about

"Do not pity the dead, Harry. Pity the living, and, above all those who live without love" - Albus Dumbledore

Hi, I'm Laura. I'm a senior in college & I'm slowly deciding what I want to do with my life. I love Harry Potter, coffee, writing, and sleeping (amongst other things). I'll never claim to know everything, but I'm confident in my ability to help people with their problems. Feel free to send me an inbox question; I'll get back to you!




A few thoughts I've gathered from my teenage years (and being on this site for most of them!):
1. If you Google song lyrics, the song will come up 99% of the time.
2. Dress to fit your body type, and buy the size that fits. If you're a size 6, squeezing into a 4 won't make you look skinnier. It makes you look fat when you aren't.
3. You will never regret waiting to lose your virginity.
4. There is such a thing as a stupid question, but we're all allowed to ask them.




BU 2014 :)


wicked awesome conversations

^my forum, liven it up a little?

advice

15/f

Okay you know how when your were a young kid and you woke up the day after christmas, and you had that feeling. Like, I am not sure... like you owned the world. And you had so much to play with, and everything.

Well now i am 15 and the only thing i can think of that i want is money.

I know it sounds crazy the not want to ask for money, but i don't want to.

I wanna feel like a kid again. But I have not clue what to ask for, i don't know what I want!

Any suggestions?!?!?!?!

Little bit about me if it helps:
I love my dog, reading, computers, sims 3 (already have), make up and electronics.

THANKS

Tell relatives that you're saving up for something like a car or a laptop and they can contribute instead of buying a gift =)


Or say that you're really hard to shop for and that you wouldn't be offended by a gift card. Most people are psyched to hear that they can buy your Christmas present at the grocery store gift card display. Think of what you already have. An iPod? Ask for new accessories for it - headphones, cases, etc.


Another option is going the charitable route, and suggesting that instead of buying a present, they donate that money to a charity of your choice.


-LM
[17/f]

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I am going to dye my hair tonight. I've figured out that the reason that I have to keep dying it is because my shampoo washing out the color too quickly. I use Head and Shoulders, at the moment, and I've been reading about how it's hard on the hair and that's why it strips the color out faster.

So, what's a good shampoo that will help to lock in the color? I'd prefer something that I can get easily like from a drugstore, WalMart, K-Mart, or Target. If you have a suggestion from an actual hair salon then give the same of the salon so I can see if there is one nearby.

Oh, and if there is a matching good conditioner than let me know the name of it too. I know conditioner is pretty much vital for dyed hair.

Well...any suggestions???

I usually use Pantene because it's cheap and works very well. Bed Head is also a good line, but you can only get it in salons.


-LM
[17/f]

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Boigraphy of Great and Popular People. I need to find boigraphy of famous people, can anybody tell me where to start?

A bookstore, or Amazon.com

Ask someone for help (at the store) or search the person's name along with the word "biography" or "autobiography"


-LM
[17/f]

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We recently moved to a new place and the water here is horrible. The water is very dark brown colored and has totally discolored the house toilets. It really looks like they are dirty with grime but they're not. The sediments and hard water stains really have set in on these toilets in this town and it looks disgusting if you don't know about the water.

I want to get these tough hard water stains out of the toilet so I can have guests over from other places without being embarrassed and having to explain the situation with the water. I have tried lots of different toilet bowl cleaners made for hard water stains--most are from the Clorox or Lysol brand toilet cleaners. I even picked up a few new new toilet bowl brushes to see if different ones would have any better effect.

What is a way to remove these hard water stains? I'm at my wits end and need a remedy soon before I go insane!

From: http://www.rd.com/how-to-remove-tough-water-stains/article17699.html


"To make your toilet bowl clean again, start with a dry bowl so water won’t dilute the cleaner. To tackle difficult rust stains, skip your discount-store toilet bowl cleaner and head to the hardware store for a product containing diluted hydrochloric acid (also listed on product labels as hydrogen chloride, HCL or muriatic acid). This is a common active ingredient in such brands as The Works Toilet Bowl Cleaner and Santeen De-Limer & Toilet Bowl Cleaner (see Buyer’s Guide). And make sure you don’t use a bleach-containing product on rust—it will set the stain.

