For those folks looking for great night on the town, Girdwood has lots to offer

Sometimes a party girl just wants to get away from it all. But not too far away. And that's where one of my favorite places in Alaska comes in - the ever-enchanting, Subaru-chic idyll of Girdwood.

She wants him to quit smoking; he wants her to lose weight

I've been in a relationship with a guy for almost a year and we seem to suddenly be finding faults in each other. I'm trying to get him to stop smoking, which I knew he did when we met but didn't notice how bad it is to be around until now. He leaves ashtrays full of stinky butts all over the apartment and doesn't empty them for days. We live in an apartment in the basement of my parents' house, and they are starting to complain.

Let's hear it for Joe

Let's wow Joe Six-Pack with Alaska-made beers like Snow Angel Barley Wine and Smoked Russian Imperial Stout from Kassik's Kenai Brew Stop.

Wine of the week: 2008 New Zealand sauvignon blanc from Black Box

Housework can wait for winter, cooking outdoors and enjoying the warm glowing orb is what it's all about. A glass of wine further enhances this activity, but schlepping bottles all over the state is a drag and not at all eco-friendly. I'm a big proponent of box wines, and every time one comes about that has some taste and flavor it's my duty to let you know.