DEAR HARRIETTE: I am trying to recapture my days as a ski bum. I purchased skis from a friend, and I am working on getting boots and new winter gear. Over the summer, one of my friends told me she has a condo in Vermont that she stays at when she skis. This sounds like reliving my past! I want to score an invite to my friend’s ski condo without making it seem like that is the only reason we are friends. How can I speak to her so she doesn’t think I am a freeloader? – Ski Bum, Boston

DEAR SKI BUM: Be straight with your friend. Tell her that you really want to go skiing soon. Tell her that you used to ski when you were young, and you really want to relive those days. With the natural excitement that you are exuding in writing this note to me, tell your friend that you have been working to secure all of the needed gear for skiing in anticipation of being able to go. Ask her if she would be willing to host you at any time this winter. Be honest. Tell her you know that this might be an imposition on her, but your longing to ski again is urging you at least to ask. Be sure to add that if she is not so inclined or if her winter is already booked up, you will totally understand.

Beyond that, contact ski lodges to learn what the cost is for a weekend. You can also ask to speak to the management and plead your case with them. Ask if they can offer you a special deal, and lay out your reasons for making the ask. Sometimes a great human-interest story is worth free publicity. If your story is compelling enough, they may agree to host you in exchange for telling your story to the local media.

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DEAR HARRIETTE: I do not have health insurance. I was bouncing around on family plans until I realized I couldn’t even see a proper doctor, so I became uninsured. My decision is coming back to bite me. My wisdom tooth is hurting so much I eat painkillers for breakfast. I can’t get insurance right now, but I have been considering an out-of-plan dental visit. My mom tells me it’ll be so expensive I may as well wait and get insurance. Which option could be cheaper? My tooth is causing me so much pain. – Tooth Fairy, South Orange, New Jersey

DEAR TOOTH FAIRY: One choice to consider is going to a teaching facility. Sometimes there are medical and dental programs that are offered for free or reduced rates when you are willing to have students conduct the procedures. A friend of mine had major dental work performed by dental students through such a program at New York University. He had dental surgery and implants all for free. This was based on his financial capability and the offerings from the school. Many schools provide this opportunity.

Similarly, I have a friend who is unemployed and who was diagnosed with breast cancer. She researched and identified a hospital that has offered free medical care, including medication, for her ongoing care for five years now. Do not give up on yourself. Research until you find the right fit. Accessible medical help is out there.

— Lifestylist and author Harriette Cole is president and creative director of Harriette Cole Media. You can send questions to [email protected] or c/o Universal Uclick, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.