By Patti Parish-Kaminski, Publisher
Dry January? No thanks, Mr. Kaminski likes living.
Even though it’s early January, I have friends who are smack dab in the middle of Dry January, and it is taking a toll. Now I personally don’t subscribe to this particular theory as Mr. Kaminski appreciates the opportunity to continue living. But every year without fail, I have a pal or two reach out with the woes of wistful wants.
Typically, it starts out with something like this: “Girl, I overindulged. It’s time to pay the piper. I’m not drinking for an entire month.”
I listen, intently, as a good gal pal should. Of course, I know better, but I’m not about to mention it. It’s along the same lines as, “I’m not eating. I’m losing at least 10 pounds this month.” That’s a bit more realistic to me, as I can get a hair cut and lose a solid five pounds.
Not only do I not subscribe to this particular concept, I make a concerted effort to book social engagements well in advance that lean toward liberal libations in January. After all, I need to recover from the holidays. I currently have four such engagements on the books for January including a girls’ trip to Vegas. Now why would I set myself up for failure and declare this a drought month? Everybody knows drinks are flowing and free in Vegas on the floor – a winning combination that you just can’t beat. It’s the more you drink the more you gamble mantra – kinda like a live auction. The more you drink, the more you bid. I get it.
According to the stats, which may or may not be accurate, approximately one in three Americans participate in Dry January, with a success rate of about 70%. I question that. I’m not certain fact finding on this particular subject is entirely accurate, just sayin’. Interestingly enough, millennials aged 30-44 are the most likely segment to engage in alcohol abstinence for the month. There’s my out. I’m well past 44. I’m at the age that I know better.
Apparently, participants in Dry January do adversely affect the economy with alcohol sales being diminished. So, what do these folks drink during the dreadful drought? Turns out juice and tea followed by sodas are the most common substitutes. I get that, reasonably healthy, good job. But, an alarming percentage, nearly 20%, turn to cannabis as an alcohol alternative. Wait. Replacing alcohol with weed? How is that healthy?
Now I am not dissing Dry January at all. I support all my peeps in their endeavor and will cheer the loudest for their success. It’s just not for me. I know my limitations – and my temperament. A nice glass of wine at dinner has saved my marriage and the lives of my children – more than once. And I suspect this pattern will continue well in 2026.
Happy New Year porch sitters, and if you are participating in Dry January or any self-improvement activities for the coming year, I’m your biggest cheerleader! Let me know what you’re doing. Heck, I may even join you. You go and be the best that you can be! I know you can do it! See y’all next week – on the porch!
Patti Parish-Kaminski
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