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pmiles610
Me and my girlfriend are trying anal stuff with her. She absolutely loves when I stimulate her anus. She wanted me to go further and try to put my finger in there. I did slowly but once it got to a certain point, she told me it felt like she would have a bowel movement. Is that normal and what can I do to help her out?

lin
I enjoyed going through this article. It's really good to have someone remember you after you are gone. Can we get more of these articles, I loved them.

vero101
This is an amazing article, now if only I could put it to practice, I would truly be set. My main problem is lack of self-confidence and inability to take a compliment.

angelangel
I wish that this was the situation for me. I love to please my man. I will give him oral anytime. The problem I have is him not returning the favor. He always did it before to the point I had to beg him to stop. Now I can't get him to do it at all. I asked if there was a problem with me but he said no. I just don't understand. And really don't know what to do. Any ideas people?????

IrishCream
Harvest Grand Pumpkin Spice Cream Liqueur http://www.pumpkintini.com

ButterflySmoothie
I like the spiral snowman cookies. These are great for as soon as the weather gets cooler and when you get your first snow fall.

ButterflySmoothie
Sweet potato fries are great. I do agree with asya. These are not like your regular french fries. Depending on how big your make them, you won't need that many to be satisfied.

marinewife
Ok this is one way to tell. if you have ever given your girl oral, everyone knows if you do it right, you give her an orgasm. Pay attention closely, when you give her an oral orgasm, watch and pay attention to how she reacts. even if its not intense you'll know and she'll usually stop you, clitoris orgasms leave the area very sensitive and afterwards a girl cant take anymore. Now when you have intercorse watch for that same reaction, it may be slightly different but you should still be able to tell. if her reaction is completely different or over top she's faking. But some girls are pros at this, but still another way to tell is to think with your penis. When a woman has an orgasm mucas is realeased, so if you fell her no wetness change down there and she fakes one you'll know but if you feel a wetter sensation then she had an orgasm. but you have ot pay attention and know the differences.

marinewife
I think that someone would know if they are having an orgasm, unless it is really weak. If you suddenly feel a intense sensation that feels really good even if its slight, your having an orgasm. why some women don't have them could be because they are not comfortable, there's no passion or roamnce, they are insecure, they're not in orgasm friendly positions, ect. thye list goes on basically be comfortable with yourself, him and the palce you're in. Also make sure you are in a position that you like and is more likely to get you closer to an orgams like the cowgirl or ontop is the best. Foreplay is very important, if a man can give your brain and orgasm, its likely he will give you a very intense vaginal orgasm. if turning him on turns you on, do all you can to get him as hot as a summer day in the sahara. Woman have actually got close to an orgasm while pleasuring their man. i have also found out that its hard to have an orgasn if you have to pee during sex, so got to the bathroom before just to make sure. One last tip say something if you don't climax! politley say to your man during or after sex that you dont think you came, he may feel bummed out at first, but tell him that maybe you two can do it again and while you do, tell him what to do. if he does something that you like a lot tell him to keep going. get on top and do what ever makes you explode the sight of you in extacy will make him explode as well.

marinewife
I agree with brandon, some women are selfish, they want thier man to go down, but they wont, its unfair. Also, don't do it just to get something in return, believe it or not your guy knows when you're not enjoying it or jsut want it o be over. If you get bored thats your bad, learn new tricks and learn how to have fun with it. if you think about it, he's giving you complete control of a very sensetive part of him, you do it right, he will be like putty in your hands. If you dont like doing it, do something else, dress up, learn some sexy dance moves and give him a lap dance or strip tease, if you are not confident about your body, your sexiness and seductive moves will void that out. When it comes to sex, guys are not just attracted to your body, its mostly your dirty talk, sexy moves, and how confident you are.

marinewife
I Love It! My husband loves it. I think it is the best part about sex other than the pleasure he gives me. Weirdly I dont care if I get anything in return, because I get pleasure form giving him pleasure. Ladies if you have any anxieties about doing it or dont feel confident, just relax and for good tips just read "Tickle his Pickle" Sadie is a great sex doc. Her book helped my man think I am the greatest and sexiest girl. Thank you

Edgy
Try writing a short story in the first person. Then send it to him. Not only does it allow you to practice and see what phrases make you squirm, more importantly it gives you a talking point. I.e. it made me so turned on when I was describing how we'd....

Edgy
oh please! I see here comments about respect and double standards and while you (!) may have had one or two or twenty dealings with men who've cheated or been controlling or whatever, there are also many millions of men out there who've had just the same from women. Quite frankly those comments reveal more about your taste in men than anything. I've never had an issue with the fact that the pink thing with the cute bunny on it that vibrates at 20,000rpm can get my better other off in about 30 seconds where as I could screw her all day and she wouldn't even come close. That’s just physics, same as her sucking my big toe isn't really going to do a right lot for me in that department. Do you own a vibe? If you do, stop being a hypocritical sanctimonious what’s-it. Porn girls are only about 25% plastic; your vibe is (almost)100% Do you spend your time wishing the guy you're with could vibrate like a rabbit? If you don't (own one), stop being frigid and go buy one, they're great fun.

Incidentally 'galaxygirl24', while the great majority of men actually can and do control themselves "just as much as women do," (what a thoroughly insulting comment by the way) I recently read a snippet from a girl who'd just come off one of the pills with the libido downing side effect who said that for a few days after the pill effects wore off, she was climbing the walls, couldn't get enough sex and really didn't want to try being restrained. Just like men can't comment on the pain of childbirth, until you have the same hormonal cocktail as a man - you can't comment on this issue.

Kelsey111
I need a little advise... My boyfriend has HPV and we use condoms so I thought we were protected but I am now not to sure but I think I may have gotten HPV from him and i'm scared to even brong the subject up to him... what should I do?

PandaApples
I am currently in a relationship, however, I adore tip #2, which I abide by whether I'm single or not. I'm tiny but love to eat, and I hate that "eating in public isn't ladylike" mentality. Therefore, I commend you for ordering dessert.

girlygirl743
Nice article, it's very informative.

Vince46
This picture seems to be from a place in the Caribbean. The last time visited the caribbean I spent amazing moments at charlisangels sex vacations with several hot eastern European and Russian escorts. Every time I see anything that resembles the caribbean I wish I can go back there rigth now.

m3li55a86 -- houston

he does all this, but I still don't know that he is a keper...


m3li55a86 -- houston

These are great. I find alot of truth in them. Only one thing I would chsnge is that any of these goes for men and women. So I would name it 25 universal truths about men and women.


Alice
Hi Girls and Guys
I'm the one rebounding. I had a marriage of 21 years and finally ended it. I had found men who were sexually interested and went for them after feeling abandoned for about 9 years in the marriage. But then I found my current BF and we've been together a year. Lately though, I'm regretting staying with him and so I'm reading articles like this to understand. I know that I don't want a future with him, and he's not talking about us for OUR future anyway. I want substance and mental closeness, not be the girl by his side while he has a glass of whiskey in the other while he watches cage fighting.
Alice in Colorado

eeeeeeeee4686
sex film

LoversEssence
callidora,

you don't even have to worry about that again, they came out with a body dust called lovers essence.
check it out...myloversessence.com

LoversEssence
We used to go as far as to change our diet for tasty oral sex, but we started using lovers essence.

Myloversessence.com

Jake400
OK ladies. First, guys look at gals admiring their best qualities, where women look at themselves and spot the worst quality. Second, its not what you got, its how you use it. Great looking gals can be rotten in bed; and regular woman can be fuckalious! If your guy is hard and all over you, your body can't be that bad! RJ

Jake400
My first lover didn't come for 18 months and wasn't sure the whole time. She said she felt good but wasn't real sure if she came or not. She did not masterbate, so she never knew for sure. She just needed a secure place to make love. We got a motel for a weekend and right away she came so hard her body shook! We didn't do anything different, it was just knowing no one could walk in or interrupt her. My wife never came during sex until we made love when she was 35, and she's been making up for lost time since. Her vaginal spasms are so strong that we come together without trying to do so. Tell your guy your thoughts about orgasms. If you don't feel comfortable doing that, you're probably not comfortable doing him nude either, in which case, the big question isn't about Os at all, but about you and him and why you're doing him. Right chemistry with the right guy, & you'll explode! Yes, wife has different types of Os. Clitoral is just once and then she's really sensative there for a long time. Vaginal has no limits; I still don't know how many orgasms are her maximum - partly hard to count after about 7 because her noises are all I can gage it by at that stage, and partly because I can't do her more than 3 or 4 times in a good night, she needs the stamina of a second coupling to go all the way to 10+. Its worth it to get your guy to do you again (and again if possible) because he can last in you longer and hit that g-spot over and over! But you've got to be cool talking about it! And so does he. We love the sexy communication! Good luck, RJ

Jake400
The more a woman comes, the more she comes. Wife needs it nightly to come easily. After a few days its nearly impossible to get her there. She just learned to be comfortable feeling herself up in front of me til she came. It gets her over the first O so she can have multiples after that, and its hot! She asked me to do the same for her. Alls fair in love... RJ

Jake400
On top worked for my wife. She had her first g-spot orgasm at 35 when we did it. Second time she squirted. And guys love to see their lover's body shake, esp when she comes, so don't worry about bad visual. No such thing. RJ

kausar
such a nice article

Marsh22

PandaApples
I don't believe threading is permanent--the process uses a cotton thread to pull hairs from the skin by the root, much faster than tweezing and much less painfully than waxing.

Sannie
Voluminous was my favorite but I recently tried the Colossal Volum' Express by Maybelline and love it! It works just as well as Voluminous but costs less.

MysticWillow
My husband and I have been married for 4 months and knew eachother 2 months before we were married..Extreme to some. There are times where we will make eachother feel so happy and sometimes so miserable too. Like any couple we fight, and his defence is to walk away, so I let him give him 5 and come out and talk, we never yell at eachother EVER! All it does is let the neighbors know whats going on in your house, and it's not good for our daughter to hear that either.

MysticWillow
A mans "Love juice" isn't always the best tasting thing but, if you have your man consume a lot of fruit and or juice it will taste much better, especially if it's high in citrus. We keep our refrigerator stocked with it! I won't lie I hated the taste, but once my husband and I heard about this we tried it and I can't get enough!

PandaApples
Uh, Crocs?! Only appropriate if you are working in your garden or something.

PandaApples
Well, I wouldn't know about "No chocolate"...the guy I'm currently with LOVES chocolate, especially Lindt Dark. He's not the most romantic guy in the world, so I'll probably just take him to our local Lindt store and let him buy whatever he wants.

Ashley1989

I appreciate this article it's very informative. Thanks :)
At least now I can understand men better lol


Ashley1989

I never realized this was an issue for me. lol who knew men feel pressured during sex as well!


Ashley1989

It seems men only notice what's on the outside at least that is what I have seen from experience!


hazel
I think this is great, thank you!

probitionate
Wowza.

There are some tremendous truths here...and I'm saying that as a man. (In fact, I just read them out to a female friend, cheering when applicable.)

Some of the reactions to the article are sad; clearly, many have had some horrible relationship experiences.

Bottom-line: just as men have a long way to go to 'understanding women', the equivalent is true for the distaff side. I guess the difference is that men have ALWAYS been reminded of that they don't know...whereas women seem resistant to being told this. Fascinating how entrenched certain attitudes are. To NOBODY'S benefit.

VeryCute
This totally explains why my friends and I are always getting attached to and involved with the creeps, jerks and players! You meet a guy who you think is hot, and soon enough you wind up in bed with him. You soon find out that he is a creep or a jerk, but by then you are already attached to him because of the sex! This is probably why so many girls wind up stuck in bad relationships where the men are drinkers, druggies or physically abusive. I think the lesson to be learned from this is never to jump into bed with a guy until you really know who he is and know him well. Isn't it kinda like what our moms have always been telling us? ;)

probitionate
Actually, this is a very simple...and scientific...truth at play. I believe in the 'Biological Imperative' as the prime motivator for why we're here.

For men, that means spreading seed. For women, it means bearing children. (Naturally, this isn't the ONLY reason any of us are here, merely the core. We are, after all, biological entities, and that means that survival and continuance is what drives us.)

So it only makes sense that women would -generally- have a different process going on post-sex than men would. (Keeping in mind that the body doesn't differentiate between having sex, making love and making babies.)

summergal
I think it's wise to never ask about ex girlfriends or past relationships on a first date. Even though you want to know...

BWilliamsFrancis
really good info--another suggestion-purchase a vehicle repair manual (haynes,chilton's, etc.) for your vehicle. i have saved myself alot of panic and anxiety by relying on my haynes manual. being single and female i have self taught myself how to do many different things to my vehicle for myself..not have to rely on a male. ex: check all my fluids, air pressure in my tires, water in the battery, etc. simply because of this manual. wouldn't leave the driveway without it! ;)

kasiola

Truthbetold1
Marvelyn, I am very proud of you. For you too have the courage that you did when you revealed yourself to the public eye tell us a lot about you, however, I feel that because HIV is such of a deadly thing, it's selfish on your behalf when you choose to sleep with another who's negative. I underthand that you are a victim yourself, but a negative person should be educated on the disease, and you should just walk away because you know better than they do. Men can be so stupid when it comes to sex and a good orgasm, so they really don't think about the after-effects. I had a friend/Trina that died in 2004 and my 2nd cousin died in Sept 2007, so I understand how you feel. If I offend you, I'm sorry, but that's just my opinion.

jillyjill
"it can also be a way to remain loyal to our lady friends... But if we find ourselves attracted to other women, porn is a way to neutralize that. If we’re being tempted, we can just pop in some harmless porn"

Ok, I see, I should be greatful that my man is busy pleasuring himself whilst looking at some blonde 38DD breasted woman rather that actually having sex with someone else? I should be glad that hes not cheating on me?

I ask, are you really that incapable of controlling yourself?

I'd love to know what men think about the wives or girlfriends looking at men with toned muscley bodies with 10inch penis's? I tell you now, those that are are thinking about having sex with THAT person and NOT there partner.
Otherwise, whats the point in looking at it?


MyOwnRules

She wasn't saying "all" models are anorexic. She's saying that looking at the ones who are anorexic it's gross.


MissUnderstood
Fashion is entirely over rated

uwishtoo
I never will understand who women "go ballistic" on the other women when they didnt know a thing about the original girlfriend in the first place AND they usually end up keeping the jerk anyway.

But I was always amused at the fact that my now ex (thank GOD) fiance - always lied to me about going to strip clubs or out drinking with his buddies - I didnt care - if he wanted to go for some harmless fun in a club then go for it - but call and let me know you are going to be late and I will be fine. What he didnt know was that one of his best friends who also happened to be a very close friend of mine from 20 years before in high school would call me on such nites to let me know that my fiance was with the guys and he was fine and would be late - so I still knew what he was doing and he was safe and not out running around. I finally got tired of taking the heat for things that his ex wife got ticked off at him about and ended things. He is now with a woman that screams at him if he goes to the bathroom in their house without telling her where he is going. Karma baby ! Gotta love it

uwishtoo
I personally will not date any man that hasnt been totally single for at least 6 months - not separated, not newly divorced, totally and utterly single and widowers ? Forget about it ! Been there and done that twice and not looking for the famous third strike. I actually like it when a man is friendly with his ex wife or girlfriend - as long as it isnt too friendly - lol - but chances are if the women in his past are all bitches and this and that then it makes me wonder how I am going to be referred to six months down the road. As for widowers it is tough enough to contend with an ex (since I refuse to "compete" I wont use that word) but it is impossible to contend with a ghost. I met a nice man within the last year that told me up front that his marriage had been far from perfect so I thought ok well thats good he doesnt have her on a pedestal at least - but it was worse - he felt GUILTY for her not being happy towards the last few years of their marriage before she got sick and eventually passed away so hell I couldn't win for losing with him. He knew she was no saint but it was like he still wanted to make her one so adios to that one

sheila-takeabow
How refreshing that Padma seems so down-to-earth. I can't wait for the new season of Top Chef!

TinyDancer
I love Carrie Ann! I remember her on "In Living Color" as one of the fly girlz, along with J-Lo. Go Carrie!

Frenchie
I think the erotic book idea is HILARIOUS. You can even get romantic novels books online now that are customized to you and and your "lover."

Frenchie
Yeah, I agree that permanent anything - be it eyeliner, eyebrows - whatever is a definite no-no. Because what if you want a fuller look, and you're stuck with rail thin eyebrows? Now you see stars like Sienna going the bushy route...something you def can't do if you got them permanently done.

callidora
I hear threading is in style right now. Is this a good idea?

TinyDancer
I LOVE Eliza. I had the privilege to get my eyebrows done by her at Exhale. She's amazing!

chicananerd -- ontario
best mascara ever: voluminous by loreal.

TinyDancer
My boyfriend and I lived together for a year. The good - making dinner together, falling asleep and waking up next to someone, spending lots of time together.

The bad - awkward when going out with friends, arguing over little things (bills, being messy, etc.),spending too much together.

After living with my boyfriend and learning about all his quirks and flaws, I still wanted to be with him and we're closer than ever, so good can definitely come out of moving in together. Just be prepared because it won't be a very smooth ride.

TinyDancer
I might be leaving in September for a year so I'll be forced to try the long-distance thing. It's scary to think about because we spend a lot of time together. It'll be a weird transition.

chicananerd -- ontario
i have made the mistake of moving in together in a few previous relationships. you'd think that after the first or second time i would've learned, but alas the third time was a charm. anyway, after years of living together (miserably) we finally went our separate ways. one word: MESSY. it was sort of understated in this article, but i cannot emphasize enough just how much of a "mini-divorce" it really is.
i live on my own now, and my bf does too. i'll admit, it does feel great to wake up together when we spend the night, or hang out at each other's place for a couple days. BUT we have both made the mistake before so we're really up front and on the same page about how we feel about moving in together.
i say, be in a loving relationship for a LOOOONG time before even considering moving in together.

RaquelRoad
I am afraid that living together might make him call it quits after a fight that wouldn't have ended things if we were married. Yeah, I know I'm somewhat old fashion, but I do think that if you live together before you're married, you're not going into the situation full-force. And by full force I mean with the thought that you are "partners" in this together, not just two people shacking up.

lily -- Los Angeles
I'm going to by myself chocolate today! The good kind (not the cheep drug-store brand). That's why I love Valentine's Day. It's an excuse to eat chocolate. Also - you can make it as good or as bad as you want it to be. When I don't have a date I go out with my friends - my quality friends. And when I do have a date and I'm disappointed by my gift, I buy myself chocolate. Don't let the holiday keep you down!

Frenchie
My worst - well, I don't have a worst....they've all been kind of horrible

space_cowgirl
Eyebrows actually do change your face. I used to pluck, but in college I started waxing my eyebrows and my face looked and felt so much more fresh and clean. I really felt more confident.

summer-girl
i have noticed that before the big V-Day, radios give out tickets to single-and-mingle type parties. i would call in and try to win. you might get something out of it....wink wink

summer-girl
traveling is key - but i would go with a friend. to go alone is scary - i must admit. i traveled alone and i kept wishing i had a friend or a guy with me so i could go get a drink at night because i didn't want to be out alone at night by myself.

Betsy -- Torrance
I always do my own eyebrows - and pluck the tops. ooooooops.

coffeeteame
I saw Carrie Ann on Leno, and he showed a clip of her in the Madonna show. She was ridiculously cool. I wish I was a dancer! arg.

punkslime
I loved this as much as I loved part one!

punkslime
I loved this and am slowly learning to wear at least mid-rise jeans! This was great.

leisle -- Westwood
Ha. Love #4. So true.

MorganC
I have the exact same problem. Not fun. I use Neutrogena's oil-free anti-acne moisturizer and it works wonders. You should check it out.

callidora
I love Target underwear! Especially their cotton boybriefs. So very comfy and cute.

TinyDancer
I have dry patches on my face in the winter and my face is usually oily. Does anyone have recommendations for brands of moisturizers good for my skin type?

coffeeteame
I went skiing this past weekend an my face is ridiculously chapped. I recommend that anyone who goes skiing (or snowboarding) invest in one of those face masks. They make you look like a creeper, but they are so worth it - for keeping your skin looking good.

MorganC
I like Hannah's quote. “You basically have to decide how much bullshit you’re willing to put up with. Pay attention to your breaking point, and if it gets too stressful, walk away.” It doesn't hurt to try the relationship, but you do have to know when to walk away.

chicananerd -- ontario
for me, it's all about the little things my bf does to show how much he cares in his own way that make him a "keeper".

TinyDancer
I jumped rope during the good ol' days in elementary school when it was more about having fun than losing weight. Kim's right, exercise should be fun instead of feeling like a chore.

TinyDancer
I truly feel for Marvelyn.
She is a beautiful woman and I applaud her for being so courageous to share her story with everyone. But it makes me so angry that people are still having unprotected sex all the time. Let this be a wake up call that diseases are real and it could happen to you or someone you know.

TinyDancer
Kudos for this article. I think it's sexy when girls can play bartender and make cocktails for everyone.

RaquelRoad
Has anyone gone and had them done by a professional? Was it all it's cracked up to be?

jude11066
Ladies, boys never grow up. They are children. My presidential platform would be to move all men to their own continent once they turn 21. They are only permitted to visit us upon OUR request for conjugal visits only. Then they must return to ManLand. Think how much more peaceful the world would be if the men were all tucked away to do their boy thing together. They need us a heck of a lot more than we need them.

fiona
I hate talking about money! I think it's the worst, even when friends ask how much you make. Why do you need to know?

space_cowgirl
The guy I'm dating takes my dog out for a walk every morning without me asking him, so I know he's a keeper!

Frenchie
No matter how many calories shoveling snow burns, I HATE IT!

summer-girl
My boyfriend doesn't pick me up from the airport....but that's because it's easier for both of us if I take the T. He's still a keeper.

quietplague

i have to laugh. some of it is true but some of it is NOT! esp. about the dating in italy, mexico and australia. the men in spain are generally harmless but you have to watch out for the men in portugal.


callidora
y'know, I really admire girls that can swallow. I can't. It's an acquired taste I must say.

callidora
I've heard that too, Raquel. Similar with Spanish men too - When my roommate traveled to Spain by herself, she a man flirted with her all night then followed her on his bike back to her hotel room, but she spurned his advances and he just left. Really forward, but totally harmless. they seem to be just forward with women, but I don't want to generalize.

callidora
jumping rope is so nostalgic. I haven't done that since elementary school. That's really cool Kim mentioned it

RaquelRoad
I love "The Biggest Loser!" It is so motivational, and it really gets me to the gym. I think it's finally a reality show that does something positive, unlike the "Real Worlds" and "Big Brothers" out there.

RaquelRoad
I've never been to Italy (I'm going this summer!!) but I've heard that the men are really forward. What I don't get is - are they forward in coming on to women, but not forward in asking them out on dates? Confused.....

MorganC
My boyfriend hates to argue, but sometimes I have to bring things up that bother me. I have learned to talk with him as more of a discussion, and less as an all out yelling match.

Krissy!
i always start a sentence with it. Why i dont know

Krissy!
No!

chicananerd -- ontario
this whole process is taken waaaaay too seriously for the wrong reasons, and not seriously enough for other reasons. i always feel bad when i walk by a jewelry store and see a guy in there with a look of desperate fear. its one of the things that makes me glad to not be a guy.

chicananerd -- ontario
this whole process is taken waaaaay to seriously for the wrong reasons, and not seriously enough for other reasons. i always feel bad when i walk by a jewelry store and see a guy in there with a look of desperate fear. its one of the things that makes me glad to not be a guy.

chicananerd -- ontario
kileyrae, you are not alone. i enjoy it too. in fact, it's kind of a turn on for me in a sorta power-play kind of way. i think i may be trying at least a couple of these tips.

as for it giving you bad breath, ok, that's just weird. i have never heard of that at all.

Nightingale
The best relationship I ever had was with a man who was a friend before becoming my boyfriend. We had the perfect relationship in every way except our sex life. It was awful. Dr. Pepper isn't saying you have to be submissive to have a good sex life. She's just pointing out that more equal relationships tend to have less exciting sex lives and offering ways to spice it up. I appreciate her tips.

chicananerd -- ontario
i loooove living alone because all the little neurotic things i do go unnoticed by judging eyes of anyone other than my cat. i do, however, really like it when my bf comes over and spends the night 'cause then its the best of both worlds.

nicole007 -- San Diego
Another way to spice things up is by not doing it for an atypical length of time for you and your partner (a day for some a month for others) then going for it spontaneously out of the ordinary routine like in the car or kitchen table.

Nicoletrue
Naked Hide-N-Seek. LOL. That's great!

SandraSunny
I look at it like a chore. I'd rather be doing something else but I still want to do a good job at it.

KileyRae
Maybe I'm the only woman in the world who does but I enjoy it. Good tips.

VickieZU
I'm into it for five minutes anything longer and I'm bored. The xxxtreme Dr. Sadie's talking about is a good one for men and women.

brandonlive
Ouch! You ladies are tough on us guys. Speaking on behalf of myself and the majority of my heterosexual male friends we like giving oral sex. It's a turn for us and for you. Is giving all that bad for you?

hazel
I'm straight but penisis gross me out. Nothing about looking at one turns me on.

AbbyGal -- Atlanta
The only thing I get out of giving head is knowing it's pleasing my partner and thinking about what I'll get in return. I've never understood how some women will just go down on a guy they're not in a relationship with and know they're not going to get anything in return. What is there to get out of it except maybe a sore jaw and bad breath?

addy
Giving head really is a "job" - I almost gag every time. I only give to receive.

spiritgal
For years I felt a woman "getting on her knees" for a man was degrading. Boy was I wrong! Giving oral sex can be empowering and if it pleases my partner it pleases me. Great tips Dr. Sadie.

space_cowgirl
how interesting. I find this true though. I was "best friends" with my ex boyfriend and it was great, but the sex life became nonexistent after years of dating. We were so comfortable with each other that we stopped looking attractive for each other; i stopped shaving, he stopped going to the gym. It came to a point where we weren't attracted to each other anymore. how awful. this is such a bad trap to be in.

space_cowgirl
I've tried the mint trick - guys seem to love that one.

Frenchie
I have this on by Estee Lauder that I love. I got it as a free sample, and it's fantastic!!

leisle -- Westwood
My boyfriend is so freaked about buying a ring. Mainly because my family is obsessed with rings! My mom and sister LOVE to go ring shopping "just for fun" and know every cut, shape and style. Whenever he hangs out with my fam, he starts fidgeting, afraid he will be judged. I feel bad for him and the pressure guys have.

TinyDancer
I could live in big chunky oversized sweaters and leggings forever. It has to be the warmest and most chic outfit possible.

TinyDancer
best thing about living alone is not having to pick up his dirty clothes from the floor...

crashing_nightingale
I drink green tea before a date - tea calms the nerves for every first date.

RaquelRoad
I really feel like the statement about needing to "develop new personas" in bed is so true. My boyfriend and I are best friends, and sometimes when there is a sound during sex, we'll both start laughing (because we have a very similar sense of humor). Laughing always kills the mood, so sometimes we have to role play so we can get into it more, instead of it just being to best friends having sex.

sheila-takeabow
I don't think I look good in turtlenecks. I mean, my neck is too long for my body already - will it make it look longer?

space_cowgirl
I still stand by Maybelline's great lash mascara. I've tried so many others, but that one's been the only one that stays on for the whole and doesn't smudge on my skin. Any other recommendations?

space_cowgirl
#5 is so true! My saturdays are spent sitting next to my boyfriend while he cheers on the Patriots/Trojans/Lakers/Steelers or pretty much any game that's on.

TinyDancer
For fashion: peruse sample sales, vintage stores, and flea markets.

Museums also usually have free days during the week, and clubs (around L.A.) have discount coupons you can download from their website. It's not being cheap, it's being smart!

leisle -- Westwood
Try going to a concert at a small venue. In LA, you can go to a concert at one of the hip, small venues like the Troubadour for $15, compared to $80 plus bucks at staples. Plus the sound quality is WAY better. And you'll actually get to see the band (not just look at them on the jumbo-tron).

summer-girl
My favorite mascara works wonders, length wise, but it always seems to dry out my lashes, and make them really brittle the next day. Any suggestions for a new mascara?

Betsy -- Torrance
I am just not that in to living alone. Yeah, you can watch whatever you want to, but I love company. Watching a movie by myself seems like a depressing night, but add one person into the equation, and you feel like you're spending quality time with someone.

TwoDateDiva
What a great story Sarah! It's great when people get their just deserts and you actually get to see it, but to have delivered it sounds even better. Way to go.

lily -- Los Angeles
I hate itchy winter sweaters!!!!

MorganC
hahaha I do! Cheese is way not sexy.

MorganC
I've never heard that ice cube trick. Is that really true?

RaquelRoad
I think turtlenecks can be really sexy. Yeah, it's like the most covered up you can be - ever, but I really think if you get a tight turtleneck, it's sexier than wearing a deep-v shirt.It shows your curves while leaving something to the imagination!

lily -- Los Angeles
The avocado tip is a good one. Mine ALWAYS turn brown before I have a chance to eat them!

lily -- Los Angeles
I say I comfy bra should be added to the list. Something that you wear when you want to go to the movies with friends, but don't want to get all dressed up. The more tattered the better.

MorganC
I love that addy! I hate the word "resolutions," but I never really thought about it. "Goals" is much better, I agree. Resolutions almost has a negative connotation.

MorganC
I like # 5. Karma is a, well, you know.

space_cowgirl
Here's the method I'm using: I wrote down my goals for the year with a bold Sharpie pen on a white piece of paper, and it's taped to my bedroom wall, so every time I wake up, I'm reminded of what goals to keep everyday.

crashing_nightingale
Boot lover here! I do think boots are some of the sexiest footwear ever made. Although, my workplace is so casual that I wear my favorite Chuck Taylor black Converse shoes to work.

hazel
The worst game is the available / unavailable one. You like me, until I like you back, then you're done! There is a guy in my life who has been so persistent with me for two months, now that I'm showing mutual interest IE) initiating calls / dates - he's become distant.

hazel
No more drunk dialing (or texting or emailing) for me in 2008! Also I'm going to stop trying to force a relationship to happen because nothing good comes from it.

addy
I'm not a fan of the word resolutions, but I love goals. My main goal this year is to be true to myself. To grow up and stop letting others opinions direct my life.

thatgirlnikki
I like this article I hope it reaches those that need to know that classy is sexy and trashy should be saved for your husband.

quietplague

EXERCISE!!!


TinyDancer
I don't feel like most of these things listed are necessary. Honestly, all I need is a really good pair of quality jeans and plenty of different tops that will make it seem like I have a huge wardrobe.

TinyDancer
I agree! In today's modern world, I'm surprised this sort of 1950s ideology exists. I didn't even notice that. Good point.

TinyDancer
Smoked Salmon is my favorite! I'm glad to see a recipe that uses it, since not many do.

TinyDancer
wow, the truth is brutal sometimes, but honestly I think a lot of these (not all) ring true for boyfriends.

TinyDancer
this year I resolve to be more patient with my boyfriend, and to spend more time with the girls!

lily -- Los Angeles
My New Year's Resolution: to be so up to date on the upcoming election it's not even funny.

lily -- Los Angeles
good point uwishtoo. "The Perfect Life" always involves a man. I don't like it either.

summer-girl
"French Toast with Smoky Bacon and Spiked Tomatoes" sounds a little crazy to me. I love all things French toast, but I've never thought to put bacon on it.

Betsy -- Torrance
I hate buying basics!!!! I wish they weren't so necessary.....

RaquelRoad
I'm glad my bf doesn't think like #9. I love to dress up - sometimes in what he doesn't necessarily find "hot," but he loves that I'm my own person.

RaquelRoad
As a former competitive runner, I would recommend carbo-loading. Each night before the race my teammates and I would go out for pasta. Although I don't think we needed to consume as much pasta as we did (we would eat huge plates full), it's still a great way to fuel.

thatgirlnikki
This is very helpful...but what DO you talk about on a date?

TinyDancer
the color red is traditionally a symbol for good luck in Chinese culture. Hm, I need to get me a red wallet.

lily -- Los Angeles
A red wallet? I've never heard of that. Interesting....

TinyDancer
I love baggy dresses too! They make you look preggers, but they're cute and definitely cover problem areas perfectly.

Betsy -- Torrance
I made the snowmen cookies and they were super easy. Plus you can make them even after the holidays because snowmen aren't just for Christmas!

