Small Wins in Sobriety: A Shopping Trip to Remember

Three years ago, if you had told me I’d spend the weekend after Christmas shopping with my eight-year-old niece, I would’ve laughed—or cried. Back then, I was knee-deep in active alcoholism, and moments like these felt impossible. Fast forward to today, thanks to sobriety and a whole lot of faith, I had the privilege of taking my sibling's little fashionista out for a day of fun, laughter, and memory-making.

Let me tell you, spending time with an eight-year-old who knows almost as much about makeup as I do is both hilarious and humbling. We spent a couple of hours trying on clothes, browsing through makeup aisles, and debating if some purses were TOO sparkly or not sparkly enough. Of course, I had to buy her a pink sweater that she looked adorable in.  She’s young, impressionable, and has some sass, just like her auntie—and I loved every minute of it.

After shopping, we grabbed smoothies and chatted some more about shopping and her school friends. It was a simple outing, but one I’ll treasure forever. It reminded me of all the small, meaningful wins that sobriety brings. Moments like this—being present and showing up for people I love—are what keep me grounded. Three years ago, I couldn’t even show up for myself. But today? Today, I’m here, fully engaged and grateful.

One thing I’ve learned in sobriety is to trust the process, even when it’s hard. Sobriety isn’t a straight road; it’s messy, winding, and full of potholes. But it’s also full of joy if we’re willing to look for it. Moments like this shopping trip remind me that God knows what He’s doing, even when I don’t. All we can do is pray, let go of what we can’t control, and focus on doing the next right thing.

It’s why I love the Pray Until Your Situation Changes T-shirt from the Grit and Grace store. Whether you’re navigating sobriety, a tough season, or just the daily grind, this shirt says it all: keep praying, keep trusting, and know that change is possible. It’s one of my favorite pieces because it’s more than just clothing—it’s a message of hope.

Another item that resonates with me is the We All Have a Story Spiral Notebook. Sobriety has taught me the importance of owning my story, messy parts and all. Whether you’re journaling your prayers, tracking your milestones, or jotting down memories, this notebook is perfect. Our stories are powerful, and writing them down can be a step toward growth, or simply remembering the good moments.

To anyone walking their own journey of sobriety, I want to say this: stay the course. Weather the storms, trust the process, and know that small wins—like a shopping trip with a mini-fashionista—are worth every hard day. Let go of the things you can’t control and remember that God’s plan is always better than our own.

And don’t forget to celebrate those wins—big or small. Whether it’s spending time with a family member, hitting a new milestone, or just waking up and choosing to stay sober for one more day, it’s all worth celebrating. Sobriety isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress, one small win at a time.

If this story resonates with you, I invite you to explore the Christian-Inspired Wear section on Grit and Grace. From faith-based T-shirts and sweatshirts to cozy pajama pants, you’ll find pieces that speak to your faith.

Or visit the Hope & Healing Gifts section to discover items that celebrate recovery and inspire hope in your sobriety journey. Whether it’s for yourself or someone else, these gifts serve as powerful reminders of the strength and grace found in every step forward.

Here’s to more small wins and the joy they bring. ❤️