On the wagon... Any tips?

[Pleater]

I am not teetotal, I have several drinks in a year. Sometimes five or six - but I could give it up any time, really, no problem.

I try to keep clear of sugar and aspartame - so most ready prepared drinks are out.

I find that herbal teas and infusions are good, particularly if they have a nice scent - mint or sage tea from the actual leaves, served iced are nice in hot weather, something with red berries served hot in the evenings is soothing.

The tea bags can be got from some supermarkets here, I buy dried herbs as packaged refills, or sometimes loose from health food shops, though only those in busy town centres as I have had stale leaves in the past.

You might need to experiment with how long you steep the leaves or teabag to get the taste you like. Once you get that sorted you can make up a batch and put it in the fridge in a jug - pour some out when required and either ice it or warm it in the microwave or on the hob. I'd only keep it one day, but it is convenient when you are busy.

Anne the Pleater :ootd:

[Ozark Ridge Rider]

Speaking as one who has very little experience - I didn't drink at all until in my 50's, and very little now, you're right. On a hot day a cold beer can really cut a thirst.

You might try sparkling water or club soda with a strong shot of fresh squeezed lemon or lime juice in it, enough to make it kinda sour.

I don't much experience with Anne's herbal teas, but I get a lot of loose black tea from Upton Tea Importers. They have literally hundreds of kinds, and lots of herbals, very reasonable.