Betsy -- Torrance
I like cropped jackets, but for most of the time they do NOTHING for your body. My bf also hates it when I wear baggy dresses (that look like nightgowns) with tights. I love it though!

crashing_nightingale
"Straight legged pants tend to create a leaner look than flared bell-bottoms." - This one's true. Everyone says I look model-thin in skinny jeans.

fiona
I love flip-flops! Especially in SoCal when it's sunny almost 365 days a year.. but I'm not surprised you don't like this footwear on women - I have a ton of guy friends who agree with you and say feet and toes should not be seen unless you're all naked... can you believe that?

fiona
I'm in a drab routine and I'm totally game for these tips.. actually, one of my resolutions for the new year is to be more sexually adventurous ;)

fiona
It's hard to save money these days, with loans, credit card debts and all. Yet it's so important to save at least a little bit every month (a little goes a long way, as the trite saying goes.) I had to buy a new car when my good-condition car suddenly broke down recently. You just never know what's going to happen.

RaquelRoad
It is so hard for me to relax my mind. I even have trouble sleeping at night because I have about 50 things flashing through it. It's a pain, really.I need to try this!

fiona
I know that it's ok to complain once in a while, but lately I've just been so high strung that I've been snapping at the people I love (my boyfriend, my mom, etc) that I end up feeling awful afterward (So awful I can't look at myself in the mirror). I need to find a release, to let go of the negativity in a positive manner.

fiona
The cookie skates and gingerbread men cookies are oh so cute. It's a fun and original gift to people to just bake cookies and put them in Christmas tin boxes.

space_cowgirl
great advice!It's been such a dilemma to find a gift for this new guy I just barely started seeing. Glad to know someone else recognizes this too.

banana_peel
funniest lines ever! i actually found some of them quite refreshing, actually! I liked #19 and loved #1! I wouldn't fall for them, though, oh no!

Ambiance
I agree 100 percent. Ever heard of the book "He's Just Not That Into You?" It's worth reading for this and for future relationships. From my experience through relationships with lovers, and I've turned down alot of proposals, if its not there in the first month (try to give it two) then he's just not that into you. Men who are in love without a doubt heavily pursue a woman they can't live without.

Ambiance
When I was given a diary as a little girl I felt like it was a trap. I knew better than to write anything down because it would be "there" for anyone to read. With that thought in mind as an adult I just expect snooping because humans are humans.

He had the medicine in his bathroom first of all, not in an underwear drawer. Secondly, you two actually haven't had sex yet and after two months I would think this is weighing heavily on his mind and thats probably why he hasn't told you. He may be afraid of loosing you... besides that.... two months in a relationship and neither of you have discussed STD's? Just asking.... The mere fact that you two are dating you should feel comfortable to ask regardless of what you found. Just bring up what you told us, where you want the relationship to go and how much you care for him. He may only need a window of opportunity from you....


Ambiance
I can't tell you how happy I was to find Savvy Miss yesterday in my search for information on Bachelor Parties. But I must say I am not reading anything here about what REALLY goes on at these parties. Ladies did you know that the girls who do batchelor parties do not wear a thong? Did you know that they open themselves up and show PINK? Did you know that they run toys of all kinds in and out of their bodies while merely inches from your married husbands? Did you know that if anything is done by someone it is KNOWN that not ONE MAN opens his mouth even to his wife about what happens? Conspiracy Theory that I have already experience myself, this is not fictional. I was naive and thought it was just some titty flashing that they can not touch the women... I thought it was like a strip club - wrong.... While I can enjoy the erotica of a beautiful woman and can enjoy a strip club with my man, what I can not stand is married men covering up these situations and allowing such negative energy to surround weddings. I gave permission for my fella to go to a strip club and have fun but nothing more. No ones house, No private parties, no weekends away with "women". PERIOD. I will not tolerate what I have already seen around someone elses wedding be included in mine. For the women who say "you have to trust them" its not about trusting your man... its about the committed men who to go these functions and use a beautiful event to get a nut while others know adultry is occurring and possible at these marital functions. I'm sorry, if men want to get together for bonding purposed then go play golf, go play pool, even go to a strip club together but don't carry it to an unwelcome extreme. After all I have experienced with batchelor parties I am now thrown into the mix again because my sweetheart's brother is having a weekend getaway in Nevada where prostitution is legal. He would not even allow me to see the invitation. He did tell me that no cameras were allowed. The bride found out about the invitation and made some changes to the evite and set things right. "plenty of food and women" "please keep this only among trusted friends and family" and no cameras - these statements were promptly removed. I might add that my sweetheart kept telling me its all married men they won't do anything infront of their friends. I would like to add that the mad who sent out the invitation is already currently married. I have only stated facts here. Women heads up - there's more going on than these men are telling you.... I didn't mention the girlfriend of mine who walked in the party after the paid girls had left... she was disgusted by the nasty sheets that were left behind. I'm sorry after that I have zero tolerance....

TwoDateDiva
Thanks Nightingale! I think cheap nights out with friends are the best too. The simplest things in life are always the best things.

sheila-takeabow
Kudos to Bobbi for being a strong, successful woman and an important role model! I love that she didn't give in to plastic surgery, like so many girls do these days.

sheila-takeabow
number one is great... I've actually heard that at a bar.

crashing_nightingale
cheap nights out with friends are the best! Fancy clubs are fun sometimes, but really, all you need are good friends and beer in a dive bar. Loved this blog entry!

crashing_nightingale
so lame! no woman would go for any of these...

lily -- Los Angeles
Galina, that's awful! That's always been my fear - to get pantsed.

MyOwnRules

I feel bad for this guy!! One, when a guy really likes a girl, his biggest fears are about his performance. If he goes soft, it somehow means he isn't a "real" man. Also, he wants to please you and is worried that he won't. Second, no one is born with killer sex skills, everyone is born a virgin. It's like talking and walking. It's a skill you have to learn. Third, guys learn sex skills from dubious sources and figure if something worked for an ex, it'll work for you. Last, this guy trusts you so much that he was willing to let you see him at his most vulnerable moment and have it be him, versus him playing Casablanca. And what do you do? Complain about it! Sure, the sex might not have been the best, but his performance issue is something that you can work on. The faces and weird noises? What are you? Some kind of critic? If it really bothers you that much, try looking at yourself next time. Maybe you were doing something weird, too! If you're guy wrote into a blog about how weird you were, how would you feel? Yeah. Not too good, huh? Give this poor guy a chance. You were with him once and assumed it would be earth shattering, mind numbing, OMG sex. And since it wasn't, you're considering DUMPING him? I'm sorry honey. But anyone who has sex with a guy once and dumps him because he does a couple of weird noises and has a performance issue isn't worth the guy's time. If he'd done something really off (like mentioned how much you remind him of his mother/sister/cousin) then, yeah, that would be something I'd dump a guy for. But for making a couple of weird noises and not lasting as long as you'd like? Shallow, much? I hope you're a perfect sex Goddess. Otherwise, you need to get some perspective.


MyOwnRules

When people admire others, there are two terms I use depending on their intent. If the intention is to ask someone out or hook up with them, I equate it to shopping. They're checking out the merchanise, comparing options, with the intent on taking something home. If the intent is to admire the merchandise but not to sample it or take it home, that's window shopping. Almost everyone does this, no matter they're age, gender or dating status. You said you've never window shopped since you're in love with your boyfriend. Are you sure about that? You've never had discussions with your girlfriends or co-workers about how hot some Hollywood celeb is? Or some model you saw in an ad? That, too, is window shopping. If you're guy was glancing at this girl (or if she was especially hot, ogling her for a moment or two) then that is normal. But if he was staring her down and ignoring you, that's when his behavior leaves the realm or "normal" and starts being rude. Also, you asked him the question and he answered. I'll never understand why women ask their guys questions, then get pi**ed at the answer. Nor why women assume that once a guy is in a relationship, he'll go completely blind except for his girl!! Do YOU go blind when your in a relationship, except for your guy? Nope. Didn't think so.


MyOwnRules

If sexual history refers to the number of partners, then that info is better left unsaid unless one of you is a virgin (in which case, that discussion should be held way before you get to a bedroom). But in regards to STD's, then, YES!! The person who is infected should tell their partner. It's disrespectful to have sex with someone who is not infected when you know you are without telling them. They should be able to make an informed decision that's right for them. I personally wouldn't want to have sex with someone with an STD even if precautions could be taken to prevent me getting it. Other people might be OK with doing that...but that is a choice everyone person should be able to make for themselves.


MorganC
I know - sugar - it does. One time my boyfriend made a comment about me kissing him too lightly. I had just had my tonsils out for heavens sake. Give me a break!

Woody -- San Francisco
This is exactly what i was looking for! Love it:)

lily -- Los Angeles
ha! I've never heard the bird collector one.

MorganC
god - I was the worst single person ever. I moped about and always asked my friends that were dating - what's wrong with me? Looking back - it was awful.

wbmeyer -- Sacramento
You need to get to the root cause of why you're willing to have a one-nighter that could possibly lead to more. Why is your husband on all kinds of meds? Is it self-inflicted (ie alcoholism, obesity, stress) or just plain old aging difficulty which is why you may be conflicted. What does your husband think about your "friendship" with this man? If you're spending as much time talking to him and doing activities with him that takes away time from your husband, don't you think he'd notice? If your husband is not noticing then maybe your willingness to sleep with your friend is nothing more than a cry for attention. Sounds like there's more to this story than meets they eye...

summer-girl
I love the idea of healing with sex. Great ideas. Only, too bad I'm in a long distance relationship...

lily -- Los Angeles
I just can't bring myself to ever turn on cold water in the shower. Maybe it will wake me up, but I think I would rather be tierd than cold.

RaquelRoad
Platforms are in again. Has anyone seen MK's hot pink pair? They are hideous.

MorganC
I know fiona!!! Scrunchies are so bad - I used to have ones when I was little that matched my pajamas - and remember that episode of Sex and the City - when Carrie said no women from New York would ever wear a scrunchie. So true.

fiona
Adding cinnamon sticks and mint sounds like a great idea. Thanks for the tips!

fiona
Mm I love hot beverages like Bailey's Irish cream for the holidays. Adding mint and cinnamon sticks sounds like a great idea. Thanks for the tips!

fiona
Mm I love hot beverages like Bailey's Irish cream for the holidays. Adding mint and cinnamon sticks sounds like a great idea. Thanks for the tips!

fiona
Sleep is definitely the number one energy booster! I've heard you can't make up sleep the night after. There's no such thing, and besides, you tend to feel more tired with more than 8 hours of sleep.

fiona
i get sick of hearing girls complaining about not having boyfriends. Being single is a time for self-discovery! Volunteer! Travel! and meet a ton of wonderful people along the way!

fiona
What about scrunchies?
I know these are still in style, but I can't stand crocs, and now they're making a mary-jane-type croc. The horror!
Stirrup pants?

MyOwnRules

Actually, you've misunderstood the term "binge eating". We're not talking someone who pigs out at Christmas or other special occasion. We're talking about people who, in one sitting, eat a whole pizza, then move on to a couple packages of cookies, then have a Big Mac, etc., etc. As someone who is a recovering food addict, I say YES!! Too many people focus on anorexia and bulemia but forget about food addiction and binging. Both are very difficult to overcome. I overate as a way to emotionally handle abuse that I was suffering at home. These are real disorders. They are not the imagination of people wanting to justify our nations obesity epidemic. The stereotypical "fat person" is someone who sits on their butt all day, stuffing their face. Let me tell you there are a varitey of reasons why someone might be obese. Like my sister, it could be a physical disorder, like chronic exhaustion. For others, it could be food addiction (at my heaviest, I weighed 268 pounds). Still other people can have thyroid imbalances or be on medication for psychiatric disorders. This isn't to say all people who are obese have a reason for it. Just that some people do exercise and eat right and still have a hard time losing weight. More people need to focus on food addiction and bingeing as well as anorexia and bulemia because there are people who need help and not only aren't getting it, but are being ridiculed and bullied.


MyOwnRules

It was just me, my sister and our mom when I was a kid. My birth father walked when I was four, and even though he was an abusive SOB, it still sucked for me to hear other kids say "My Dad got my mom diamond earrings" or whatever. Not only because I felt bad for my mom, but because I was envious of the kids and their fathers. So, my mom started a tradition. She'd get us presents and we'd buy (or make) her something, too. That way, we had our own special thing. That was a valuable lesson: we don't need men to make us happy. As an adult, I do feel slightly envious of other single women, but my family still follows our tradition, even though my mother is now in a relationship with a man who I consider to be my father. Maybe you could do something similar with your single friends. Just something small, we're not talking expensive or whatever.


MyOwnRules

I bought some black, tight yoga pants to wear underneath my jeans for winter. One, it keeps me warmer than jeans alone. Two, if my jeans are a little tight because of bloating then my yoga pants cushion the button and fly so it doesn't cut into my stomach. Three, they add a safegaurd layer in case of leaks. Shirts, I just wear my norm (long guy shirts...I love em!!) Period underwear is a must. They're cheap granny type briefs that, if there is a leak, it's no biggie since they cost like $3 (buy them in bulk at Kmart or TJ Maxx-you'll save a lot of money).


MyOwnRules

The mountains are my favorite place to be. I was born in the big city (I swear someone hates me!!) but I'm a country girl at heart. Riding ATV's or snowmobiles, fishing, hiking, camping, whatever. I'm there!! Swimming in the ocean sucks!! I've done it. Won't do it again. Swimming pools? Too many people, too little space. Give me a lake or river, any day of the week!! And whitewater rafting!? Now there is a reason God loves us!! I hate the gym. Blah!! As for Lexie, some advice. You said you don't like to go home to change cause' you tend to stay put. Take your hiking gear to work and either change there or use a port-a-potty (gross, I know, but it works!!) The outdoors rejuvenates me. The crisp air, the scenery. It all makes my adreneline pump and I can exercise longer.


MyOwnRules

I have a cousin who grew up two blocks away from me. She's 24, I'm 26. She has always thought she's superior to me. So, too, has the rest of our family. She's not just white, she's Victorian pale. I've got dark skin from my Mexican/Cherokee birth father. She's got a college education and is graduating soon. I went for three years before I dropped out. Her mother is fairly well off, financially, and pays off my cousin's credit cards (she shops like Paris Hilton on steroids), bought her a car and not one but two computers after she crashed the first. I don't have a lot of money nor do my parents. Last, she's a size 6. I'm a size 16. This all combines to make her a Goddess and me trash. Supposedly. So, a thick skin was necessary for the survival of my self esteem. I look at it this way: sure, she's thin, has money and a college education. However, she's also spoiled, still throws tantrums reminiscint of a six year old wanting, and not getting, a candy bar, is also a back stabber, manipulative and a liar. Hmmmm. Now, I'm not saying I'm perfect. Far from it. But I don't play games. I am spoiled but not because I expect stuff then get it, but because my father likes to spoil his little girl. I don't lie to people. Sometimes, I'm too honest. Yes, that is possible. Also, people who mess with my family and friends quickly realize that is a good way to get on my bad side. Which isn't something most people like to do. In the end, I'd rather be poor, uneducated and have a little extra weight along with loyalty, integrity and pride in myself than be thin, rich and well educated and be a complete bit**.


MyOwnRules

First off, gang rape is different from a gangbang. Gang rape is where several men rape a woman. A gangbang is where one woman has consensual sex with three or more men. Second, if the woman were having either one, at least two of the men would be standing near her face (hinting at oral). Last, what is actually being depicted is a form of exhibitionism. The first image you think of is some perv flashing himself in public. That is one kind, but, as someone who is into exhibitionism, let me tell you there are three other kinds, as well. The first is having sex or masturbating in front of a group. The second is having sex in a public or semi public place. The third is masturbating for your partner. This woman is being held down which is rough sex, not necessarily rape, and the other men are watching, not participating. Thus, why it's exhibitonism, not a gangbang or gang rape. Now, for the issue of treating women like objects. I think this issue has been blown a little to much out of proportion. The real issue isn't ads featuring women in sexually explicit poses or situations. The issue is how are we raising our sons and daughters? To know the difference between fantasy and reality? Or to blur the distinction? And the issue isn't just about sex. It's about violence, too. We need to teach our children the difference between a fun computer/video game, a movie (porn or otherwise), TV show, book, etc. and real life. Fantasy can make life fun. Santa Clause, the Easter Bunny, the Tooth Fairy are all some of the more innocent examples of this. Other not so innocent examples exist out there, of course but we know what they are. Yes, women are sometimes treated like sex objects. But, come on, ladies, we've all gone "window shopping" when we're out with our friends and commented on the hot merchandise and what we'd like to do with it. Men aren't the only ones who have dirty magazines and websites. Does Playgirl ring a bell? So, next time, before you pass judgement on men treating women like sex objects, maybe you should stop commenting on what a hot a** Brad Pitt has or looking at a random stud's attributes.


MyOwnRules

First off, no one is proposing a law that says a woman "has" to get an abortion. Pro-abortionists are just wanting the option available for women IF they decide that. Second, I don't think people realize that abortion isn't going to magically dissapear just because there is a law saying it's illegal. Want proof? In the 1920's, abortion was illegal but it still happened. And, because it was illegal, women committed horrendous acts to end their pregnancies. Some women even died or contracted TB or other deseases as a result. Women did this because they were having children one after another and that put them in physical jeopordy. Too many babies, too fast and our bodies can't recover. Some of the methods desperate women resorted to were throwing themselves down stairs, inserting metal hangers (sometimes even with rust on them!!) or going to so called doctors (men who were unlicensed and untrained) who operated in back alleys with dirty, contaminated, crude medical devices. Sometimes, they weren't given anything for the pain. Do we, as a nation, really want to go back to that? Do we, as a nation, really not understand the reasons that women have abortions? I recently saw a documentary about three women who were faced with this heartbreaking decision. One doctor said; "No woman gets pregnant just so she can have an abortion. This is a heartbreaking decision." I totally agree. What happened to having rights in this country? How dare conservatives tell me what I can do with my body? It's not their Da*m business!! It's no one's business but mine!! Why should a woman (or child!!) who has been raped and who got pregnant by her rapist be forced to carry his child in her body and give birth to that child? There are actually some women who have deseases that could kill them if they get pregnant. They are on birth control and maybe they can't get a hysterectomy for whatever reason. Should they have to stop having sex in order to save thier lives, just in case that 1% chance of getting pregnant on birth control should fall to them? Or should they have the right, not only to have sex with their husbands/partners, but to LIVE? Every case is different. Every woman should make that decision herself. Not someone who has never met her, who knows nothing about her!! Not because it's someone else's religion or personal belief!! But because it's her personal belief!!


MyOwnRules

These web sites offer advice and promote behavior that threatens another persons safety. Therefore, it is criminal and should be prosecuted.


MyOwnRules

What constitutes free speech in this country has been twisted and warped. For instance: the gay man who was tortured to death in Wyoming? That was a crime, not free speech. A discussion that includes discriminatory terms (the "N" word, the "C" word, the three letter "F" word, etc.) if done among like-minded individuals, is free speech. Any act, whether verbal or physical that harms or threatens someone physically or psychologically is criminal.


MyOwnRules

It's great you've been able to avoid her, but in the future, if you do run into her, my advice would be to talk to your boyfriend about her. Let him know that you feel uncomfortable around her because of some of the things you've noticed. It's great you haven't lowered yourself to her standard, however, being a rug isn't good for you, either. If you and your guy can talk to this girl and explain her behavior isn't cool, then she really won't have a reason to continue.


MyOwnRules

Shopping Addiction is a real addiction. It is just like alcohol, drugs or gambling. If you're really wanting to find a way to help yourself, you can get therapy. It really can get totally out of control. Also, it could be a symptom of bi polar disorder. In that case, it'd be called Manic shopping. Which is where someone will buy something way out of their budget (think boats, houses, cabins, etc.) when they manic or "high".


MyOwnRules

One of the reasons might be the different focus. Entourage has more focus on the sex with a little bit of the focus on the relationship. Sex In The City, on the other hand has sex, but it's more about relationships.


MyOwnRules

You said your husband can't go on medication and that's why you guys haven't had sex. I'm assuming that what you're saying is his sailor has trouble saluting. If that's the case, there are hollow dildos that'll prop him up, making penetration possible. Oh, and play a "getting to know him" game (Truth or Dare, or another sex game) or go away for a romantic weekend to reconnect. If you can't afford a vacation, make one at home. Let people know you'll be unavailable, unplug the TV, phone, internet, etc. and turn off your cell phones. Pretend you're in another city/town.


RaquelRoad
This is one of those articles that when you read, you feel all warm inside. I'm going to send it to my boyfriend right now.

MorganC
I used to wear mini hair claws! They came in all different colors - and with sparkles too. Ahhh it's so embarassing.

MorganC
fun tips...now I just have to get around to planning a party

RaquelRoad
I love the comment by the woman who said "No, I have wine at my place." I have said something really similar, and didn't mean it! Awkward!

RaquelRoad
I completely agree with the advice from Scott Weston. You have to know each other well enough to know that you can live together too. Dating someone and living with someone are two completely different things. Also, being good traveling partners is important too!

summer-girl
I love Bobbi Brown makeup - It's actually my favorite. Anyway, I felt a lot of pressure after graduation to go into a traditional job, and I'm glad to see Bobbi "went for it" in her own words. Love it!

Chloe -- Los Angeles
I'm sure everyone knows about teeth whitening...nothing ruins a smile more then yellow teeth. I love the trays my dentist gave me. A little expensive but so much better then the strips you can buy. I honestly only use it once a year. I need more advise on what to do about thin lips...anyone?

Honesty
I wish Jackie lived at my house. I need someone with me blowing a whistle to get motivated. I know I feel so much better when I take care of my body. Thank you for this article.

Honesty
I think it's always best to be on time, and be yourself. You need to let them see you have a great personality, and that you can get the job done. I have gotten caught being dishonest. So I also think it's best to tell the truth. You can exagerate a little bit, but a honest woman has nothing to fear.

Honesty
This article is so true. I wish more women had a deeper understanding. I am going to send this to four of my single friends right now! ! !

Tori
The best remedy I have found for dry lips Origins makes. It's amazing.

lily -- Los Angeles
Chicananerd - I agree with you - I try not to fake orgasms with my boyfriend. He can totally tell when I'm "acting" and it usually makes him sad, so I've realized that it's just not worth it. That being said, I love how close I feel with my bf during missionary, but I can never orgasm from it.

lily -- Los Angeles
I love lip exfoliators. There are some that look like lipstick, and you just put them on, rub your lips together and viola! Perfect lips!

chicananerd -- ontario
Maybe I'm alone on this, but I can/do orgasm from the missionary position. My bf is ususally very, um, attentive to making sure I get there so I find it a pretty successful position for us. As for faking it, well, I think a lot of women fake it because it's easier than having to explain/comfort the guy that couldn't get you to climax. I have faked it in the past, but realized it's really not worth it...

diver1068
Ouch! Ok, I can appreciate that. Most men whether you know or not actually feel good knowing they've pleased the woman they're with. That matters more or contributes to our overall experience. I want to call any woman out on it if they're faking with me, so how exactly can we tell if it's real or not? Is there something I'm missing here?

happygal
Hate to break it to you but yeah, we fake...a lot. In fact, I probably fake 90% of the time. Not that I don't love my fiance but sometimes he just can't bring it and I'd rather fake and have him feel satisfied than not (obviously some feminine caretaker issues here). I enjoy what I have with him and then when I need I have my rabbit. Men can't usually tell if a woman fakes it because they don't want to. But if they paid a little more attention they'd be able to tell the difference between faux and real orgasms eventually. But would you even care? PS - learn these missionary tips because the way most of you are doing it, the only orgasm you'll get are fake, fake, and fake. Sorry, but true.

diver1068
Real deal ladies, men are just so thankful you'll have sex with us, we don't care what position. With that said though, after a few years with the same partner we do like to spice things up with positions, talk, toys, whatever really. We're so insecure in bed, the only thing we want is for you to reach orgasm. My last girlfriend seemed satisfied with every position but I did notice a little more elation when she was on top. Which leads me to my question...do you really fake it? If so, why?????

erinness -- Portland
I feel the same as AbbyGal - I only like missionary because I can hide my body. Every other position I'm self-conscious. But it is a boring position and probably out of 200 orgasms I've had in my life (yeah I'm lucky) only one has been from missionary - one!!! That one was because we were in a public place and it was so risky and exciting I just orgasm'd. Otherwise, pretty boring position. But I'll give these tips a try. Why not, right?

james1234
Truth? I feel I can speak for most men - favorite position - doggy style or woman on top. We like missionary ok - but as far as feeling and visual goes doggy style and woman on top are the best. Men are visual creatures - I'm just telling you all the truth and we like to watch our "parts" go inside and doggy style is the best view. Woman on top is so sexy though to be able to see a woman comfortable and in control. A lot of women think they have to have perfect bodies to do this. They don't. Just have a good time and that's the sexiest thing you can ever do. What it all comes down to, is men are almost always more insecure in bed than women could ever be. Just enjoy yourself honestly and we're in heaven.

AbbyGal -- Atlanta
Totally agree. The only thing missionary is good for is hiding my stomach. I feel most comfortable in that position, but it's the least pleasurable for me. I've always wondered if men even like it? Any men out there willing to comment on what their fav position is? (And why?)

addy
The only thing I like about the missionary position is it hides my body. Other than that, it doesn't do much for me.

ch8rry -- Pflugerville
wow what perfect timing for this article! I recently broke up with my boyfriend who was the same age as me. I also became friends with a man 8 yrs my senior. through out our friendship i developed a crush on this man but never told him. not until today when he also revealed that he liked me. we are taking things slow but i have to admit that there is something intoxicating about having an older lover!

RaquelRoad
I always drink coffee thinking it will help me lose weight. Weird.

RaquelRoad
I can't have coffee after 4pm. Every time I try I think, oh, I'll be fine. Then I stay up till three.

RaquelRoad
Don't buy fake! It is way sketchy. I agree!

RaquelRoad
My best friend was dating this guy and he was awful!!! He was so caustic when he saw her in public, but then would call all of the time at night to hook up. She said they had a "special bond" which was her way of justifying his behavior. It was totally oxytocin.

RaquelRoad
I love that Bridget Jones scene! I know what you mean, lisalove.

RaquelRoad
During my single days I was always too available. But then it's hard because you don't want to play games and say oh! I'm busy (when really, it would be easy to rearrange your schedule). I think "not being too available" is easier said then done.

summer-girl
I work in Human Relations, and we always get people who when we contact, say "sorry, I can't come in that day. I have ______." They should make sure and be there. It shows they want the job.

summer-girl
congrats Jazmin! I hope I'm like you!

summer-girl
I live near the beach and I have the palest skin. Like pasty pasty skin that never tans. Arg! Thanks for the tips.

leisle -- Westwood
Sometimes it is so hard for me to avoid a grudge. After I get into an argument with my bf, I want to bring it up all of the time...I'll say something like "remember when you were grumpy and said that I was ______. Well, you're pretty _______ right now too." It makes for such great comebacks, but as I've learned, it just makes you enter the argument over again. I'm working on trying not to do it!

Sunny
When do I start is also a great question. hehe.

Chloe -- Los Angeles
I live in Los Angeles where all the men that don't call back live. Nice or not it doesn't feel good to be left in the dark or rejected. I personally am so lucky to have found someone that I love, and that loves me. I remember in the beginning when my boyfriend and I were just dating... it was so scary! When he wouldn't call, I would fear that he may have lost interest. That I did something wrong. That I shared too much. That I didn't open up enough. After time passed and I grew to trust myself and him more I realized that for the first time I had just been honest and me the entire time we got to know each other...And so was he. So there was no room for right or wrong, it was just easy, and honest. The first time I've ever had anything like this...so Please don't waste time wondering about where he went. Or why he didn't call. As soon as you focus your attention on yourself and doing what is best for you, either the phone will ring...or the the right person will come into your life.

Simplicity
I am so frustrated after reading this article. Why nice guys don't call back? I wish we could all forget a man when he didn't give us the attention we deserve. Why should I even give a guy a second thought if he doesn't have the balls to clearly communicate with me. I sound like one of the angry women a man wouldn't call back, but I think it would have been nice to live in the time when chivelry still exsisted. Is it too much to just call someone back and be honest. I would. I do. I don't like this article at all. Who cares why he doesn't call back. Its his lost. NEXT IS RIGHT.

addy
This is so true! I've experienced a feeling of connection after sex so many times - feelings that my partner didn't even deserve.

summer-girl
I used to share my eyeshadow with my friend in college. Yeah, I know....so gross.

addy
It's really important to be careful with eye products. Try not to share brushes, mascara, or eye-shadow with friends - eye infections are the worst. Nothing worse than pink eye.

Honesty
These stories are FUNNY!
You would think there's enough to worry about with all the diseases, and unplanned pregnancy. . .but on top of it SEXUAL INJURIES. Wow. Maybe practicing celibacy is the only way to go. Just kidding. You girls are brave telling your crazy stories. I enjoy reading them but I'm kind of a prude I guess. I don't have anything to tell that is relative.

samantha22 -- Los Angeles
These stories make me feel so much better about the few I have kept secret. One time I was riding on top of my ex boyfriend and I decided to lay backwards across his legs while still riding him. It was so awful when he screamed out,"get off of me"... I really think I sprained his you know what. He was scared for me to ever get on top again. I have had a phobia about it ever since. Thanks again for your advice savvy.

Chloe -- Los Angeles
I found my love in a coffee shop. Going in for a cup a pick me up, and I came out with my heart racing ! ! ! You just have to keep your eyes and your heart open.

erinness -- Portland
Hi quietplague,

I read your comment over and over and thank you. I really understand what you're saying. It's beautiful. What I took from it is it is ok for me to complain - good for me to recognize that there are things that I'm unhappy with that cause me to complain. And that is ok. But what is necessary is to not only recognize it but do something about it. I feel empowered to now make a change now. Even though change is sometimes scary. And I will. Thank you.

quietplague

personally i find that there is an inherent need for people to complain. but the ones who do well are the action oriented complainers. they complain about a problem effectively and actually do something about it! if there is something they don't like, they try to change it. the first step is to be not afraid of change and just take the steps necessary to move on and let go.


erinness -- Portland
Sometimes I get so sick of feeling negative and complaining to everyone around me - but I don't know how to stop. There are things in my life I'm so unhappy with. Does anyone else complain a lot? Or is everyone else really happy with their lives?

Honesty
It feels like its so much easier to connect with men. I long for good girl friends like I have back home. Since I have moved to a larger city its been hard to find women I can trust that are in my same age range. I tend to spend my quality women to women time with ladies that are twice my age. Thats okay with me because they have a lot to teach me. I'm just not sure what I'm bring to them. Maybe I help them laugh. If there are any women in there early twenties that want to connect with me. . here I am.

Honesty
I think most people are afraid to let go of fear . Its so strange how I cling to these feelings that don't help me at all. Anger, fear resentment, and grief only make life harder. Its amazing that there might be a different way to go through life. It seems like some of the things this author suggests will be difficult in the beginning, but I think if I created the space for myself to practice some of these simple instructions...I may feel a difference.

Cambria
I love this article. I'm going to find the CD. I am so ready to let go of all my negative thinking. It really is holding me back.

Cambria

I'm with a man, [boy] who is three years younger then me. You wouldn't think it's that much of an age difference but when you're in your twenties every year matters. He is so much more immature then me. This is the first time I've dated someone younger then me. He is driving me CRAZY. I feel like his mother. He wants to move in with me and thought of it makes my stomach turn. I would have to clean up after him more then I do now. I guess its time for me to let him go. He's just too cute for words.

KatWilder -- Marin County

At least you have recognized your Achilles' heel. Now you need to make sure you don't fall into that pattern again because there seems to be something in your life that is drawn to "fix" things.

When you're with someone like that (and I have that leaning, too), instead of trying to cheer him up, why not challenge him — "Why do you feel that way?"; "What is the worst that could happen?"; "That's too bad"; "That must be hard ..." etc.

