I learned that I’m spending Thanksgiving with my boyfriend's family. I'm not terribly happy about it.

In fairness, the Stevens are as welcoming as you could possibly be to someone they wish wasn’t dating their son. However, I never feel quite at home there. Why? Here’s one of many.

The Stevens have this weirdly mature and cinematic approach to alcohol, trotting it out in quaint cordials and steamy, seasonal ciders, but never just turning me loose on their liquor cabinet. Alcohol, it seems, isn't for fun; it's meant only to highlight the fennel in their oyster-and-sausage stuffing or to warm the throat while I’m standing outside with the deep-fryer bin. To rely on alcohol for conviviality or endurance is weak and unseemly, apparently. And yet, what do I need most when I’m around people that disciplined and controlling? Bottomless drinks.

Therefore, I will politely excuse myself after the Stevens’ Thanksgiving dinner and sprint to The Red Hot. Beginning at 5 p.m. Nov. 22 The Red Hot bar staff will act like substitute family members and serve $3 pints all night long. Thanksgiving dinner dogs â€" Turkey dogs topped with mashed potatoes, gravy and cranberry sauce, served with a pecan pie on the side â€" will still be served (you can grab them beginning Wednesday, Nov. 21).

I will need a cold one or 10 after a day with the Stevens.

By the way, The Red Hot hosts Lazy Boy Brew Night Tuesday, Nov. 20 beginning at 7 p.m. Three dollar pints of Lazy Boy IPA, amber, and porter will flow like wine. They will also serve a Lazy Boy Hefeweizen Bratwurst. â€" Suzy Stump

[The Red Hot, 2914 Sixth Ave., Tacoma, 253.779.0229]