Girl Talk Blog

Posts Tagged ‘Girl Advice

Hey Girls!

I have finally finished looking over all of the questions you all sent in during the month of March!!! You can now view them on the Girl Talk website in the Ask Katie section. The rest, of course, are right here on my WordPress blog! I made a new page on this blog so that you can easily access the questions at any time. Check out the new “Ask Katie” tab right next to my “About” tab! Snazzy, huh? To view the WordPress batch of questions, click that “Ask Katie” tab or right here! Be sure to bookmark that link so that you can check back for new questions each month!

Take care!

Hey Everybody,

I have received a lot of questions from girls just like you though www.grltlk.org . I am thrilled to be able to help you out by answering your questions about school, friends, parents, guys — whatever is on your mind!! Each month, I look through each and every one of your questions and i’ll answer a few of them here on my blog and more on the Girl Talk website. I hope you’ll continue to check back to read my blog.

Remember, I can’t answer every question submitted because I am only one person and I get so many questions each month. However, I will try to pick questions on topics that come up a lot so that when I answer, I’ll be answering more than one girl’s question.

Now, on to your questions!

Dear Katie,

How did you invent Girl Talk?

-Jessica

Dear Jessica,

Underage drinking remains too common among our nation’s teenage girls. A survey commissioned by The Century Council, a national not-for-profit organization funded by distillers, finds that mothers of teenage daughters underestimate and misjudge the seriousness of their daughters’ underage drinking. Additionally, nearly 50% of mothers say it is acceptable for their teenage daughters to drink alcohol under some circumstances. This acceptance shows a misunderstanding on the mother’s part. The Century Council believes Girl Talk can help improve communication between moms and daughters.

Together with U.S. National Women’s Soccer Team Players Association and the Society for Women’s Health Research, The Century Council developed Girl Talk: Choices and Consequences of Underage Drinking, designed to educate teenage girls about the dangers of underage drinking and the specific risks facing teen girls. Grltlk.org is a fun place for all things GIRL and encourages girls to live healthy and active lifestyles by providing them with the resources to do so.

-Katie

Dear Katie,

I was a tomboy but now I’m a girly girl and I don’t know anything about the latest fashion. All my friends say they’ve got it! Can you help me?

-Girly Girl

Dear Girly Girl,

It seems like your friends know all about the latest fashion trends. Why don’t you ask them for some advice? I’m sure they would love to help and it would be an excuse to do something fun together like go shopping at the mall. For a fun alternative, try “shopping” in an older sibling closet- with permission of course- for some fun fashion finds. I’m sure your friends will be flattered by you asking them for advice. It shows them that you love their style and value their advice. Also, be sure to check out the Girl World section on the Girl Talk website for lots of great fashion and beauty advice. I also post fashion and beauty updates on my blog, so be sure to check that out as well!

-Katie

Dear Katie,

My parents won’t allow me to go on Myspace! It’s so unfair because I’m 13 and they STILL treat me like a little kid. My younger brother (who is two years younger) has been able to do way more than I did when I was his age! I want to gain my parents’ trust so that they start treating me like a 13 year old instead of a 7 year old. Could you please help me out?

-Thirteen

Dear Thirteen,

Your parents have your best interests at heart. MySpace is a great social networking site but can also be very dangerous if you are not careful and properly informed. Try talking to your parents about their reasoning so that you can understand where they are coming from when they tell you no. Maybe you can explain to them why you want to be on MySpace and set up some guidelines that you’re both comfortable with. You’re at a stage in life where you’re probably going to want more privileges than your parents are comfortable giving you– that’s just part of being thirteen and growing up. It’s GREAT that you want to gain your parents’ trust and having a mature, open, and honest conversation with them is a major first step in helping them to see that you really are growing up. But here’s the thing: in order to gain your parents’ trust and let them know that you are responsible, you’re going to have to listen to them. Proposing a compromise shows maturity and demonstrates responsibility. In time, they will recognize your maturity and will be more likely to grant you more privileges in the future.

-Katie

Dear Katie,
How does drinking alcohol damage the reproductive system?
Thank you,

Emma

 

Dear Emma,

You’re right in assuming that alcohol damages the reproductive system. Even now, before you’re thinking about having children, your reproductive system can be damaged by alcohol. Here are just some of the reproductive problems that alcohol can cause: menstrual pain, heavy period flow and irregular or absent periods. In addition, alcohol can harm your sexual functioning, prevent or harm pregnancies, and severely harm an unborn baby. For more information on how alcohol damages the body, visit the Girl Talk website and click on “The Facts” tab.

-Katie

Take care girls,

 

Posted on: January 30, 2008

Hi Everyone!

This month’s Lifestyle article on grltlk.org focuses on building a positive body image. The article is from our friends at Go Girl World and is written by Cheryl Haworth, a weightlifting Olympic bronze medalists and seven time national champion. Haworth writes about loving yourself for who you are, finding other outlets such as sports to make you happy, and tips you can use to boost your body image. Growing up overweight, she was able to overcome the name callers by surrounding herself with positive friends who had common interests.

