What a difference a month makes

Wednesday, 17th February 2010

Ros Reines on why more and more Australians are on the wagon in February

So far I have survived 14 days on a hectic social schedule without even a brandy snap, and it has been rugged going. Only when you do not drink do you become aware of how pissed everyone seems to be and how, after a certain point, nothing that they are saying makes any sense at all. It’s interesting to observe as a social diarist, and under certain circumstances you can almost start to feel lightheaded yourself.

However, there are certain tricks that make attending parties in February easier to deal with. Always ask for a drink with ice and a slice, preferably sluiced with some lime juice just to make it interesting. Do not linger talking to anyone who is boring and, should you need those feelgood endorphins to kick in, try taking a quick jog before you arrive. That way you will also be flushed and slightly radiant, convincing everyone that you are already onto your third. Remember, the other great benefit of being on the wagon in February is the freedom of being able to drive yours home again whenever you please without having to wait around for a taxi. But even so, I can hardly wait until reckless November rolls around again.

Ros Reines is a columnist at the Sunday Telegraph in Sydney.