If you ever become a mom (assuming you're not one now), tis will really help you during the teens years when they try to draw you into their drama!


chicananerd -- upland
i know that the reality is that most guys play a lot of BS games, but it's really quite sad that at least to some, the ***goal*** is to play games from the beginning...and then catalog them as such so that women have the "inside scoop". all these tips really seem to do is set you up to lure the guy in, and then once you think you have him and drop the games, you lose him 'cause he loses interest afterall. by the logic employed on this premise, you're either prolonging the inevitable OR committing yourself of a life of perpetual game-playing. i don't doubt that guys like some/all of the things listed here, but to make them objectives for women to strive for in an effort to "keep their man", well, that's sort of pathetic. i'd be so disappointed if i found myself in a situation that required this sort of high maintenance BS. i guess i should feel lucky that i'm not.

samantha22 -- Los Angeles
You are tested for HPV by getting a pap. . . however I'm pretty sure you need to request that you are tested for HPV specifically, otherwise your Doctor may not test you for it.

MorganC
Cambria - I agree. It's easy to get overwhelmed in stores. What I try to do is remember what I went in there to buy. Sometimes I will even do research online so I know exactly what the store has, and therefore cannot get sidetracked. Also, I would pack your closet with the basics. This is my problem because it's not as fun to buy plain black shirts etc. But once you have it, then you can go crazy buying items that are more fun.

Cambria
It seems like every time I go to get dressed there is always one piece missing. Either the jeans and the top are great but I don't have the shoes. Or the shoes and top work but I don't have the slacks. I wish whoever wrote this article would take me shopping. I need help. Every time I decide I'm going to buy some clothing that is more my age, I decide I want to look like a woman you know. . .I go into the store, I get all overwhelmed and end up buying the same immature clothing I alway do. How should I stay on track and focus on the things I really need that I can match up with other things to look and feel good. Does anyone know.

Cambria
I am going to start focusing on my assets. Its so funny how women think. If we have straight fine thin hair we want bouncy thick curly hair. If we have no breasts we save up to by some. I'm honestly looking in to Doctors right now. And yet four of my girlfriends that have large breasts have gotten a reduction. I can't wear certain things because I have no breasts, and some of my girlfriends envy me not having to wear a bra. This article is great.

Honesty
I put so much pressure on myself to look good, however keeping up with fashion these days can be overwhelming. A lot of times when I get up in the morning I wish I could just put on sweats and a tee shirt everyday because of how much effort I feel it takes for me to look good. I like how this article talks about dressing good to feel good. Its true, when I force myself to put in a little bit of effort, my confidence rises a little. I'm 5'4 with very large breasts, so finding the right look can be tricky at times. I really appreciate this article. I didn't think I would be interested in the topic until I started reading it.

Tinkerbelle
I'm too afraid to even get on the pill because of all the different opinions. One doctor won't prescribe me the pill because my grandmother died of breast cancer. Another Doctor will give me as many samples as I want for free. The longest I've lasted on the pill was one week, I'm not sure if I really was experiencing what I thought I was or if my mind was manifesting what I felt because of how afraid I of it I was. I KNOW I'm not ready to have a baby yet so thank you for the clear information Savvy.

Tinkerbelle
I like glitter. Granted I don't wear it every day but for special parties or events I think glitter can add alot. Especially if you keep in in specific areas like your eye lids only. I think its cute and a nice touch.

TwoDateDiva
I have a strict no smacking rule (even when asked nicely). But it sounds like you already know something is amiss here. If you really want to stay in your marriage it would probably best to lose the friendship with the younger guy and focus all of you attention on getting your relationship with your husband back on track. It is very hard to go in two directions at once and what happens is that you get no where.

Good luck,
TDD
http://twodatediva.blogspot.com/

samantha22 -- Los Angeles
Thank you for the article. I love the advise you have given me. I'll have to start using it. I am very detached from my sexuality. I need to own the fact that I am a beautiful woman. Why hide it?

Cambria
I am not in the dating scene but I wish I would have read this article before I moved in with my boyfriend. I have found myself wanting to play games with him even though were not dating. Yes I hooked him using some of the tips you suggested and also some of my own tips. Now that we live together I feel like I'm being taken for granted. So I keep threatning to move out. You know how the article talks about changing your look so he doesn't know what to expect, the other night I was obsessing in my mind once again about how much everything has changed and I put on my little thigh high garder belt and through a big puffy robe over it.I was going to suprise him, but we ended up getting in a fight before I could even show him what was underneath my robe. He just doesn't look at me the way he used to. I don't know what to do. I don't think a game is going to help. Does anyone have any advise. Please don't make fun of me.

Cambria
When you go to get a Pap, do they automatically check you for HPV. Or do you have to ask them to do so?

Cambria
You are so right. I am twenty nine years old and was not sure if I had ever had an orgasm until I was twenty six. I kept telling myself maybe that was one. Or that could have been. I never felt the way I did when I was pleasuring myself as I did when I was with a man. Until I found the man I trusted enough to go there with. I didn't like hearing Oh. . .you'll know because I didn't. Until I did. Just like you will. I had almost given up on ever getting to experience one with a man . I'm so glad I didn't. I still don't have them very often. I have been with the same man for over three years, so I'm still learning I can trust him. I just get in my head a lot. I still worry I'm not doing it right. But when I focus on feeling good for me it makes him feel good.
I read that women can have different types of orgasms to, so maybe your having one that doesn't sound like what other women experience. Just keep exploring. DON'T JUDGE YOUR EXPIRIENCE

Tinkerbelle
So well written.

Thank you. Personally I always wonder how the man I'm with now feels about his X's. If he misses them. If he compares me to them. I wonder what my past X's remember about me. I hope they hold me in a positive light. I doubt it though. We all know breaking up is hard to do. The mind is a funny thing, I will rarely see an image of one of my X's that makes me smile. I don't wish I was still with them but for a fleeting moment I'm grateful for the time we spent together. I love this article. Its one of my favorites.

Tinkerbelle

I don't know the best place to meet a man. . .but I have heard a few suggestions. The Gym, grocery stores. My heart felt advice to you Samantha 22 is to not look for a man. Try to focus on yourself, my experience has always been when I'm not looking they appear.

samantha22 -- Atlanta

I'm so sick and tired of Men playing games with me. I have always been a strong beleiver in Karma. I usually don't mess with mens heart strings, I just feel broken right now. I've be living in Los Angeles for six months now, dating is so hard here. The only place I have met men I would want to date has been in clubs. Most of the men have been players. I'm thinkin were having a great time and then as soon as I kiss them good bye, or I never hear from them again. I don't really want to play games back but I guess its time. I will try the advise you have to give. Does anyone know the best place to meet a good man in LA.

JDarlington
All great points.

quietplague

the paragraphs repeat themselves. please edit carefully in the future


quietplague

the chocolate milk doesn't necessarily work for the lactose intolerant or for people with sensitive stomachs. gatorade, accelerade (yuck!) or for the hard core athletes use pedialyte.


aero
oh my goodness, it seems like we have the same life experiences when coming to men...I feel like I have a sign on my head that says fix them up.

Betty1948
I just read the messages about dating jailbirds and ex-cons and all the info given was all too true. This is happening to my daughter who is dating a former childhood acquaintance. She started out by writing to him. He was someone she cared for as a teenager. She is 25. He has been out less than a year and in that time she has been manipulated into buying him an expensive vehicle, paying his bills and letting homeless family members move in. She lost a great job, and her home. She also cashed in all her retirement fund and that was also spent as well. She is now facing bankruptcy. His promises of getting a job to pay her never materialized. She was also driven to inflict injuries upon herself and spent time in a mental health center. This is from a beautiful, intelligent young woman who you would never have succumbed to such tricks. He is now in trouble again and she is still staying with him and living out of her car and sleeping in cheap motels. She says she feels sorry for him because soon he will most likely be locked up again. I know she is being brainwashed by this guy. Please, please be aware of what these people do. They have been in prison long enough to perfect their craft on naive women. Pray for her.

liaroma -- El Reno
Well in my case the man I am seeing reacts like the women you describe and I do everything pretty much like the man. It is very frustrating...

erinness -- Portland
My best friend was diagnosed with ovarian cancer at 25. It's so important we remember that cancer can affect women of any age and we see our doctor's (especially the dreaded gyno). Thanks for the article - let's remember our sisters always - not just the designated breast cancer awareness month of October.

nycgirl
Whenever I'm feeling like I'm never going to find the right guy I make a list of the qualities I want in a partner. I know it sounds strange, but it's good to focus on the good.

AbbyGal -- Atlanta
Once again, Thanks Ian. You always tell it like it is. I know women RARELY admit to it - but as much as sex isn't everything in a relationship. PE is a deal breaker!

TwoDateDiva
Thanks for this article! It came just at the right time for me. I'm also glad I'm not the only one that walks through the bookstore and dreams of having a book on the bestseller shelf.

Two Date Diva

resurrection12
this is too funny! i like #8, definitely something guys can do.

fire4ced
What about other types of plastic surgery, like liposuction? What are the risks for that?

erinness -- Portland
Did you know that you can get payment plans for plastic surgery - it's like buying a car - 0 money down and then whatever a month payments. It's crazy how obsessed we are with plastic surgery and how easy it is to get it done. But I guess if it really is something that makes a person's life better - then more power to you. Just be safe - and think it through first. Maybe consider a combo of plastic surgery with therapy - or therapy first and then...

uwishtoo
Fiona:

The fact that going home to a family may be like another full time job is our problem HOW ? They chose to have those kids and it ISNT understandable at all that they feel entitled to anything other than a paycheck for 40 hours of work

uwishtoo
asya:

Are you KIDDING ME ??? Just because you were an egg donor doesnt mean jack to me sorry. WHat about a single professional woman that helps care for her parents and grown kids ? I never asked for, or got, any special treatment, but if I wanted to work OT it was because I wanted to and not because I was told to and if I couldnt when asked then oh well, I couldnt, flat out simple. There is nothing "natural" about distinguishing between a single woman with no small children and one with them, sorry. But I also wonder how far up the ladder you expect to get with that attitude? not too far if you were working for me, I would prefer to promote a single women with no kids that didnt ask for special treatment then some spoiled mother who felt like she was entitled to something. i bet you are also the first one that screams discrimination after working for years at 40 or less hours a week due to little Johnny or Janey coming first when a woman with no kids gets promoted huh ? Attitudes like yours are disgusting and degrading

andspepper
I know it's not the point of this article. But reading this makes me miss dating a little. At least bad dates provide good stories.

PepperA.
i went on the WORST date last night. everyone told me i should go - get out there - what's the harm - well the harm was I somehow ended up paying for the whole night - was slobbered on - and i hate to say i missed Grey's Anatomy. Boo.

AbbyGal -- Atlanta
I've experienced the one where he takes a call and whispers into the phone - but my date whispered "I miss you too - see you soon." Ummm, Red Flag!!!

Pari-love
The mullet trend is definitely one that is EVERYWHERE here in Madrid!!! I just can't seem to understand why...

maestro215
my girlfriend loves doublepenetration but when it comes time to do it with 2 guys she gets shy.would it be best to just surprise her some time? i really want to do this for her but i am not sure how to go about it.any ideas would be great

AbbyGal -- Atlanta
I think it's great that Savvy Miss and others are bringing the much deserved attention to mental illness. Bipolar Disorder is something I've witnessed first-hand with a loved one and it's refreshing to read about someone else's struggle with it and the hope that lies ahead. Thx!

giggles88
What if you are dreaming that you are having sex with your partner?

bella -- ojai
I fully agrees with the other bloggers. We view these outrages as normal. They are not.
When do the models, women who work for these designers, and women who work for the magazines and the entire female population of the world including celebrites start boycotting companies who show women in these cruel and demeaning advertisements. We have gotten to the point that ad people think the more outrageous then can be the better they can move the product. We need to send a message that creative common sense and civility can sell products. Trash will sell trash.

RamblinLiz
Hmm. Well, if all men are this universally whiny and shallow, I'll happily remain single. ;)

lauramc70 -- Los Angeles
PiOverPie, I loved your comments! I needed a good laugh and am glad you thought some of the "universal truths"
were pretty un-universal like I did.

PiOverPie
his "universal" truths about guys sound more like self-loathing. Most of them don't really even make sense. There are a couple that are true enough but certainly not for men alone. Things like #1...I mean, come on. If the list was meant to be a joke then #1 is kind of funny. But it sounds more like it was written by someone trying to take typical stereotypes about men and make them sound serious. First off the average Neanderthal will probably do anything for sex but to assume that all men would is such an overstatement and second those men that WOULD do anything for sex are so completely scared of actual commitment that to say they would marry for it is hysterically inaccurate.

#2 and #3 are true but #2 is pretty much true of both men and women...at least those that have some shred of maturity. #4 is so far off the map. Every man who knows women even a little bit knows better than to give an honest answer when asked this. #5 is laughable...men's eyes wander. (period) #6 and #7 are true to a certain extent but again wouldn't be exclusive to men. #8 is one of the few things on the list that define just about every heterosexual male on the planet. #9...um...what? #10 and #11 are true. #12...see my answer for number 1. #13...who the hell is writing this crap...someone stuck in a 1950's cliché book perhaps? Can you say, love and respect should kind of go hand in hand? I knew that you could. #'s 14,15 and 16 are true. #17...holy mid-life crisis Batman! #18 is true. #19...I say again. Um...what? #20 is true for the less secure (which this guy obviously is) and as a general rule won't help much. Personally, depending on the context, it doesn't bother me. #21...holy crap. See my answer for #13. #22 is confusing. Any men that are in the kind of relationship in which they would care that much about the women's opinion on what they're wearing would be smart enough to ask for advice before/during the process of getting dressed. (Take into consideration that the only reason a normal woman would make a comment like that would be for if it was a special occasion.) #23 is true for both men and women. #24 is true in a sense, but every human on the planet sometimes thinks of things they don't want to share. I think this guy is again assuming we're (men) all Neanderthals. #25 isn't universally true. My personal opinion on this is that women don't truly "get over it" either. A man who truly loves his partner will assess the damages and subconsciously decide whether fight or flight is the best answer. A man who isn't will generally see this as the "free pass" to either do whatever he wants, if he isn't already, or to treat the woman like crap. Unfortunately women have us men beat on being mature about this topic.

Philly_Girrrl
Fur??????????????I don't think so....leave te real animal fur on the ANIMAL! There are plenty of faux options that are chic...who wants to look like great grandma trudy anyway?

Philly_Girrrl
All I have to say is thank god I am getting married in 3 weeks....baseball hats PLEASE...I hate baseball hats and sundresses...not to crazy about flip flops and HATE when folks wear their pjs in public...it looks sloppy and I shouldn't be sudjected to your "cute" duck, heart, cartoon sponge bob bedroom outfits...I too wonder who these guys are ages, locations etc...they seem really young...no trouser pants a cute shirt dress...heels...come on guys!

Philly_Girrrl
This article is GREAT! I confess to at one time having at least 15 pairs of shoes under my desk (pain inflictors...you can't walk to work in them and who would want to...you would ruin their beauty). I am sporting boots today (weather channel indicated it is cooling off in Phill :))!

Philly_Girrrl
I agree with other's comments...Lily, I too had braces for about 1.5 years and just got them off about 10 months ago (I will be 29 next week)...so I know what it is like to look young anyway and have braces on top of that...don't stress you will get through it and have a beautiful smile (which, trust me is worth it in the end!)!! I still get carded and still am the youngest at the office...All the tips in the article are great. And I agree...when did it become appropriate to ask how old someone at work is...

lauramc70 -- Los Angeles
A lot of these are too 19th century, and insulting. Give me a break!

sminerva21
Umm, No. 23 is a little too 19th century for me.

sminerva21
I'm so glad I read this article. I just moved half way across the country with my boyfriend to a city where neither of us knows anyone (we needed a change), so it's been hard for both of us to find friends. He's made friends with some coworkers because he works with people his own age. I like my coworkers, but they're all 40-year-old men with wives and families, and I'm a twenty-something female, so that doesn't exactly scream "Hey, let's do lunch and go shopping this weekend."

I'm going to start to put these tips to good use.

uwishtoo
Nope probably not and honestly here, do you really want to be with a man that felt pressured into giving you a ring ? Been there done that and after I got the ring I realized that I really didnt want it all that badly anymore so I gave it back and moved on without the guy

uwishtoo
Good sex can be learned and after time, more comfortable and well, good. A good relationship and friendship takes time. You have already invested the time to become friends and have the relationship be good so now work on the sex part and it might be fine. It all depends on how much you want to have great sex and if you are willing to settle for less than that. I would be for sure if I found a guy that I could have as a good companion and friend.

uwishtoo
It hardly works that way - you dont go backwards and start a relationship when you have already given away the house so to speak. Move on and find someone that is willing to wait and really get to know you as a person and a friend first. Been there and done that - the funny thing is that I visited my 6 year booty last weekend and he was telling me about a woman he had met that only considered HIM as a booty call and didnt want anything more out of him and the relationship - and I could tell it upset him (we are both in our 50's and I now live 1800 miles away from him) and I jsut looked at him and said hmmm, kind of hurts doesnt it ? He grimaced a little and realized that he has hurt me in the past.

uwishtoo
The best sex I ever had was with a man that I had met and dated for a month or so and we had slept in the same bed many times but never went furhter than that. I was 46 and he was 51 and on our first date he actually kissed me on the cheek as a good bye! But the weekend that we finally knew it was going to happen I was at his house for the weekend and while getting dressed to go out he had answered the phone and was talking to someone when I walked out in a robe and asked him if he liked my outfit (he was still on the phone mind you and trying to talk) and I opened the robe to reveal a thigh high and low cut lace teddy - lol - he coughed a little and kept talking on the phone as I walked back into the bedroom and finished dressing. All nite long I would discreetly slip the shoulder of my sweater off to show him the lace straps of my teddy. He was a hand holder and once when he reached over for my hand I brought it to my mouth and slowly sucked on his fingers for a second. Needless to say we didnt stay out dancing very long and rushed home where we danced in the living room and then ..... wow !

uwishtoo
respect: same old story - a man has double standards in this and alot of things. I guess Vince must only watch gay porn since he isnt into women ! lol They enjoy watching the women in the movies that make it possible for porn to be around but then want their own women to be a madonna. Same thing as when I met my now former (thank the LORD for the "former" status) fiance when I was in my mid 30's - I am almost 50 now. I was a size 2 then and had on a short thigh high white skirt and a red tank top and 4 inch heels while out clubbing with some friends. Yet a few years later on our way out to dinner - still at a size 2 I came out of the bedroom in a similar outfit and he had a FIT - he told me I wasnt allowed out of the house that way - yeah right, like I ever get "allowed" to do anything. So I sat down on the couch and turned the tv on and told him to have a good time at dinner - ALONE ! lol We ended up going to dinner with me dressed how I pleased but I did tell him then and several other times that he met me looking like that, I still had a great body and legs enough to pull that outfit off and he would just have to deal with however I chose to dress. Finally broke it off with him when his double standards interfered with alot more than just the way that I dressed.

respectwomen
oh i love this article so much i printed it and am going to give it to every woman i know. I also agree with KatWilder! cnuttall, i love wine and sex and the city so much too!!!

respectwomen
wait, wait, wait...."i wouldn't want to be with a girl who would be into that,"??? Well Vince then why do you suppose we should want to be with you?? Are you not into that??
Oh so if I wanted to watch it with you, then that would be where it is wrong...oh okay I get it! By the way I have been around many men while they watched porn together, it is not "generally a solo activity". Where are your credentials?? I also, 100% agree with ladylaura119!! Women should not have to deal with all that we do from men!! And we still are where we are socially because of ignorant men, like this that stand up for porn any chance they get, but then bad mouth the women who they pay to make it for them.

lovelyxsk -- Tenafly
what are some ways of how to touch myself besides using toys and hands?

I_M_A_GA_PEACH
Sweetie, If you figure it out let me know okay?
I have been seeing this man for a month. I know he is living with another woman. He clims he wants her gone (not married, his home)but wants her to leave. She drinks heavily and is quite a rowdy type. Believe me I know for sure he is not lying about how she is. I am good friends with her ex-husband. However here I am in the shadows at 2:40 am writing to you instead of being cuddled in MY bed with a wonderful man. I know he cares about me I have known him for years ( about 20 to be exact) but it kills me to think I am wasting away while he is playing the waiting game with her.

bstanny
Lois is right on the money. Not only are vacations important for good health. Taking time off is actually a well-kept secret to higher earnings.

I learned that lesson from the incredibly successful women I interviewed for my books, Secrets of Six-Figure Women and Overcoming Underearning. These women actually worked fewer hours, took frequent trips, and still accomplished far more than the masses.

Those interviews taught me that breaks away from work always go hand in hand with increased productivity, creativity, and profit. And that striving for success without occasional getaways can be a sure fire formula for burnout.

Barbara Stanny, author
http://www.barbarastanny.com



LILA -- Los Angeles
thanks for the tip on how to ask questions on a date -- not just which ones to NOT to ask!

LILA -- Los Angeles
it's unbelievable how many folks lack tact when it comes to discussing or trying to show money on dates. it's way too transparent...stop!

LILA -- Los Angeles
thankfully, i don't have to worry about asking this one...don't have kids and don't think i want any, at least any time soon.

LILA -- Los Angeles
you're so right about dates being more terrified than you are. well, at least that's what i try to tell myself before i go on them.

LILA -- Los Angeles
while i hate to believe it, what you said about men, women and dating before listing the no-no questions is very true! and i also here you on no. 9 -- women who do this make me embarrassed for them.

uwishtoo
I did the cell phone emergency thing and my date turned out to be awesome and when it rang and I didnt leave he said oh you must want to continue the date - he wasnt fooled, he knew what the emergency phone call meant :)

anjta
Does it occur to you that he might want to accompany you to hospital to check on the injuries?

Pari-love
I love high-waisted trousers- I'm so tired of seeing those low-waisted pants that make everyone look like they're packing on the love handles.

GlassFull
Hey summer-girl! I know how you feel. I'm just at the place where I'm not looking for something serious. But apparently it's true -- when you're not thinking about it 24/7 it happens to you in those moments your thinking about other things, like shoes or going out with your girlfriends.

I don't think it's so much not caring because that is impossible. But it's to show the guy you have many other things going on in your world and if he wants to be a part of it he needs to make the effort to entice you to spend time with him and get to know him. Men love a challenge and that's no lie. The key is when meeting a great guy to not make him the gist of your world. Continue what you were doing before and let em in a little bit at a time until he deserves your devotion.

sminerva21
I agree with mandoir.

I've also been in a relationship for a few years now (we also live together), and I've never felt like I was compromising my career for my "couple life." I have a great job that I love and work hard at, and I really enjoy coming home to someone who wants to talk about my day and theirs over dinner.

I have single friends, and a lot of them love being single, but I find that those who are in serious relationships are labeled just as often as single girls. "Oh, she must just want to get married so she can become a baby machine," or "She's really outdated to be in a serious relationship in her twenties." That's always really irritated me. What's wrong with wanting it all? A great career and someone to share life's adventures with? Sign me up!

Couples have just as much fun as single girls, and since being in a couple, my sex life has never been better :)

uwishtoo
whats wrong with a couple being able to share in watching movies and spicing it up together ?

uwishtoo
I just have a general comment here on this article - but why do most, if not all, articles such as this talking about getting the life we want, invariably show a picture of a happy couple spending time together ? Isnt there any possibility that I want a good life and the ideal of such doesnt automatically involve a man ? Sorry but this idealogy just makes me gag

summer-girl
I've tried to "date like a guy," but honestly Monn, I don't know how you do it. It's like, I can't turn off a "not care" button. And I don't know why guys find "not caring" so attractive. When did caring about a relationship ever become such a bad thing?

space_cowgirl
I always thought the phrase "You'll meet a guy when you're not looking" just meant to not stress and obsess about being single too much. I've given this advice to my friends before, but I meant it as- focus on other things in life like work, hobbies, or hanging out with friends, because through these means you are bound to meet an amazing person.

space_cowgirl
Leaving out info such as who you really hung out with will definitely hurt your partner in the long run. I say just be honest about who you were with, even if it was someone your gf would feel insecure about, such as an ex-girlfriend. Telling her the truth will build her trust, whereas lying (if she ever finds out about it) will make her wonder the worst.

fiona
This is an interesting concept and it seems to work. A lot of people might think "The Secret" is bogus but I believe a part of achieving dreams and goals is to visualize them first in your head and make them seem real enough to accomplish.

resurrection12
i haven't tried it yet, but i will now that i know where to go from here!

ucsdgirl
i think people are afraid of contextualizing their goals because then they have the responsibility of realizing them. keeping them in the back of one's head or dreaming from time to time lets you remain in a safe little bubble. i know this because i do this myself.

MorganC
I agree with sheila. Code switching definitely warrants drama queendom. My boyfriend would code switch when he was around one of his guy friends, and it was horrible. This guy friend was so disgusting, and would make all of my girlfriends feel uncomfortable. Literally, he would tell them that he "wanted to do them." It was bad. And my boyfriend wouldn't do anything...he would just laugh or say comments to egg him on. It's disgusting, and I brought it up to him, and I don't regret it at all. Things like that are uncalled for.

sheila-takeabow
I'm elated to see that it's logical for girlfriends to get angry when their guys are "code switching." It totally pissed me off whenever my boyfriend would be with his frat brothers, commenting on all the girls he thought were hot- right in front of me! He said I was being insecure- whatever.

fiona
It is SO important for women to know how to defend themselves.. I've been meaning to take a self-defense class. I always make sure I have mase with me at all times!

summer
i think it's the easiest thing sometimes for guys to stick that label on us when they don't want to take responsibility, but i agree that some girlfriends can get out of hand and need to relax.

banana_peel
i think money matters is something i'm dreading most when it's time i get married. i don't want to sign a pre-nup, but a lot of people expect to these days. i also find it awkward talking about sharing an account. i don't really know what's the best route.

MorganC
My ex boyfriend would ALWAYS bring his friends over to my place. Okay..so we weren't married but we too still had to adjust. I was glad he had guy friends...I wouldn't want to date a guy that just focused on me all the time and doesn't have a life of his own...but really, one time his friends broke into my apartment to watch TV (they didn't have cable) while I was at work. Not okay.

Pari-love
Ok, guys may not tell their guy friends everything- but as a close friends to many from the male species, I know that they will talk to me in detail about their significant other. Is there a difference between what they spill to their male friends and their female friends???

leisle -- Westwood
Okay-this reminds me of When Harry Met Sally (a lot of things do hahaha). Basically Sally's best friend is dating this guy who is already married. They date for years, and he always tells her that he's going to leave his wife. But he never does. She's waisting her time with this guy, instead of getting out there and meeting someone new. When she does call it quits, she meets Harry's best friend and they fall in love! Okay, this is a movie, but I still see similarities. GET ON WITH YOUR LIFE

banana_peel
john, thanks for clearing things up. my bf can agree with #4. i love to have lengthy conversations and it ends up me talking and him nodding, afraid to spark more "soliloquies".

RaquelRoad
Can you have an orgasim and just not know it? I think it's hard because there's no sure fire way to know you're having one, right? People always say...oh, you'll know, but I think I have one, but just haven't been 100% certain. Men are so lucky. They know exactly what it is they're looking for.

asya
it's sometimes hard to find the balance of being a leader and being aggressive. i like taking initiative, but sometimes i think i come off a bit too strong.

asya
number 4 is a bit risque. if i spend a fortune on new furniture, i don't think i'd trust myself sand papering it into something beat up. it could look nice if you have experience.

banana_peel
i know how you feel, leisle. i'm always daunted by these changes as well. i think you should start with one room first, maybe even the bathroom as a stepping stone. then, if you still like it after a couple of weeks, take a deep breath and do the rest.

leisle -- Westwood
I am always to scared to paint my apartment. I think because I am fickle and will change my mind once the color is already up. Suggestions?

space_cowgirl
I loved Gina on AI!!! Her answer is so thoughtful. I agree that in some situations like your career, you must put yourself first. Way to go girl !

ucsdgirl
building anticipation is like playing mind games. i'm not complaining or anything. i love being the one in control and if a little manipulation will do the trick, so be it.

resurrection12
this is one of my favorite articles on the site! i also liked "what men think about during sex."

summer
this article inspired me to buy a sexy adult board game of some sort. i actually some some in the shopping gifts section, so i think i'll give that a try.

asya
i don't have a problem with "being into it." actually, the problem is that i'm too into it and once i woke up my bf's dormmates in college. that was pretty embarrassing.

banana_peel
i wouldn't want to compare to carmen or pamela! i think they're fake and disgusting. i think sexy women are those like scarlett johanson and gwyneth paltrow.

summer-girl
The most embarrassing thing happened in bed...I didn't know how to give a good bj, but I tried it on my boyfriend (without telling him I was inept). It was probably the most humiliating experience in my life--because he could obviously tell I wasn't an experienced vet (and he's received his fair share so he would know...), but now we just look back and laugh. He thinks that was one of the cutest moments of our relationship....(even though I still cringe).

LILA -- Los Angeles
lily, i couldn't agree more. what we also have to pay attention to is when the other person's pursuit is considered "bigger." that automatically undermines what his/her partner brings to the table and makes it easy for resentment to set in.

summer
i guess it matters what the priorities are for each person. i love singing, but i could never make it my career. i want to start a family and want to be in a more stable environment where we're not constantly on the move. while you perform on stage in front of millions, i perform in my shower in front of...myself.

asya
it sounds tough, not being able to see your boyfriend whenenver you want to, but i'm glad that despite the difficulties, you guys are able to make it work.

resurrection12
singing is such a tough career. i'm a part-time singer and i've been through relationships that have definitely ended on a bad note because of the hectic schedule and such. i'm married now and about to have a baby, so singing's on a halt for the moment, but i'm really inspired by all of you because you really prove that balance is possible.

ucsdgirl
i'm used to a long-distance relationship. my bf are on opposite sides of the state for most of the year and only get to see each other on breaks. it's tough, but at least we always have something to look forward to. when it comes to an on-the-go career, i don't find comfort in that because i like stability. i'm happy for the three of you, even though your situations are all different with your beaus, but i couldn't do it.

banana_peel
i don't think i could do what gwen stefani's family is doing, or phil's, for that matter. i think it's the pride talking, but i would feel constantly strung along and not like my own person if i went around everywhere my significant other did. i wouldn't want to drag my bf anywhere either. i'm glad it's working out for phil, but it's not for everyone, at least not for me.

banana_peel
i don't think i could do what gwen stefani's family is doing, or phil's, for that matter. i think it's the pride talking, but i would feel constantly strung along and not like my own person if i went around everywhere my significant other did. i wouldn't want to drag my bf anywhere either. i'm glad it's working out for phil, but it's not for everyone, at least not for me.

lily -- Los Angeles
I agree that their needs to be compromise, but I think all too many times it's the one without the "pursuit" of the dream that always has to compromise. I say...realize that you are going to have to miss a show for your girlfriend/boyfriend's dinner party. And you're girlfriend/boyfriend will have to miss a dinner party for your show. Sometimes the person doing the "big stuff" never compromises, and I think that's sad.

summer-girl
Phil, I loved you on AI and I love you here. It's so important to have your family with you & and have a supportive partner whose willing to back you up. But I do think that the other partner has to have their own goals too. Because I know I would be frustrated if I didn't have anything going on in my life to strive for, you know?

RaquelRoad
I think that this person's question works with whatever passion. My boyfriend and I are trying to go for our passions right now and are living on the opposite ends of the country...sometimes I resent him for moving away, but that is because I care about him so much. Once you realize that you are getting upset because you love him, then you have to realize you need to be there and support rather than waist so much time fighting. It's just not worth it.

uwishtoo
SIX MONTHS ?? Cmon ladies - sorry but if you change that much after 6 months do you really wonder why a guy strays? I am not saying its right but too many times I have seen women that got married as a size 2 and now are size 20s and they just cannot understand WHY their man has a girlfriend. Uh when was the last time you got a babysitter and went on a date with your man? Just one amone many sins that women do when they get too complacent. I was with my ex fiance for 4 years and I was as ready at the drop of a hat for his body as the day we met - he used to beg me to leave him alone. lol And if you like certain things sexually in a dating situation then you really are being unfair to stop once you "snag the guy" -

uwishtoo
I LOVE my capris - I have long legs with a short waist and I play up my legs with capris mostly at just below the knew - skinny ones - and 4 inch stilletos. As for the headbands - well I have pashmina shalws in every color - over 20 colors in all - and I got some extra ones and had them cut in half to use as thinner headbands, belts or hatbands and I love finding the right color for every outfit I have. I have over 300 pairs of shoes, most of them 4 inch stilletos and I tie them all into any outfit I have and since I do jewelry design as a second business I also have a jewelry set, earrings, necklace and bracelet and sometimes, interchangeable watchbands - 1 watch - 50 bands - and I always get comments on the fact that I always match everything so well.

misse
He moved in with me and now 45 minutes to and from work every day so that I won't miss him too much. The sweetest thing was I did not even ask him to.

fun_in_the_sun
I've never boughten a fake just because I feel like there's something sketchy about it- but then again, I'm tempted every time I see a fab handbag for such a low price.

lily -- Los Angeles
My thoughts on the issue: what is the purpose of buying fake? The factories that make illegal fashion have sweat shops in foreign countries. They don't have to pay taxes--which means that our economy suffers, and their employees have no benefits or medical care. Why not just buy a good quality leather purse that might not be as expensive, rather than try and be something your not?

fun_in_the_sun
I agree with everyone- I just can't seem to enjoy myself on a vacation when I know that there's so much to be done.

banana_peel
i have to say, i'm not really liking the fact that my guy thinks about angelina or what-not. i don't think i've ever thought about anyone else when i was with him. sure, i'll have a dream with another hottie once in a while, but never during sex.

resurrection12
i like #3, but i don't agree so much with #2. when i think of vacation, i think about going away for about a week and forgetting about the job altogether for those 7 days. 3 days is only a taste of vacation, i think.

