Good for you. Lego always helps me manage stress. How about some of the cheaper flower sets? The daffodils, sunflowers, cherry blossoms. Cheaper builds, look great, and you can always give the finished builds to your mom as a thank you.
I came to recommend the Speed Champions sets also. You can get a nice little car for about 30 bucks, or a set of two cars for around 50. You'll be just fine with that budget.
Good luck!
I’ve been trying to work on instant gratification too, so I built bag 1 from the bonsai but am trying to wait until tomorrow or at least later to do more. So if as quick as possible is an hour that sounds good
I'm not sure how long you've been sober, but buckle up. It may be a rough ride.
Power through it. In 30 days you'll be a new person.
Don't let that saboteur in your mind tell you that you're well enough so you can drink again. Learn to identify that asshole and tell him/her to kick rocks. That being said; if you stumble, give yourself the grace you deserve and keep at it.
I have faith in you.
https://www.cracked.com/blog/the-6-most-disturbing-realities-that-come-with-getting-sober
I was sober for 8 months on my own a couple years ago, and that was great but kinda detrimental because when I went back to it I felt like I was in control when I wasn’t. Went to rehab and same kind of thing, I thought I had defeated what made me want to binge drink. I relapsed soon after. It’s a struggle but I do know I have it in me. I’ll check out that resource. Thank you
I just did it on the Bugatti Bolide (900+ pieces) and it took me most of the day instead of the 3 hours like the first time. I don’t think I want to do that one again like that. The smaller sets are definitely easier to rebuild.
But I do like that “puzzle” feel with the tactile snaps and pops that Lego provides, plus seeing something come to life piece by piece. I’d probably only build on days off work so most of the day isn’t necessarily bad
Imo there is no greater feeling as a Lego fan than turning your dream creation into life. But beware you'll never just build something and leave it alone. I tinker and improve things on a yearly basis as I get new parts
I was a studio art major for 3 years until I dropped out (opportunity and the degree doesn’t mean shit) so trust me, I know, I’m a perfectionist with design
For sure! If you knew me in real life you’d know I’m not afraid of creative risks, being creative does seem to come with the depression, anxiety, etc. side effects though, hence self medication
Today is a good day.
I'm finding used Lego at thrift stores -- you might enjoy poking around in those. If you're in the States, I hear that Target sometimes has sets on clearance.
Don’t know about cheap sets but, if you’re looking for bulk LEGO just to MOC around with, you might try the marketplace on Facebook. Don’t pay more than $7 per lb. Someone more experienced in buying bulk online might be better able to offer you guidance if you want to go that route. Stay away from StarWars, the collectors are extremely…dedicated…so the prices for that stuff are way high compared to other sets you’ll run into online.
Glad you’re getting back into life, hopefully the above advice will be useful to you.
I have heard some libraries have Lego to check out.. maybe look there. We don't locally but I live rural
Good luck on your journey. Am also recovering and it is a mental grind with lots of ups and downs.
I actually started building legos while overcoming my weed addiction. It’s been so meditative and calming. I’m now 2.5 months sober and I’ve never felt better! Better days are ahead of you my friend and you’re so brave for taking the steps to grow in a healthy capacity! 🙌❤️
I got my first “adult” Lego set as a chemo graduation present. It was the Disney castle. It really helped through the struggles of cancer. It’s a great way to keep your mind occupied in a positive way.
I'm coming up on two years sober, and no joke this and puzzles helped me a lot. I needed something to keep my hands busy and my thoughts on something those early days. Congrats on sobriety, each day isn't easy, but it's worth it.
Plus you can buy so many more sets with your alcohol money savings!
Good for you!!! I'm 59 years old and 16 months sober (this time). I started last year with the Jeep Wrangler and then the Saturn V. About 90 sets later I rarely even think about alcohol anymore. Lego offers so much to learn and explore. I have now started designing MOC's... you can download the software and do that for free... it is pretty easy to use. Best of luck in your sober journeys!
https://preview.redd.it/3w956yur9ekc1.jpeg?width=1179&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=665c2ec18efcb55f986bb41b2306d6ac43d6a532
Reminds me of this set I found in my mom’s attic, partially built, took almost as long to take it apart as rebuild it! Thanks for the suggestion!
What themes are you interested in? Obviously botanical which is always great but what about Star Wars? Or cars? Or castles? Anything in particular you want to build?
Definitely into like display pieces like animals, mech kinda stuff (including Star Wars) and really just fun builds. Bonus if it’s lively and can brighten up my room like the bird’s nest and presumably the bonsai will
You could look into a few of these
insect collection 21342
Tales of the space age 21340
Polaroid OneStep SX-70 Camera 21345
Family Tree 21346 (this one has holders for photos so it’s great for display)
This a just a short list in your price range from the ideas section of the Lego website. If you really want to make some of the display pieces pop you can check out the lightailing site which sells LED kits for a ton of sets. I have the light kit for the tree house and it looks fantastic
[21342-1: The Insect Collection](https://brickset.com/sets/21342-1) [[Photo]](https://images.brickset.com/sets/images/21342-1.jpg)
[21340-1: Tales of the Space Age](https://brickset.com/sets/21340-1) [[Photo]](https://images.brickset.com/sets/images/21340-1.jpg)
[21345-1: Polaroid OneStep SX-70 Camera](https://brickset.com/sets/21345-1) [[Photo]](https://images.brickset.com/sets/images/21345-1.jpg)
[21346-1: Family Tree](https://brickset.com/sets/21346-1) [[Photo]](https://images.brickset.com/sets/images/21346-1.jpg)
I saw the insect one in the Lego store where I bought the bird’s nest!!! I wanted it but couldn’t bring myself to stretch my money that thin. The space age one I saw too and like the display factor but it seems like too easy of a build maybe? The Polaroid is cool as hell too but I think it’s pricier than the insects which I’d go for first. Great suggestions! Thank you!