Be sure to use a toilet brush with stiff nylon bristles in a plastic base. Those old wire brushes scratch the bowl. Once the bowl surface becomes scratched or worn, stain removal becomes next to impossible.

Two cautions when cleaning with diluted hydrochloric acid. First, if you use an in-tank cleaner that contains bleach, remove it and flush multiple times to remove bleach residue. A combination of bleach-containing and acid-containing products (toilet cleaners) produces deadly vapors.

Second caution: Scrub slowly because droplets that splatter outside the bowl can harm carpet, tile, vinyl and your skin. Keep a rag and a bucket of water handy to wipe up spatters. Same goes for setting the bottle down on these surfaces—don’t. And make sure you flush and rinse the bowl immediately."


I've heard that vinegar cleans a lot of stains and hard water deposits. Before you spend a lot of money on something, try getting a big bottle of vinegar and letting it sit in the bowl for awhile.


Also, I'm essentially clueless when it comes to plumbing, but I know there's something you can hook up to your water line to help soften the water. Ask for help from your local Home Depot and see what they recommend.


-LM
[17/f]

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What is the best kind of multi vitamin for a 19 year old girl who is plays volleyball in college?

In most cases a regular multivitamin is enough. Unless your doctor has told you that you have a deficiency of something you probably won’t need anything else. Ask a doctor if you should be taking calcium or any other supplement (he’ll probably recommend calcium), because if you DON’T need it, you’re essentially wasting your money.


-LM
[17/f]

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Hey! I'm almost 17 and i just got my learners permit (a little late) in the state of NY. I live on the boarder of NY and CT and my family always drives to CT for everything (taking the backroads into CT without taking any major highways or parkways)
My mom and I were researching wether im allowed to drive in CT or not. I searched on Google and it was like someone from MA asking if they can drive in CT, not what im looking for haha!
Do any of you know wether its legal if i drive in CT or not?
Thank youuu

Connecticut Learner's permit laws:
- http://www.ct.gov/dmv/cwp/view.asp?a=805&Q=244748&dmvPNavCtr=|&dmvPNavCtr=|41645|41743|#29025


In most cases, if you're of legal age to get a permit in that state, you can drive in that state with a parent. Incidentally, New York has a restriction on using out-of state permits, but Connecticut didn't mention anything of the sort. If you're not sure, ask a local cop. I'm serious. Telling you to call the RMV and ask someone about the law is like telling you to watch paint dry with a blindfold on. It's simply not possible.


Usually, if you're driving with a PARENT (not just someone who's licensed) you can drive anywhere you're old enough to. And if you avoid speeding and erratic driving, you probably won't get pulled over at all ;] I do know that some states are really strict, so I'd be sure of the law before you start driving.


-LM
[17/f]

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Okay so last week at school I was wearing short shorts and mini skirts all week long since it was so hot out. My friends and I usually sit outside on the bleachers for lunch and there was quite a few mosquitos I think or bee's or something. (I'm not sure) and by Friday both of my legs were covered in tiny little red pumps and I'm itching like hell. My mom was freaked when she saw my legs and I was to and I just figured they were mosquito bites or something. Anyways I'm trying to relief the itching and I HAVE no idea how. I'm not sure these are mosquito bites or an allergic reaction or like WHATEVER and it has me freaked. Anyone know how to relief the itching or what it might be?!

Some people have bigger reactions to mosquito bites than others. I usually get massive welts, while others get tiny red dots. If you were actually having a severe reaction (like medical attention needed severe) it would have surfaced by now, and since it's been a week that's unlikely.


Look for a product called After Bite. It's sold in first-aid sections, and its basically ammonia and something else like aloe that gets rid of itching. Its runny and smelly, and generally a pain in the ass to apply because it's so runny. BUT, it works so well it's worth the mess ;] Also, try using hydrocortizone cream. Anything for general itching will help ease your symptoms.