MorganC
I moved home after college and NONE of my university friends were nearby. So I decided to talk to my old high school friends I haven't seen in ages. I looked them up on myspace and facebook and we now have been getting together after work...and it's been really fun making up for lost time.

I also recommend joining a running club--but more specifically, join a team in training. There are a lot of great organizations out there, like the Leukemia Lymphoma Race for a Cure, that allow you to make great friends and accomplish something really important. My friend is training for a Marathon in October and meeting such great people...it has motivated me to want to do it too!

infilta -- Huntington Beach

Super quick survey: Do you love your bra? http://www.ilovemybra.com


uwishtoo
I am a 50 year old female and everytime I hear a hyphenated name I just want to roll my eyes and sigh. It is not only a slap in the face to say to the man, well, gee, I will marry you but I dont want anyone to know as well as totally pretentious. I kept my ex husbands last name after only 4 years of marriage. I never thought of going back to my maiden name - I was married to him and it was a part of me. Those that say they keep it for professional reasons are totally being pretentious. Letterheads and business cards can be changed and new names easily known to anyone in business.

asya
This is so great! I love how I can get these things at Home and Garden in your shopping section!

summer
I wonder if it's as luscious (with regards to food) as Ratatouille...

summer
It's so true about the Antioxidant Mask with White Tea. I have dry skin and it really did do wonders for it.

ucsdgirl
how timely is this article! i know a couple of girls who are getting married and this is def. some advice they could use.

bruinla
I've been using the Origins masks for years. They're effective and affordable!

fun_in_the_sun
Like most people, I am guilty of having too many utensils. It makes it too difficult to find exactly what I need. If these guys say I don't need them, then I'll definitely listen.

fun_in_the_sun
Thanks for the tips. It's important to know what these types of things really mean because they might easily be overlooked.

Pari-love
I think hanging out with your co-workers is a great idea! Work then becomes a place where you get to spend time with your friends!

Pari-love
I was part of a wedding party where the bride had the worst case of BS! I wish she had read this ahead of time!

anjta
you can put odds and ends of lipstick in a soup spoon over low heat and when they start to melt, drizzle into a well-washed caviar jar. You then have your unique colour, and a lid to protect it; top up with any lipsticks that are nearly finished.

summer
the alumni association! that is so true. i love mine at my school, it really keeps me connected to others.

sheila-takeabow
Phone sex sounds like fun but my boyfriend and I feel silly doing it and end up laughing instead. He's in Spain teaching for a whole year, yet I still haven't coaxed him into writing me a 4-page letter...

crashing_nightingale
Inner confidence should be achieved first before you look good on the outside! And good posture is vital- people look so much different when their chins are up and they stand up straight.

secondfloorgirl
This article is right-on! I've started going out socially with co-workers, found friends of friends on facebook, and just last night I went out for coffee with an alum from my college, and we ended up talking for hours!! It's not easy, but I'm starting to build a network of post-college, real-world friends :)

Pari-love
I LOVE this article! I'm always looking for tips on how to stay safe. Thanks, SavvyMiss!

banana_peel
i love this article. it actually focuses on attitude/character and not on looks. thanks for empowering women, savvy miss.

banana_peel
PMS potion? really?? i can never say no to chocolate...or raspberries, for that matter. i'll have to try that.

asya
eye contact is a good one. i have a hard time with that when i think i look my worst.

asya
HMMM! Strawberries Wild was my favorite thing to make and drink when working at Jamba Juice, although I was sworn to secrecy not to give up the recipe. I'm so glad they decided to share it with savvy miss. It's absolutely delicious!

summer
Haha! Writing on the behind drives me nuts! Although, I have to admit I'm a culprit of wearing flip-flops too much.

summer
when i was studying abroad and didn't see my beau for 4 months, i wrote him postcards and reminded him over email how much he was missed.

ucsdgirl
I've been in a relationship with my boyfriend for over 5 years and for most of it we were at opposite ends of the state. The most important thing I found worked for us is trust. I don't need to talk to him everyday to feel like we're still together. Actually, talking everyday didn't work for us, so we cut down to every other day.

ucsdgirl
I've seen too many women who are well-dressed but don't know how to carry themselves and lose the whole appeal. Posture and grace is everything. Just the other day, I was walking to work and someone rolled his window down and said to me, "I love the way you walk. It's very sexy." This article is absolutely true.

JackyRuiz -- Bayonne
Baseball caps is hot? that's all you got. LOL.
Cute article, but I wonder what men were polled on this...what state, age, ethnicity and culture? To each is own. There's lots of fabulous fashions for women out there. I agree that a woman who has trends from head to toe is just a fashion flop, but pieces like the crop pant can go far. As for the head scarf, I would choose that over a baseball cap anyday.

ladundo
Thank you for your efforts to give information about hiv and aids, however,this is my humble request to you, that you liase with the care giving groups in kenya to give a more homely approach to the locally affected persons because, far from the general things, we tend to read more about what happens in the U.S
thank you
Lennox

space_cowgirl
I agree that the colors around you may determine your mood. It's strange that blues and yellows make me calm compared to other colors. Fountains/Water as symbols of wealth is interesting, but a little tacky to have in your office though.

fiona
I was an admin assistant at a real estate office and I felt that they loaded all the work on me since I was the youngest and not married, and apparently having to study after work wasn't a good enough excuse to get out of it. I thought it was unfair at the time, but now I think it's understandable. Going home to your family is like going to a whole other job right after your real one.

banana_peel
It's interensting how what we think are mere objects can have such an effect on our moods and productivity. I should clean up my clutter...tomorrow.

ucsdgirl
I think all these tips are great, except for the crystal ball and fountain. I'm not a believer in these things, so I don't think it would work for me. Otherwise, thanks!

resurrection12
I'm a single mom with 2 kids and I never got "special treatment." The only reason I had to work harder as a single gal was because I had an entry-level position and had to move my way up. Now, I'm in management and I carry most of the company's load, regardless of my family situation.

asya
I think it's natural to ask the single person to devote to projects that would be more difficult for someone with a family. Having kids changes everything and it's completely fair to give special treatment to those women with children in terms of a couple of projects like that.

summer
it's definitely unfair of bosses to assume that just because an employee is single, she want to devote her whole life to the job. i'm not sure how she should approach her boss, though, to tell her tactfully that she has a life too. what does anyone else think?

Pari-love
i definitely agree with MorganC. I can't live without my flip-flops. And 7 "nots" versus 3 "hots"-and one of these was a baseball cap? Come on guys, there have to be other things you like from our wardrobe.

ddunett -- Oshawa
I agree with the author on these comments. Two things absolutely SURE to bring out my inner fashion police are capris and flip flops, together or worn separately. Apparently many women these days believe flip flops are acceptable foot wear - even to the office! C'mon, ladies, have a little class. Why don't you just wear your bathing suits with them while you're at it? As far as capris (or even those knee-legnth shorts - UGH!) go, why would any women want to visibly cut their height down like that? They stop the eye at that point and make even the slimmest women look shorter and chunkier. Some fashions should be laid to rest - permanently!

MorganC
No flip flops? I mean come on. I think flip flops look great with summer dresses. Sometimes you don't want to have to feel fancy all the time. I think flip flops were the best invention ever.

bruinla
In regards to tip #2, I've read that taking a bath altogether isn't so great for you- essentially you're sitting (and bathing) in your own dirt. But if you must take a bath, it's best to shower afterward.

fun_in_the_sun
Lately I've been trying #1 and it really helps! I've been getting up a little earlier for work and it feels nice to take my time eating breakfast while reading the paper or watching the morning news. It definitely beats rushing out the door.

bella -- ojai
I really enjoyed this article, especially step 9.
Often I am way too hard on myself. It's good advice to be kinder to ourselves. I think it makes me kinder to everyone. Thanks for the good info.

axcar
I am going to try Delilah's 10 tips for a good day although, I don't think I will do #8 while driving as it can prove hazardous to my health. My problem has always been the broken slip. I get home late and have to get the kids off to school. This year they will be in high school and college and I won't have to get up early to bring them to school. I am looking forward to trying all 10 tips out. Thanks Delilah

Maya522 -- Plainfield
I'm so glad that Savvy Miss did this story on Marvelyn Brown. It reinforces the fact that HIV does not discriminate. I think it is great that Marvelyn is so open with her feelings and beliefs and does not define herself based on her HIV status. It is definitely an article that I will share with others.

Carolanne -- Los Angeles
What a powerful story. Hearing about someone like Marvelyn really reminds us that it could happen to anyone.

Carmin
I have no experience with men younger than me however, I have plenty of experience with the geriatric crowd! Everything in your article is true to the bone. The older man that I was in a relationship with the longest (off and on for 8 years), was a player (had other women), afraid of commitment, a bona fide bachelor for life (had been married, divorced, 5 adult kids). The second gentleman of this genre I dated had the same issues and I dated him for 3 years. Yes, they do know how to treat a lady and they were adequate in bed. However, to experience the adventurous frolicking in bed your article describes, I definitely would have to check out a younger man. Older men tend to be old fogies in bed.

One final bit of advice about older men, realize that you may be the reason his buddies rib him in the side and you may be a sign to him and the world that he's still got it going on but ... if it's a sugar daddy relationship, please know that is all it is and will be. Nough said.

Carmin Wharton, The Relationship Teacher
Author, "Lessons Learned: While Looking for Love in All the Wrong Faces"
www.carminwharton.com

axcar
I will definitely share this story with my two teenage daughters and their girlfriends who will be entering college. This is something that young people do not think about and it comes with devasting consequences. I appreciate Marvelyn's desire to help others. She is so unselfish and brave. Thanks for the wonderful article Delilah. I am happy to be able to share these stories with my daughters( the story about the young girl who was raped and this story) and hope to possibly save them and their friends from the painful experiences these poor young women had to go through. Thanks again.

secondfloorgirl
I love container gardening!! I don't have any real land space to call my own, so pots and boxes solve that problem, and give me my little bit of green. Last summer I had pots of tomatoes on my VERY sun-exposed roof in the city, and this summer I have large window boxes on my porch that I painted and planted. There's a lot less sun in this summer's location, so some things are doing better than others, but I'm still going home to a fresher-than-fresh salad tonight! And even though all together it's only about 6 cubic feet, I still get lost in my garden therapy after a rough day at the office :)

summer
It's sad to think that something as life-threatening as this is such a taboo, where people are afraid to speak out and therefore get treatment for fear of being shunned. I'm so glad for websites like this one that is open about important issues.

summer
I don't think women can be as funny as men and women brought this on themselves. They take themselves too seriously and don't allow others to laugh at them like men do. Men are the class clowns, not women. I accept it.

summer
Hmm. This is a tough one. I think if I had a choice, I'd go for the younger one. Only because I don't want to settle down and I like the experimental types.

fun_in_the_sun
Thanks for the important info. I must admit I've always been a bit confused as to the difference between HIV and AIDS.

fun_in_the_sun
I'll definitely keep these in mind when I'm moving into my apartment. Us broke college students need great tips like these!

Pari-love
"I have a mission; I have a purpose in life." Marvelyn's philosophy on life is definitely inspiring and one to imitate. I admire her for all her courage, because I don't know if I could be as strong.

bruinla
Aahhh the glitter! I was definitely guilty of this mistake when I was younger. I must admit I do still have a glitter eye shadow- but it's only for costume parties!

bruinla
I definitely agree with these pros and cons. My best friend was dating a younger guy who she was totally in love with- the only problem being that he wouldn't commit. Despite how much they cared about each other, the age gap was definitely a problem in that relationship.

lily -- Los Angeles
I look back on all my high school photos and cringe. I had just discovered the wonders of foundation, but no one told me I needed to use a little blush or foundation on top. In every picture my body was super-tan, and my face was bright white. Not cute.

ucsdgirl
I admire the fact that Marvelyn is optimistic regardless of her situation and does all she can to help others.

asya
Many people are still unaware of the difference between HIV and AIDS and think that both only affect certain groups of people. It was helpful to read this interview in many ways, one of which is that it was a wake-up call to be more careful.

crashing_nightingale
Thanks Marvelyn for being so open and continuing to share your story with others. This is the kind of reality check people need but often forget.

summer
It takes a courageous woman to speak out against HIV. Thanks for sharing your story, Marvelyn.

crashing_nightingale
I have to agree with Dr. Drew regarding Sex and the City. The characters were meant to be exaggerations of people, not people in real life, and I'm afraid some women have taken what they stand for (women empowerment) as being literal.

I believe I read an interview with Lindsay Lohan saying Sex and the City "inspired" her to date as many men as possible. Funny she said that since it proves what Dr. Drew is arguing.

crashing_nightingale
I have to agree with Dr. Drew regarding Sex and the City. The characters were meant to be exaggerations of people, not people in real life, and I'm afraid some women have taken what they stand for (women empowerment) as being literal.

I believe I read an interview with Lindsay Lohan saying Sex and the City "inspired" her to date as many men as possible. Funny she said that since it proves what Dr. Drew is arguing.

crashing_nightingale
I also think the question "Is there room to grow in this company" is a good one too. It shows that you are motivated in excelling in your position, and will also determine if it's a dead-end job or not.

Rene85
I think a lot of times, women hide their true sense of humor in front of guys in fear they will turn guys off, or they will appear less feminine. I know that was the case with me, my boyfriend for 6 years didn't know I even had a sense of humor because I was too scared to show it in fear he would think I was weird or akward. I thought relationships were suppose to be serious and romantic all the time. But as time moved on, I realized that having a sense of humor and laughing with him made the relationship last. Too bad the relationship ended up not working out due to other reasons ... but I definitely learned not to take a realationship so serious as I have!

hushpuppies
Hi, kindly talk to a health professional about herpes . Few facts about herpes -- 1. Majority of population is infected by herpes .... atleast herpes labialis , known to cause cold sores i.e small sores or papules around the mouth or lips 2. It is not necessarily a STD. It can be passed on to anyone by touch , kissing , using used towels , using used or disinfected utensils , the tap knob in your office restroom ,the pen your office mate passes to you after innocently putting it in his mouth while thinking , etc . 3. Herpetic eruptions become mild with passage of time .It occurs only during stressful conditions such as sorethroat , fever etc . For more details search the net or as suggested talk to a health care executive . BE HAPPY !

Pari-love
Posing tip #1 is my favorite... it definitely doesn't add ten pounds to the camera.

fun_in_the_sun
I never thought of using liquid eyeliner for my eyebrows, but it sounds like a good idea! How does she come up with such great tips?

fun_in_the_sun
Wow! What a different way to think of some of my favorite characters! You do have a point, though, Dr. Drew. Too many girls are growing up hoping to model their behavior.

bruinla
I always hate the question, "What are your weaknesses?" Definitely plan ahead for that one.

bgeorgopulos@aidforwomen.org -- Chicago
THANK YOU, DR. DREW!! You finally voiced what I've been thinking all along: the women on Sex and the City are quite literally unstable paradigms for our society. I found it sad that young women wanted to emulate their behavior. It was so shallow and none of them actually formed healthy relationships because (DUH!) it was all about sex! I just hope that more women read your article before the movie comes out and revisits their whole philosophy of what I like to call bologna "love"

p.s. I've always been a fan of yours :o)

summer-girl
When I was in my biggest rut post break-up, I would go to the bars, and get as many numbers as a could. Even from men I had no intention of seeing--I could tell even in my non-sober state. I agree. It's not worth it to go on dates just to go on dates. It will just make you more frustrated and annoyed with the male species.

KatWilder -- Marin County

OK, I hear you fun_in_the_sun, but ... why aren't women in the mood anymore? That's the big issue I'm trying to figure out. End of the novelty? Is it getting boring? What is he doing differently that's not working for you anymore?

And you're right, MorganC, guys do drop the little romantic things and planning after a while. They stop "wooing," and that's one thing I talked about in my blog "What to say I do to" -- you still have to court your lover AFTER you're married or together a long time.


NickiS
After my divorce, I believe I was falling into the initial stages of a sexual addiction. I've never had problems with any other form of addiction, but I felt very stuck. I had a friend who was brutally honest with me and helped me out of it. I think I'm back on track now, but it can be a little scary.

MorganC
Guys do the bait-and-switch too, but just not so much with sex. Their bait-and-switch is with romantic gestures. My boyfriend used to by me things "just because" and plan really exciting dates. Now the only one planning everything is me.

MorganC
I love sex and the city, but never actually thought of them as "sex addicts." Yes, maybe sexually promiscuous, but Dr. Drew is right, they omit the negative side of these actions on the show. There was never an episode with Carrie getting herpes or Samantha getting AIDS...

jolmbagpuss
Thank you for sharing that website alyssa, what an amazing story. That is exactly what my boyfriend is like, exactly the same, every point is something that he does. Is there anyway of changing them, I guess not, I guess they will be like that until they find the perfect girl to settle down with.

Pari-love
The last time I went camping was in the 8th grade and I clearly remember wearing some ugly pair of short overalls. I will definitely need these tips!

Pari-love
Just looking at these is making my mouth water! The raspberry and nectarine pavlovas look too good to resist!

bruinla
I've definitely been a victim of the raccoon eyes. Thanks for the tips!

fun_in_the_sun
My favorite is the cranberry lip gloss. Yum!

fun_in_the_sun
I think this is normal for any relationship that lasts more than say, 6 months, especially when it comes to sex. Guys are just going to have to deal with it- or do something extra special to get their girls in the mood!

MinnieSheila
Traveling solo is the best. I love wandering around new cities and going wherever I want, my favorite was when I was in Italy. I would wander the streets of Florence and always be amazed and the new shops, cafes and tiny little museums and churches I would find.

MinnieSheila
Of course sexual history matters, but it should be put into context. If he has a good explanation of why he was so promiscuous in the past and you really think he's changed, then give him a chance. I'd hate for someone to dismiss me automatically for some of the mistakes I've made in the past.

Pari-love
I definitely agree with Jackie's "Give yourself a break" nutrition tip!

fun_in_the_sun
Lindsay's story is very inspiring. I wish more people could hear her story because I know of too many girls that don't tell anyone about being raped because they blame themselves.

fun_in_the_sun
I'm in a great relationship, so when I kept having dreams about my ex, I got a bit worried- but this advice made me feel a lot better!

bruinla
The other day I got a coupon in the mail for 50% off a department store and saved almost $80 on a cute outfit! Cutting coupons definitely helps!

bruinla
My favorite is definitely the foreign man...meeting him in a foreign country is even better!

asya
i don't agree that IMs are not good for business. they're very effective because they're instantaneous and the person doesn't need to log on every 5 minutes to check email. i use IM at my work and it's great!

asya
this is so great because we get this advice for free when motivational speakers cost over $1000 dollars per session to say the exact same thing. thanks, savvymiss!

asya
i'm turning 21 in a few days and i absolutely cannot wait to follow these recipes! i think they're the perfect fix for a 21st bday party as well as other occasions!

asya
i made these sweet potato fries (i have never tried sweet potato before) and they turned out great! the only thing i would recommend is not making too many because otherwise they can be overwhelming.

brownhairbabe
I love how all those romance novels take place in the Medieval times and women dream about knights and stuff. But really, a time period when no one bathed--ever? How sexy is that?

brownhairbabe
Sleeping with 100 women is definitely a little sketchy, either he's lying (which is bad, who want's to be with a lier?) or he's only interested in sex. I would stay clear of this guy, I wouldn't want to be just another tally on his growing total.

Betsy -- Torrance
I didn't fantasize about pirates until Johnny Depp decided to put on that costume. Before that my opinion of pirates was pretty low....has anyone actually seen the pirates in the Disneyland ride...not attractive.

bridesmaid2B
"DO create a reason for people to talk badly about your competitor"
This is really vndictive and mean--I can't believe Savvy Miss would encourage this. Where are your ethics? I would hate to see what kind of manager the quoted individual turned out to be. What a despicable thing to do! I hope she gets what is coming to her, that low-down, dirty snake. How little talent must one have to resort to pulling such a stunt?

summer-girl
I agree with jzwest that some clothes look great on some, while others don't etc. My best friend can rock the skinny jeans, while I just feel silly. But I do feel that some things are just universally bad--low rise jeans with the plummer crack? I don't think there ever will be a time when this looks good.
And I admit, I have crop tops too, but I wear them on vacation and they are new. But if I was trying to squeeze into my old hoochie shirts from seven years ago, that would be a different story...

cyber_hippie

This is true of deaf/hearing partnerships, as well. My boyfriend and I are from the 2 sides of that coin. (We met online, so were able to get to know one another that way.) I am learning sign language, because I love him, and we really have a great relationship.

There needs to be respect and communication, just like there would be if he were, say, Lebanese. I'm not going to learn ASL overnight, but we have been together for 5 months now, and I'm able to converse with him in ASL pretty well.

He's introduced me to a rich world I would have missed out on, had we not dated. He's a wonderful guy, and I'm glad I chose to give this a go.

~The Hippie


leisle -- Westwood
Vacation sounds soooo good. My ideal vaca--taking a good book to the beach and lying there all day. I can't wait!

leisle -- Westwood
The Sassy Sangria recipe was fantastic...it reminded me of my trip to Spain!

KatWilder -- Marin County

Yes, sexual history does count -- along with other a lot of other things as well. You don't say how long you've been seeing him, what other qualities he has that might redeem his character (or show a different side), etc. So, I don't see a need to dump him yet (or ever) if you don't delve a little deeper. Nothing wrong in asking him why he slept with 100 women and what's changed now. Then listen to what he says (not what you hope he says). And if you don't think you can get past it ... move on. Otherwise it will always be the "thing" that comes between you.


fiona
100 women is a bit excessive, isn't it? Either he's lying or he really got around. But if it's true and he says he's a changed man, don't let it bother you. I'm sure you can't help it (who wouldn't?), but the past is in the past. The only thing you can do is get over it to be happy!

fiona
Leslie's right. She gives the reality check ladies- instead of being jealous, just get yourself to a clinic first, stat! haha.

fiona
I have to admit I've never actually watched The Apprentice but I found that Stefani gave some sound advice. From her answers, she seems like a confident, determined, and hardworking woman who deserved to win The Apprentice. GO Stefani!

fiona
I think revealing your sexual history to your significant other should be left unsaid in the beginning in order to avoid bad first impressions. If you're looking for boyfriend material, you wanna get to know who he is. Who he's been with shouldn't be important!

crashing_nightingale
Jason, you're hilarious and oh so right! Guys that brag about sleeping with lots of women are losers, not boyfriend material.

womanasother
you know, i was really excited when i saw the banner for this site - but after reading several of the articles it seems to me that this site does not connect, inform, or empower women. it undermines them. please change your banner, it's misleading and embarrassing.

ucsdgirl
these dream themes sound very familiar. it's good to know that there is some kind of explanation that our subconscious is not willing to shed light on.

ucsdgirl
bar blunder #2 sounds like something i would've done and not realized how poor in taste that is, but seeing it from a distance, along with this great commentary definitely put me in check!

ucsdgirl
oh, man! the summer fling is so true! i was in barcelona last year and it was so hard keeping my hands to myself with so many hot guys around because i had a bf in the states, so all you single gals out there, take advantage of the freedom!

ucsdgirl
oh, man! the summer fling is so true! i was in barcelona last year and it was so hard keeping my hands to myself with so many hot guys around because i had a bf in the states, so all you single gals out there, take advantage of the freedom!

asya
these are all great reasons! my favorite one is that summer really IS all your own and you have the freedom to do anything to your heart's desire.

Pari-love
I agree with Lila completely. Try not putting out for a little while (even if it's hard for you, too!) and you'll be able to see if he really want you for you.

fun_in_the_sun
"Unless you are absolutely convinced that this guy has somehow been born again—and if you’re writing this letter, you aren’t—he isn’t worth the drama." Amen to that. From my experience, men never change.

fun_in_the_sun
I think we have to listen to what Tammy said about the troops not having freedom of speech to speak out against the war. One of my friends is in Iraq and he agrees that we just need to get out of there. We need to start listening to the soldiers themselves who have seen everything first hand, because only they can tell us the truth about the situation.

bruinla
I definitely agree that women need to be more informed about the war in Iraq, especially with more women fighting overseas. War has always been viewed as a "manly" area and it's time for that to change.

LILA -- Los Angeles
I totally agree with you, Resident. Is he past his past? Also, it would be a great test of character to not put out whenever he wants. That way she can see whether he wanted to make her #101!

MorganC
I agree with bruinla. Women sometimes think that because they are taking on a leadership role, they have to act tough and mean. This doesn't have to be the case. Having power does not mean you have to be a dictator...I think respectful, hardworking people make it farther...

LILA -- Los Angeles
Stefani, thank you so much for sharing such great advice. You seem like you really have it together and each day I strive to do that myself. I must admit, it can be quite hard to bring enthusiasm to work on a daily basis, but, just like you, I've seen that enthusiasm seems to be a quality that a lot of successful leaders seem to share. I wonder,however, do you ever get burnt out and how do you deal with that?

asya
wow. i love the quote, "fearlessness isn't the absence of fear-it's the mastery of fear." that's so powerful!

asya
i can't say i'm a big fan of the donald himself, but i did love the interview with stefani. she's unpretentious and really gives women the inspiration to pursue their goals. i like her advice on taking pride in what you do. sometimes it's hard being proud of a humanities major when everyone around is doing either bio or engineering. her words are very comforting.

bruinla
Stefani's advice is really great! I think one of the most important things for women in high positions is to not be seen as a bi****. If you give off that energy, people will be less willing to work with you.

asya
what i appreciate most about this interview is that it's not sensationalist like many people out there. tammy does not simply bash on the administration but intellectually defines the problem and what we can do to alleviate the situation.

LILA -- Los Angeles
History of any kind does matter! I totally agree with you. I probably wouldn't get so caught up in it if you really like the guy, but there's no reason to feel guilty for taking his history into consideration.

LILA -- Los Angeles
You might be right, Jason. He probably tried to "impress" her with the 100 women, when, in reality, that's not really impressive to a lot of women--it's actually scary. What was this guy thinking?!

leisle -- Westwood
The New York City Ballet DVD is the best workout ever. I don't even like workout DVDs and I liked this one...really, it's that cool.

leisle -- Westwood
I just cleaned out my closet yesterday and found that I had so many Britney Spears inspired tops...what was I thinking?

summer-girl
I tried the strawberry face mask and then I wanted to eat it. Fun recipes! Thanks!

summer-girl
I love the Kathy Griffin show. Any man that doesn't find that funny is lame.

summer-girl
He is such a walking STD. Leave him now! It's not worth it.

fun_in_the_sun
This would definitely bother me. I would constantly wonder what it is he wants from me. But if he stays faithful to you and proves he really has changed, I say go for it.

leisle -- Westwood
I am right with you. OF COURSE it matters. But everyone has a past, so you have to decide if it's something that your willing to let slide.

lily -- Los Angeles
Really? 100? Drop him like it's hot.

lily -- Los Angeles
Male sluts are always going to be sluts....I agree for the most part, but shoot...my boyfriend had a bit of a reputation pre us. I guess you just have to access if he's changed or not...or access if he ever will.

MorganC
Too funny...my question is...what is the magic number for a woman to tell a guy? My guess is five.

fun_in_the_sun
It took me forever to get over my ex. I just never accepted the fact that it was really over. But the only way I finally got over him was by keeping myself busy enough not to think of him. I picked up some new hobbies and met up with old friends I had let slip away. Now I am better than ever!

bruinla
This article is such a great help! I'm always stuck when it comes to tipping people. I never know how much is appropriate and it feels so awkward, especially when it comes time to hand someone their tip. Any tips on what to say to the person? Do I just say "here" and hand them the money?

Pari-love
I had the same conversation with one of my guy friends the other day! He just doesn't think women can be funny. I think it all has to do with the presentation... guys are more likely to be over-dramatic or exaggerate a joke just to get a good reaction out of people. They would be more embarrassed than a woman if their joke flopped.

Pari-love
I've seen these no-nos too many times. But what's worse is when one of my friends commits the crime. I don't know how to tell her that her outfit is not so hot!

AbbyGal -- Atlanta
I think Jason's advice was the best. He's out!

But If you really want to sleep with this man tell him to call you when he's at #199 and maybe if you're #200 you'll actually feel a little special and be unforgettable.

blondedarlin -- Miami
Jason's awesome, I love this advice. Especially the closing. Quick Question everyone...I do have a master's in Journalism and thought I knew the English language -- but what's "Torquemada" ???

hollinsphoenix
I agree with Jamie and especially Eve. Unless your guy is a porn star, he probably will make weird faces in bed. If you can, try not to focus on them and just think about the fact that you're making him feel so good he can't control himself. His speed in finishing may also improve with time, but remember that both of you will have to make an effort before you can see any results. Some adult stores sell endurance creams and gels for men, which you may want to try. Til then, try to prolong foreplay so you can also get pleasure. Take care!

asya
I think Holly is absolutely right. Keeping yourself busy and trying new things will help you feel accomplished and therefore sexy.

asya
First of all, not all women let themselves go. I've been in a relationship for almost 5 years and I always make sure I'm presentable to my boyfriend. But if it does happen, then the best thing is to turn working out into a date. Take her out to a nice park that has hills you both can jog and climb. Also, why don't you stop by Whole Foods and buy a creamy low-fat ice cream to replace the calorie filling one in your fridge. Subtlety is key.

asya
there's something mysterious about "bad boys." the problem is that once you know all he's about, the mystery is gone and all you're left with is trouble. for a relationship i like stabilty (not to be confused with predictability) and that's more promising with a "good guy."

asya
I would leave that guy like a bullet. There's got to be something wrong with him. Either he is fickle and unstable or he has really low self-esteem.

LILA -- Los Angeles
Tammy--thank you so much for shedding light on the military experience. While I respect the fact that the troops put their lives on the line for their country, with this war (that I don't agree with), it's been rather hard to not think of the troops as being "brainwashed." Now I feel like I can't really say that anymore thanks to your story and explanation of what it's like and what it means to be a U.S. soldier. Thank you.

LILA -- Los Angeles
I so hear what you're saying. There are just too many people out there who don't know their bodies, yet want to slip into some britney gear or look like they're 10...if i see another muffin top, i'm going to scream!

lily -- Los Angeles
Honestly, sometimes when I go to the beach I wish I was single. My boyfriend hates going to the beach so we never go together...and there's something exciting about being single and flirting in the hot sun. I'm jealous of my single friends!

LILA -- Los Angeles
I didn't know you had answers in this arena too! And I totally agree that you 30 is not the new 50! Love your column--keep up the good work, darling.

nicole007 -- San Diego
PS - Jason I visited your blog. Good luck in Beantown this weekend...but Anna's Taqueria???? That's like the mexican food equivalent of frozen pizza. Yes I've loved it many a drunken nights, but if you're excited about Anna's, you need to get out to California!

nicole007 -- San Diego
Jason Mulgrew is my new hero! Funny as hell and definitely endearing. LOL. Are you still single?!?!?

nicole007 -- San Diego
Jason, I love you! Not because I actually know you, but because you're funny as hell and tell it like it is. Thank you!LOL:)

blackie
Tammy, if you happen to read this, don't be so sure that you CAN'T wear those aforementioned summer dresses and wedge heels. I saw a girl on the news recently wearing SHORT SHORTS--damn near hot pants and SHE had lost a leg at 10. They're called LISA legs--just the thing for a night out on the town, when you don't want to be wheeled around or wear the "industrial" legs. Check 'em out IF YOU HAVEN'T ALREADY--they, fit HIGH, too. I THINK they're made by a firm called FDR orthotics.

