Beer

I didn't think I'd like beer. My parents had let me try sips of it as a kid and it was nasty. I knew beer is an acquired taste and that it would probably be a long time before I liked it if I decided to drink it. But I've been introduced to Big Rock Beer and have found that I do like beer. I look forward to trying the different Big Rock varieties over time. I like to play it extra safe and limit drinks to once or twice a week (or none at all) since I'm nursing. Though that may be overkill. So it may be a while before I get a chance to sample them all. I really want to give two of their seasonal varieties a try. One is called Winter Spice (has cinnamon, cloves, etc.) and the other is Espresso Stout (coffee and beer in one...a double "Word of Wisdom" whammy)!

We've decided to use our recycling deposit returns as our liquor store money. We collect discarded bottles and such and turn them in when our boxes get full (along with our own empty bottles and cans). I'd like to save up for several months so we can go tour the Big Rock Brewery (which is in Calgary, not too far from us). It's $25 per person so it may be a while. But I think it'd be a fun date. I really know nothing about how beer is made (other than it involves hops, barley, and fermentation). I think it would be interesting to see how it's done. Plus you get to try little mini samples of each beer and then pick your favorites to take home.

It's weird to be writing about beer. Even though I grew up in a home where moderate drinking was common (and never a big deal) I've been so surrounded by people who think that there is no such thing as responsible drinking for a long time. I always knew my parents were normal, healthy adults and weren't doing anything wrong (they didn't believe in the Word of Wisdom so they couldn't be faulted for having the occasional drink). But my social circle consisted of some individuals who would think if one has any alcohol at all he must be an alcoholic and a big ol' sinner. I never agreed with that attitude but I always kept my opinions to myself. So casually blogging about beer is a new and strange experience.

It's kind of nice to be exploring this new...I don't know what to call it, hobby? I mean, drinking beer (or any alcohol) isn't done like drinking water, or juice. It's about flavor and enjoying the experience (you drink like it's water and you'll only end up wasted which is not the point). It's especially nice because it's a chance to delve deeper into the Canadian way of life (especially since I'm drinking Canadian beer).

I think tonight I'm going to have some pizza and a beer while watching Strange Brew.