itsaprilagain's advice column

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Q: i just got into middle school and i have alot of homework in every subject. It's to much! How to deal withwith this?

You're going to just have to buckle down and do it. You need to learn to get used to having this much homework because it's only going to get worse as you enter into high school. You don't need hours upon hours of free time to hang out with your friends during the week. It won't be too much if you start it right when you get home from school and take short breaks when you get tired.

Q: i want to know that is there any injection or tablet for sucide and easy death?

No, there is not. If you're thinking about suicide, you should really talk to someone. Suicide is never the answer. I'm here if you want to talk. Feel free to message me privately!

Q: f not, how can I fix it? I'm 17, 170 pounds (I'm normally 165 pounds but I overate last weekend!) and 5'4". My goal is to lose 65 pounds, cause I'd love to be skinny, but fit. I do volleyball, soccer, and track, so any tips for those, I'd love love love. Also, I'm at risk for developing type 2 diabetes (family + I have too much sugar sometimes...) which I really want to avoid!

I spent about 1 hour making this work out plan. Any improvements? I plan on starting it next week, just as a test (I may change certain times and what not, if it gets too hard/easy), but I'm mainly doing it over the summer because I want to come back to school transformed!

-DIET-
1. Drink 3,000 ml of water (or sugarless green tea, herbal tea) everyday (60 ml every hour)
2. Drink 0% milk
3. Sleep 10 hours everyday (9pm - 7am, 7:30pm - 5:30am, etc)
4. Eat 5 small meals - 6am, 9am, 12pm, 3pm, 6pm (drink water before every meal)
5. Chew slowly

-EXERCISE-
#Stretch before every exercise!

*Monday
AM: Run for 2 miles
PM: Run for 3 miles + bleachers (at track)

*Tuesday
AM: P90x Yoga
PM: 800 meter x 2, 600 meter x 2, 400 meter x 2, 200 meter x 2, 100 meter x 2 (at track)

*Wednesday
AM: Run for 3 miles
PM: wall sits (3 minutes), sit ups w/ hands straight (30) , pull ups side to side (30), butt ups (20), planks on elbows (2 minutes), planks on hands (2 minutes), calf raises (2 minutes)

*Thursday
AM: P90x Yoga
PM: Run for 3 miles + bleachers (at track)

*Friday
AM: Run for 3 miles
PM: 800 meter x 2, 600 meter x 2, 400 meter x 2, 200 meter x 2, 100 meter x 2 (at track)

*Saturday
AM: Run 3 miles
PM:
1. High knees (2x), butt kicks, kareokes, high skips, lunges (2x), squat jumps (2x) (100 meters)
2. Run 2 bleachers, 10 push ups, 10 tricep dips, 10 v-sit crunches, step ups (1 minute), bleacher shuffle (1 minute) (bleachers, repeat 5 times)

*Sunday
Exercise (AM): P90x Yoga

THANKS SO MUCH FOR HELPING!!

Also, I take a multivitamin pill, calcium pill, and fish oil pill everyday

Your exercise plan seems impossible to maintain. Perhaps you could keep it up for the summer, but once school starts that's going to be rather difficult. You want to create an exercise plan that is maintainable because otherwise you'll lose all of your muscle and gain the weight back once you stop working out as much. In fact, it's best not to set an exact plan everyday. You should decide what you're going to do (run, crunches, etc), but perhaps you shouldn't set a certain mileage or number of crunches, push ups, etc. It's best to run for as long as you can or do as many crunches as you can. Setting goals like this can often become cumbersome, tiring, and discouraging if you can't meet them. Also, a consistent plan like this causes plateaus. If your plan is more diverse, you're less likely to plateau.

Also, if you're looking to lose weight, you definitely need to count calories. Otherwise you'll end up eating far more than you realize. You shouldn't force yourself to drink water, either. It's entirely unnecessary. You should simply replace all of your drinks with water, but don't force yourself to drink a certain amount every day. Again, this is not maintainable. Remember, weight loss is mostly diet.