TinaVail -- Ojai
I was a little hesitant to read something by these beautiful
"bunnies" but they each had something very real to con- tribute.
There is an exercise a therapist
and friend of mine gives her clients struggling with issues
like insecurity. Write on one sheet of paper from you insecure self...how you feel....what you are afraid of etc.
Then on another sheet or the
opposite page in a journal write
with the pen or pencil in your
opposite hand (the one you don't use) Here you write from
your essence, your wise self. You will be surprised at the wisdom you have within you!

lily -- Los Angeles
I love their suits! I just got the vix one!

HondaHunny
I believe that people with Bipolar Disorder have been a little misrepresented in this article, which is why most people are afraid of US, and most feel we must hide our illness, and a lot will not seek treatment due to fear of being viewed as "crazy," or viewing others reactions. Bipolar people are always portrayed as psychotic, or suicidal, and that is not the case with all of the Bipolar Disorders Types (there are many). Not everyone who has Bipolar Disorder experiences psychosis, not all Bipolar Types try to commit suicide, or become delusional, or even try to kill other people - its not just being manic, or being depressive. Bipolar Disorder comes in many different forms. There are people who are hardly able to function with this illness, not knowing they have it because they only know half the story, and missing out on a "normal"life .

asya
Hmm. The Champagne Sorbet looks perfect to quench your thirst and add a little kick to your summer day. I can't wait to try it!

asya
This is great! Now, all I have to do is get a client.

RIPPENTUBES
They must cater to me and just appreciate me being with them.

jenr87
Who's the hot model?

Sugar007
I really liked this article particularly because I am not a wordy person but when I do it, I want to know I am saying the right things. But also, this article brought something to mind that occurred this week, he told me that I have wet kisses and its too much saliva. I was in the bed when he said that I was offended by his insensitive comment. But to me, my kisses are wet but not sloppy. It hurts when you say things like that in bed for sure.

fire4ced
Any kind of distraction technique...sometimes I'll dig my nails into my skin - not *too* hard, but just to take the edge off of the welling emotion.

Chloe -- Los Angeles
Putting dryer sheets in the hamper in such a good idea. I can't believe I didn't think of that. You see I don't have a washer and dryer in my apartment complex so sometimes it adds up. You girls are so SMART! ! !

fiona
I've been wanting to do this too! My hair grows out really fast and since summer is here, I've been wanting to chop off my long hair for a short bob. This is really inspiring. Thank you for blogging about this :-)

fiona
So has anyone tried this out? This is an interesting concept on getting what you want. I'll try it out, but it seems hard to stay disciplined in doing these excercises.

MrsK2008
I am a bad girl and I landed a nice guy. It takes a lot of work to keep our relationship going. I want him to stand up and be a man, more than I feel he does. It causes fristcion in our relationship sometimes. I love him so much though. being with him makes me want to be a better person at all times.

KatWilder -- Marin County

cnuttail,
Only YOU can make yourself feel less than adequate, and you are doing that by choosing men who do not value you.
Why? You'll probably have to look deep in yourself to figure out why, and that's important. Wine, lingerie and candles are surface things to make us feel good about ourselves -- the real way to feel better is to go below the surface. And to make a better choice of partner. good luck!


leisle -- Westwood
I agree with mandor. You can be in a relationship and still follow your career dreams. You just have to live in a place where both career options are accessible. There's no rule against a couple with two bad ass individuals.

jazminsmommy -- Greenbrier

Well i am a mother to a 2 year old and i wasnt ready either but i did what i had to do to make sure she was healthy and to take care of myself when i was pregnant and now 2 years later i couldnt imagine my life without her


jazminsmommy -- Greenbrier

i will be hypenating my name i will keep my last name and hypenate his name


leisle -- Westwood
I agree with your examples! I mean really, did anyone think Pamela and Tommy were going to work? NO. It's exciting at first, but you should just leave it at that. There needs to be some balance.

Cristy
My mom used to make a concoction of mayo, avocado and raw eggs to put on my hair. I hated it so much and I screamed and yelled every time she'd slap the goo on my hair and wrap it in plastic wrap. But, as always, mom knew best. It kept my hair really strong and shiny...that is, until mom didn't do it anymore and I screwed up my hair when I dyed and straightened it.

LS -- New York City

lily -- Los Angeles
I heard that if she wasn't famous, she would have gotten out in two days because the jail system is so overcrowded and her offense wasn't as great, compared to others. I do feel somewhat sorry for her-it's a tough break, but then again, we're all dealt tough breaks, and it seems like she has the tendency to get out of them-um, did she ever show up for traffic school? Nope. Karma's a biatch.

KatWilder -- Marin County

I don't know, Morgan. You both would have to experience each other in a different way to start.

But the woman can lead it. If she decides she doesn't want to be his Love Thang, she can say it to him, and then carry on with her life (and mean it, too, and not get weak and give it up again). If he decides that he wants more than that with her after all, he'll be back — the right way.

And, my bad — my blogs are at http://blogs.marinij.com/katwilder .. not blobs!!!!


bella -- ojai
This is a fun article, but i wish you had gone a bit deeper with the topics. Intimacy,support(emotional), tolerance (others way of doing things) might have brought on some interesting responses.

mandoir
"It’s tough to declare a concrete winner—if you value sex and regular “date nights” then coupledom is probably for you, but on the other hand if moving up the corporate ladder and having time to search for your perfect mate sounds appealing then the single life is the way to go."

I find this comment to be a little too formulaic and not really accurate. There are plenty of "power couples" out there who respect each others' careers and who value each others' goals. I've been in a relationship for years and have never once heard by boyfriend complain that I don't devote enough time to him because I'm too busy pursuing my goals in life!
But oh yeah, we still get amazing time together and great sex.

bgeorgopulos@aidforwomen.org -- Chicago
WOW!! It is SO refreshing to hear a guy say that! After studying the trends in history, it was extremely apparent to me that the common theme of the degredation of a society began with its lack of respect for each other. I'm thoroghly convinced that it begins with our sexuality and you really nailed it on the head in your response.

fiona
I can't wait to see this movie! I love the little inside jokes they always include. Great review!

fiona
Very interesting results. It's sad to know many girls are just settling for a mate. Being single is an amazing time- It's a journey of to find independence and a time to grow!

fiona
I get caught up in the 9-5 grind as well. I almost don't want to leave for vacation because I feel I have so much work left to do and I start to worry about it. I know this is bad though, and it's great advice that we need more short, frequent vacations to relieve the stress.

Sarah-SavvyTeam
While I don't really feel sorry for her, it does seem a little unfair that she would think she's getting out and then has to go back to jail. Either way though, I'm sure she won't stay for her whole sentence, she'll get out for good behavior soon.

Betsy -- Torrance
I agree with GoldenAfternoon. When you have projects at work lingering, it's so hard to just drop everything and have a good time.

MorganC
Can booty calls ever develop into relationships?? I've always wondered that...

Chloe -- Los Angeles
I love camping. It my favorite escape from Los Angeles where I live. Being out in the woods helps me feel grounded. It helps me remember that life can be simple. I like the list you girls offer. Another tip I could add to help out is DON'T PACK TOO MUCH. I always bring silly things I don't need like my Victoria's Secret Love spell lotion that only attracts bugs. My boyfriend would rather I stunk then bring bugs around us. Ha Ha.

cyber_hippie

I really don't think my current relationship is a rebound. It was weird how it happened--I'd only been out of my last relationship for a month when I met my BF, and we were both very up front about the fact that we were not looking for anything serious or long-term; however, we HAVE grown very close very quickly, and I'm confident in saying we ARE in love. (My last relationship was...not a normal one--I had detached from my ex emotionally long before we broke up. I was ready for love, but not in a hurry when I met my current BF.)

We are already talking marriage, in fact.

JM


loves_2_shop
I found two bronzers that are also great. Urban Decay came out with a new bronzer called "Baked." It comes in a yummy cupcake-style package and I experience two different tints. "Toasted" made me feel like I had a healthy and glowing tan. I might even say that I looked like a little ray of sunshine. haha! You can put it on wet or dry and its streak free. Its one of my new favs.
Another one I tried is So Cal Glow by Hard Candy. It comes in a big compact covered in the hot spots of the west coast. It is very light and natural feeling and the best part about it is that it smells like coconut!
These bronzers are great and now I'm looking tan and ready for summer.

beach_girl
haha my bf watches the show with me .. along with desperate housewives and greys anatomy. hes great like that. sex and the city is his least favorite of those 3, but he understands that its basically a woman's guide to survival... haha... and he thinks samantha is a slut.. and he gets upset when i say that i admire her bc shes so open about her sexuality.

beach_girl
that is amazing...last yr i cut my hair up to my chin and now im wishing i did something great and generous with it.

loves_2_shop
i love this section! im just learning the basics of cooking. these recipes are great!good ideas!

loves_2_shop
everyone worries about finding the perfect job.this article is good advice!

MorganC
I applaud you for doing that! I have always wanted to do something like that...my hair is getting pretty long--maybe I should do it too!

KatWilder -- Marin County

Thanks for your comments, loves_2_shop.

I also don't believe "once, always," but I'd sure want to know why he cheated, what he learned and why he doesn't think he'd do it again.

That said, there are no guarantees ...

Good luck with your new love!


space_cowgirl
I think this kind of information in a women's magazine is great because many girls don't know about handling cars. I'm planning a California coast road trip in August, so this is definitely helpful for me. My girl friend and I know next to nothing about cars, so I need all the info i can get. thanks!

space_cowgirl
I've never been one of those fortunate people who knew what their career would be right when they were born. Since I graduated from college, I've been going in and out of jobs, trying to figure out what I want to do for the rest of my life, so this article really helps me in figuring out my passion. thanks!

beach_girl
Practicing in front of a mirror really works! It may seem funny that you are doing it at first, but it really helps you perfect your favorite look!

loves_2_shop
Paris went to jail last night and in all honesty, I kind of feel bad for the girl because the media is loving the fact that an heiress is going behind bars. Although, I do think that she should spend some time in there and that she will hopefully learn some lessons.

loves_2_shop
I once cheated on a bf a long time ago and I felt incredibly guilty and horrible about it. He never found out about it, but like you said, I knew about it. And I had to live with myself. I began to feel insecure about the relationship. If i can't trust myself, how can I trust him? I've learned a lot from that guilt. That relationship ended quickly after and now I am in a new and happy relationship. I haven't cheated and I won't because it is wrong and I would never want someone to do that to me. So I don't believe in "Once a cheater, always a cheater."

beach_girl
Believe me, you're not the only one. I definetly have a shopping addiction. My boyfriend says I should be in Shopaholics Anonymous. haha.I used to buy anything new and fashionable and it would make me happy. I traveled to Europe recently and realized that once I did save my money, I could see the world. Seeing the world is way better than getting new T-shirt if you ask me.

KatWilder -- Marin County

Just by the way she herself describes the relationship — "I've been hooking up with this guy" — pretty much says it all to me. If you check in with yourself and listen to what you say and feel about what's going on, you'll be in touch with your "gut."

Like what Dr. Kerner says — If he wants to see you and do things with you outside of the bedroom (or wherever you're trysting), then he's interested in you for things other than sex — regardless of what he says. If not, well, save yourself the heartache of wanting more than what's there.

Read all my blogs at http://blobs.marinij.com/katwilder


crashing_nightingale
Definitely find out the truth before you do anything else with him ladies! I knew this guy for about a year and in a very spontaneous, bad move, I had a "one night stand" with him. Turns out he was still with his girlfriend, who went ballistic on me. I should've asked the hard-hitting questions so the whole situation would be avoided- I speak from experience.

chtran12
I totally agree! Her lyrics could have improved a little bit, but it is definitely worth buying. Great Review!

KatWilder -- Marin County

My guess why so many women (and 31 percent is A LOT!!!) say sex is "eh" has very little to do with their partner and a lot to do with how little they know about their own body and what feels good for them, their shame or discomfort with their body ("I'm too fat," "My thighs are too big," etc.), and their inability to express honestly to their partner what they want.

Until a woman has confidence in her own body and what it can do, it's unlikely that she will love sex — or herself.

Read all my blogs at http://blogs.marinij.com/katwilder


KatWilder -- Marin County

First of all, snooping is never OK in a relationship. Why? Because it totally tears apart the very core — honesty and trust. You violated that and I'm sorry but the "ends" (discovering the herpes meds) does not justify the "means" (snooping).

If he is an honorable guy, he would have the herpes discussion with you when you are beginning to talk about getting sexual — when you'd both want to show some sort of proof of being HIV- and STD-free.

But, alas, you have not been honorable with him, and that would be grounds for him to dump you.

People can and do live (sexually active) happy lives with herpes; no one lives a happy life with deceit.

You can read all my blogs at http://blogs.marinij.com/katwilder


KatWilder -- Marin County

First of all, snooping is never OK in a relationship. Why? Because it totally tears apart the very core — honesty and trust. You violated that and I'm sorry but the "ends" (discovering the herpes meds) does not justify the "means" (snooping).

If he is an honorable guy, he would have the herpes discussion with you when you are beginning to talk about getting sexual — when you'd both want to show some sort of proof of being HIV- and STD-free.

But, alas, you have not been honorable with him, and that would be grounds for him to dump you.

People can and do live (sexually active) happy lives with herpes; no one lives a happy life with deceit.

You can read all my blogs at http://blogs.marinij.com/katwilder


jwzest
Some people look good in skinny jeans, some don't. Some people look good in low rise pants, some don't. I think it only makes sense to follow fashion to a point where we still keep our own style and don't wear anything that doesn't look good on us.

I just got back from Paris, and lots of women were wearing crop tops and low rise pants. Very, very stylishly.

As long as you keep a good sense of what looks nice on you and what doesn't, I'd say don't worry about looking unfashionable in your low rise pants and crop tops.

Just because now ruffled skirts are in style they won't look good on everyone. Be yourself!

MinnieSheila
Honestly, I think guys hate sex and the city because they've never really watched it and they think it's some male-bashing show. My boyfriend used to say he didn't like it but when I finally convinced him to watch it he actually enjoyed it. The thing about Sex and the City is most of the men on the show are great guys and are well-portrayed. If men were smart they would watch the show, one to make their girlfriends happy, and two to learn a little more about the opposite sex. Guys need to stop thinking that watching a girl show makes them less of man, because it doesn't. It makes them smarter men.

bitesizeyak05

lauramc70 -- Los Angeles
This is a great article. Usually we always hear negative things about break-ups, it's nice to know that some guys think nice things about us when it's over. I guy a dated used to try and impress me with the choice of books he was reading and he seemed to be more his real self around me compared to the way he was with other people.

fiona
great tips! I just started excercising regularly and found I have more energy than ever, even after a long 9-5 workday. Also, ironically, cutting off coffee has given me more energy too. The "buzz" would come down really hard when I got home, making me tired and nauseated.

sheila-takeabow
mmm the Lobster Bites and Olive and Sun-Dried Tomato tapenade sound sooo good. these recipes sound great for a picnic basket-to-go too!

lily -- Los Angeles
It bothers me that some say women only like soft "People Magazine" news. Men read car magazines and Maxim, but that doesn't mean that's what they only like. Why is it that women get pigeonholed and men don't? I agree with Arianna. There is a caricature of all women as "Today Show" enthusiasts.

brownhairbabe
Great article! It is so true that we're still dealing with the same fears past generations were. Let's hope the next generation can move beyond them.

cnuttall -- Charleston
I love this article. See, I am this girl you're describing. But even the most confident of us need reminding, especially when a stupid boy enters the picture who is less than worthy. That's my current situation - a boy (let's call him John Tucker) who makes me feel less than adaquete. My last boyfriend was worse. I always wanted to make love more than him, so I'd find myself getting rejected. I'd have to go and have sexy time alone instead. It's amazing how sometimes you can feel sexiest when you are WITHOUT a boy. If that's the case, the boy is not worth it. If all else fails, here is my sexy tip: Put on something silky, pour yourself some wine, light a candle, and pop in "Sex and the City." It never fails.

stellabella
the link:

http://cherryappleblossomgirl.blogspot.com/

axcar
Excellent interview! I also have two teenage daughters and I'm looking forward to reading Arianna's book, On becoming fearless. Nice job Delilah!

AliceInWonderland
Thanks! I appreciate it! :)

AliceInWonderland
Thanks! I appreciate it! :)

sheila-takeabow
I'm planning a picnic on the beach with my boyfriend this week to celebrate our anniversary. It's a sweet and easy way to celebrate. check if your favorite restaurant fixes up "picnic baskets" to go.

divinespirit
Thanks so much for all of your comments!!! This site is truly the best. Fortunately, I have been able to keep my distance from the homewrecker, but it's only a matter of time before she surfaces....I will certainly be holding my head up high and being the bigger person. Just needed that confirmation from some others. Thank you!

fiona
I read some of your entries, and I love what I read! Hilarious and I could relate to your situations. I'll definitely be reading more :-)

fiona
this situation is extremely annoying, mainly because I agree with Sarah- guys don't notice what's going on. As much as you want to cuss and pull her hair out, DON'T. It will make you look bad, even though technically it's her fault. So she's driving you nutz- but keep on remembering she's being an insecure petty person. Show that you are your secure, friendly, and aloof self- you'll look better compared to her among your circle of friends, and you'll drive her nuts too.

fiona
I'm excited to be going camping with my boyfriend this summer too. I'm really forgetful, so I'll use this list when packing for the trip!

space_cowgirl
thanks for the article! These tips all seem to be common sense, yet many women, especially me, don't get re-measured or rotate bras! I realize having the correct size bra can change the way your clothes can look on you for the better.

space_cowgirl
thanks for the article. I'm trying to turn my hobby of writing into a career, and it's difficult to stay motivated, but your tips really help.

Sarah-SavvyTeam
I've totally been there--retail therapy is so easy to succumb to. I have found though that the few times I have been able to resist I actually feel better, I'm proud of myself for being strong. There are lots of tricks you can try to slow your spending, like waiting 24 hours to decide if you really want something, to putting your credit card in the freezer so you can't get to it easily. The easiest way though is to just avoid shopping altogether, but that can be hard (not to mention no fun!)

rivergirl
I don't care if this sounds mean or not, but I'm sick of hearing about precious Paris and her clones. She would be absolutley nobody, if her father didn't own those hotels. It's not like she has any talent, unless you include partying. What she really needs is for someone, to cut off her connections, money and privledges. And make her earn her living the hard way. Just like everyone else. I bet that would be way more traumatizing than jail. But since that will never happen...YES She should go to jail, and she should be treated like everybody else. No special treatment because she is a celebrity. 45 days in the slammer is too "traumatizing" for poor Paris, well, boo hoo. She could have killed someone with her drunk driving. I don't feel I bit sorry for her. She and other celebrities need to pay for their crimes and not get off lightly or get a slap on the wrist, just because they are famous. (Wasn't Robert Downey Jr. temporarily let out of jail in order to make movies?)

What isn't fair is that celebrities are treated with special care and privileges, and not being penalized in the same way an ordinary person would. Rules are rules and they should apply to everyone equally. Scott Peterson didn't get off for the murder of his wife and neither should O.J. I can only hope she actually stays for the full 45 days, which I doubt. Being who she is, I'm sure she will get out early somehow.

space_cowgirl
I *SO* feel you on this! i'm knee-deep in student loans, yet I feel the need to buy new clothes. It's a bad habit and will only give you temporary happiness though. I found that you usually spend the most money when you are with your friends (pressure, encouragement, etc.) Just try to think about the long run before deciding on going out with friends.

space_cowgirl
I agree MorganC. Getting out of your usual bubble makes the relationship feel fresh and new again. Stay at a Bed& Breakfast for the weekend, or camping on the beach.

sheila-takeabow
I have bras from high school too. (6 years ago). Is this bad? I feel they still fit ok. I've also washed them with regular detergent and they've lasted long enough.

leisle -- Westwood
Are spray or powder bronzers better?

leisle -- Westwood
My mom passed down her love of sweets. We love to get our coffee and treats together.

MorganC
How long do bras usually last? I have many of my same bras since high school and college.

MorganC
I recommend taking a weekend trip together. Being in a different/fun location can definitely spice things up.

LILA -- Los Angeles
this was a great article! i was one of those ladies that had been wearing the same bra size (ok, even sometimes the same bra) since I was in college...over 5 years ago! i'm so glad you featured the Intimacy folks too--i visited their store in NYC and got a couple of valuable lessons.

MinnieSheila
I don't want to sound mean but Paris Hilton deserves whatever punishment she gets. She is a seriously bad role model and I'm so sad that my little sister and other young girls have her to look up to.

jwzest
I think our standard of living is more than financial stability. Happiness really doesn't only depend on how much money we are able to save. This doesn't mean I'm suggesting not to be careful with spendings. But giving up a lifestyle that makes you happy might not lead to contentment when you retire.

fiona
these tips will be really helpful once I start the summer cleaning (sometime) soon. I absolutely dread cleaning the bathroom! it's so gross, and every time I clean it, it seems like it gets dirty right after.

axcar
You are on the money! The more we save at an earlier age the easier life will be. Unfortunately, most of us don't save as much as we should when were young and then after kids it's nearly impossible. Start saving girls!

MorganC
Okay, being the bigger person is good and all, but also AVOID her at all costs. Go to a movie theater where she won't be around, or tell your friends to make sure she doesn't show up. After a couple of weeks, hopefully she will have forgotten about pestering. She sounds aweful. I would just make sure to remind yourself how lame she is, so she won't get to you.

Sarah-SavvyTeam
These sites are horrible, but because of free speech there isn't much we can do. Which on the one hand is sad, but on the other, I would rather have some disturbing sites online than have everything monitored and not have the right to free speech. And there is something we can do. We can protest against these sites and use our freedom of speech to speak out against them.

Sarah-SavvyTeam
I hate when this happens, and of course guys never notice it so they don't believe you when you try to tell them. The best advice I can give you is to be the bigger person. Instead of waiting for her to say hi to you, say hi first. Be really nice and friendly to her. This does two things, one it makes you look like a great person and ensures she can never complain about you being rude, and two, it will drive her crazy. She obviously doesn't want you to be nice or like her, so by being nice you make her mad, but she can't complain.

Sarah-SavvyTeam
Yeah, I make the same joke with my friends, but it isn't really a joke anymore. Check out this article for ways you can help: http://www.savvymiss.com/body-spirit/spirit/spirit-archive/article/15-ways-you-yes-you-can-help-stop[..]

crashing_nightingale
my mother taught me to never take life too seriously! And also, she has give me some of the best fashion advice in the world :-D

bridesmaid2B
"You’ll need to get the happy couple engagement and wedding gifts and bring a gift for the bridal shower"--hardly. Guests in general are not expected to buy gifts for the engagement, and bridesmaids should feel even less obligated given the fact that they are doing the couple a favour by standing up for them at the wedding. The bridesmaid must already pay large amounts of money for her attire and travel expenses, so bridesmaids often each pitch in a small sum to purchase a wedding gift for the couple. They can also pitch in fr the shower gift if they wwould like, but these gifts are expected to be inexpensive and could even be handwritten notes of advice or little cakes or appetizers at the shower. Brides should keep in mind that they are putting quite a financial burden on their attendants, and should not expect gifts other than their presence at the ceremony and their help in planning the affair and/or helping to settle the bride's nerves. It is a pretty greedy couple that expects gifts for the engagement, shower and wedding from any of their guests let alone their attendants.
I also think it is a strange assumption that these customs are universal. These 'American' customs are actually dominant Anglo-Christian values, and are by no means universal. In many cultures, the bride pays for the attire of her bridesmaids since they are doing her a favour by standing up for her. I think that more brides should at least consider subsidizing the cost of each bridesmaid's dress, as this may be a dress that she hates and will never wear again, in which case it hardly seems fair that she shell out her hard-earned cash. It is also a good idea to give general guidelines for dresses (pastels, a light blue-grey, etc.) and let each bridesmaid find a dress that suits her individual style while keeping with the formality of the occasion. You can also set out several swatches of fabric and allow bridesmaids to choose from that colour palette. This way, each bridesmaid can purchase a dress that suits her body type and that she can wear again, and this also allows her to shop around and possibly score a bargain on a dress.
I agree with cjsheldon, who mentioned that many bridesmaids are being asked to spend more than they spent on their own weddings. $1000 is too much, IMO. In the case of a destination wedding, travel, accomodation and/or attire should be subsidized by the couple. It is inconsiderate to expect your attendants to shoulder such a financial burden. If you cannot afford to fund a substantial part of the travel and accomodations, then do not marry at that destination! It is as simple as that. I also agree that weddings have gotten out of hand. These cceremonies and receptions are meant to celebrate the union of a couple and to allow their family and friends to share in their joy. They should not be gift-grabs. Gifts should be thoughtful, and should fit comfortable within each guest's budget. It is not their job to pay for or reimburse the couple for the costs of the wedding.
Also, consider renting bridesmaids gowns. This is a growing industry, and can save you lots of $.
Enjoy the weddings!

cyber_hippie

I met the love of my life via an online dating site! He sent me a flirt,I saw his pic, I wrote back, we met for lunch, and the rest is history!

We have now been together for 3 months and are already moving in together! He was only the 2nd guy I dated out of my last relationship. I feel I got incredibly lucky!

Jen M.


sheila-takeabow
it's really scary, but i think it's true that we are going through global warming and man is only accelerating the process at staggering rates. I mean, it's a scary thought to know that in the near future we might not even have rain forests. Global Warming is something the world needs to work on together.

sheila-takeabow
great article. The "quarter pose" is what the stars do and is such a fool-proof way to look slimmer.

sheila-takeabow
I'm really bad in saving money, so this article help me out in sorting my financial troubles. I'm working on growing my "F@ck YOU" fund.. haha. I love that term.

sheila-takeabow
It seems this article is saying most men watch porn solely out of boredom. if that's the case, why not make yourself productive and pick up a hobby or something? to me porn is sort of a "cheap thrill" that fulfills only a temporary pleasure, so it shouldn't be something men should "love."

charlotte
Yes! The cherry blossoms in DC bloomed in what, February?, this year? And there were record-breaking highs on the West Coast and record-breaking lows on the East. The ice caps are melting, there's no arguing about it. It's really, really scary because it's actually happening RIGHT now.

charlotte
My mom has always encouraged me not to rush into marriage. Thanks mom!

Betsy -- Torrance
My mom taught me to toss take-out food after 2 days. It's not worth getting food poisoning for that last mu shoo pork.

Lavanda
Regarding 2) -- if she lost her enthusiasm -- it's more appropriate to turn him off too. Why to have sex without wanting it?

Regarding 1) - selfish in bed? -- it's sounds more a guy thing, -- I hope it would be rather a girl thing, but it's not. But, I guess, I interpret "selfish" a little different.. For me selfish means taking without giving... rather then close ups.

Lavanda
Does he respond to anything that they are doing? If he does, why? I personally do not like guys who flirt with others. My boyfriend (now ex for other reasons) - was flirting with everybody without even realizing it --- when between us a strong bond was already created - I finally realized that I just do not want to tolerate this and I told him in a soft way - that when he does this and that (body language) he is signaling to a girl that he is interested in her. And I told him that I do not like this... The bond between us was strong enough for him not to want to lose me because of his flirting and he stopped doing it -- when he stopped reacting - the girls had no sound reason to flirt with a good looking but indifferent to them guy.

Lavanda
I wonder what the guy thinks about each of the responses - and what advice he followed?

Lavanda
I agree with leisle. What men do not realize though is that it is not just a double standard - it's the problem that is created by that double standard: women usually do not want to look good for a man who looks sloppy or chubby. And, usually they will excercise to keep up with her men's fit body - they won't want to look worse than you.

Lavanda
Great response, Sarah. There is nothing that she must do -- but, she would do what you want if she wants it too. So, make her want it, just like Sarah said. And, be sensitive too her needs, flirt with her more, tell her how beautiful she is - and she would be beautiful for you.

Lavanda
First of all: I need to know the reason why all this is happening?
She might not consciously know it herself - so, asking her directly might not help.
And, generally there are couple reasons why a girl is more relaxed about her looks in a long-term relationships: (1) she might not be that much attracted to you anymore - thus you have to romance her the way she likes it; (2)she might feel as if you do not appreciate her as a person, but rather as an object with a good body - thus, you have to listen to whatever problems she might have and comfort her or maybe she needs a very simple acknowledgment of her other qualities, not just her looks; (3) it could be both (1)&(2).
I.E.: if you make her feel as a woman and as a person - your problems might go away.

lily -- Los Angeles
I would rather have my boyfriend (who lives across the country) watch porn than cheat. I do think that for guys, it is harder for them to control, shall I say "urges." If he was addicted (like some of his friends) then it would be a different story, but the occasional watch is not a big deal for me.

Carolanne -- Los Angeles
Great article! It's often not taking action when it comes to our money that leads us to feel trapped. We don't set aside money or we have the false sense of security that someone else will provide for us in the long run.

babyallie -- West Hollywood

Wow...whoever wrote this article really inspired me to wear more dresses and cute flats...I can't wait to go shopping!


Betsy -- Torrance
I love my uggs. People HATE them, but they are sooo comfortable. But don't worry. I don't wear them with skirts.

fiona
I hated Pinkberry the first time I had it. My friend raved about all of last year and when she finally took me, I looked at her and said, "Is this it?" It seemed like nothing but the new hot trend, which is a turn off in and of itself.

However, it is addicting. I went back a second time and for some reason I wanted more. Have you gone again after your first time? You might get hooked. Everyone I speak to agrees that it's not the best thing you will ever taste, but there is just an addicting quality to it. No wonder they call it Crackberry.

fiona
thanks for the sound advice! i didn't know having a a generalized objective was so bad..

fiona
Funny, I thought multi-tasking actually made you more efficient and intelligent haha. It's difficult not to multitask these days though.. there's so much work to be done in every field, with people working weekends and everything.

fiona
My boyfriend falls in the Controllers, Perfectionists, and Addicts group and it makes me so mad! Sometimes I wish he would just chill out a little and forget about work, but he can't think of anything else. It's so annoying. Yet he keeps on saying he's working so hard for "our future" together, but I can't help but feel neglected.

jenr87
I do think that this story needs to be televised. Finally! One of these teen stars is going to jail. You hear about Niclole Riche driving the wrong way on the freeway after smoking pot and using vicatin. You here of Lindsay Lohan getting wasted at what, 17? If we get the penalties for commiting these crimes, then they should too. I love hearing when celebrities get the punishments they deserve.

fiona
great suggestions! museums are also fun cheap dates- most of them have a "free admission" day at least once a week.

fiona
great suggestions! museums are also fun cheap dates- most of them have a "free admission" day at least once a week.

charlotte
Same with mojitos!

kristart
This is Hilarious! Hopefully he's not dating a bitch. I don't understand why some people date guys/girls who they fights with. If my boyfriend ever thought I was a bitch, it would be off.

leisle -- Westwood
Whitney-- You are definitely my favorite from Cycle 8! Great advice about the positive reinforcement. I feel like many men expect their girlfriend to look great, while they can pork up all they want. It's a double standard, and I think it's fantastic that you encourage both parties to participate in the exercise. Thanks Whitney!

