Yes! The other side of alcohol is amazing - at first, alcohol was my "solution." The way to get through an event or handle a tough situation or just relax on the weekend. But, until I quit (Jan 2021), I didn't truly realize the toll it was taking. Yes, I lost weight and my skin looked better - but, as you note, I was also more present - I could have more fun b/c I could really experience the people and places I encountered.