Editor’s note: Today, the Denver Gazette begins publishing stories from the Colorado Network, a new cooperative of freelance journalists focused on covering news from all corners of the state, particularly areas that are undercovered now.
FORT COLLINS • Unlike five years ago, Taylor Strope won’t be heading into the New Year, and, more specifically, Dry January with any trepidation.
This time around, Strope, a Fort Collins resident and owner of Mountainside Events, has a more nuanced plan for what will be her second foray into Dry January with the end goal of going alcohol-free for the first 31 days of the year.
“I had a good experience when I tried it a few years ago,” said Strope, 32, “but the first few days were a little harder than I expected. Then, you start getting the itch to go out. It can be challenging.”
All signs indicate the odds are stacked more heavily in Strope’s favor for her second Dry January installation. The Fort Collins event planner not only has experience on her side, Strope’s partner will also be participating with her.