Not everyone is in danger of falling off the wagon like that. Everyone gets to make their own choices as to what their comfort zone is. Alcoholism is not a life sentence. You can move away from it and live any life you want.

[@vickyowens4064]

LOVE the shirt and it looks good on you!! I am proud of you!! Been watching since you moved there and the things you have done are incredible. I am a old Army Brat, my dad drug us all over the world and I would not change one thing about my life! Because we moved every 3 or 4 years you learn to make friends fast! I have never been alone and I don't know how I would feel if I was. You are doing so well and I just love to listen to you about your life! Keep doing what you do!!

[@artfulyama9071]

You are so courageous, and your mindfulness is continuing to grow at a great pace. Thank you for sharing your journey. Figuring out oneself is not easy but it’s an ongoing discovery process for mindful people.❤❤

[@becky5212]

I’m so freaking proud of you Darlene ❤️❤️

[@manda1123889]

Thank you so much for sharing your AA story. ❤ I’m still sober!

[@maxinemorgan4514]

Darlene. that shirt looks good on you, the color is perfect👏

[@shirleypreston8743]

You look lovely today!

[@janicejames9350]

Loved your video today! That shirt looks great on you. I love your taste in clothing!!!

[@kayeprescott8228]

Love that shirt! Would look great with jeans in the Fall or a cooler night now ❤️

[@joanbarker6581]

Loved that shirt too!!!

[@KW3908]

Thanks for sharing. Be grateful that you live in an area where you have options for meetings. I moved from a large city where there were 20-30 meetings every day within close range to a small town in another state in the middle of farm country.... No options! You are doing great. Growth is sometimes painful! Hang in there.

[@lisasettles3799]

Hi Darlene, I’m a big fan. I enjoy all your sewing video’s. I Love your mouth. As my friends and I call it a Sailor Mouth We Love it. Today what you have been talking about is so true. That you have got to Open that door and go through it at your own pace. Love you girl.

[@larnold7614]

What an awareness you have knowing that you need to do something to change your down mood. 1st then 2nd step etc. I do the same thing. It works.

[@margaret7925]

Adulting sucks sometimes and human behavior is weird. If you have survived this far you’re good. Keep on keeping on. You got this. One foot in front of the other no matter what. Recluse is not always healthy. But I wish I could be a recluse a lot of the times. Music is always awesome to me as well. Dancing is life. 😅life is good you will find it.

[@sleeplessinscandia6452]

Darlene….. that shirt looks so good on you. I like Sonoma brand…. They’re cute and fit well…… ❤

[@SewManyThings]

Thank you for sharing your experience and your wisdom❤️

[@user-ky6wj1dh4n]

Great find Darlene! Looks super comfy and the colour looks good on you ❤️

[@stephaniepapaleo9001]

Thank you for your insight on your quitting drinking, it does help us that are in recovery. Love the salmon top bc the white tie dye lines make the shirt pop, paired with some white pants or white 👡 🩴 would be cute.

[@shellcshells2902]

Darlene, you should write a book! ❤

[@grandmabelindassewingclub5528]

You look good in that brown top!!! Good job to choose this! have a nice weekend!

[@vivianp5962]

I 💕 that shirt

[@carlamortenson5604]

Happy for you that you have made progress in this path we call life. Shirt is very becoming. I also like that color.

[@virginiaturner7836]

Look great in that color!

[@an-alechianeathery770]

I'm in my 40s and i can't drive do to eyesight issues. I agree with you on fact that if you don’t believe in God then you won't better/ succeed in life. I have heard this many time from churches i been to, online churches and tv churches. That make me walk away from them. Doesn't matters if you believe in God or not. If you believe in yourself then you will definitely succeed with hard work. If that with God or not. I people are definitely different breed these days. Yes its like people turn back clock like they never left high. Thanks for doing this video.

[@dianemiller7417]

Wow that was powerful. I never drank but have family that did. I never realized there were so many phases of sobriety.

[@kathleenkroha2063]

The struggle are real ! I am very proud of you! ❤

[@annamoreau457]

Shirt looks nice, enjoyed video.

[@marlene4]

Yes it did help. Thank you Darlene!!!

[@samanthaowens65]

Thank you for sharing Darlene.

[@dawnplough1458]

I love that shirt

[@suzieq1024]

I can relate to what you’re saying but in different circumstances. Thanks

[@DeborahBurton.]

This is a brilliant, self-aware, kind, beautiful video. ❤

[@febeleven]

Love the shirt on you. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and feeling.

[@tamitatlock5621]

Thank you for sharing 💚

[@debrawilcox6337]

Great post, Darlene! Thanks for sharing about your AA meeting. I resonated with the things you said ❤️

[@teresamartin2379]

Darlene, there are online meetings where you can just listen as well. I have found that it is great after my son passed away and I didn't and don't want to face people.

[@darlene.michaud]

I know online works for some but not for me. I hate anything live online. It's why I will never go live. And I'm in front of a computer all the time. I don't want to be looking at a computer for a meeting. But I'm glad that worked for you and I'm so sorry about your son.

[@jandaniluk4465]

You look great in the shirt

[@staciebarndweller774]

You look great! Congratulations.

[@crichey2368]

Huge n thank u.

[@leonabelanger9683]

Thank you for sharing

[@marshameeks4880]

You’ve had a breakthrough

[@shalomnurse]

I love your new shirt. It looks great on you. I’m glad you’re getting out.

[@millieyardley2360]

Cute shirt!

[@karikant4142]

Wow way to go! That had to be very difficult and stressful but damn girl you did it!❤

[@JanellWicht]

❤ nice share

[@user-dz1bd2rf6h]

Love the top. I proud of you. Do not give up.

[@claramiranda2049]

Looking good 🙏🏽❤️👍🏽

[@teresamartin2379]

Your blouse looks stunning on you!

[@delphablankinship519]

That's a nice shirt.