I tried so many times to quit on my own, but I just didn't know how. And I didn't quit drinking just because I found AA, either. It took time for me to learn how others had done it and what would work for me. There was a long time that each day was stll a struggle and, some days, it still is. That's why I still go to meetings. I have 33 months sober today, something I never thought I could aspire to... 
As far as finding a meeting, I looked on the internet for any meetings near me. I chose one that I thought was close, but there is usually a phone number, so I called and asked for directions. AA folks are almost always willing to help, since that's a big part of the program. Let us know how it's going and it sounds like you've made an excellent start! 
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