Unfortunately many teens, especially girls, have a tendency to judge themselves based on unrealistic media images of the ideal body. When you add underage drinking into the mix, alcohol can be even more dangerous if you have body image or weight concerns. Alcohol actually has more calories per gram than carbs (also known as sugars and starches), so drinking alcohol can lead to weight gain. Alcohol also makes you hungry and reduces inhibitions; so, people tend to eat more when they drink. And, don’t try to starve yourself to stay thin: Young girls who don’t eat properly or take in enough calories are at increased risk of intoxication, alcohol poisoning, and even death.

For more information about why a healthy body image is important for your self esteem, check out this article on kidshealth.org. And here’s another great article from RevolutionHealth.com about how your body image is better than a diet.

Visit grltlk.org to read this month Lifestyle article and more!

That’s all for now,

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Hey Everyone!

Dark clouds and rainy weather take the fun out of fashion. No one likes the idea of getting their clothes and shoes drenched and soaked in the rain. And let’s just hope you didn’t get caught wearing suede. As it gets deeper into fall and soon winter, dressing for the snow is a factor as well! But don’t fret! There are still ways to be fashionable in the rain and still protect your precious garments. No more dodging enormous puddles or leaping over the smaller ones. Always remember to check the weather the night before to avoid getting caught in the rain. Preparation is the key!

Here’s a few fashion must haves to get you through the rainy days. The classic tan trench coat is an all-purpose favorite. Try a bold print or brighter hue trench coat to bring some excitement to your gloomy day. Try a stylish hat to protect your hair like a fedora, newsboy cap, or beret, or even a headband. Just make sure the head piece is water friendly. Rain boots have become one of the hottest trends and fashion essentials. They’re perfect for sloshing through the rain. They protect your jeans from getting soaked pass the point of embarrassment and into annoying. So grab your favorite jeans and tuck them into your new rain boots and you’re almost good to go. We can’t forget the most important rain essential, the umbrella. Find a nice sturdy umbrella that’s easy to carry and store away. There are a variety of styles so pick the best that compliments you’re style!

I found some great tips on maintaining your style in the rain and great tips for fashion on The Collegiate Times Blogging Community. I also stumbled across a great fashion blog for teens at teenfashionista.blogspot.com/. You should check them both out! And be sure to continue to check out the Girl Talk website for the latest fashion tips. Happy Rainy Fashion Days!

That’s all for now,

 

Hey Everybody,

I have received a lot of questions from girls just like you though www.grltlk.org . I am thrilled to be able to help you out by answering your questions about school, friends, parents, guys — whatever is on your mind!! Each month, I look through each and every one of your questions and i’ll answer a few of them here on my blog and more on the Girl Talk website. I hope you’ll continue to check back to read my blog.

Remember, I can’t answer every question submitted because I am only one person and I get so many questions each month. However, I will try to pick questions on topics that come up a lot so that when I answer, I’ll be answering more than one girl’s question.

Now, on to your questions!

  • Dear Katie,

I’ve started to have feelings for my best friend that’s a boy. Someone I told says he could possibly like me, but when we talk it’s like he’s bored and I don’t think he’d ever feel the same way. What can I do? I’ve not felt like this about someone for ages. Please help!!!

-Confused

Dear Confused

Feelings for boys can definitely be confusing. If he’s your best friend that’s a boy, I’m sure that he has at least friendly feelings towards you – and that’s the first step! If you really like him then I’d say go for it! Take the first step and ask him out!

-Katie

  • Dear Katie,

My boyfriend wants me to let him do things to me. Should I let him if I don’t want him to? Please help me. What should I do?????

-Unsure

Dear Unsure,

If you don’t want him to do something, you definitely should NOT let him. Do not let him do anything that you are uncomfortable with, not ready for, or unsure about. If he really cares about you then he will understand. Otherwise, he’s not worth it!

-Katie

  • Dear Katie,

I made a comment recently and it really offended my friends. Now they’re not talking to me. Do I apologize or do I let everything settle by itself?

-Lost

Dear Lost,

I would definitely apologize. Tell your friends that you realize you’ve offended them and you’re sorry. Owning up to something you said may be hard, but your friends will appreciate it in the end.

-Katie

  • Dear Katie,

Are periods scary?

-Red

Dear Red,

I know that anticipating something new and significant can sometimes be scary. But getting periods are not scary! In fact, I look at them as something special – they are a sign of womanhood! Don’t be afraid – all women get them and we all support each other. If you’re still worried about them, ask your mom, an older friend, a trusted adult or your school nurse. Also, check out this cool site all about periods: http://www.mypetiteamie.com/index.php?q=Home. In addition to information, you can even get a free period starter kit! Knowledge is truly a powerful thing. And be sure that when it comes you celebrate it instead of worrying!