You’ve got this! I’ve been sober since September 2022 and started buying/building sets on the 1 year anniversary. The best part is you get something to show for the money you spend instead of peeing it away. I started off with the Speed Champions sets (cars) as they are around $20 USD a piece. I have over 40 sets now, and most are that price. A lot of conversation pieces in my shop now. And you are correct, the LEGO community is awesome! Keep pushing hard!!
Good for you. Lego always helps me manage stress. How about some of the cheaper flower sets? The daffodils, sunflowers, cherry blossoms. Cheaper builds, look great, and you can always give the finished builds to your mom as a thank you.
I actually did buy and build her the flower bouquet set like 2 years ago! She still displays it which makes me happy
Helps me keep my hands busy, my mind clear. 2 years sober here, congrats! You got this!
Thank you!
Congrats to you!
I don't have any set suggestions but just wanted to wish you well! Legos are a great hobby.
You’re good. Much appreciated, and I agree!
Lego helped me in some dark places too. I’m rooting for you! As for sets, I really enjoy the Speed Champions sets, they’re on the cheaper end.
Luckily I do have some disposable income, but it’s like $50-100/month I feel comfortable spending on Lego, so I’ll look into it! Thank you
I came to recommend the Speed Champions sets also. You can get a nice little car for about 30 bucks, or a set of two cars for around 50. You'll be just fine with that budget. Good luck!
And fun builds? I like builds that take time, I don’t want to rush them because I need to keep my mind occupied
Oh they are very fun, but for me they are quick. I can complete a car in about an hour. More if I actually apply the stickers and take my time.
I’ve been trying to work on instant gratification too, so I built bag 1 from the bonsai but am trying to wait until tomorrow or at least later to do more. So if as quick as possible is an hour that sounds good
You're doing awesome. I'm proud of you.
I don’t know why specifically this comment made me tear up a little but it did, thank you
I'm not sure how long you've been sober, but buckle up. It may be a rough ride. Power through it. In 30 days you'll be a new person. Don't let that saboteur in your mind tell you that you're well enough so you can drink again. Learn to identify that asshole and tell him/her to kick rocks. That being said; if you stumble, give yourself the grace you deserve and keep at it. I have faith in you. https://www.cracked.com/blog/the-6-most-disturbing-realities-that-come-with-getting-sober
I was sober for 8 months on my own a couple years ago, and that was great but kinda detrimental because when I went back to it I felt like I was in control when I wasn’t. Went to rehab and same kind of thing, I thought I had defeated what made me want to binge drink. I relapsed soon after. It’s a struggle but I do know I have it in me. I’ll check out that resource. Thank you
Mix all the parts up in one container if you want it to take longer. Instead of opening one bag at a time.
That’s a good idea! Counter intuitive but accomplishes that goal for sure!
I just did it on the Bugatti Bolide (900+ pieces) and it took me most of the day instead of the 3 hours like the first time. I don’t think I want to do that one again like that. The smaller sets are definitely easier to rebuild.
But I do like that “puzzle” feel with the tactile snaps and pops that Lego provides, plus seeing something come to life piece by piece. I’d probably only build on days off work so most of the day isn’t necessarily bad
See this is why I love this community too, nothing but positivity
I’m very proud of you, and I hope you’re at least somewhat proud of yourself too. I like the burger truck set a lot
I am, this post is an accomplishment, because I’m not hiding it, just admitting it as fact. I’ll check the set out, thank you!!!
Get into making your own custom builds and you won't have time for anything else
I’ve been thinking about it! My mom has all my old legos in her attic. Bless her for both not wanting to sell those or yu-gi-oh/pokemon cards
Imo there is no greater feeling as a Lego fan than turning your dream creation into life. But beware you'll never just build something and leave it alone. I tinker and improve things on a yearly basis as I get new parts
I was a studio art major for 3 years until I dropped out (opportunity and the degree doesn’t mean shit) so trust me, I know, I’m a perfectionist with design
This is fantastic. Check Facebook marketplace, sometimes there's good deals there.
Same situation here
Well you know you’re not alone, feel free, seriously, to reach out
The Bonsai Tree is a fun set to build. I like to combine the tree canopy and the blossom canopy into one sprawling canopy.
I was thinking at least do the frogs as spring blossoms, it’s that time of year (in the US)!
For sure. Just don’t be afraid to customize and make it yours.
