> The solution? Ask them what they're doing after work. If they're going out clubbing or to a bar, why not join them? Be the designated driver or just tell them you don't like beer -- or after that night in Bermuda, you swore off alcohol forever -- whatever. If they're going out to a bar, see if there's a porch or patio or someplace outside if the smoking is a problem.

That's the sort of thing I do. It's probably a fairly well-known fact that journalists work hard and play hard, and a lot of them drink and smoke. But, just because I'm around it, that doesn't mean I'm more inclined to become a chain smoking alcoholic. I can enjoy myself without getting drunk (and the next day, I remember more things than do the others), and other people respect that. I won't hang out with people who look down on me for not getting falling-down-passing-out drunk, but most people now take no for an answer. When I was younger, it was a lot harder for them to understand, but now I'm usually not the only sober member of the party.

I've also done the designated driver thing that Faux Pas mentioned, and people appreciate that. They don't take advantage of it, but they know that I'd rather drive them -- and even be called at night to go give someone a ride -- than have them drive themselves. Most of the time, they've already figured solved the ride dilemma, but because I've made the offer, they know I'm not judging them or thinking I'm above them. They know that I want to have a good time with friends, and that I care enough for them to offer a ride.

> If these aren't the types of people you'd like to hang out with, well, who the hell cares if the drug addicts think you're a nun?

Exactly!

Ell"Believer in beer"myruh