Celi -- LA
I loved this interview and this topic! Thanks for bringing some positivity to your readers' lives!

crashing_nightingale
thanks for this article. My boyfriend and I are planning a trip to Yosemite this summer, so I'll be definitely using this as a reference. :-)

crashing_nightingale
This article is so funny because I thought I was the only one that felt this way. Thank you Savvy miss! :-) I have a friend who LOVES going to expensive restaurants and all the so-called "hot" hollywood hotspots. She has mom's credit card to use; I, on the other hand, have to work 50/hrs a week and pay off student loans. She likes to order LOTS of food, so when we go out to dinner, I would always give in whenever she wanted an appetizer, cocktails, and dessert so it wouldn't look like i was being cheap. I finally told her I think it's ridiculous whenever she orders food/drinks she doesn't even eat and I feel pressured to pay for half of it, and I am being more aggressive in saying "no." now, thankfully.

space_cowgirl
I'm proud to admit I like all these styles you say that aren't hot. It's just a matter of opinion, and just as another person commented, most heterosexual men don't have fashion sense. My boyfriend would still be wearing G-Unit sweatshirts with denim shorts if I weren't around.

kristart
I'm glad fried calamari is recommended... it's mmmm good

dullrich
I love the tips on working from home. I would love to see some info. on good work at home opportunities/jobs - so many we find in the newspapers and on the net are scams.

violence210
If it's a situation where it's something that you may be willing to try and just aren't comfortable bringing yourself to do it, try doing this in the shower.
If it's something you're simply set on not doing, just let him know that you've gotta draw a line somewhere as far as your privacy goes--maybe look around some porn sites with him and find a different fetish you'd both be willing to give a shot!

lauramc70 -- Los Angeles
I think it is very irresponsible for a doctor to make mean and genaralized statements by implying that all fashion models are anorexic.

When I was younger I was as thin as some of these women and was that way because I have a fast metabolism which is genetic. Now at 36 and 5'7 I still only weigh 125, I eat whatever I want and exersize minimally just to stay toned.

I'm not saying only very thin women should be models, why can't there be models who are all shapes and sizes like the general population?

I have been accused many times of being anorexic or bulimic mostly by mean and nasty former female co-workers. But also by a very ignorant nurse in jr. high school who acted as if I had committed some kind of crime by being thin.

These accusations were very hurtful to me and these women seemed to want me to have an eating disorder so they could feel good about why I was thin and about themselves. Dr. Johanson also talks meanly about how models' bodies look when they are naked. Should some of these women and girls have eating disorders they are going to extremely insecure and to talk negatively about the way they look will only make their conditions worse. Women or girls with these disorders should have our sympathy because they have an illness and should not be insulted. Mean descriptions would not be used for overweight women because it would seem insensitive.

Even at my thinest, I always felt like a woman, yes a "real" woman. I always liked eating, sex, and life which Dr. Johanson says are liked by women who have flesh on their bones. I guess not by women who don't. Well she can kiss my skinny white ass! And of course a thin man would just be thought of as thin, not anorexic. Why is it that men can weigh 100 pounds or 350 pounds and do not face the same scrutiny!

axcar
Great interview! The Bible says,"Suffering produces endurance, endurance produces character, character produces hope and hope does not disappoint us."
Without any obstacles, we would not be as strong. Stay positive!

9-5gurl
I appreciate knowing that I can be sexy and turn on a man, I really do, it's empowering to feel sexy and attractive and desired. But I don't do it for dollars.

Again ladies, who is to blame? Is it the strippers, or the men?

I love what lily said about her friends who were strippers who think they're "taking advantage of guys"-- it really made me think about the whole thing. I've always looked down on strippers and equally on men who support (give dollar bills, etc) to strippers. I appreciate knowing what goes on with men & strippers -- scares the crap out of me, but still...who's to blame? If there weren't any men who paid strippers there wouldn't be any strippers...if there weren't any strippers, there wouldn't be men to engage in these acts...tough call, but either way I don't support either especially when it involves a man who is either engaged or married...bottom line, engaging with a stripper is cheating...it isn't some exception to the rule like "it was a stripper so i didn't cheat" and for strippers "he had a ring on but i was being paid so it was business" -- that's terrible and disgusting.

I'm a feminist, but I've done strip clubs (male and female) and of course the male one's are much more about laughing at his speedos than being turned on, but I'm a realist, people go to strip clubs, it happens.

Ideally I would love a love life where no man I know would go to a strip club but unfortunately if that happened he'd probably turn out to be gay...because men do go to strip clubs and I just most of all am relieved to hear (although disgusted) of what really happens...so thanks.

And again ladies, let's decide once and for all, who is to blame: is it the men we love, or the strippers, or both -- I'm going with both!

brownhairbabe
Hmm, that's a tough one. I've never actually dealt with this, but in general, if you're not comfortable with something then you shouldn't do it. So if you don't want to pee on him or don't want to as often as he'd like then talk to him. See if you can work out a compromise that will make you both happy. If he's still obsessing over it then maybe he should talk to a therapist or something. Obsession over anything can be bad, especially if it's hurting your relationship.

Betsy -- Torrance
Really? Pee? What's up with some guys fantasies? How could this ever be considered hot? Good luck with that.

Cristy
Yes, it's really sad that these types of sites do exist. Unfortunately there is a lot of nonsense on the internet that should not be allowed but because of free speech laws they can't be touched. There are even websites out there promoting pedophilia, child porn, and countless other sick topics. That's why these things are so difficult to fight. What do you think? How far should we go with restricting info on the web. Should we allow absolutely unrestricted free speech even in cases of online child porn and pedophilia? Do we defend the rights or the people whom they can hurt?

MorganC
So true. I can't just get A coffee. I have to get the crumble cake, and then the Starbucks mugs always get me. They're so cute and seasonal. Geesh. I'm in the trap.

swilson
This article was fabulous, I read it from beginning to end. Such a different approach to life if you see yourself as 100% responsible for everything that happens in it - what a great and informative interview!!!

judjudy
I'm going to say what I think... liz88 the article was to give women information on what happens at bachelor parties (if you read the title I think you would notice that) anyway the author is giving the information on- like what the title says- what happens, not to sugar-coat it. Were all allowed to express our opinions but, in my opinion the person who wrote this article took alot of time to write it and don't say rude things because it's rude and how would you feel if somebody said annoying and disrespectul things about an article you took along time to write? So keep your rude opinions to yourself because you never knows whose family members you are saying rude things about.

liz88
Great discussion! I'm so glad this fueled a dialog.
First and foremost, don't get me wrong: I LOVE Savvy Miss and think it's a really important and necessary web-site and I hope it grows to be the new Glamour or Vanity Fair.
But I think the problem with this article is that this book wasn't written for women... it was written for men, and from the authors' tone, it sounds like is a machismo-congratulating kind of article and I don't think that the author deserves any kudos, because I really doubt his goal is to inform women about the sordid endeavors of bachelor parties.
As a women's studies major (I'll be a junior at Mount Holyoke this fall), I personally just see this book as expanding the perceived schism between women and men, which, in the opinion of many feminists is what creates communication problems between men and women and promotes sexism.
However, in any context, perhaps it was okay that this article was published, because it sparked so much important dialog among readers.

kristart
Weddings have gotten sooo expensive. I agree. But I don't see any problem in just letting your friend know that the prices are too outrageous. If she is your friend, then I'm sure she'll understand. Sometimes people just get caught in the moment (myself included), and they just need a reality check.

sheila-takeabow
I just had a day from hell like this last sunday. My car died on the freeway and I had to get it towed, and now it's in car heaven. When I got home, i took my pug for a walk but he got out of his leash and started barking at my neighbors. 30 minutes later he comes to my house, saying my dog bit his son and he was threatening to call the police. horrible horrible day. and like most of you guys , I was on my period too. So there is some kind of weird connection that bad days= being on your period. but these experiences only make us stronger, so have a glass of wine and keep your chin up lexie! :-)

sheila-takeabow
I'm really happy savvy miss is addressing the fight against global warming. you guys rock! I've been really trying to find ways I can do my part and I'm sure many people have too. These are all simple, easy ways anyone can do to help out.

sheila-takeabow
I've actually always wanted to travel alone somewhere, but being a young, sort of inexperienced woman, I was hesitant and scared. I'm glad that a book on travelling alone catered to women and written by a woman, is available! yay! It definitely inspires me to travel more!!

space_cowgirl
thanks for this article- I wholeheartedly agree that it's difficult for us who look younger to be taken seriously at the office. I'm 24 years old and work at a law firm, yet my height (5'2) and possibly my ethnicity (asians tend to look younger) make people think I'm still 14. Give me a break! This article has really awesome tips that I will be using. I am now in the process of eliminating my usage of 'like' in my everyday speak :-)

uptownbaby
It's really unfortunate that David seems to suggest that men should be given more opportunities to bond, even if it is exploitative or comes at the expense of women. Despite it being disturbing to read, I think it's important to hear what really goes on and understand what's behind the "tradition." I certainly don't think Savvy Miss is condoning or agreeing with David, but I do think they did a good job in giving the real scoop, even if it squashes our hope that men don't really act or think like this :( I would rather know the truth and deal with it.

Betsy -- Torrance
I think knowing about what happens isn't the same thing as condoning it. I would never want my future finance to have a stripper, but if he does, I would want to know what goes on.

lily -- Los Angeles
I agree. I am really curious what goes on at Bachelor Parties. I would not want my boyfriend to go, but I trust him enough that he won't be one of the "one in ten" that participates in "extra-curriculars." And I don't think that men's actions there should be justified as "living out a fantasy." It's unexceptionable really, but it is interesting to see how a guy can justify this. But do you ladies think that strippers will ever stop stripping? I have friends that turned to stripping that came from middle class neighborhoods. They describe what they do for a living as "taking advantage of guys." Is this ever the case?

9-5gurl
I agree with liz88 that condoning fiances to disrespecting women is outrageous-- well said! But I work incredibly hard hours for less money than many strippers make so I don't feel bad for them whatsoever--they may not have had opportunities as liz88 said, but I didn't either and you won't catch me giving lap dances for dollar bills. And let's not forget some even dabble in prostitution. Who's to blame, the men or the strippers? Or both?

As a woman who has male friends (and boyfriends) who have gone to strip clubs it's nice to hear what really goes on so I appreciate the article and the authors candor, thanks!

MinnieSheila
Oh my gosh, this article was so crazy! My boyfriend is never going to one of these parties! I'm so glad I know what really goes on, even if it is a little scary...

brownhairbabe
Personally, I want to know what goes on at bachelor parties, and I'm not going to have the naiive notion that men don't like to look at strippers, even if it is misogynistic.
The article also isn't saying women should condone this, it's saying they should talk to their partners about it and be realistic about their expectations. After reading this I talked to my boyfriend about it and we got into a discussion about strippers and their place in society and I feel like it was a very positive thing for each of us to learn where the other was coming from. Also, if you read closely, he says a lot of guys feel pressure from society to do these things. Maybe if we're more aware of them we can change that. But pretending it doesn't happen won't change anything.

galaxygirl24 -- Rome
watching porn is NOT a completely normal activity for men. some men just get into the habit if buying porn, and watching it when they are bored or horny to get off. yes, temptation is out there, but men have the ability to control their hormones just as much as women do, and have to. come on, guys have to be smarter than this. i'm sorry, but the writer of this article is completely wrong on this subject, and i also agree with ladylaura119, this was offensive.

liz88
As a long-time Savvy Miss reader, I am deeply concerned to see this thoroughly misogynyistic article published here.
This book clearly has no goal of helping women; it's aimed to glamorize men's sexist antics and make money. So why it is being lauded or publicized on a web-site for "intellectually-curious, fun-loving women" is beyond me.
I am very disturbed that this author is urging soon-to-be brides to condone their fiances so disrespecting women, not just as individuals, but as a gender (let's keep in mind that the vast majority of strippers are disenfranchised women who have not had opportunities, so they have to take their clothes off for a living. Statistically, strippers live in poverty... so why are we lauding men who exploit them?). We get totally offended when Laura Bush, a powerful woman, stands behind her husband's anti-woman decisions to try to curb women's access to birth control, abortion, and education... but standing aside while our fiances exploit women at strip clubs is in the same category.
There has been a lot of talk among the women's movement about how the reason why we are losing our rights is because we so condone the antics of men who disrespect us... George Bush and David Boyer alike.
I really like Savvy Miss, but I'm becoming more and more concerned with the kinds of articles that are being published here (the interviews with the Playboy bunnies was disturbing, as well).
Let's stop pretending that we want to be "one of the guys" and take part in exploiting women who have less than us, and try to get some respect from the men in our lives.

lily -- Los Angeles
Hmmm. My boyfriend has never had this fantasy, but he definitely has his own strange ones. I would try to turn him on to something that's sexy and something that you both are comfortable with.

TinaVail -- Ojai
leslie,
this is such a fun written article!
and as a 59 year old woman i
an sooooo glad to hear crop
tops and low rise levis are OUT.
thanks for the fashion info.
tina vail,
ojai

mtnangel
Great article. Having just been through a cross between the two-week wonder and raging hormones, it was a good reminder. Thank you.

Paula
Hi..
I don't mean to be so blunt, but would you think of honestly telling your man about this and going for it? Maybe invite him along if he's okay with that idea, as to witness you satisfy your curiosities?? Or, just see where his friend is coming from and go with who you are most in love with

Betsy -- Torrance
I love Carmindy on What Not to Wear! She is always so positive, and makes everyone feel pretty.

KristynPleva

Excellent article.

I feel awful for the girl who blogged on her myspace page. She obviously was betrayed by someone she thought was a friend--which makes a bad day even worse.

It just shows you, you can't trust everyone.

Great article, Ms. Tibbetts!


Freed

Personally, there is nothing more satisfying than being a member of the Nazi highway patrol, horseback riding with the Olsen twins and shearing women's hair. Nothing more satisfying John, not a thing.

nann -- Encinitas

They completely make us feel more self conscous. If they look like that and worry, then we must look like giant monsters. That's the first thing that went through my head. Thoughts of what I ate for lunch and how I could just stop eating and be thin so that I could be beautiful all ran through my head at one time.


funkytofabulous
I am curious. Do you tell someone that you are interested in about your 'weaknesses'?

funkytofabulous
Hey Leslie,
Thanks!
Even the most savvy women are too hard on themselves. It's great to give women tool to dismantle the 'Criticism Committee'!

coquis81
I have a friend who would never bring cash with her because she "did't have a job", so everyone was always picking her part of the tab. Some of us finally got fed up and decided that the easist thing to do would just be to say no. It was actually hard, but you can't let friends just weasel you out of your hard earned cash! It's different when a friend who doesn't have a job because she's trying and can't get one, compared to someone you know that is just sitting at home watching soaps.

coquis81
I sit down once a month and plan out my budget. I write down my monthly expenses, and estimate what I'm going to spend on clothes, food, gas, etc. Once I've reached my estimated amount for the month I don't spend any money on it unless I'm willing to go back and update my spreadsheet, but cutting back on another category. This usually happens when unexpected Birthdays and Celebrations pop up. I never dig into my savings, once it's in there, it's not coming out unless a life altering emergency comes up. Budget, Budget, Budget... It only takes a few minutes of your time a month, even if you can't stick to everything on your list, it's a great guideline.

cjsheldon
Message to Christa Vagnocci, Senior Editor at TheKnot.com: Some of us women managed to get married and spent less on our own wedding than you are suggesting bridesmaids spend to be in someone else's wedding? How skewed our priorities have become. All of your information here is being presented as if required by law. Nobody is required to be in a wedding. Nobody is required to have an expensive wedding. And a bridesmaid is "required" to stage a bechelorette party? I mean really.

Rosolye -- Endeavour Hills (Melbourne)
The process of travel and choices you make during adventure are opportunities to learn about yourself. If you don't have a car, its valuable that trains, buses and other means of transport are accessible options. The key is to build courage and get a sense of your bearings. Some people reevaluate their soul compass throughout their lives. Why not? http://blog.dreambuilders.com.au

Rosolye -- Endeavour Hills (Melbourne)
It would seem this is a case of society struggling to interfere in personal matters. Moral justifications can lead to extreme and even crazy behaviors. If an available health option seems 'wrong' to you, then this is less a breakdown of morality than a perceived thwarting of your view. If you feel this way, why do you aim to control others? People of certain religions may refuse medical treatement on the grounds it is against their beliefs. That doesn't mean they impose their choices.
http://blog.dreambuilders.com.au

cagney
What about a pizza delivery person? I've always been told $1, but I'm not sure if that's enough. Any thoughts?

o0lilypad0o
My heart goes out to Lindsay and all victims who read this. I was raped while in college as well, only difference being that it was a stranger who attacked me. All what you described, I endured. When I read this article, I cried. I never reported it, and, soon enough, I had isolated myself from the world I thought I knew, became depressed, had panic-attacks, messed around with all sorts of guys, my grades plummeted, took up alcohol and drugs as my coping mechanism, and had wandered away from family and friends who didn't quite get what changed in me but nevertheless wanted to support. Fortunately, my academic counselor recognized my potential, and, while she had no idea what had happened to me, advised that I seek therapy. It took my a long time to trust even my therapist, but ultimately I came out of the experience re-learning how to love my body and re-discover my self-worth. It is a battle, but the time and energy you put into the healing process will aid you immensely in re-connecting to the world. I, too, was terrified at the prospect of reporting the incident because I feared being judged. I encourage any victim of sexual assault to ask for help because you will help yourself recover sooner than you realize. As for me, I have taken part in a campus-sponsored mentoring program for young girls in the community, participate in V-Day productions, and am committed bringing light to this taboo phenomenon.

bella -- ojai
Lindsay,
I sincerely admire your courage and strength to persevere and again become the "captain of your ship".
Yours is an important story and I thank you and Savvymiss.com for sharing it with all of us. I wish that no one would ever have to think they did something wrong when they were the victim in such a terrible crime. I will be pulling for your continued success and for the success of all the innocent women who have suffered this horrible violation.

kristart
That's a good point jspri20000, it's not just about the representation of women, as much as the representation of ideas on the Supreme court. Their idea of "protecting" women truly is a fundamentalist way of "controlling" women, which will chip away at all the rights the women before us worked so hard to establish. It's scary to think that they can make these decisions for all of us, and we have so little say. Thank you for posting how we can get involved.

bgeorgopulos@aidforwomen.org -- Chicago
I have those types of days practically once a month. Of course it is always the first day of my period just to top things off. I think those are days that God likes to have himself a chuckle and put me back in my place.

jspri20000 -- Santa Barbara
Although I agree that there should be more women on the Supreme Court, three of the male justices are strongly pro-choice. The issue is one of ideology, not necessarily gender - several of the women that Bush could appoint if another vacancy occurs will not support abortion rights. What we will live with for the next 40 years is a dangerous legacy for women - thanks to the current administration's appointments - and not just at the Supreme Court level. Combined with decisions that chip away at abortion rights there is a trend to assign to states the right to allow (or disallow) certain procedures and define health exceptions for women in distress. I'm from an older generation and I couldn't understand why the young women aren't marching in the streets demanding control of their bodies. When a group of men (the Supreme Court) begin to talk about "protecting" women you can read that as "controlling" women, a fundamental goal of the ultra conservative right.

Most women don't realize that in 85% of the counties in the US abortion is already not available. Local and state regulations have made it almost impossible, in many states, to provide adequate family planning and abortion services to the women most in need.

I challenge you young women to get active, get involved, advocate for women's rights - if not you will see a gradual erosion of those rights until you wake up one day and wonder what happened.

Sign up for Planned Parenthood Federation of America Action Fund, investigate your local Planned Parenthood for Action Fund (advocacy and electoral work) opportunities. Tomorrow, if you live in Santa Barbara, Ventura, Santa Maria or Thousand Oaks there are demonstrations supporting a woman's right to an abortion - check your local Planned Parenthood for more information.

magee
Yes, it's a GREAT workout. Among other things, you have to have really strong abs to be able to pull yourself upside down. While you're having fun and hanging with you're girls, you're also working up through the levels to increasingly more advanced workouts to give you the strength you need to do the tricks.

lexie
I agree. It's insane that women are completely misrepresnted on the Supreme Court. I don't know what's going to happen in the next couple of years, but I don't think it's going to be good...

Artsycat43
I just broke-up with an ex-con. When I look back at the relationship I ask myself "What was I thinking?" I dated him for four months. He had been in and out of prison for most of his life, lived with his mother (claiming he was living there to assist her), had a horrible history of assault/battery which he did not tell me until later after he grabbed me and pushed me on my sofa. In addition I had to call the cops on him twice for threatening me and going into jealous rages over imaginary things. He kept claiming he loved me so much and we were meant to be together. I was beginning to care for him and in the beginning we had a great time. The sex was totally great and passionate, which also made it difficult to leave! I hate to admit that.

He also was extremely narcissistic, always late, talking about how women were always after him in the streets etc. He never worked more than two days a week at odd jobs. I assume because of his record that he couln't be hired. He was also on probation for dealing drugs (so he claims, I think it was also assault against women). All of this and he was 54 years old! It took me about five times to really leave him, because I cared for him when he was not raging. I also wanted so hard to believe he would change and get help. He kept saying he was sorry and would get therapy. He stayed with me for two months almost everyday and kept saying he would help me pay for the bills, this never happened. He would always start and argument and say that is why he did not give me the money. He is a total nutcase and I would recommend never dating a guy in or out of prison. Anyone who can commit a crime that ends them up in prison is not an overall good person or a good bet for a lasting relationship. I am slowly recovering, but I am still scared of him, because of his history of battering women and assaulting men.

lexie
These are great ideas! What a fun theme for a party. You're helping the earth and getting to partake in tasty cupcakes. I definitely want to try it out!

kristart
I love magnolia bakery!!! Their cupcakes are dreamy.

brownhairbabe
I've had days like that. I remember one when I was in college where I forgot to bring a paper to turn in for one class, had a pop quiz in another and when I got to my car there was a parking ticket. And of course, I was also on my period. What a day!

lexie
Thanks Gwynda. You are so right about just taking the time to pamper yourself after a bad day like that. I went home and had a glass of wine and watched some bad (but oh-so-fun) television. And then walked to Baskin Robbins. Nothing lifts your spirit more than ice cream.

ladysilverwolf

Guys that are afraid to be honest about their feelings. Like if they are crying and blame it on allergies or having something in their eye just doesn't cut it for me. If a man wants my heart, he'll have to be man enough to admit his sensitivity.


Gwynda -- Vancouver

I find dark khaki cargos with a long slimming blouse or shirt is pretty comfortable. I'm such a sweater person though so for me it's only the bottoms I worry about. I found wearing "period underwear" worked great, but in the winter I found getting cold was such a hassle and my bottom would always get cold first (which was no help to my painful periods), so I put on a pair of well fitted womens boxers over top of my underwear. It kept my bottom warm, some extra "comfy" padding for my cushion and not to mention kept my pad close to my body without those annoying elastic bands poking into my bloated belly. While wearing jeans or cargos these extra "under additions" weren't noticeable. Maybe also try buying some "wing-less" panty liners and putting two side by side just where your pad ends situated vertically. It should help with any leaks and prevent them from getting through to surface layers. I found this most helpful in sports or fitness training, and not to mention sleep!

Good-luck!


Gwynda -- Vancouver

I talked to one of my friends about it and she told me that it felt awkward to tell me that I was embarrassing myself (makeup smudge!) So we developed a very silent, but effective code. We make direct eye contact and even tilt the head just a centimeter and then briskly but subtly take two fingers and touch the part of our face mirroring where the smudge or lipstick or food is on our friends. It's quiet which is nice and discreet so if you're in front of people no one notices unless their female mind readers!

For makeup I tried Eastern makeup like the brand "Kohl" or the not so eastern "Marcelle" and I found they smudged less. Kohl was easier to give smoky effect and cheaper than average eyeliner but doesn't seem to smudge on my throughout the day.

Hope that helped!


Gwynda -- Vancouver

Ugh! Completely annoying!
I also feel bad for intelligent women who are exposed to things like this and never feel like they can make themselves beautiful. Or beautiful women who feel they could never be intelligent. It frustrates me that society has purposefully hidden all qualities of a woman and painted a false illusion on what attribute "makes a woman". I could scream down the system for depriving me of my potential while growing up. And even now, I find that 90% of men who have tried to pick me up in the past are suddenly repulsed by the fact that I'm a physics and intense history lover. It's just like "Grow up already!" they still have this image in their mind of "barefoot and pregnant" and "only good for one thing". Makes me sad and I sincerely hope that if I ever have children that they won't enforce this ideal.

(Oh, and I agree with the other two who posted ;) )


Gwynda -- Vancouver

Aye*
Agreed with both you and Kristart!


Gwynda -- Vancouver

Haha, heck ya. And girl you got my sympathies! *hands over jacket* ;)

But I admit, I seldom have "bad-luck" days. And when they do happen I take it as a sign from God to take some time off ;)

Seriously!- I say to myself:
"Gwynda, you are a strong confident woman. You don't get angry. You count to ten. You don't feel like taking your keyboard to the back of that interns head, you'll count instead." And then as I nervously count, I give myself 10seconds to get in a child-free, very much adult place so I can curse like a sailor during a squall. =) And I take off, buy a coffee, get a date with "Ben & Jerry" (ye the ice cream) and go home and watch a movie. Or maybe head off to the bookstore. If I'm in a situation where I can't just "take-off", I make a promise to myself that lets say this weekend I'm going to do extra extra self care and pamper myself.

But I'm really sorry to hear things suck. Feel better soon!


Gwynda

Actually I've tried this before. It annoys me that diets like this have been around for sometime now and then "voila" Hollywood starts using it as a "new" trend. *slaps forehead*

I read it in a womens health book a few years back, but it warned that it should only be done for one week. I tried it, didn't taste too shabby. But when I read the book, it wasn't said to be used as a 'diet'. It was said to be used as a cleanser for your system of toxins. (which is very different). By the third day I was ready to strangle it but the fact that it's liquid made it a tad difficult. I decided not to do the seventh day. I lost six pounds, and it did make my body feel better, but I can say definately that the feeling better was in the next week when I resumed my normal eating habits. My digestive system even felt cleaner and after all that pepper my stomach could take on the world!

But I'm with you, to the gym I go and if I need to cut out ice-cream or watch food portions then so be it. But like I said, I did this for health reasons, not 'diet' reasons. And I think that for diet reasons this could result in health issues.


Cristy
I can definitely relate to both points of view on dating older men. I have been dating a man 16 years my senior for almost 3 years now and there are definitely both pros and cons to our relationship. Naturally he has more relationship experience than I do, which is one of my biggest emotional obstacles with him. I have a difficult time getting over his past serious relationships, especially with the woman he almost married before me. He's just had more experience with other women than I like to think about - maybe I'm insecure? On the other hand, he is much more mature and sure of himself than anyone my own age. He knows what he wants in a relationship and keeps ours grounded. I'm a litte concerned about the future to come - he's so set in his way of life while I'm still trying to figure out my own. I think it's essentially an issue of security/predictability versus independence/instability.

lexie
I was the maid of honor for my best friend's wedding and my parents weren't invited to the ceremony. Isn't it tradition for the parents of the maid of honor to get invited?

charlotte
This makes me so mad! First of all, magazines should NOT print information about diets like this - it just shows they care more about sensational stories and sales than the health of their readers. Second of all, come on - do you really think you're going to keep the weight off after you return to normal food? It's not even a long term solution. Go to the gym!

steffi
In the hustle and bustle of our fast-paced lives, it is too easy to forget or simply just not be aware of what misfortune exists among us. It is refreshing to see Lisa, from our generation, empower herself and then share with us knowledge gained from taking the time to look underneath the surface.

LILA -- Los Angeles
How sad is it that 31% feel "eh" when it comes to sexual satisfaction...unacceptable...

MinnieSheila
Prayer, seriously? That is so ridiculous, how dumb are those people?

kristart
What does this mean:
16%—Say it depends on your definition of cheating

Is there confusion about what cheating means? I think kissing and anything more constitutes as cheating, but I know some couples who consider just sex cheating.

Betsy -- Torrance
Ewwww. Don't do it. I had a friend that tried it and she said her digestive system was all messed up and she was grumpy the whole time. Not okay.....

kristart
I know what you mean. One day I lost my wallet and screwed up royally at work. Arg. Sometimes luck is just not on your side.

cannonbose -- Portsmouth

Being a guy, I really appreciate a well dressed women, even if the gal is thick or thin. The quickest turn-off to me though is seeing the mid-section pudge. This is the quickest way to tell others that you don't take care of yourself.


summer-girl
I've heard of this and it sounds horrible. I actually saw the recipe posted on the internet. It's aweful that people are publishing it and encouraging this unhealthy diet.

Bolos3
Without sampling what life has to offer than how can you make an educated decision on what you'd choose for the rest of your life? Maybe the divorce rate wouldn't be so high if we took the time to find out what it is we really want, and to do that you have to find out what it is you DON'T want.

Women are fully capable of deciding what's good, bad, and indifferent for themselves.




nat -- East Patchogue
I have to confess I am a mom, and I have alot of issues with this article. I understand that not everyone is ready for parenthood. I wasn't ready for it either. I have 3 children and in some aspects I am still not ready for it. But, to me this article is just going to scare woman who are on the fence about having kids.
I mean Risa didn't say anything positive about having kids until the 2nd to last question. I am no advocate of abortion at all, but I was left with the question if you are so adverse to having children, why did you have one. At one point she sounded almost allergic to them. She took great strides to spell out all the cons, and suffering. And believe me there are cons, and plenty of suffering. Like when your 4 year old get's you pulled over by the police for mooning the cop behind you. Then proceeds to scream "please don't arrest my mommy!" No, I didn't get a ticket, the cop let me go, fighting back laughter. These moments exsist yes, but they are the colorful moments that make life worth while. As much as there are con's there are wonderful moments too. Like hearing "Mama" for the first time, seeing their first steps, and I for one loved being pregnant. I loved and love every part of having my children. I also don't consider myself "one of those mom's". I work, and everything. I just feel that Risa is going out of her way to paint children as a bad experience. And I am left with feeling the need to put a positive spin on it, because for alot of us we find being a parent an enjoyable, and positive experience.

Olivia -- Tucson

I love the girls next door!


lexie
I think if I became a vegetarian, I would eat like Corry and gorge on bread, potatoes and pasta: three of my favorite foods ever. I would eat a carb-only diet and not get 3/4ths of the nutrients I need. So it's not an option.

MorganC
I do tune out when I'm driving in the car. Interesting tips.

MorganC
My boyfriend also has a job where he works one-on-one with women. If I ask him, he will empirically tell me who he thinks is attractive. Honestly, I don't know why I even ask because it makes me feel insecure. It's good to know other women feel this way...even The Girls Next Door. Thanks!

MorganC
This just happened to me the other day. I was at a celebration dinner for my friend and and four of us decided to split this REALLY expensive pitcher of Pimms. I know I couldn't afford it, but I gave in. Then, when we went to divide up the cost, and I realized that the friend of honor wasn't going to be paying because this was her night. Then one of the other girls decided--I only had a sip so I don't think I should pay. I ended up spending like 30 bucks for this stupid drink. And it's not like everyone signed a contract you can hold them to.

SarahL -- Los Angeles
Great advice girls! Even if I'm not around models much I can totally relate to feeling insecure when my boyfriend is around other women, but you've definitely help me put things in perspective.

SarahL -- Los Angeles
It's so nice to hear that even playboy girls can feel insecure sometimes--I know I do all the time! But Bridget is right, we need to remind ourselves that obviously we have a lot of great qualities, otherwise our men wouldn't be with us in the first place!

summer-girl
I would never want a potential boyfriend to be calling other women all the time. Even if they are "just friends." If he has the "ladies" on the side, most likely he is keeping them around until he gets sick of you. Sad but true. Instead of making him feel jealous, you should just get rid of him all together. It seems like if you tried "getting even," you would just be stooping to his level. And women are better than that.

brownhairbabe
LOL, I don't know if getting even is the best idea but it sure would make this guy think twice. If he is throwing it in her face how many hot girls like him then she should show him just how hot she is too!

MinnieSheila
Holly makes a good point, if you don't have any of your own interests than it's easy to get really caught up in whatever your boyfriend is doing. By having your own hobbies and things to do you won't spend so much time worrying about what he's doing.

kristart
You're right. It feels so good to get even. I know it's juvenile, but dressing up and making him feel like HE might lose you, is the perfect way to make him see how it feels. Wrong but fun!

Betsy -- Torrance
"One thing you should keep in mind is that everybody, even the most beautiful of women, goes through times of insecurity." I completely agree with this statement. Even the women you know who seem to have everything "pulled together" most likely have a ton of insecurities they are keeping hidden. We all have them, but just some women keep them more private than others...

lily -- Los Angeles
Ha! This is sooo Kendra. Maybe it's not the most "mature" way to handle the scenario, but sometimes getting even feels so good.

jenr87
I think Holly brings up a good issue. Some guys make it known that they are being heavily pursued and that you are "lucky" he chose you. And this isn't right. He should be so lucky to have you. If he's holding it over your head then you should definitely move on!

