A Party Hat Hesitantcy, Aylesford

It seems to be full on Christmas party season in London this week, a lot of the restaurants and pubs are full to bursting. We had our own sort of work Christmas lunch at Pizza Express today. It was really nice to get together as a group again, even if it did include the Big Boss being present (to be fair he was paying the bill with the help of £100 from our employers). Unfortunately, we were not allowed to drink alcohol but thanks to a mistake by the waiting staff four of us were brought "proper" bottled beer (i.e the 5% stuff) rather than the alcohol free version. We did not complain!
In the olden days Christmas Party day often started at midday at one of the film processing companies (it was a long time ago!) who had invited us for lunch and beer and wine (none of which we had to pay for). After that, without a pause, we would head straight to the pub for two or three hours before moving on to the big event itself. We would partake of as many free drinks as we could and scoff the food as soon as it appeared. One particular party included Russian "fur" hats and a vodka ice fountain!
Often that wasn't the end of proceedings - another pub visit and another film processing company do would present yet more opportunities for imbibement before the evening finished. I've no idea how I remained upright, although I do remember one year missing the last train home and having to pay for a rather expensive hotel room instead!
As I've got older and my alcohol tolerance has faded a certain party hat hesitantcy has crept in. I think I prefer to leave all that partying to the younger fraternity at our workplace. I'm happier at home with a cold glass of wine or two and some good telly. Back in the day, though, I had a great time and still have some great memories.