Fellas, you seem to be getting into the whole "I Propose" thing — sweeping your soon-to-be betrothed up to a spot with a startling beautiful vista, or snorkeling out to the reef to present her with a ring and seek her hand. Since we get all misty just thinking about it, won't you share your proposal story? Write to mritz@honoluluadvertiser.com or call Mary Kaye Ritz at 525-8035.

— Advertiser Staff

NEAR OR FAR?

FIND AN INDEPENDENT COFFEE SHOP FAST

Independent coffee shops are some ecology-lovers' cup of tea. Want to find the one closest to you? Check www.delocator.net to find the locally owned java joint near you. It lists a bunch of O'ahu coffee spots (but the locally owned bookstore and movie-house function needs updating for the Islands).

— Advertiser Staff

FINAL WORD

"All kinds of products are cropping up, and it's hard to tell which ones are actually making solid claims and which ones are throwing 'natural' on the label or some similar term. The most frustrating thing is when you spend more money on something that you think is green or environmentally friendly, and then when you get home you realize that it's pretty similar to all the other items. I still get duped."

Julie Collins | editor/writer at www.TheHomeKnowItAll.com who blogs about environmentally responsible cleaning products