Betsy -- Torrance
Yeah...I hate that if you are into fashion, you're automatically assumed to be an unintelligent girly girl who spends her time at the mall. So maybe shopping is one of my hobbies, but it doesn't mean we can't like other things too. I love the outdoors.
And beauty and the geek is horrible. It's like, she's pretty so obviously she's a complete ditz.

jenr87
I think it is fantastic to hear his point of view. So many of my friends in science feel like they can't believe in God because they are studying the opposite teachings. I don't think this has to be the case. You can believe in God or not, no matter what you study. If anything, it's refreshing to hear a new point of view.

lexie
yummmm....

GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
Yes...my personal favorite: Beauty and the Geek. Because god knows a beauty would never be intelligent and a smart person would never be good looking.

GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
Interesting that she chose to make this announcement right as her new movie is coming out.

nhibber
I am so impressed with Lisa Ling. She continues to do such amazing things for women and children. She epitomizes the importance of doing work that one is passionate about instead of a high profile celebrity-like job, like the View. Thanks for interviewing such an inspiring and amazing individual

kristart
I think number four is crucial. A good kiss is underrated.

foxabigail -- Block Island
I enjoyed this article and I appreciate the offbeat topics you tackle. This is a real tough one. I would advise that no matter how great you think the guy is, if you can't really see yourself in his city or state without him, then I wouldn't make the move. You have to see yourself getting along there as much as you see yourself there with him. But that's probably not very romantic. The other issue is: how long does your true love planning on living there? If he's not really at "home," maybe it's not worth the bother. Oh dear; that's even less romantic. Well, those are my thoughts, b/c I'm grappling with that same issue.

Leslie-SavvyTeam
I think we all have those thoughts. Congratulations on turning things around and helping women learn to think positively about themselves.

SavvyFashionista
The blond model is Allison, an editor here at Savvy Miss. The dog featured in this article is her Yorktese named Oliver. He's our office manager.

lexie
It's true. People will always have sex. Now with the price hikes they are just going to be increasing the amount of teen pregnancies and "punishing" those who have sex at an early age. It's the same thing with those who are afraid of mandating the HPV vaccination. They think they are trying to discourage sex, but really they are just punishing the people who do have it.

lexie
I think it's great that Halle Berry spoke out. Obviously she realizes that it was a mistake, and she's super happy now. Halle is in the spotlight and has "the power" to help others learn from her mistakes. On a different note, I don't think that being "funky" is such a bad thing. I've always thought that funky means being unique, different, original. People should be encouraged to be funky.

axcar
Impressive interview. Great job! Lisa Ling truly is a champion for women and children. I would like to see help for children who are left alone because the Mom(single parent) has to work two jobs to make ends meet.

lily -- Los Angeles
I agree. If she "feels the pressure," what should us normal girls think?

lily -- Los Angeles
Okay, so the love story in Clueless is a bit silly, but really it will never get old. "I love Josh!"

lexie
I love the combination of my first and last name. It has such a ring to it. I am definitely considering keeping it.

galaxygirl24 -- Rome
if you have warts on your hands or feet, you have a type of HPV.

NadsV
This was a great article! Though I always enjoyed Lisa Ling's commentary on The View, I was unaware of her commitment to empowering women worldwide. I will definitely watch her new series on Oxygen! Thanks Savvy Miss!

lexie
It is definitely a double standard. Men are encouraged to "sew their seeds" or whatever the phrase is, but when a woman goes out and hooks up, it's automatically considered "slutty." We HAVE moved away from the 1950s, and I think it's an incredibly powerful thing for a women to be able to feel comfortable hooking up. I do agree with what "brownhairbabe" said about hooking up for validation, and how this is not okay, but women too should have the right to see what's out there, and find a partner that is a match emotionally and sexually.

GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
Yeah does she expect us to stay virgins until we get married?

Olivia -- Tucson

Come on! The woman who wrote this book is obviously old-fashioned, encouraging young women to only pursue "serious" relationships if they want to be happy. Newsflash: Women can do more in the world than just get married and pop out babies.


brownhairbabe
I think that hooking up can be a good or bad thing depending on why the girl is doing it. If she's doing it to validate herself or to make a guy like her, then obviously that would be damaging. But if she truly wants to do it and is happy with herself then I don't see how it's damaging. Sure the guy will probably not pursue anything long-term with someone who has sex with them right away, but if a girl doesn't want a relationship then why should she have to give up sex too?

Melissa78417 -- Corpus Christi
Great article! I've been watching Lisa Ling since she was on Channel One. To be a young woman and accomplish all that she has...it's an inspiration and she's a true role model.

Carolanne -- Los Angeles
What an inspiring article for women everywhere! As a woman going through a career change, Lisa Ling's comments about pursuing what makes you happy and getting out of situations where you're perpetually unhappy really hit home for me.

Betsy -- Torrance
Lisa Ling is such an outstanding role model for all women, especially at a time when America really needs positive women to look up to. She's doing such great things--thank you for bringing her work to our attention.

leisle -- Westwood
I love to go to the tide pools with my boyfriend. It's exciting because you never know what you're going to find. Plus, we are both beachy people, so it's the perfect cheap date!

kristart
I totally agree. It's really hypocritical because the magazines can choose which ads they want to print. Also, I think we have have become so numb to these ads, that we don't even see them as a big deal. If you put non-models in this picture, it's gang rape. Just because they are beautiful, doesn't mean it's okay. They are sending a horrible message and it has become normalcy.

abby
This is an amazing article about an inpiring woman. I always loved watching Lisa Ling on The View and it is exciting to know that she has moved on to such important work, helping women and children who need it most.

lavidadulce
In response to the first comment: I know women have traditionally been an easy target over the years, and I'm not sure that women's attention to men (eg. girls paying attention to the boy next to them in class) contributes more to pregnancy rates more than men's attention to women, as you stipulated. It's definitely a joint effort, 50-50. Let's also realize that no matter the policy, people will ALWAYS have sex, and we're faced with a decision to make it safer by making birth control more affordable. It's contrary to logic to take away that lower cost, considering the things we can't change. I believe this was the point of this blog.

GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
Most active, outdoor activities make great cheap dates. I love going hiking with my bf, and running on pretty trails or the beach is fun too. Plus, you kill two birds with one stone: your workout and your boyfriend time.

bgeorgopulos@aidforwomen.org
There is no such thing as "safe sex." Plus, maybe if girls start paying attention to lecture material instead of the boy next to them in class, they might have a better chance of maintaining their college careers.

Olivia -- Tucson

If they found a way to give college students discounted birth control options before, they should definitely keep doing it. Why should we make it more difficult for college students to be safe? Oh yeah because we spend all our money on guns and bombs.


jenr87
I think it's all about ego. The President can't admit that it was a mistake, so he thinks that if we stay and keep fighting, perhaps some good will come out of it. That will not happen. Thousands died in vain, and more will continue to die in vain if we stay.

secondfloorgirl
One service area not mentioned - ski instructors. Parents should be ready to tip if they know their child is difficult, the child took multiple days of lessons with the same instructor, is a beginner or very advanced, or the instructor really put in extra time or effort. As little as $5 is perfectly acceptable for a day's lesson. If your child is in lessons every week all season, a larger amount or a gift is appropriate.

secondfloorgirl
I LOVE my last name! If I get married, I would want him to consider taking my name, and I would consider hyphenating, but there's no way I'd ditch it completely. I can appreciate tradition, but my heritage is really important, and any guy I would consider marrying wouldn't have a problem with that :)

kristart
Yes!!! If sexy can be brought back, so can the outdoors.

charlotte
I think that's the most frustrating thing - there's nothing we can do to stop it. Whether we like it or not, there are bombs being dropped, guns being shot, and people (Americans and non-Americans) being killed - in the name of the United States. Dems in Congress need to take control and get us out of there. They finally have the power; they HAVE to do whatever it takes.

SavvyBeautyEditor
Here are some products with these ingredients: MD Skincare Vitamin C Gel, Dermalogica Multivitamin Power Exfoliant and Dermalogica Skin Renewal Booster. Thanks for asking!

JaeRae -- South
I think it should be up to the woman, but for me, personally, I would not... I am a single mother and my son has my last name - I love the fact that he will carry on my family last name! Besides, marriage is very overrated these days; I've been with my sweetie for almost 8-years, no rush to get married and I don't need a piece of paper to validate my love; but I do like the idea of a celebration (wedding) and a fat diamong ring!

KatherineAlvarez -- Manila
I'm so happy because I was thinking about making my own creation & a boutique. For those who are more creative & stylish that the market can't satisfy, making your own stuff is a great idea.

GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
Are there any particular products with these ingredients that people recommend?

lexie
I like to go to the gym because it motivates me more. I go straight after work, and I know that once I get there, I am going to work out. If I decide to drive home and then go for a run, chances are I'll end up just staying in and watching TV. I figure I'd rather work out at the gym then not at all!

lily -- Los Angeles
It makes me really sad to think that my last name won't be carried on. I like it and I think someone else should have it too. I'm not sure what's going to happen when the time comes because I don't think my boyfriend would care if I kept my name.

charlotte
Yeah, same goes for if you have food in your teeth. It's the worst feeling ever to come home and look in the mirror and realize it's been there for hours.

charlotte
I always think this too. I think I feel like I'm multitasking if I bring along some reading to the gym. It also makes my workout go by faster if I can just mindlessly do it instead while reading a fun mag.

MsApril -- Madison
I'm all about equality and independence but this is tradition. I think it's rude NOT to take his family name. I'm engaged now and could not look my fiance's family in the eye if I didn't -- it's like having one foot out the door.

nicole007 -- San Diego
I don't know if I'll take my husband's last name or not (if I even get married). But years ago I wouldn't even go on a date with someone who had a bad last name just because I didn't want my name to end up being Nicole Hornswaggle or something. If that was the case and the man of my dreams had a real crappy last name I definitely would not take it!

kristart
I never want to go to the gyno. I always put off making appointments and reschedule when something else comes up. It really is clear, though, that this is not an issue that should be taken lightly. I need to get checked out.

nicole007 -- San Diego
wow. i had no idea how serious and rampant HPV was/is. i definitely want the opportunity to guard myself against it.

CrystalA.
I will keep my last name...with no disrespect to my husband. I am proud of who I am, and where I came from. I don't believe a woman should have to give up her identity. It would also be easier for my career. I'm just happy with who I am!

Firebird -- Delano

I've been a prison guard for almost 4 years. It never ceases to amaze me how the inmates manipulate the women who write to them. And they DO "cheat", so to speak, most of them are writing to more than one woman at a time and orchestrate their visits so that they aren't found out. In my opinion, most inmates have dedicated their lives to using, manipulating, and harming good people because they are predators who perceive kindness as a weakness to be exploited. I would be absolutely sick if my sister or best friend "fell in love" with an inmate.


charlotte
I'd never even heard of these sites! I'm going to try them out now. Thanks for the information.

jenr87
I hate this too!!! Speak up people.

dani03
Don't buy tampons. Buy a menstrual cup - Divacup or Mooncup. No, this isn't an obscure hippie product. It's a Godsend. Email me at pinkstar6@verizon.net

dani03
Leaks?! I am so sorry! I haven't had to worry about leaks since I bought my menstrual cup-which is not some obscure hippie product. The main brands in the US are DivaCup and Mooncup. I don't have to even think about my period, I only remove the blood when I wake up and when I go to sleep. If only more women knew about this...Please email me at pinkstar6@verizon.net

Shari
Great ideas! The blond model is beautiful! Who is she?

What kind of dog is with the model?

secondfloorgirl
One of my guy friends in college would swoon for girls with short hair. He thought seeing a girl's neck could be very sexy. Some women with long hair would be better off chopping it off - if you're not going to tame that mane, why keep it?

jessielady
I believe for the first date each person should pay for his or her own half of the meal. I usually won't let a guy pay for my meal because I want to show that I can take care of myself.

bgeorgopulos@aidforwomen.org
My dermotolgist also told me to use shampoo that doesn't have any perfume/frangrance in it. This really dries out your hair. They are pretty hard to come by, but there's a company called Free & Clear. My hair has never been this healthy & shiny in my life.

LisaMarie -- Scottsdale
What awesome ideas...I checked these sites and they provide so many creative options. Thanks for the latest fashion info Savvy Miss!!!

MorganC
I get lipstick on my teeth all the time! No one ever tells me, and I have a big smile, so it's pretty obvious. People need to speak up. I would rather know and feel embarrassed for a second, than be embarrassed for the entire night.

MorganC
I like the analogy. I can see why parents don't want to promote promiscuity, but I just don't think that this is a strong enough argument. It's cancer were talking about here. How could you not want your daughter to be protected from a life threatening disease?

lexie
This kills me! hahaha

“I’m a perfectist and never forget details.”



Olivia -- Tucson

It's so ridiculous that people are turning a cancer-preventing vaccine into a political issue. Does getting a rabies vaccine make kids want to go play with rabies-infested animals? Come on...


galaxygirl24 -- Rome
the big sun glasses make a large face look a bit smaller, in my opinion. it is all about balance, and what appeals to the eye. if your face is tiny already, than you may not have to wear the HUGE glasses.

krnfirestone -- Pleasanton
Very good advice! Once again this writer knows her stuff!

leisle -- Westwood
I had no idea that you get a rebate for owning a hybrid. Good to know...

Cristy
Sure, women make some fashion mistakes now and again but it's all in an effort to be creative, fun, etc. But none of our faux pas will ever compare to the trend that made me greatful I'm a girl - the halfway-down-your-butt baggy pant style that showcases to the world your happy face Joe Boxers, or worse, your tighty whiteys. It has never gone away! What were you (and STILL are) thinking??

MinnieSheila
I agree, the vaccine should be mandatory. Because even if it is, parents will still have the option to opt out by getting a waiver. So this way the people who are really against it can not protect their kids from cancer, but everyone else can.

wbmeyer -- Sacramento
A guy who can't spell. A guy who gets cranky when his life story doesn't win the "Feel Sorry for Me" award; a guy who immediately lets you know he has major trust issues because he's scarred from his last relationship; in other words, a guy who's too darned complicated!

mandoir
Golden Spoon isn't overpriced.

mandoir
Despite the validity of saying that many designers don't wish to create clothes above a size two, I question the knee-jerk categorization of the women on that particular Proj.Run. challenge "normal." Some of them were clearly and unhealthily overweight, which presents a different shape entirely. Even if women don't starve themselves to be model thin, most fit and healthy bodies fall into a range in which it is easier to conceive of a clothing design. Many of the mothers and women who were asked to participate in the challenge, however, were borderline obese.

GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
He's probably just scared too. People are raised differently - and for some saying it is a really big thing. I'd just pay attention to how he treats you becuase that's really what love is. If it's the real thing the words will come eventually.

GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
Guys that play video games like they're a sport.

GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
Pinkberry and Golden Spoon are both way overrated. They overcharge and they aren't that great. I like more local fro-yo places that are cheaper, have more fun flavors and sugar-free fro-yos.

RaquelRoad
I love golden spoon! Non-fat and sweet. It's ideal really. Their peanut butter flavor is sooo good. I also really like Penguins and Angelinas. Those are my top 3.

Cristy
Pinkberry has a cuter name, but personally, Golden Spoon frozen yogurt gets my vote. They have sweet "froyo" and a million yummy toppings to pick from! On top of it all, the yogurt is non-fat :)

Cristy
I went to high school with one of the girls in Cycle 3, Norelle Van Herk, and I found it interesting how quickly some people can change for TV. As I remember her, she wasn't so girly as she seemed on the show. Makes you wonder why one would feel the need to change themselves for a "reality" show.

MorganC
I agree. Boobie is an odd, but strangely cute word.

kristart
I hate that on shows like Top Model, many of the other contestents see the plus size models as not dedicated enough. It's like, if they're not starving themselves, they must not want it. I think it's sad that people think this way.

kristart
I can't handle when a guy says "don't worry about it." I'm not worrying. It's condescending.

lexie
I love it! What are you guys talking about? The fresh fruit and tart taste is amaaaazing! So refreshing.

brownhairbabe
It is so true that designers are not motivated to change the situation. Did anyone see the episode of project runway where they had to design for "normal" women? None of them knew what to do, they'd never been taught how to make clothes beyond a size two! The only way things will change is if people make a conscious effort to stop buying the clothes from designers who use skinny models.

Olivia -- Tucson

I don't think things will ever change either. The designers claim they use skinny models because they just want the clothes to hang on them, but wouldn't really great clothes flatter real bodies? It's their flaws and laziness as designers that will keep this trend going forever.


summer-girl
I agree. I've been before and it's not that great. They have cookie toppings that I've tried to add to make it more like a dessert, but it tasted funny. Not a fan.

melaniebernal
I like that this article touches on issues of women's sexual needs. There can be millions of reasons why women don't get enough foreplay from their partners. One reason could be that male-female sexual relations are often informed by a historically mysogonyst way of thinking that believs that men are the active participants of sex while women remain the passive. That is one way that might cause a man to overlook a women's sexual needs, and soley satisfying his own. It is the same thinking that has told women that they don't have the right to ask this from their partners. I think that everyone and their partners (be they long term or one night things) have a responsibility to each other: to help eachother know your needs, to be respectful of those needs, and for both parties to be in a constant communication about what makes them feel good/feel happy/feel respected. Thank you for pointing this out, Shauna Billings (author of article).

I do take issue with this article. It's heteronormative, meaning that your article assumes that all women having sex are having that sex with men. The whole article suggests this, but espescially that repugnant choice of words, that "the vagina isn’t lubricated, causing uncomfortable heat and friction as it is penetrated." Why does sex necessarily involve penetration? And why that word penetration? Please focus on more inclusive, less violent langauge and move toward language that places both partners on equal footing.

AbsoluteLM
Alex, please start a blog with similar ponderings so I can have another way to laugh my ass off at work each day.

That would be cute as a booby.

anjta
I am under the impression that when you find something in your mouth that ought not to be there you pretend you're going to wipe your mouth and remove it in the napkin. There's a wonderful (true) stroy of a man who ate a caterpillar on the lettuce so as not to embarrass the hostess - she saw him and left him a hefty sum of money in her will.

charlotte
Top Model's ridiculous. Doesn't anyone watch the news anymore?

RamblinLiz
I've experienced a significant decrease in sex drive with every form of the pill I've tried - but everyone thought I was nuts (including my doctor). In short, thanks for the great article. I always love the feeling of finding out that I'm not crazy.

lily -- Los Angeles
I loved how Natasha said, "I think I look different than the other girls. I pretty." --Also classic.

lily -- Los Angeles
Most celebs (not all, but most) are extremly self-centered. In those facilities you have to surrender yourself and stop worrying about your reputation, your image, and your contacts. Most celebrities can't do this so they fail. Miserably.

Olivia -- Tucson

It's so inspiring to see a a noncelebrity featured in a magazine. I can relate to it a lot more. Lindsay - your story really shows that being anorexic is not as glamorous as the tabloids (Nicole and Mary-Kate, anyone?) make it out to be. I'm forwarding this to all my friends. Thank you!!


Olivia -- Tucson

Oh my gosh Kathleen was SO funny when she was talking about anti-fur. "I'm anti-fur, which means, like, I hate fur." Classic!


Olivia -- Tucson

Yeah I'm 23 and a college grad, but people alway think I'm in high school. And when did it become OK to ask "How old are you?!" It's rude and none of your business.


Olivia -- Tucson

It's so true! I have so many friends that are afraid to really let go in bed because they're worried about what they look like.


MonikaR
This was a great article. I really enjoyed reading it. Not only did was it somehthing I can totally relate to, but it gave me helpful suggestions of what to do in the future! THank you savvymiss!

babyallie -- West Hollywood

Lindsay, you are amazing. I am so proud of you. I've known people very close to me with these issues, and it always helps to hear inspirational stories about how people can get better. You are awesome and BEAUTIFUL especially when you're all dressed up and sexy at the Falcon with me!

hope to see you soon pretty girl.
xo


TinaVail -- Ojai
There is a book by Marion Woodman called Addicted to
Perfection that might be helpful
to anyone suffering from an
eating disorder.
Thank you SavvyMiss for getting
this article out. It helps us all
to be informed about this...and
thank you Lindsey for your courage to speak.

nicole007 -- San Diego
Reece was GORGEOUS -- breakup=good. But what was up with Kirsten Dunst? It just seemed like she threw her hair in a ponytail, slapped on some bright red lipstick and this dress that had internal conflicts of its own---was it a school girl dress with that collar, was it vintage? Note to Kirsten--find a new stylist!

LS -- New York City
THANK YOU FOR THIS STORY. I can relate to soooo many things that Lindsay said. I'm a people pleaser to a fault, and I love when people say i look too skinny. When people tell me I look healthy, I take it as an insult and it motivates me to diet or work out more. Also, I have the "radar" and can spot someone with eating problems a mile away. Though i don't have full blown anorexia, I have definite food issues. Thanks for the reminder of how scary it could be if I let them get the best of me.
LS

MorganC
My best friend has had an eating disorder for at least four years and she doesn't seem to be improving. I just don't know what to do or say anymore. I think she should get serious help but I'm not sure if it's my place to step in. How can I tell her without pushing her away?

MorganC

RaquelRoad
Ha Ha. I worry about this all the time. How are you supposed to know if no one tells you?

lily -- Los Angeles
I wasn't too crazy about Penelope's gown. She did look beautiful, but it was a little too much pouf for me.

ZoeWoods -- Saint John
What about Doc's? Thats my style for everything.

MorganC
Reese was gorgous. I loved her navy/purple dress and how it got lighter as it tierd down. Great choice Reese.

lexie
I LOVED Nicole Kidman's gown. She pulled off the big red bow like no other Hollywood actress can. She's such a fashion icon. And I loved the red!

Oh! And I agree. Rachel Weisz's dress was beautiful. She has such a regal, classic look.

SarahL -- Los Angeles
Did anyone else notice Rachel Weisz dress? It was gorgeous -- kind of a tan color but I loved the jeweled pin that was at the top of it. Her necklace though was too much.

Amber -- San Diego

I agree with the above post. Thank you for sharing your story!


krnfirestone -- Pleasanton
Thank you for sharing your story. I have met you and I am so impressed with your strength! You are a beautiful person. I wish the best for you!
A friend!

kmcknight_21@yahoo.com

well if the Myspace is set on "PRIVATE" no one is able to look at their Myspace unless that person is on their friend list.


kmcknight_21@yahoo.com

The incodent recently with Brittaney Spears, I think, is all for plublicity. She figured since she took a break and had children and gained weight she wouldnt get good exposure so she wanted to make a huge comeback by going into rehab for a DAY, and then shaving her head completely bold. In my opion, no rehad works for celebritys, if you hear most of them that do go last only days, week, or months.


leisle -- Westwood
It was so annoying. I love Grey's and so does every other female in the universe. So why they felt like they had to resort to a over-used plot stunt is beyond me. Not okay.

bella -- ojai
Hilary Clinton is polarizing and she is a women. Normally I probably would not vote for her, but these don't seem to me to be normal times. Our foreign image has been ruined by the Bush administration. War and imperialist occupation is not the answer. Mrs. Clinton could repair that and give the rest of the world a new view of America. Perhaps it is time for a women to be the President. I don't think the men have done a very good job. It's time for a thoughtful shift in the way our government views the rest of the world. It's time we actually quit being imperialists and started to help, in a meaningful way, the people of less developed countries. It's really one world. I hope Hilary can do that. But it's early in the campaign and I may change my mind...a few times. As a side note maybe it's time to have someone other than a Clinton or a Bush in the White House. Those two familes have 20 years between them. Truthfully all these politicians give me a headache!

krissi_14@hotmail.com
I agree. Totally not the show I adore. And really, to kill the main character - so unbelievable. I spent the whole time annoyed by how long it was taking to revive her, not scared out of my mind that she might die.

krnfirestone -- Pleasanton
What a great idea! I hope to try it the next time I am somewhere new.
I loved the writers style!

charlotte
I don't think it matters whether you're a celebrity or not. The success rate for people that enter rehab is something like 7% from the best facilities.

Rcnqueen
Readers please be aware that you cannot use DIY tax software year after year. I work for the number one self tax preparation software on the market for the past several years. You need to purchase a new product year to year do to changes in the forms themselves and the tax laws. DIY tax software is also an excellent tool for financial planning your future based on current tax year situation. It can help you do things like find ways to increase your savings for retirement and your future tax deductions or adjust your W-4 so you hold on to more of your money through the year instead of letting the IRS earn interest on it. If you also use a budget program like Quicken to manage you finances you can import your information into the tax software saving you additional time, and ladies we all know that when we save time. . . we save MONEY!

Rcnqueen
Readers please be aware that you cannot use DIY tax software. I work for the number one self tax preparation software on the market for the past several years. You need to purchase a new product year to year do to changes in the forms themselves and the tax laws. DIY tax software is also an excellent tool for financial planning your future based on current tax year situation. It can help you do things like find ways to increase your savings for retirement and your future tax deductions or adjust your W-4 so you hold on to more of your money through the year instead of letting the IRS earn interest on it. If you also use a budget program like Quicken to manage you finances you can import your information into the tax software saving you additional time, and ladies we all know that when we save time. . . we save MONEY!

MorganC
I try to keep really busy and have people around me at all times because I have serious alone issues. It has been a really big step to actually tell somebody about it. Vocalizing my troubles has helped me realize my denial and helped me actually start doing something about it.

GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
Generally guys have no fashion sense. If it was up to my bf I'd be wearing miniskirts and lowcut t-shirts every day. Let's leave it to the women to make the fashion choices. Baggy shirts=cute. Big sunglasses=cute. Low cut t-shirts and short skirts=slutty.

BarbaraCarey -- Orinda

I know exactly how you feel. Have you ever noticed how similar tampon boxes look to other medicines in the same aisle. I'm not sick - I just have my period. That's actually why I created a new line of products - you may have heard of them. Ditties are made for fun, fabulous women and come in boxes you can be proud to bring up to the grocery check-out. I now sell them on-line at www.dittie.com - so you can avoid that "walk of shame" to the check-out counter. Hope this helps!


SavvyFashionista
I recommend a tent dress. Yes, the style sounds incredibly unflattering, but really, it gives you some extra room when it’s that time of month, without making you feel dreary and dowdy. Kate Bosworth wore a great one at the Superman Returns Paris premier.

Check it out at: http://www.celebritywonder.com/picture/Kate_Bosworth/KateBosworth_Barson_9425180.html


Betsy -- Torrance
It makes me feel that way too. Know that it's just one day & that you are way cooler than some silly holiday.

kristart
I love oversized sunglasses and jeans tucked into boots! Just because guys don't like the look, doesn't mean women should have to change. My philosophy: dress for yourself, not to make him happy.

jfire81 -- Pleasanton
Great advice everyone, thanks.

SavvyFashionista
LisaMarie-- The red flats are from Via Spiga. Glad you liked them!

TinaVail -- Ojai
It was close to 40 years ago. We were walking on a winter day at the beach in the cold, wet sand.
He stopped and took a stick and
began writing in HUGH letters my first name. This was such a
spontaneous sweet thing to me. I still remember this from our time of first dating and being so new to each other.

Olivia -- Tucson

Mmmm. You could probably use any type of berry - like a blueberry, too.


Olivia -- Tucson

I love it! It's awesome being single and not having to worry about checking in with anyone, or worrying about bothering someone if you go out late with friend.


Olivia -- Tucson

I don't think it even needs to be a gift. Just plan something unique and thoughtful for the two of you to do; that's a lot more meaningful that a random bouquet or box of chocolates.


ladysilverwolf

He made me heartshaped pancakes for breakfast and then a little while later, he gave me ring with 10 diamonds. One for every month that we've been together.


lexie
This sounds like fun! I didn't really think you could make your own personalized chocolate.

jenr87
I like tights, but I can't stand when people wear them as pants. Put them under something. Don't make them stand alone.

kristart
I am going out to bars and celebrating the night with some single friends (and hopefully some single men!).

Judy01
I wish there was a cubicle cutie in my office, instead I have everyone else on the list.

Judy01
Wow, this recipe sounds so good, and easy! Usually I'm way afraid of anything in the kitchen but I think I'll try this.

MinnieSheila
Well, I love chocolate and food so those gifts make me happy but I think the most important thing is that you show her that you put thought and effort into whatever you give her or do for Valentines Day so she knows that you are thinking about her and want her to have a good holiday. It's really the thought that counts.

charlotte
It just sucks and there's nothing to do about it. If I was a designer, of COURSE I'd do whatever I could to put celebs in my clothing. That's how you get popular. Period. Giving some random girl in Iowa your designs just doesn't have the same effect.

charlotte
I think it's us. We're the ones buying the magazines and going to the sights. They're providing a product that consumers and dying to get.

MinnieSheila
These are all so cute! My boyfriend shows he loves me with little things, like making me dinner when I've had a stressful day.

MinnieSheila
Hosting a cocktail party is such a great idea. I did it one year (for my single and coupled friends) and it was a huge hit, and resulted in some hookups!

LisaMarie -- Scottsdale
My friends and I are having a fun girls gamenight...great ideas in this article!

LisaMarie -- Scottsdale
This article is so useful. Now I know which fab updates will totally revamp my wordrobe. I especially love those red flats...where can I get those???

Betsy -- Torrance
I like to being taken on a fun little adventures. My boyfriend took me to Catalina Island one year and it was amazing! Another favorite--ice skating.

krnfirestone -- Pleasanton
Very nice article! The model is so cute and stylish! I love the dog too!
Karen

MorganC
It's so strange that I care so much. I was so disgusted to find out that there were bidding wars for the last recordings of her, and yet I know that I would probably be one of the ones searching for it on youtube. It is some sort of depressing fascination. And I always wonder, are we perpetuating this fascination or is it the media?

uptownbaby
this is really sweet. when i read some of the stories i couldn't help but think that there is no excuse for having a deadbeat boyfriend. this piece shows that there are guys out there who get it and we should not settle for anything less!

Olivia -- Tucson

Yeah celebs are the grownup version of the popular kids in school. I guess gossip is a way for people to bond...


MorganC
Quality chocolate. I am such a sweet tooth. Never mind what they say about girls not wanting chocolate on Valentine's Day. I love a good box!!

jenr87
I like the comment about sex not always being smooth. Because it's not. You can try and make it sexy and serious--just like every faux love scene in the movies, but it's just so impossible. A joke here and there actually makes me enjoy it more because I'm not trying to be super "perfect" in bed.

wAnDeRiNgEyEs

I just got this great book for Christmas called, "The Cheap bastard's Guide to NYC" It gives you the ins/outs/whos/what and where's of how to do the 'NY' thing on a budget and/or for free. Mueseums, clubs, salons...it's all there. I've heard the book was also made for some other cities. I feel you though, good luck!


LILA -- Los Angeles
Cooking a full meal (appetizers, entree, dessert) for her would be a very nice gesture -- shows you're putting a lot of thought into it. As far as other things to give, I like things that make me feel pretty such as a nice bottle of perfume, quality lingerie, etc. It might just be nice to cook her a meal and then follow it up with a massage with scented oils (eucalyptus, lavender). You'll definitely be taking care of her :)

charlotte
I think that's why celebrity gossip magazines are so popular. We don't have the high school cliques to gossip about, so the Hollywood group is our fuel for conversation.

hoopmeh
I put almost all my purchases on my debit card, but when you're not paying close attention, those purchases add up fast! Here's what I do:
1. Take cash out for fast food each week. Quick meals are where I tend to waste the most money. Once the cash is gone, that's it.
2. Keep ALL receipts, and file them according to spending category. Then, at the end of each week, I put them in a spreadsheet to see how I'm doing.
3. If I'm going somewhere when I know I don't need to be spending any money, I leave my debit card at home.

fbrown12 -- North Hills
Uhhh Gossip. Its that Love hate relationship. I dont think its the same as high school high school is only diffrent cause you think its the end of the world and your inclosed in your school and thouse are the only people you know. In the "Real world" its just a part of life Gossip happens everywhere beetwen lovers, friends, and Co- workers. It just varys between the people and crowds you hang out with.

cyber_hippie

Thank you for saying the snooping has to stop. This is the 3rd response to this reader's question, and I was wondering to myself, "Hello? Anyone besides me think it's scummy to snoop in someone's house?" I think it's very rude to go through people's things.

I am not, however, defending this guy's actions. Not at all. His withholding of this information is equally vile.

