Posted by Pete L on 15/4/2009, 2:52 pm, in reply to "Starting a new thread"

Hi Geoff If you would like some company viewing the art work, i'd be happy to join you. No offence taken if not. I fully agree with you not wanting to take a step back. I went out last night with another Paruretic, who has already been on a beginners course. So as not to push myself, I went in to the cubicle on both occasions - This to me is my first step as I have not been in pub/ restaurant toilets for many years. Apart from when I went to Cambridge the other week. I am more than happy at this stage to be able to go out without feeling anxious. It's a great feeling! Not sure if you remember, I mentioned going away for the bank holiday weekend. Its a long trip, about 5 hours, but I drank before and during the trip so as to fill the bladder. Anyway, I was determined to make a stop for the first time so, after about an hour, I turned off on to a large layby, where there are toilets and a cafe. My partner went first while I sat with the children. During this time, I found myself watching the toilets for people going in and out but very consciously realised what I was doing so turned away so as not to see. When my partner came back, I marched off on my mission!! I had no intentions of using the urinals, which I point out only had 1 person there, but headed straight to the cubicle, and guess what..... I managed fine. No more counting I told myself! I walked back to the car with a huge grin on my face as I so chuffed with myself. The rest of the weekend was spent with family so, when I needed to go, I used the toilets in their home. I have no problem with this, providing there is a lock. On the way home, we stopped at McDonalds, I didn't need to go for a pee so waited in the car while the family ordered food and freshened up. I did keep thinking 'Do I, Don't I' but I thought about it too much so didn't bother. Wish I had now, never mind. That'll be the challenge for next time. The most positive thing for me is that, the last 3 times i've been out, I have managed not to worry about walking on to a public toilet with the level of anxiety that would normally stop me. These 3 experiences (i know not many) are better than none, which, in turn, have made for a truly enjoyable time. Not having a full bladder is fantastic!! Looking forward to meeting you Geoff and everybody else who's going too. Pete L

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