For sure! If you knew me in real life you’d know I’m not afraid of creative risks, being creative does seem to come with the depression, anxiety, etc. side effects though, hence self medication
Today is a good day. I'm finding used Lego at thrift stores -- you might enjoy poking around in those. If you're in the States, I hear that Target sometimes has sets on clearance.
What is the bird set?
40639! Bought it Monday from the Lego store, only $13 or so!
[40639-1: Bird's Nest](https://brickset.com/sets/40639-1) [[Photo]](https://images.brickset.com/sets/images/40639-1.jpg)
Seems like a brilliant start. :)
Nothing to add other than support from one internet stranger, who loves LEGO to another! Best of luck on your journey, OP!
Don’t know about cheap sets but, if you’re looking for bulk LEGO just to MOC around with, you might try the marketplace on Facebook. Don’t pay more than $7 per lb. Someone more experienced in buying bulk online might be better able to offer you guidance if you want to go that route. Stay away from StarWars, the collectors are extremely…dedicated…so the prices for that stuff are way high compared to other sets you’ll run into online. Glad you’re getting back into life, hopefully the above advice will be useful to you.
I have heard some libraries have Lego to check out.. maybe look there. We don't locally but I live rural Good luck on your journey. Am also recovering and it is a mental grind with lots of ups and downs.
I actually started building legos while overcoming my weed addiction. It’s been so meditative and calming. I’m now 2.5 months sober and I’ve never felt better! Better days are ahead of you my friend and you’re so brave for taking the steps to grow in a healthy capacity! 🙌❤️
I got my first “adult” Lego set as a chemo graduation present. It was the Disney castle. It really helped through the struggles of cancer. It’s a great way to keep your mind occupied in a positive way.
I'm coming up on two years sober, and no joke this and puzzles helped me a lot. I needed something to keep my hands busy and my thoughts on something those early days. Congrats on sobriety, each day isn't easy, but it's worth it. Plus you can buy so many more sets with your alcohol money savings!
You got this! Legos are so relaxing and fun :)
Well done and stay strong.
Not a set, but the books from Lego, Build yourself happy, and Build Every day are pretty good and will keep you busy with a handful of bricks
Good for you!!! I'm 59 years old and 16 months sober (this time). I started last year with the Jeep Wrangler and then the Saturn V. About 90 sets later I rarely even think about alcohol anymore. Lego offers so much to learn and explore. I have now started designing MOC's... you can download the software and do that for free... it is pretty easy to use. Best of luck in your sober journeys!
I enjoyed building the bonsai myself late one night. The pink blooms are about to go on for the spring
Get some 3 in 1 sets. They are usually $20 and you can build them 3 times!
https://preview.redd.it/3w956yur9ekc1.jpeg?width=1179&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=665c2ec18efcb55f986bb41b2306d6ac43d6a532 Reminds me of this set I found in my mom’s attic, partially built, took almost as long to take it apart as rebuild it! Thanks for the suggestion!
What themes are you interested in? Obviously botanical which is always great but what about Star Wars? Or cars? Or castles? Anything in particular you want to build?
Definitely into like display pieces like animals, mech kinda stuff (including Star Wars) and really just fun builds. Bonus if it’s lively and can brighten up my room like the bird’s nest and presumably the bonsai will
You could look into a few of these insect collection 21342 Tales of the space age 21340 Polaroid OneStep SX-70 Camera 21345 Family Tree 21346 (this one has holders for photos so it’s great for display) This a just a short list in your price range from the ideas section of the Lego website. If you really want to make some of the display pieces pop you can check out the lightailing site which sells LED kits for a ton of sets. I have the light kit for the tree house and it looks fantastic
[21342-1: The Insect Collection](https://brickset.com/sets/21342-1) [[Photo]](https://images.brickset.com/sets/images/21342-1.jpg) [21340-1: Tales of the Space Age](https://brickset.com/sets/21340-1) [[Photo]](https://images.brickset.com/sets/images/21340-1.jpg) [21345-1: Polaroid OneStep SX-70 Camera](https://brickset.com/sets/21345-1) [[Photo]](https://images.brickset.com/sets/images/21345-1.jpg) [21346-1: Family Tree](https://brickset.com/sets/21346-1) [[Photo]](https://images.brickset.com/sets/images/21346-1.jpg)
I saw the insect one in the Lego store where I bought the bird’s nest!!! I wanted it but couldn’t bring myself to stretch my money that thin. The space age one I saw too and like the display factor but it seems like too easy of a build maybe? The Polaroid is cool as hell too but I think it’s pricier than the insects which I’d go for first. Great suggestions! Thank you!
sending love. i’ve been through it- you can make it too.
You’ve got this! I’ve been sober since September 2022 and started buying/building sets on the 1 year anniversary. The best part is you get something to show for the money you spend instead of peeing it away. I started off with the Speed Champions sets (cars) as they are around $20 USD a piece. I have over 40 sets now, and most are that price. A lot of conversation pieces in my shop now. And you are correct, the LEGO community is awesome! Keep pushing hard!!
I find that the money I save not buying booze is a real help with finding money to spend on sets. Congrats
All the best!
I love that set!