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Janice V. Johnson Dowd, LMSW

Recovering Relationships Newsletter - November 2025 (formerly Parenting In Recovery)

I’m so glad you’re here—thank you for joining me!

As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words but to live by them.” – John F. Kennedy.

 

Raw Thoughts on Gratitude

I used to think I would feel happy once life finally looked the way I imagined. But gratitude has taught me something different: joy doesn’t come when everything is perfect—it grows when we notice what’s already good. I am working on slowing down and appreciating the ordinary moments so I can feel more grounded, more hopeful, and more present. Gratitude doesn’t change our circumstances, but it changes the way we move through them—with softness, trust, and enoughness. I’ve learned that cultivating gratitude is a practice, one that requires patience and intention. Over time, it has shaped how I think, showing me calm and beauty even during difficult times and making everyday moments better.

 

Helpful tip from the book Rebuilding Relationships in Recovery -tips to survive the surrender pg 207

Surrendering doesn't mean you're weak; it’s a strong choice to value peace over the urge to control everything. In the recovery process, we often feel the need to immediately "fix” all our issues, especially in our relationships. However, healing takes time, and taking breaks isn't a sign of failure. it's crucial for progress. When you give yourself permission to step back and let go of the need to control every situation, you open yourself up to clarity, personal growth, and real connections.

 

I would like to request your help…

I’m deeply committed to this book and truly believe it can help many people. but I can’t do it alone. Your support means everything.

I am attaching a Link to Goodreads this month, please consider leaving a review here

 Link to Goodreads 
 

Resources That Matter: Meaningful Podcasts, Books, and Social Accounts to Explore

 

Introducing a new Podcast Series

From personal Recovery; to Heart-Centered Parenting podcast

In this episode, Janice and Nadia explore how sobriety reconnects us to our inner truth and transforms the way we parent. Together they unpack healing the inner child, parenting from love instead of fear, and embracing imperfection. It’s a conversation about presence, authenticity, and the freedom that comes when we parent—and live—heart-centeredly.

 Link Spotify 
 

The Recovery Tool Belt by Trent Carter

The Recovery Tool Belt by Trent Carter is a clear, science-based guide through every stage of recovery—from withdrawal to long-term healing. Carter blends medication-assisted treatment, therapy, and lifestyle strategies into a practical toolkit for preventing relapse and building lasting sobriety. A must-read for anyone seeking hope, structure, and evidence-driven support on the recovery journey.

 Purchase Book 
 

Social Media With Real Impact @pawsitivegrowth

Pawsitive Growth is a compassionate, judgment-free coaching resource dedicated to helping individuals in recovery build confidence, prevent relapse, and create healthier, more fulfilling lives.

Rooted in the values of unconditional support and loyalty—qualities inspired by their love of animals—Pawsitive Growth offers real-life strategies for every stage of recovery, from early sobriety to long-term maintenance.

They also collaborate with therapists, treatment centers, and sober living programs to strengthen the circle of support for lasting change. Their Instagram feed (@pawsitivegrowth) is an encouraging space filled with practical tools, emotional insight, and reminders that growth and healing are always worth investing in.

 Link to Instagram 
 

Explore these helpful holiday blog posts.

 

Mon, Jul 1

Service Work

What is it, and why do it?

I use the term “service work” often when I speak or write about my recovery.  For me, it is a tool that has helped me maintain my sobriety throughout the ups and downs of my

 Read More 
 

Please share this newsletter with anyone you think might find it helpful. My mission is to reach anyone struggling with their addiction, mental health, or their ability to reconnect with their friends and family.

Please feel free to email me with questions, information.

 email Janice 
 

Upcoming events and news


The Gulf Coast Conference on Addiction and Recovery

Nov 6th - 7th, Orange Beach, AL

The Annual Gulf Coast Social Work Conference

January 29-30, Biloxi, MS

Alabama Conference of Social Work

Feb 25- 27th, Orange Beach, AL

VA - Metro DC Stat NASW Conference

March 26-28t, Newport News, VA

The Alabama School of Alcohol and Drug Studies

March 23 - 27th, University of Alabama

Do you have an event, information, or activity you would like me to share? Please provide me with full information and details, including where additional information can be obtained, at least 45 days before the event

 

Additional Resources For Information and Help

Suicide & Crisis Lifeline dial 988 is now the three-digit dialing code that routes callers to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

For substance abuse treatment and mental health referrals, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357

AA world service - https://www.aa.org

Al-anon - https://al-anon.org/

Adult Children of Alcoholics and Dysfunctional Families - https://adultchildren.org/

Janice V. Johnson Dowd, LMSW

Four Pages, LLC
P.O. Box 3049
Daphne, AL 36527
United States

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