If you find yourself clawing at your skin in the meantime, try rubbing or gently whacking/hitting the area instead (not enough to hurt, more like a pat), and using a loofah in the shower. It's less damaging to your skin than scratching.


-LM
[17/f]

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So, apparently I caught the H1N1 swine flu last week (verified by my doctor; yes, he ran some tests for it). It was pretty awful but aren't all flus? Anyway, do I still need the H1N1 swine flu vaccine? I mean, if I already overcame it, it means I'm immune for this year, right? I'm still getting a seasonal flu shot, but do I actually need the specific H1N1 vaccination?

No, you won't need the vaccine. A lot of people don't get even the regular flu shot and they're fine. It's not a requirement to get it anyways.


-LM
[17/f]

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Relay for Life is a night where we all hang out as a community and "walk" to cure cancer.

www.relayforlife.com

The theme this year is "Rider Walk of Fame: Hollywood." (Rider is our university name.)


Thankssss!!

Riders on the Storm.


-LM
[17/f]

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How do I get over a cold quickly? I started the coughing and runny nose like two or three days ago and I need something that will help this cold shorten so I can have a good weekend. Any suggestions on how to make a cold go away quicker?

You can't make it go away, but you can alleviate your symptoms. Drink lots of fluids. Juices are good, especially if you haven't been eating much. Little things like cough drops and chapstick will make you more comfortable. If you're okay with taking medicine for it, DayQuil/NyQuil (or the generic equivalent) are absolutely fabulous, and will make you feel tons better. However, I recommend taking half the recommended dose of NyQuil the first time, and taking it a couple hours before you need to sleep, to figure out how much your body will react to it. Some people get knocked out for hours.


-LM
[17/f]

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I was at work the other day and someone came through my line at the store (yeah, I'm a cashier). Anyway, he was buying some toothbrushes and toothpaste and I asked him if the toothpaste tasted good because I am trying to find something new to switch to because the one I'm using right now really sucks, I think. So, he started telling me that brushing my teeth helps to prevent heart attacks when I am older and stuff. I don't know if this is true though and it sounds a little weird. I don't want to ask someone around me and sound really stupid though because I mean...your teeth? Brushing preventing HEART attacks? Uhmmm...

Does anyone know if there was any truth to that or was he just talking?

There seems to be truth in this. WebMd is a realiable source.
- http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/features/what-your-dental-health-says-about-you?page=2


It just seems like a no-brainer. Who wants gross teeth, bad breath, and gingivitis, anyway? Flossing is very important to. Try to do it every night. You'll be shocked/disgusted by what comes out of there ;]


After reading some of the article, I've concluded that it's more proof of how much the systems of your body are connected. Taking care of all of them now prevents a lot of problems down the road.


As a side note, I use Arm&Hammer Advance White. It has baking soda in it and makes your teeth feel SO clean. And whitens amazingly well. And the Colgate toothpastes with breath strips in them are awesome-tasting, in my opinion. But they seem to foam more than usual.


-LM
[17/f]

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my menstral cramps are absolutely terrible, like the first day they hurt so bad i'm like screaming. midol doesn't do much and neither does tylonol or anything really. i've heard that birth control helps it? but my mom won't let me get on bc because she says it causes breast cancer. (i was also thinking about birth control because i want to start having sex with my boyfriend of 2 years and i want to be safe) but yeah do you think birth control would be a good idea for me? what are some of the side effects and how can i convince my mom to let me on it? thanks

There's a couple sources that suggest a link to cancer, however at this point it's believed to be a coincidence, because the rate of cancer among the PIll users and non-Pill users is comparable. I even read one article that suggested a LOWER risk when you're on the Pill.


If you don't have a strong history of blood clots birth control would be really beneficial for you. It would probably help calm her fears if you started on a low-dose pill. They're just as effective but have a significantly lower dose of hormones.


