Welcome Jack, greeneyedlady & cleanlivin!! It's wonderful that you've joined SR. You are no longer alone - you have all of us.
I know just how you feel - and it's great you are bringing your concerns here. There are so many excellent responses already. I'll just add my support and congratulations on recognizing what needs to be done. As you already know, alcoholism is a progressive disease. What was once fun and exciting is no longer safe & we can no longer predict what might happen after that first drink.
I drank for over 25 yrs. In my 40's I was still able to control my intake a bit. (I never thought to question my drinking habits like you are!) Yet 10 yrs. later I was a trainwreck - it took huge amounts of booze to achieve the same effect. It was never relaxing or a way to celebrate - it was a necessity. I was drinking every day - becoming sloppy and careless. This never has to happen to you. Contratulations on seeking a new life - you can do this!