-Katie

  • Dear Katie,

I am 19 years old and I constantly fight with my mom. I realize it isn’t a healthy relationship at all but I don’t know how to ignore it. How can I make one day around here peaceful? Thanks.

-Whitney

Dear Whitney,

I’m sorry to hear about your fights. It’s great that you realize that it’s not healthy to fight all the time and that you want to do something about it. Ignoring it is definitely not the answer. Try talking to your mom while things are okay and you’re not fighting. And why not make it a fun outing in the process? Ask her to go to out to dinner with you or grab an ice cream. Having a conversation with your mom is important. Tell her that you don’t like fighting with her and want to make an effort to stop it. Chances are your mom is struggling too. She probably feels the same way and wants to make an effort to stop it too! Best of luck.

-Katie

  • Dear Katie,

My best friend thinks that when she grows up she will drink to impress this guy. I told her once that it was a bad idea, but she just told me to get out of her life. What should I do?

-Michelle

Dear Michelle,

You’re doing the right thing by discouraging her. Underage drinking is against the law. Period. The law states you must be 21 to consume alcohol. I hate to be preachy, but it is what it is. Tell her that if the guy is worth it, he should like her for who she is and she shouldn’t even need to impress him! Not to mention, drinking is not a way to impress people. In fact, drinking tends to have the opposite affect.. After all, what is attractive about damaging your health and making stupid decisions by drinking? Nothing.

-Katie

That’s all for this month. Be sure to check out the Ask Katie page on www.grltlk.org for more answers to your questions, and to submit your own for next month!

Take care, girls!

Hey Everyone

Fall is approaching and it’s getting a little too cold for our favorite summer pieces. Fall is a time for layering and wearing shades of earth tones. But lately bold and bright colors are extending into the fall and even winter. Many styles are coming back as well as new trends blossoming. Dramatic, bold, bright colors of patent leather, wool and fur are making an appearance. The school boy chic look is budding. Try a nice vest and tie combination with trouser, boat shoes or classic Mary Jane’s. Knits and fur boots are a must have this season. Various shades of the ever so classic grey are a necessity to get you through the winter. Try large silver bags as an accessory, skirted fitting suits for the businesswoman on the go, bows of all sizes, pleated trousers for those comfortable yet fashion ready days. Try a few full skirts in different patterns and colors, capes of solids and plaids, long and short, and the ever so cute motorcross jackets.

There’s no reason you can’t be warm and stylish this fall and winter. For more tips on style be sure to check out the Girl World section at www.grltlk.org

That’s all for now,

 

Hey Everyone!

Read my survey and get to know me a little better. Then copy and paste this survey into your blog and fill out your answers.

That’s all for now,

Favorites:
Favorite thing/s to do? I love playing sports and hanging out w/my friends.
Favorite band/musician? Almost anyone who’s been on American Idol and I really love Coldplay.
Favorite breakfast? Coffee and some sort of bread item.
Favorite candy? Tootsie Pops
Favorite food? Sushi
Favorite season? The fall, hello! Soccer season, the weather in DC is perfect and there’s always back to school shopping. I know. I’m not in school anymore but hey, I’ll take any excuse I can get to go shopping for new clothes!

This or That:
Black or blue pens? Black
Go to the movies or rent? Go to the movies
Alaska or Hawaii? Hawaii, I love the beach.
Colored or black-and-white photo? Black and white
Follow the crowd or stand out? Stand out! Being a follower is no fun!
Coke or Pepsi? Coke
Mac or PC? Mac
Chocolate or Vanilla? Both!

Get to know me more:
What’s your name backwards? Ronnoco Eitak
What do you do to have fun without alcohol? Go to concerts, explore the city, cook, lots of stuff!
What will you do tomorrow? Go to work, unless it’s the weekend, then I’ll be sleeping.
What advice would you give to a someone who is underage and considering drinking alcohol? Don’t do it! It’s not worth the risks.
Do you like to walk in the rain? With an umbrella.
Where’s the farthest place you’ve ever traveled to? Europe.
Are you involved in sports? Yes! Watching, playing, I do it all.
How did you deal with peer pressure as a teen? I chose friends who didn’t pressure me and really listened to what I had to say.
How do you deal with peer pressure now? By setting my own path and not letting people try to stray me from it.
Do you consider yourself the life of the party? Yes, and I hope other people do too.
Do you think dreams eventually come true? Definitely.


What is Girl Talk?

Girl Talk informs teen girls about the choices and consequences of underage drinking. Girl Talk’s website, www.grltlk.org, is a fun place for all things GIRL and encourages girls to live healthy and active lifestyles by providing them with the resources to do so.

A Note About grltlk.org

You may have noticed that grltlk.org is now being redirected here, to our Girl Talk blog. We are currently doing a bit of maintenance on the site but it'll be back up soon! So just take note that some of the links you click here on our blog may redirect you back here instead of to grltlk.org until it is re-vamped!

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