Finally, keep in mind that losing 65 lbs in 2-3 months is nearly impossible without starvation, and 100 lbs is underweight for someone of your height. Keep your goals reasonable to prevent you from becoming discouraged and relapsing. 25-30 lbs is a more reasonable goal to lose in that time frame, and 108 lbs is the minimum amount a person of your height should weigh. If you want results, you need to be realistic about your goals and your plans.

I come from experience in the weight loss department as I've lost 30 lbs. I went from 130 lbs to 100 lbs, so I do know what I'm talking about. You don't need such a rigid schedule to get results, and in fact your results will be long lasting if your schedule is not so rigid and more maintainable.

Good luck!

Q: 18/f

I am 5'5'' and weigh 121, but I used to weigh 118 back in January. I ate badly/drank a lot one night and gained two pounds. Ever since then I haven't really been able to keep my weight down. I do not eat terribly, but I will sometimes binge on days and eat a lot for one day. I typically keep my caloric intake under 1,600 calories and work out at the gym 6 days a week for atleast 1 1/2 hours, with 1 hour of cardio and 30 minutes of weights. My question is, how did I gain weight so quickly, and why am I not losing weight? Ironically, I started working out a lot in January as well (going to the gym 6 days a week)and it's so frustrating that I've gained weight. I feel like such a fat ass and just want to get back to 118.

Firstly, I know it sucks to gain weight, but you've only gained 3 lbs which is not a big deal at all. Don't worry so much about it. Eat healthy, work out, and your body will sort itself out. In fact, the weight gain could simply be because you've gained so much muscle from working out. After all, muscle is heavier yet leaner than fat.

To lose the weight, however, 1600 calories is probably a bit high of an intake for someone who is looking to drop a few lbs. You may want to lower your intake by a couple hundred calories until the weight comes off then raise your intake back up to 1600 again to maintain. Also, it's important to avoid binges because they often undo the work that you've put in to lose the weight. Avoid them as much as possible. If you're craving something, allow yourself a bit of it, and do not deprive yourself. The weight will definitely take longer to lose than it did to gain, so be patient! :)

Good luck!

Q: Hi, i am a 17 year-old guy. And i am 5'7, a little higher than that actually, like five foot seven and a half. Am i short? I havent been called it lately, but i just feel like i am short since alot of people are taller than me. Should i be worried about this? Again, i am a 17 year-old guy.

You're definitely a little on the short side, but it is absolutely nothing to worry about. In fact as an 18 year old female, I prefer shorter guys. Since I'm only 5'1, I find it awkward dating super tall guys. Never worry about your height. You can't change it, and all girls prefer different heights on guys. Plus, you're only 17. Chances are you're still growing!

Q: I'm looking for a new powder that makes my skin look really smooth. Does anyone have any good suggestions?

I know you asked for a powder, but from my experience, liquid and cream foundations make skin look infinitely smoother than powder does. Clinique makes great liquid foundations that even out and smooth skin. My skin looks flawless with the foundation on, but it is rather expensive for a small bottle.

Q: So I'm 15 and I tend to "fall in love" with guys very easily... and then I kinda stalk them around. I was wondering if thats normal? and if there's anything I can do to change that?

COMPLETELY 100% NORMAL! haha

I used to do this too when I was your age, and honestly, you'll grow out of it. There's nothing wrong with it now as long as you're not being creepy about it. Facebook stalking and trying to run into him in the hallway are normal behaviors for a young teen with a crush. If you're disturbed by your behavior, however, instead of following your crush or going the same way as him, go the opposite way. You'll eventually train yourself not to stalk him.

Q: i am a 13 year-old girl. i spent $50 ON MOTHERS DAY. i bout my mom 2 kingsized reeses $2.50 my grandmother 2 kingsized almond joy $2.50 i bout mom 2 candles at bath and body wotks $7-8 and i bout 2 candles for grandma $7-8 bout mom a lotion $4 bout grandma a lotion $4 bought grandma 14k gold earrings $20 bought mom a phone cover for $17 do you think i went alittle OVERBOARD on mothers day?

Did you go overboard? No, that's impossible when buying gifts for your parents.