-LM
[17/f]

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I always lived in the south until now. I am in a northern state now that gets A LOT of snow during the winter months. I think the most snow I have EVER seen was like 2 inches? I think last year this state got something like 100 inches at one time? Wow, huge difference, right?

Well, I know it's going to be a lot colder here but I KNOW that I won't really understand that until it's in the middle of winter probably. I want to be prepared though because I don't want to end up freezing all of the time and unhappy.

What are some ways to prepare for winter? Get a heavy jacket? What would I look for then? Should I get snow boots? Should I get gloves and stuff or would I be okay without? How do I keep my house warm on the cheap? I really am lost...what do I need for winter? :\

Seeing as I'm from Massachusetts, I know a thing or two about snow.


Yes, you're going to want a winter jacket. Assuming you're not allergic, I recommend either down-lined, wool, Thinsulate-lined, or a combination of all three. You can get coats anywhere in states that HAVE winter, haha. I love Delia's coats, but if that's not your age range/style, look to places like L.L. Bean, Land's End, Dick's, or any department store.


You'll also want layers to wear under your jacket and when your jacket is removed (so don't get a coat that barely fits you, you'll want some room for clothes underneath). Fake fur lined, or those thick fuzzy ones, are lifesavers. You can get them relatively cheap at Aeropostale and Pacsun- 35-50 dollars. And you'll get your money's worth. Trust me.


You'll absolutely want gloves. If you think you won't need them, go outside for thirty seconds when it drops to five below and you'll regret it. Hats aren't as important as gloves if you're wearing something with a hood, but if you realize you have a tendency to be colder, pick up a cheap one at Walmart or Target. I just started wearing scarves last winter, so I can tell you they aren't necessary, but they're cuter than zipping your coat up to your nose.


You'll want some kind of boot. If you'll be shoveling snow, get a waterproof boot that's lined. They aren't usually fashionable, but you'll need them for snow removal. I recommend getting at least one pair of cute boots that you love, because when there's a foot of snow on the ground you do NOT want to be wearing sneakers.


You can find tons of advice on lowering heating bills by doing a simple Google search, and there's lots of offers out there for tax rebates, energy discounts, and the like. Check with your utility NOW- they often have discounted rates if you prepay, use a certain method (natural gas, electric, etc). Do some research relevant to your area.


A lot of things people don't do are just common sense. Close doors of rooms you don't want to heat. Seal up windows to avoid leaks. Hang a blanket from the top of a doorway to an attic or second floor if it's practical to do so. Stuff a towel under the basement door to fill that gap. Lower the thermostat by a degree, wear an extra layer, and invest in a space heater or two. BUT BE SAFE WITH THEM. Use them only when you're awake (use a timer, too, if there's a chance you'll fall asleep) and get one that shuts off if it falls over or overheats.


Oh, and be careful driving too. Black ice is a bitch. And it takes awhile to get used to driving in the snow, so drive on less busy roads and in parking lots after the first snowfall to get the hang of it.


Inbox me if you want to know anything else =)
-LM
[17/f]

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Hello i recently got off birth control because im ready to start a family. (YAZ) if that helps. I've only been off of it for about a week. When is the soonest i could get pregnant? We have sex about 4 out of 7 days of the week.

Thanks!

For many women, they're able to get pregnant right away. Once you get your period without being on the pill you should be able to conceive (assuming that you're capable of having children).


Try to find out exactly when you're most fertile. I don't know much about figuring that out; I'm not sexually active or trying to have kids. There's online calendars that can estimate ovulation, seventeen.com even has one. So they're pretty common. If you're still having trouble, talk to a doctor. They'll know a lot more than we do.


