"Pink Cloud, or Lavender Blanket?" | Episode 145 -Natalie

<p>Why sit on a pink cloud, when you can wrap yourself in a lavender blanket?&quot;</p><p><br></p><p>If AANP speaks to you, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/0Gp7W0Sto6atIj3XCbR9zA?si=08f5b200b29b4a9e">⁠⁠⁠follow the show⁠⁠⁠</a> and never miss an episode.</p><p><br></p><p>Natalie’s journey to sobriety is a story of family patterns, heartbreak, denial, and the hard-won freedom of learning to live differently.</p><p><br></p><p>Growing up with an alcoholic father and a volatile home environment, Natalie was determined never to follow the same path. Yet when she eventually began drinking, alcohol became a way to cope with emotional pain. A devastating breakup marked a turning point, and over the years her drinking progressed despite outpatient treatment, inpatient rehab, and repeated attempts to stop.</p><p><br></p><p>Her rock bottom came through a combination of a domestic violence relationship, being caught drinking at work, and a hospitalisation for pancreatitis. Faced with the consequences of her drinking, Natalie finally became willing to work the Twelve Steps, even though she had long struggled with the spiritual side of AA.</p><p><br></p><p>Now sober since 14 May 2024, Natalie speaks candidly about the peace, clarity, and strength she has found in recovery. She shares how sobriety helped her rebuild her health, establish boundaries, leave an abusive relationship, protect her career, and discover the value of a supportive recovery community.</p><p><br></p><p>From her idea of a “lavender blanket” of lasting inner peace to learning to make decisions aligned with her values, Natalie’s experience is a reminder that recovery is not about becoming perfect. It is about becoming willing, staying connected, and taking life one day at a time.</p><p><br></p><p>Listen to Natalie’s honest and heartfelt share on the **An All Night Place (AANP) Podcast**.</p>