See, when I was in college, I hooked up with this GREAT GUY. *eye roll* This GREAT GUY didn't feel the need to tell me he had it. At all. Ever. No. I found out on my own when I came home for break. Doctors diagnosed HSV-2, and I was beyond mortified: I was crushed. Absolutely humiliated. I'm not a dirty person. I didn't sleep around indiscriminately. I just had the misfortune of meeting one man who did not think it was important enough.

I am very upfront about this. Now, I don't tell every man I meet that I have it, but I DO tell every man I meet, with whom I know I'm likely to get intimate. Sure, loses me some dates, but I'd be willing to bet every single one of those men would say he's grateful to me for being so ethical.

Bottom line? This chick needs to learn to respect others' personal belongings, BUT she also needs to dump this jerk. My guess is he was not going to tell her.

He's a jerk, plain and simple. Move on to better fish!

Cyber_Hippie


sminerva21
I definitely sleep a little extra on the weekends, but usually only an hour more than workdays. Even if it's just to lay there and be comfy, it's worth it to me to have that time to myself.

But I'm also pretty sure you can't make-up for lost sleep, unless you're seriously sleep-deprived. I usually get "weekend headaches" if I try to catch up on sleep by taking super long naps, or sleeping in a few extra hours. Every once in a while it's okay, but if you make it a regular habit, it does more bad than good.

LILA -- Los Angeles
I get a point for every dollar I spend on my credit card, so I usually charge everything on it. I pay off my card immediately afterwards (via BillPay because it's free and fast), before incurring any interest. This way I get cash back without interest detracting from it. Essentially, I get money for spending money.

charlotte
It's also good to reuse everything that you possibly can: ziplock bags, foil, grocery shopping bags. You help the environment and you don't waste money buying all those things and just using them once.

kristart
I get take-out and make it last for multiple meals. It's usually my dinner, my lunch the next day and my dinner again. That way the 12 dollars I spend is only like paying 4 dollars a meal.

summer-girl
I think that it doesn't hurt to get an extra hour or two of sleep on the weekend...just as long as your not sleeping in till 2.

leisle -- Westwood
I try and not wash my hair everyday because I know it's better for it, but the problem is that it gets so greasy. I have to wear it up in a pony the next day or else I look like a wreck.

lily -- Los Angeles
Looks good! I think I might just have to make it for Valentine's Day!

lexie
I agree, GoldenAfternoon. This year my boyfriend and I are just going to cook dinner together and have a mellow evening. This takes away the pressure of having to plan perfectly romantic V-Day...which I tried this last year, but I was so stressed out I didn’t even enjoy our ice skating outing. I was too worried if my tiramisu would harden. Looking forward to this year so much more...

GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
I've actually heard that you can "make up" lost sleep time. Does anyone know if sleeping an extra hour on the weekend will actually help you out?

GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
Does anyone else find most Valentine's gifts totally cheesey? I don't want anymore lame boxes of chocolate. It's so much more fun to just do something together, and forget the gift altogether.

charlotte
I've also heard that avodados are good for dry hair.

Olivia -- Tucson

I'd come with an actual notepad and prepared list of questions. It'll make you look more professional and you'll get ALL your questions answered.


Olivia -- Tucson

The politics of money in relationships is so weird. No one wants to feel indebted to the other, but sometimes it makes sense for the person making more to pay more for things. My boyfriend always get really uncomfortable when I pay for a lot for us, but we both know I make more. It's weird...


Olivia -- Tucson

Even just throwing a product party at your house is a way to score some extra money. My sister hosted one and her friends spent so much money that she won three free days in a hotel, anywhere she wants!


Olivia -- Tucson

What a fun article! Thanks for something fresh and different instead of the same old credit article


Olivia -- Tucson

Does anyone have a credit card that they really like? That has good rewards and all that? I can't seem to get away from these rip-off ones.


Olivia -- Tucson

I thought way more people did online shopping...it's so easy!


Olivia -- Tucson

Is it true that having a debit card can make you more eligible for a credit card?


GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
It's funny because it's such an old fashioned idea, but it's true. The right manners and etiquette and can make you or break you.

GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
I can't believe only 2% of the fortune 500 CEOs are females.

GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
Does anyone have any advice on how not to cry in front of your boss?

GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
I think making that first jump is the hardest part. Once you move to a new city, or quit your current job, you'll go after it becuase you'll be forced to.

GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
Or: What are you doing today? Meaning, I have a huge project that I need you to do for me.

GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
I would just not mention the job if you weren't there for too long. You'll have to have some sort of an explanation for what you were doing during that time period, but it you have a terrible reference, no one will want to hire you. Why would they?

GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
Someone told me the unemployment organization's website has a lot of good job listings, too.

GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
I think it's just really hard for a lot of people to leave work in the office. We spend so much time there it's easy to be consumed by it all the time.

GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
Please just quit if your boss treats you like that. Use someone else at your work as a reference and get the hell out of there.

GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
It's so true. A bad cover letter is an easy way to weed out sloppy applicants.

GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
Thanks for the quiz! I just reaffirmed my belief that I need to pursue a career in writing.

GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
It's also useful to try to schedule reviews with your boss. Every couple months just check in and make sure you're both on the same page in terms of what you're doing.

GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
I used to work at a super negative place. The boss yelled at everyone and it was really tense and unproductive. Bosses everwhere: Be nice! People will work better.

GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
What a great article! My boss is totally a Preppy Spoken Here!

GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
It would be so fun to be a chef. I'd just be afraid that it would be really hard to be successful and make enough money to support myself.

GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
I always wanted to be an arcaeologist when I was growing up! Thanks for the article; it made me want to go after my childhood dream again.

GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
I know tons of people who've gone to fashion school, but I don't know anyone who's gotten a job in the industry. What kind of jobs to people normally get straight out of school?

GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
Did anyone know the US is ranked in very bottom of modern democracies around the world in terms of women holding office? What's wrong with us?

GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
I think being a makeup artist is one of those careers that sounds really cool, but it's so hard to succeed in. It's all about knowing poeple and getting lucky.

GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
I think the difference between a disordered binger and a person who just likes to eat a lot is the control part. Yeah, I eat a lot, and sometimes I eat way to many pieces of pizza or whatever, but eventually I stop myself. If it's an actual psychiatric problem, I think you'd eat and eat and eat ALL time time and not be able to stop until the food ran out. Like a whole gallon of ice cream.

Molls
While I think that binge eating is a serious problem in our society, I agree with Kristart that once it is classified as an "eating disorder," mass paranoia will ensue due to the fact that so many of us do "binge" eat once or twice a week. Binge eating is something almost everyone does once in a while so I don't think it should be considered a disorder unless it becomes an everyday activity . . .

Molls
these sounds incredible, i'm going to try the recipe this weekend!

Molls
Thanks for this list! I plan on testing out some of these suggestions ASAP. My hair is long and thick and needs all the help it can get in order to stay healthy. I especially need to remember to get my hair cut regularly. With long hair, sometimes I let myself go for months without a trim, but I know it should be done, so I guess it's time to make an apointment!

Molls
I am the same way! I have no idea why I get so wierd about some stranger ringing me up for an item they must sell large quantities of all day, I just feel so silly. I have no problem asking even my dad of all people to buy me tampons while he's at the store, but when it comes to actually getting them myself, I turn into a nervous, fidgety, twelve-year-old.

zena7
GoGirlGo! sounds like a fantastic organization. It is so important for young kids to be exposed to information about healthy lifestyles and to be given opportunities to become physically active.

zena7
Really good ideas here, especially numbers 5 and 6. I tend to charge items on my card far too often and lose track of how much I am actually spending in total. By using only cash, I can't let myself get out of control! As far as holidays go, I am always tempted to spend lavish amounts on friends and relatives, particularly on those who do so for me. But I have realized that gifts are not a way of repaying someone in monetary amounts, it is all about the thought and feeling behind the gift. Taking a friend to lunch is a wonderful present because then they get yummy food and good company!

zena7
I like the ideas so far! I also have a netflix membership and my roomies and I take turns choosing a movie each week. Plus, microwave popcorn is a lot cheaper than buying a bag at the movies and then you can watch comfortably from the couch in your pj's!

charlotte
Hmm that is a toughie. I know because I struggle with exact same situation every night, too. My roommate and I have a membership to netflix, so for about five bucks dollars per person per month, we get unlimited movies. Rent a scary one and invite friends over for a movie night. Free and you still feel like you're doing something.

summer-girl
Okay, so maybe this does involve a little bit of strolling, but you and a friend could make a hot beverage (coffee, hot coco, or perhaps a little something spiked...), put it in a thermos and take a walk through the city. If you don't live in a city, well, I guess your out of luck.

kristart
Go to a Late Night TV show taping like SNL, Leno, Letterman, Conan, Stewart or Colbert. It's great entertainment, you get to leave the house and it's all free!

Betsy -- Torrance
Just make sure that when you call, you tactfully ask why you weren't hired. If you say something like, "What was wrong with me?" it may sound like a question you would propose to your ex-boyfriend. But asking "What would have made me more of a desirable candidate for your company?" makes you sound a lot more professional.

jenr87
I think it's great to call and ask why you weren't hired. It may seem like an extremely painful move, but you'll end up getting some great info for what to do next time. On my first internship interview I didn't ask the employers any questions…and I didn’t get the job. When I called back and asked about why I wasn’t hired, they told me that I was a great candidate, but they would have liked if I would’ve conveyed more interest in the company by asking questions. On my second interview, I went in with prepared questions, and ended up landing the job! It may be an uncomfortable call, but it will surely help you in the future!

hugme12

i always respsct to everyone thuoght but but go by my mind


Olivia -- Tucson

It's so true. About six months ago I got rejected from what I thought was the absolute best job for me. Turns out it wasn't though, because the job I ended up getting a few months later paid more and gave me way more room for professional growth.


Olivia -- Tucson

Haha. I think it's definitely important to have realistic expectations. It's all about the balance between that and not wanting to settle. Also Lexie: I know what you mean. People always say that...but it makes no sense! The only people that say that are peoplew ho already have bfs.


lavidadulce
I agree with what the author has to say.. but this is ridiculous! Why can't a woman just show up and be herself-- not have to keep all these little things in mind? Kinda crazy.

hugme12

i looking my sweet hert and lovely creation of god which is called girl but i m a unemployed but do some self work since 1990 my aged about 30 year and i m indian if any girl wanna friend like a soul mate so pls send me mail alaoal2000@yahoo.com


lexie
I had been single for the longest time--and after you've been single for ages you just don't want to settle for any guy that comes along. When I expressed my frustration to my friends in relationships, they would tell me: "You'll meet a guy when you're not looking." What is that supposed to mean? It just seemed so condescending. I tried to "not look for guys" but trying to not to look turned into avoiding everyone and feeling sorry for myself. Finally, a great guy stumbled around, but it was when I was frustrated and still looking. I hate when people try and tell you to not look. I agree with Ian in that you should stay open and optimistic.

lily -- Los Angeles
I order Thai takeout at least once a week. Maybe I should try making it for a change...It will probably be a lot cheaper and a lot healthier!

charlotte
I think it's because families can't survive anymore with just one parent working. Women, too, have to make successful careers for themselves if they want to raise a family, or even if they don't. Taking the time to cultivate your career seems to take precedence over marriage.

larissa217
test

LISAMATTIE3955 -- BERKELEY
HELLO FROM LISAMATTIE3955, YES TO A CERTAIN POINT FOR ME DATING A MAN, WHY CAUSE ME PERSONALLY I ALWAYS FEEL LIKE THE MEN SHOULD NOT BE TOLD WHAT TO DO, HOW TO THINK, THINK WITH BASIC COMMON SENCE, DO SIMPLE TASKS,AND FOR ME LISA I THINK BEFORE I ASK A QUESTION TO A PERSON AND I USE MOST BASIC COMMON SENCE THATS SOMETHING MOST MEN AND WOMEN DONT DO NOW DAYS AND WHEN THEY RELIZE WHAT THEY HAVE SAID ITS TO LATE TO CHANGE RIGHT.MOST MEN DONT THINK LOGICAL ENOUGH FOR ME SO I RATHER BE ALONE,ITS GETS LONELY TO BE A LONE BUT FOR ME LISA IM FINE WITH IT, AND ME I LIKE OLDER MEN ANY WAY SO MOST TIMES I DONT HAVE THOSE PROBLEMS MOST WOMEN GO THROUGH WITH A MAN ANY WAY CAUSE I STAND AND LOOK BEFORE I JUMP RIGHT. THANKS LISAMATTIE3955

swan480
As I consider myself a highly intelligent woman, I have a few comments to make.

First of all, I've dated men who are both dumber and smarter than me. The dumber ones typically felt threatened to me and constantly tried to cut me down on an emotional level to make up for it. The smarter ones (of which there were very few) were incredibly annoying - I wasn't a threat because I wasn't smarter than them, but instead I was a trophy because I was *almost* as smart.

Personally, I think it's insulting to smart women to hear an intelligent woman say she wants to find a man who's smarter than her. It's like saying you *want* to be subordinate to your significant other. When I found my Mr. Right, I knew he was intelligent and well-read enough for me to hold a conversation with him, and that was enough for me. To this day I don't know who's smarter...and I honestly don't care. We have an equal relationship, and that's what matters.

However, I *do* think there's some truth to the idea that smart women marry less because they know better. Think of it this way: half of those who *do* marry these days get divorced. So maybe less smart women get married, but has anyone thought to look at the divorce rates? Maybe smart women are more likely to have high self esteem, less likely to feel dependent on men, and therefore less likely to make mistakes in their love life.

If that's the case, I think the lower marriage rate among smart women are ENcouraging, rather than DIScouraging.

secondfloorgirl
I had a threesome with two of my guy friends for my birthday. I had been with both of them before, so we were all pretty comfortable together. It was an AWESOME night, and since they needed more recovery time than I did, it was nonstop fun for me!

Another time with one of the same guys, a threesome sort of started but there was more chemistry between two of us than three, so the second guy bowed out.

lexie
I would only have to courage to have a threesome if I had a couple drinks in me (and by a couple I mean like 7). I think it's good advice to wait on the threesome until you're comfortable doing it sober, so then you won't seriously regret it in the morning. As for me, don't know if that will ever happen...

kristart
What about people being different kinds of "smart"? If one partner is great at math and the other is great in languages I think they can compliment each other really well. On another note...I think many guys like to date women that are less intelligent, but like to marry women that are on the same intellectual level.

GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
Thanks for the real advice. Most magazines won't go into this much detail. I'm gonna tell my boyfriend to read this!

babyallie -- West Hollywood

WOW! This review is so good it makes me want to buy this book and pretend I have the money and time to travel to all the exotic places above. Thanks!


kristart
Because women have much more interesting clothing options, I think people are much more curious about what women are wearing then men- think the Oscars. But when it comes to politics, do reporters really have to go there? You're right, it's an insult.

GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
It just shows that the press has to cater to a shallow public audience. No one cares that Americans and innocent citizens are dying every day in Iraq, but they care how many times Barbara Bush changes her outfit in a day. It's pathetic.

Olivia -- Tucson

Maybe we should talk about what Bush is wearing. It would be a lot more interesting than what he's saying. I don't think it's bad that we talk about this - fashion's interesting and it probably draws more people in to articles about politicians.


LILA -- Los Angeles
The fashion criticism is a sneaky way to undermine Hillary's presidential qualifications. I mean, sure, if Hillary has a great suit on, I would comment on how great she looks, but that's not going to affect my voting for her. It's embarrassing to see and hear the US media going this route. Makes me feel like they're trying to take steps back as soon as we're taking dramatic steps forward. Boo.

jenr87
I completely agree. Why can't they take her (or any other woman in politics) seriously? It's as if the only thing interesting about women are the clothes they wear. I think the American population has been so conditioned to focus on women’s clothing so that when a woman in some sort of power wants to be known for something other than what she is wearing, reporters just can’t break the habit. Now the question is- why do reporters continue to ask those questions? Are they asking about her clothing because they are trying to appease the public, or do they really think that this is an important issue? I think they ask the question because for some set reason, it matters in our society…and I’m not sure how to make it not matter.

LILA -- Los Angeles
This is extremely important for EVERY WOMAN. There are so many women who say, "I can't afford to save," but, believe me, if your life depended on it as it will in your retirement years, you will find a way. You have to look at it as a means of survival, and even if you can only put in 10 or 20 bucks a month, that will ingrain the idea of saving in your head. As you make more, you can put in more, but start now if you have not done so already--it is the one of the best commitments you can make to yourself.

ladysilverwolf

i used to have the same problem. There was the paranoia about what other people were thinking and how uncomfortable it is to buy feminine products.
What changed my opinion was when I went shopping with my boyfriend Kenneth. I didn't want him to know that "Auntie Flow" was visiting. As he wheeled the cart closer to that aisle, I began to freak out. He just looked at me and asked "pads or tampons?" then he grabbed some and also grabbed some chocolate. Then he walked up to a guy clerk and had the guy ring them up. I was mortified but Ken taught me that I should be comfortable with my body and not be afraid because guys know what's happening and they just deal with it.


leisle -- Westwood
Starting before you're 25 is key. I just met with a retirement adviser and he told me that if you start saving now (as opposed to when you're 40)you will be putting in three times less and making three times more. Sounds good to me!

nincompoop
hmmm... wouldn't it have just been easier for you to accept that your period is natural, something you cant help and something that you are going to live many years of your adult life with than going through this excruciating process to avoid whatever it is that you are trying to avoid? I mean everyone knows you have it... You are a woman, buying tampons is just part of the process... Talking about it publicly is good... but you just need to accept it so that you're more comfortable with the idea yourself!

LISAMATTIE3955 -- BERKELEY
WELL IM JUST GOING BY WHAT I KNOW AND HAVE SEEN MY SELF, HAVING A HUSBAND AND MARRAIED NOW DAYS U HAVE TO BE WILLING TO GO THROUGH THE ISSUES WITH HIM AND HIS CHANGES RIGHT, MOST WOMEN NOW DAYS, R MOST INTO THEMSELVES AND NOT WILLING TO GO THROUGH THE CHANGES WITH A HUSBAND OR A MALE MATE EIGHTER WHY MOST OF US HAVE HEARD THE LIES, ISSUES,PROBLEMS FROM OTHER RELATIONSHIPS, AND NOT WILLING TO HEAR THEM OVER AND OVER AGAIN RIGHT, SO THATS WHY MOST OF US IS SINGLE AND DONT MIND IT AT ALL IT DONT COST TO HAVE PEACE WITH YOUR SELF RIGHT, RIGHT WE NEED TO BE LOVED OF COURSE , WE LIKE GOOD SEX RIGHT, BUT BEFORE WE GO THAT FAR TO HAVE SOMEONE DECENT IN YOUR LIVES WE THINK WHAT WILL IT COST US RIGHT, WELL IM YOUNG STILL MY SELF AND I THINK THIS WAY CAUSE I HAVE BEEN IN RELATIONSHIPS AND I ENJOYED THEM OF COURSE, BUT I LIKE BEING ALONE AND HAVING QUALITY TIME FOR MY SELF TO RIGHT, I WOULD LOVE TO HAVE A WONDERFULL HUSBAND IN MY LIFE BUT WHAT I HAVE SEEN AND TALKED TO PERSONALLY MY SELF THE MEN NOW DAYS R NOT RELIABLE ENOUGHT TO BE IN A REAL DECENT REALATIONSHIP LEADING TO MARRAIGE NOW DAYS EIGHTER AND NOT WILLING TO PUT FIRST FOOT FORWARD TO MAKE THINGS WORK AND MAKE IT LAST AS WHAT I CAN SEE FOR MY SELF, ME PERSONALLY I LIKE OLDER MEN ONLY WHY CAUSE THEY HAVE BEEN THERE DONE THAT AND I LIKE LEARNING FROM THEM.IM 30 AND STILL LOOKING HOPE TO FINE ONE THAT IS WILLING TO GIVE HIS ALL LIKE MY SELF TO MAKE IT WORK AND LAST FOR EVER RIGHT SOMETHING WE ALL WOULD LIKE RIGHT AS DECENT WOMEN RIGHT, THANKS LISA

lily -- Los Angeles
I am a lip gloss fanatic. Almonds and Cranberries- oh my! Craft time.

uptownbaby
i don't think i would have ever said this because i'm such an adamant fem, but considering how the US looks to the rest of the world, particularly the non-Western world, i don't think that Hillary would be the best choice. While it would be great to see a female president, i don't think the Iranian or Venezuelan president would respond well to Hillary. One, she's white, representing in their eyes the "Imperialist West" and two, she's a woman, which will not resonate well with unbearable male egos that dominate world leadership.
On the other hand, i think it would be interesting to see how a non-Republican, black president with Kenyan ancestry like Barack is received in zones that do not care for the US. While Barack's foreign policy would ultimately dictate their responses, i think his presidency would pose an anomoly to the "Imperialist West" notion of some non-Western leaders. Hillary may do the same in that she's a woman and not a man of European ancestry, but at the end of the day, she would be viewed as an auxiliary component (because she's a woman) of the "Imperialist West" (because she's white). i am not too familiar with how all parts of the world define "the West," but i can tell you that in many places around the world, when people think of "the West," they usually think of people of European descent.
Maybe i'm putting a lot on race since i'm from the US and we're super race-conscious--some non-Western leaders may very well see every person in the US, irrespective of ethnicity, as part of the "Imperialist West." And maybe we should just not care about how other people will receive the new president solely due to his/her ethnicity or gender, so that we can evolve into a more egalitarian world and not succumb to narrow-minded, archaic minds--change needs to start at some point, right?! Honestly, i still have to do my research on their political stances, but on the onset of the presidential race, those are my initial thoughts.

missbrittany
leave him.
at this point you arent even sure if you trust him. and besides why would your best friends boyfriend lie to you about something like that?
atleast let him know where you stand and what your thinking.

Betsy -- Torrance
I would love to see Hillary win, but I just don't know if enough people will vote for her. I think a lot of men (and women) might say they are comfortable with a female president, but wouldn't actually vote for a woman when it came down to election day. It will be interesting to see what happens.

Olivia -- Tucson

I totally think so. In the past 10 years shows like Sex and the City have proven that we don't have an "expiration date" or need to be married by a certain age to lead amazing lives. Now we think of Carrie Bradshaw (not a lonely cat lady) when we think about being single in our 30s and 40s.


lily -- Los Angeles
I've traveled alone a few times and have found that certain destinations were definitely scarier than others. I wish I would have had this book to point me in the right direction. Next time I'll know where to go...

Jessy -- Boston
Sounds great!

nicole007 -- San Diego
I will absolutely vote for her if her husband is her vice pres. I would love to see him back in the white house.

lavidadulce
I've absolutely never wanted to have children. I'm sure for some they might be great, but to me, they've traditionally served to keep women locked into a limiting and unappreciated lifestyle. As women are "expected" to want to reproduce, I think it's fantastic that more and more are pursuing fulfilling careers outside of the home--careers that are recognized and appreciated in society.

GoldenAfternoon -- San Francisco
I grew up watching Christy on the Disney Channel! Thanks for the update on what she's doing. I definitely think she can compete with the other actresses in Hollywood.

Olivia -- Tucson

Finally someone speaking about motherhood to our generation! I've always said that I never want to have kids, but that's because I don't want to be one of THOSE moms. It's nice to hear someone saying that you can do it and retain your sense of self, even if that self doesn't love every baby she sees or feels like starting a family ASAP.


Betsy -- Torrance
Making friends in your classes is a definite must. I usually have to miss one day a week for sports games, so having a friend in my classes really takes the stress away. Just make sure your friends don't feel like they are being used for their notes. Treat them to ice cream as a way to say thank you!

krnfirestone -- Pleasanton
Nice article! Sounds like the writer of this article likes to travel as well! I hope to read more articles by her.
Karen

Amber -- San Diego

Sounds like a great guide. This makes me want to pack my bags and go somewhere fun!


HondaHunny
Questions I would ask yourself: Am I stable on my meds? Do they know what triggers my episodes, or it is believed that the PTSD triggered the episode? Do I have a pattern, or cycle? Has anyone considered my hormones (HRT) playing an important role? Do I know an authority in my area treating Bipolar Disorder?

A excellent psychiatrist will make a huge difference in getting back on balance. Even if you must go out of network do it, it is worth it! I was partial-inpatient at Shepard Pratt which is one of the best private mental health facilities on the east coast; I had one of the worst doctors on the east coast.

Keep a journal, or a log, like you would with a pt. Write down your thoughts for the day, what you did, or just whats on your mind at that time. How you mentally felt. Always write the meds you've taken that day, and how much.. like charting a pt. There may be things through out your day that triggering your mood swings and you not realize it until you take a look back. Personally, I summarize my moods and meds, so I can answer all his questions, and he can answer all of mine. I've noticed I cannot remember anything since I've been on Lithium. This disease is all trial and error, and we're the lab rats. I'm sure I'm not telling you anything you haven't already seen, or are going through. The most important thing that I have learned is to educate myself to my specific Bipolar type. Find out all you can about Bipolar II, even if you think you remember it all, go look it up, you never know what you've missed, and it might be important. Only use clinical sources. Don't compare yourself to others, this disease is as personalized as your own DNA! Psychiatrist argue w/me on researching my disease - knowledge is power. Most LCSW, PHds, and Psychiatrist do not like to label your to your face w/a dx, but it is what it is, and in order for me to function to the best of my ability I feel the need to know how to take care of myself. There are all types of misleading crazy "Bipolar help" sites. Most of them are nothing, but incorrect information. People who don't want to take their meds, and/or people who like to stay Bipolar if you get what I mean, they make conscious bad choices. There is a website: www.allnurses.com, this is a great site for info from bipolar nurses, it is a message board, but was/is very helpful for me.

See a therapist if you're not already to help you cope with whats going on, yeah you've seen other go through it, but its a whole different ball game when you are.

Get sleep!! Your sleep schedule cannot vary if you want to stay what I call "normal." I believe its between 7 - 10 hours of sleep is the correct amount. I don't know if BP amount of sleep is the same as normal sleep.

DO NOT use alcohol, but I'm sure you already know that. I'm not a drinker, but I would drink a tad here, and there if I went out. I was on Paxil all those times which just game me a nice quick buzz. I sipped once while on Lamictal, and I thought I was going to die I got so sick!!!!

Be aware, if you haven't experienced this already you probably will. Bipolar seems to be treated like an fictitious illness. Most PC & specialist will not want to treat you. They do not care what medications you are on, and how the medication they are prescribing will affect, and/or destabilize you. I have a wonderful CRNP who understands, and treats me with respect.
The psychiatrist I had prior to this my new one said, I will probably be a patient all my life. I was going to school to be a RN before this happened, and she thinks I will end up in a group home. Remember if you get a hopeless diagnosis it's time to seek other avenues. You were functioning at a high level before, and there is no reason why you cannot be again! The psychiatrist I am seeing is brilliant, literally. He can tell you the different serotonin receptors that each drug affects w/out looking them up, even meds that aren't psych! He prescribes what he see's fit, not what the drug reps are pushing that week, and he isn't afraid to use the "oldies, but goodies," like Lithium and Depakote.

I'm not sure if this is common RN knowledge:
It is my understanding that when ANYTHING affects the serotion it causes Bipolar's to destabilize - rapid cycle. Anytime you're on anything that affects serotonin like Zelnorm, SSRI, Amitriptlin (sp?), migraine med Imitrex, Flagial, Macrobid, etc, can potentially destabilize you - I am speaking from experience; however, I'm not a doc, or pharmacist. Hormonal issues will cause mood swings, as well, including menopause. You can correct them hormonally, but it will only fix the mood swings that are hormone related. My ob/gyn may be giving me an injection called Lupron, it will put me in menopause, and then supposedly allow me not to have the symptoms of menopause. Lupron will cause my hormone levels to stay consistent. My hormone issue is causing mood swings during PMS to the point I just about can't function. I'm not sure which menopause you are in, but you may want to consider looking into that.


I'm sure you've noticed w/some of your pt that a lot of docs will overmedicate. I was told that I "do not have the bad kind" of bipolar, yet my previous psychiatrist was trying to prescribe Risperdal, and Zyprexa.. you get the idea. I'm Bipolar NOS, hypomanic, w/o psychosis. The drug reps are constantly pushing the newer expensive drugs like the atypical anti psychotics, and Lamictal, Topamax, etc. I'm not saying dont take the meds you are prescribed, but if you question something say something! A lot of these psychiatrist will blow pt off, I think it is, because they feel they're so high up on the food chain - if your psychiatrist doesn't want to listen time for a new doctor! From my previous doc I was on 5 different meds at once, I was so sick constantly, still have mood swings and depression, AND too sick to get out of bed literally. When this past June came I, alone, stopped all of my meds, but the Lithium. Here is why, I couldn't stop vomiting, I had a colonoscopy, endoscopy, MRI, MRA, went to a Johns Hopkins RA specialist to be tested for RA. All of the specialist had the same response, I was not stable on my medication. My dx is that I had too many different drugs in my system: Lithium, Paxil, Prozac, Trileptal, Klonapin, phenergan (even when I was describing a dystonic reaction), and Nuvaring. I stopped taking eveything, but the Lithium. My point, you've gotta watch out for you, because no one else will, and its a blessing that you are a nurse, and know how to do so!

What has worked for me the most is Jesus. In Mark 11:24, Jesus says, "Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.." He has also blessed me with two wonderful parents who have stayed by my side. I hope that I have been somewhat helpful. What I mentioned are things that work for me, and things I need to look out for. Things I didn't know when I started. I try and look at it like this (when the world isn't falling apart) I feel all of these emotions, that most people never get to experience in a lifetime.. I can do in a day. I love like there will be no tomorrow, cry until I become sick, feel more sorrow than 10 people combined. And empathize w/someone getting to the breaking point of ending it all. May God be with you through this rather crazy journey where only the strong survive. If you'd like to email, or anyone BP needs a friend I'm usually around. God Bless - Kim

tbandrh
I don't know how recent this article is, but this issue has been well known in Canada for a while. We have diamond mines -- three in production and one under construction, all in the northern territories. They are major employers in the the Northwest Territories, in fact, and they treat their employees well. When they started out, the Canadian diamond mines initiated large training programs to educate the local workforce. They have quotas for local, aboriginal hiring. They pay well. The benefits are good. And they make financial contributions back to the communities on whose traditional lands the mines reside. In other words, these are ethical, Kimberlite process diamonds.

Tiffany's buys diamonds from Canadian mines. Harry Winston's is owned by one of the Canadian mines.

Conflict free diamonds are available -- you just have to look around and ask some questions. You may have to pay a premium for them, but that may be worth it for your peace of mind.

leenielew -- Lititz

HondaHunny,
God bless you. I have been newly diagnosed w/Bipolar 2 at age 62; I find having the ups and downs to be devastating. I was in 2 back to back hurricanes in 2004(Fla.) and was diagnosed w/PTSD and now Bipolar. I was a psychiatric nurse for many years and many Bipolar patients; never knowing this would happen to me.
If you have any advice for me, it will be greatly appreciated. I don't read these blogs, very often. I'll try to pay attention in case you answer me.


Michele_diz
Very necessary information

joni_zac
Author write more.

muzzon
Very interesting article

nicole007 -- San Diego
I'm not going to lie a part of me is terrified of getting married and having kids. It's just so generic. I know most people say it's the beginning of their lives, but to me it seems like the end. A part of me feels crazy for thinking this because we're programmed to want to "settle" down but I can't help it. I think about waking up early to go to a soccer game and I just would rather not. And I love kids, don't get me wrong. Obviously I'm just not ready, but will I ever be? Please someone tell me I'm not crazy.

jfire81 -- Pleasanton
I have always thought that Diamonds and the "precious" stones ad campaign was amazing. We have been convinced that a rock is worth a lot of money, Paleeeeeese, it is a rock, and we are finding out they are quite common.

shgoss -- Shreveport

cyber_hippie email me directly at askohshelia at aol dot com


cyber_hippie

Girl, I just saw this post, and I am SO throwin' my hands up! I almost was even going to ask your permission to post this to my OKCupid blog. Great post!

I think, frankly, that men are intimidated by independent women. Let's face it: When we know what we want, know who we are and where we stand in the world, we have power. Most men are not used to women having any real kind of power.

That's my take.

I cherish my independence, and I encourage the women I know to own their power and their lives. Like you, though, I also still need love and affection and companionship from a good man.

It's a hard balance to strike.

Jen M.


muzzon
Yeah, very good!

joni_zac
oh it's so great!

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