-LM
[17/f]

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I seriously am going crazy with this guy... his name's Kris and he's like one of thee most amazing, sweet, gorgeous, athletic, guys I have ever met. We had a big fling during the summer but it ended because of me :/ I ended it with him because there was so much drama involved in it (lots of rumors about him, girls were incredibly jealous/catty towards me, etc.) and I just couldn't take it anymore. He and I were like heartbroken well at least I was :( and I'm still not OVER him. Like it's been a month now and I can't seem to focus... not in school, or sports or anything without him in my mind! When ever I see him which is quite often I get butterflies in my stomach, my legs feel week, etc. I think I still like him a lot but I'm not sure... I don't know how he feels about me or if he still has any feelings for me for that matter and today at our school's football game I saw him on the bleachers with his friend and a bunch of girls... they were all laughing and I incredibly jealous (which by the way doesn't happen often because of my big ego) and even my friends noticed. So anyone wanna give me advice on what to do?!

So, you broke up with your boyfriend because other girls liked him? I suppose you could avoid this situation in the future by dating a social leper.


Seriously, you let other people get to you, and broke up with him over those insecurities. You can't get over him because you still like him. And you're jealous because you still want to be with him, but you see him with other girls. You need to trust that he's telling you the truth and will be faithful to you.


Tell him how you feel. Say that you made a mistake and still want to be with him, despite the fact that there will always be rumors and other admirers. Talking to him will also be the only way to know how he feels about you, because asking someone else will backfire, 99.99% guaranteed- they'll lie if he says he still likes you, because THEY want to be with him. Get it?


I'm warning you, though, that he's most likely very hurt by what you did. He may not want to be with someone who's insecure about a relationship to the extent that you are/were. A sincere apology is in order regardless of what happens between you two in the future.


-LM
[17/f]

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What factors make a guy last longer in sex? Is it just genetic or does it have to do with experience? And are there any ways to make a guy last longer if he's done too fast?

Try using condoms designed to make a guy last longer. There's lubricant with a mild numbing agent inside each one. Also, there's tons of different techniques you can try, however we can't give out graphic information like that. Google is your friend, as is every issue of Cosmopolitan ever made.


-LM
[17/f]

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Is it possible to get pregnant if your on the pill, but you have sex during the week of the inactive pills? and what if you miss a couple pills during the active weeks too?

You're protected during the inactive week IF you took your pills correctly. If you miss active pills your chances of getting pregnant can increase, sometimes as if you weren't on the pill at all.


Taking all active pills at the same time everyday = 99% success rate (92-95% average use)


Not taking them correctly - you might as well be throwing them into the trash.


-LM
[17/f]

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anyone know where i can find a cheap underoath tshirt?

Well it really depends on your definition of cheap. Hot Topic sells them for about $20. That seems to be the usual price, anything cheaper probably won't be too exciting looking, or licensed.

- http://www.hottopic.com/hottopic/Apparel/TShirts/BandTees/Underoath-Pictures-SlimFit-TShirt-984045.jsp


-LM
[17/f]

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i'm going to get light brown highlights on thursday. my hair is very dark brown. when i'm in the light i can see the brown a little bit but otherwise it looks completely black. will the light brown show? will it turn my hair a different color?

If you're getting them done in a salon they'll show, and be the color you asked for. Or really close.

It should look really nice. Make sure you ask the person doing your hair to put a couple other darker colors in there too, to make it look less severe =) Take it from someone who had horribly blonde highlights, you need the color blends in there, haha.


-LM
[17/f]

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iam so very scared please help me .
me and my bf were intimate
afterwards he looked and notcied the condom ripped all the way down.
and there was cum on various spots on his sheets.
Im not sure if any got in me though.
But even if it did can there be a chance that i WONT be preg?

Basically im asking if a girl is exposed to cum at all is there any chance of her not getting pregnant?

It's possible that you aren't. However, if you weren't using any other method of contraception besides the condom, it's possible for you to become pregnant. Even if that night wasn't one of your fertile days, sperm can live inside of your body for hours or even a day or two. If it's not against your beliefs, taking the morning after pill is your best bet, assuming it's been less than 3-5 days since the condom broke.


If you're 18 or older, you can buy it without a prescription at most pharmacies. 17 and younger, you'll need a prescription from a doctor, or someone else to buy it for you.


Hope everything works out for you
-LM
[17/f]

[view]

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