Blizzacks are pretty popular as well. It takes time to get used to the flow of things here. I had the same worries for my wife, but she has adjusted pretty well. Definitely take advantage of the summer as soon as you can because it will be over before you know it.
I bought a 2012 from Kendall in Anchorage before we moved sight unseen which was scary. The first time I saw it was the day we got to Kenai in January and drove it home in a snow storm! Aside from the block heater and studs, I have the bakflip F1, katzkin leathers, switched backup cam mod, and I just ordered some NFAB steps this week. Love the truck. Does great in this environment. If you plan to do things outside I'm sure you have considered getting a bear gun. That was one of my first purchases.