Thanks for writing this. I was a light drinker and quit 2 1/2 years ago to focus on weight loss. I am quite a bit older than you — but have experienced some of the same things, especially with other people’s reactions. Social drinking is truly engrained in our culture. Thanks for showing that you can break out of the mold and be your own person. I’ve decided to make my change permanent. It’s saved money, time, worry and allowed me to maintain a 50-lb weight loss. Good luck!