So first let me state (emphatic disclaimer) I'm not advocating overindulging or being irresponsible or endangering oneself or others or being just plain falling down intoxicated or unconscious, but... on occasion, don't you think it's okay to enjoy a spirit or two? I must admit a nice glass of wine, an ice cold beer, or a even a cocktail can be just what I need to relax. I'm talking about savoring and enjoying a drink, not being the idiot guzzling down a few in rapid succession to see how quickly one can toss their cookies.
Ok I'll say it. I enjoy a cocktail once in a while, especially when the weather is really warm. Long Island Ice Tea and margaritas are my favorites, though a Maker's Mark and diet coke is good too (don't judge!). Last year the hubby received a bottle of Puerto Rican rum from a client as a "thank you" gift and man-o-man was it delicious. Sweet, syrupy, and smoky...yummy yum yum. We had one shot each night (ok...hubby had a few more, but whose counting?) until that bottle was gone. Side note: he is funny when he is a little tipsy. But who really cares? The hubby is usually the DD so he rarely drinks alcohol at all but we were at home and we are WAY over the legal drinking age so why not. And that's the way it should be I think. Responsible adults who want to enjoy themselves.
There is a line, of course, between enjoyment and abuse. It is important to know your limits. In a previous post I had alluded to a situation involving excessive drinking and knowing when to cut people off. It can be a tough thing to deal with especially if the person is an "angry" not a "happy" drunk and you may give them more leeway than you should cause you don't want an argument or scene. I think the best approach is to control the flow of alcohol. One of the best is just limiting drink options for the party. Have a signature cocktail rather than an open set up with bottle of booze out so guests can help themselves....those with little self control will quickly consume all of your Grey Goose and Patron and make arses of his or her self. If you set up a cooler or tub, control how many bottles and cans are set out...chill maybe two per person to start then slowly replace throughout the party. Same goes for wine...open a couple bottles to start then one at a time as needed.
Probably the most awkward scenario is when a guest brings their OWN libations. You should suggest they share with everyone and just mix their drinks with yours. Hopefully it will help disapate the alcohol consumption so that guest does not drink a cooler full of drinks. Its a tough call but better they are a little "put out" then them getting totally zonked and getting into an accident or worse.
Okay enough soapbox talk....I gotta find my corkscrew!
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