“Hi Chris,

It’s hard to believe that a whole year has gone by since we hiked up that mountain near Aspen and went through all the fun and inspired learning about how to make the third stage of life so good. I still follow your blogs and get out there and exercise more than ever, no matter what, just because you made it all so obviously the right thing to do at the YNY retreat.

I turned 70 years old a couple of months ago which was a bit of a shock for me (still struggling a bit against the “70 is old” myth). Despite that, I’m still working full-time. There’s no doubt in my mind that exercise does great things for reflexes and balance as well as stamina and strength.

Now I’ve forgotten where I was going with this. Oh yes, one big question that I would greatly like to hear you address is the scientific evidence about booze and its alleged negative effects. When we have been out there challenging ourselves to the max all day, there is nothing more enjoyable and relaxing than a scotch or two and a glass of wine. We keep hearing that alcohol is a toxin etc. but the scientific evidence seems soft. Maybe I’m kidding myself. What do you say?”

Read Chris’ take on alcohol in his recent Fortnightly, ‘Booze, Boats and Bill Fabrocini.’