Drinking is Fun! And Other Things We Learn From Grown-Ups
How my skewed version of alcohol as a child led me to a decades-long drinking problem.
I can still hear all the sounds of “the other room”. The clinking of ice, swizzle sticks and glasses banging together, and laughter. Lots and lots of laughter. To the point where it would get so loud and crazy that I’d quietly open my door and tiptoe around the corner daring to see what was so funny. I’d peer around the wall to see my parents, neighbors, and friends talking and laughing hysterically. Usually, one adult was standing in the middle of the room telling a story while frantically waving their arms. If I was really bold I’d wander a little closer.
“Kristen, what are you doing out here, go back to your room!” I’d hear.
Damn. I’d been caught.
If the booze had flowed enough I’d be welcomed in for a few minutes to be passed around the room like a prop in footie pajamas.
My parents hosted many parties during the 70’s. On a Saturday morning, the announcement would be made, “We’re having a party tonight so I expect you to be on your best behavior and stay in your room”. My sister Robin was 8 years older so she was lucky enough to go to a friend's for a sleepover. I would be expected to say hello for a…
