I have been sober for 3yrs and 4 months and during the pandemic is was easy cuz we all had to stay home and I could just igg all the old "friends" and avoid the people places and things but that also included work. I havent worked, (not like, worked a few days here and there and random places only to be able to finance my drug use) but like, really 'got back out there' and now that its definitely 'time' to, and the world is opening back up but it's almost like I'm afraid to work sober, and also scared of the freedoms it affords such as consistant money and back in social settings, while sober, and this would truly be the first time I'm doing normal life (get up, go to work, take care of my son, function like an auctual human being) with out drugs and tbh I'm scared to death, but its time. How do you deal with getting back out there and living life sober, at 38 yrs old, almost starting over!
One foot in front of the other.
I’m 37 and starting over. I worked in a place where they drank on the clock. I’ve taken the time right now, with my broken back also from drinking, to think about what work path I’m going to take that will edify my soul enough to not drink. I challenge you to do the same. This time, when looking for work, look for a passion of yours. Not just a job you have to go to and hate so much that you can’t wait to drink on lunch. But somewhere so fun that you often work through lunch because you are living your dream!!! I hope you find your passion. Good luck to you.
I hear you. It’s a lot. I believe the one day at a time philosophy is your best way to handle things. Try to concentrate on what you can do today, and have faith that a power greater than yourself will take care of the rest. Have you ever done AA or NA meetings? Meetings are a great place to find sober friends and support. Be well 
Hey I’m in VA too..also have an 11 year old, recently started working again after a divorce…it’s a lot…awesome you have so much sober time under your belt already. That alone will help you so much.