There Goes Another Vice

A new study was just released whose results make me not so happy. It was conducted by British researchers, and as much as I love the Brits, I don't like these guys. Their study found a direct connection between alcohol consumption and cancer in women. Nice, huh? First we're told one drink a day is OK. Then we're told to make it red wine. And now this? Egads, can't I have one vice that is moderately healthy for mind, body, and spirit?

(My first and favorite vice is the sun. In fact, if I could live on the beach, I would. However, I am perfectly mindful of the ramifications of too much sun. Getting skin cancer and looking like a leather shoe are things to be avoided. So, I generously slather on the SPF 15 a good half hour before hitting the beach. I'll even switch it up to 30 if I'm feeling like I've had too much sun. And I even reapply sunscreen like a good girl. But for me, there is nothing like sitting on a beach chair on a warm summer day, with a good book, a bottle of water, and a light breeze (so I don't have to hit the ocean--sharks, you know).)

My second and runner-up vice is wine. Which shouldn't even be considered a vice, but for some reason, in this country, drinking a moderate amount on a regular basis is just so naughty. My husband and I treat alcohol like an accompaniment to a meal, not the main course. And I really love nothing more than sipping a nice Torrontes or Shiraz while I prepare dinner. Yes, it helps me relax, but just savoring the flavors and mouthfeel are so enjoyable. It's a little treat I look forward to at the end of a long and/or busy day. Good luck taking that away from me.

So, while I could live without shopping (which I practically am at this point), and I could live without travel (ditto), and I could easily survive without eating out on occasion (still managing that), I could never live without a nice wine and some nice sun. And I won't apologize for it.