Would your mom and grandma appreciate less expensive and fewer gifts next year if that's all you can afford? Absolutely!

There is no right or wrong answer here. If you feel like you spent too much of your money on these gifts then that's fine. There's nothing you can do about it now, but next year don't feel like you need to spend so much. One small gift and a nice card can go a long way. Your mom will appreciate the effort without you bursting your wallet.

Q: What do you do if you are really lonely and want a best friend and are moving?

Moving is the perfect opportunity to find what you're after! It gives you the opportunity to reinvent yourself and become whoever you want to be. Plus, your reputation will be completely clean. My advice to you is to be friendly, sweet, and talk to everyone once you've moved. I can't guarantee that this will find you an absolute best friend, but it will definitely find you a solid group of friends.

Just a tip to making new friends, NEVER gossip about ANYONE until you've made a solid group of friends. You don't want to come off as rude or gossipy to people you don't know well, and you certainly don't want to offend anyone either.

Q: 14/f about 110lbs 5”2

hey so im trying to get bathing suit ready like making my stomach smaller so if i do 15-20 sit ups every day how long do you think it will take to do that also if there is anything else i can do to make just my stomach smaller (thats all i need every thing else is good) let me know
thanks!

Crunches will definitely tone up your stomach, but as the poster below stated, it takes time. I recommend not focusing on a number but rather doing them until you can't anymore. Also, be sure to do all different types of crunches (reverse, side, normal, and vertical) to target all areas of your stomach.

Cardio, as the poster below stated, will help burn fat from all over, including your stomach. It's the best way to slim down, and from my experience, the fastest.

Good Luck!

Q: 14/f

Every year my junior high has a Last Dance, which is kinda like a mini prom. Last year, all of my friends got ready with their other friends that I barely knew. I had to get ready alone with my mom.

This year, I'm scared the same thing will happen. They're all getting ready with one of the popular girls that I don't really know. My other friends aren't going at all. And my mom is going away this year (not that I want to get ready with her again, anyway). What should I do? Please respond quickly, the dance is this weekend!!

As someone who spent many nights alone as a young teenager, my advice to you is don't be like me. I was always too shy and afraid of rejection to branch out and ask if I could come along somewhere. I always waited to be asked which is never the best solution. People often forget to invite you or assume that you don't want to go since you haven't brought it up yourself. Ask one of your friends who is going if they would mind if you came along as well. I'm sure it wouldn't be a problem. They are your friends after all. Don't wait to be invited. Be proactive, and ask for what you want. The worst they can do is say "no".

Q: Since Saturday, so for three days I have a runny/stuffy nose. I cried on Friday(idk if it has anything to do with it) but it never really does this to me. Saturday my throat and ears would itch but not anymore. I never really get allergies and when it's a cold, I usually go immediately to the doctors, however I can't tell what it is...I don't have a fever but I'm like very congested and sometimes feel a headache. I'm 15 btw. I can't stand this :(

If you never get allergies then chances are it's simply a mild cold. You could go to the doctors if you wish, however it's really not necessary. Rest and fluids will do more for you than a doctor can. Your symptoms should subside within a few days and disappear within a week.

Q: who would you respect more, a girl who dresses really slutty but isn't actually a slut (basically a tease) or a girl who dresses modest and cute but does things with guys (not a slut, just not a prude)

Girl who dresses slutty but isn't actually a slut. There's nothing wrong with showing a bit of skin if that's her style as long as she's not actually whoring herself out.

Q: 18/f 5'4" 150 lbs i'm trying to lose 20 lbs. my plan for the past 3 days and weeks to come was breakfast: bowl of special k cereal with skim milk, lunch: either a spinach salad with italian dressing or a turkey, lettuce, green pepper and rach on whole wheat wrap dinner: spaghetti squash or tomatoes w/ chicken and whole wheat rice or i'll have a chicken salad with chickpee beans or stuffed peppers (ground turkey & rice). and also i'll throw in an apple and orange for 2 snacks throughout the day. and my exercise is running 2 miles everyday. I've been doing really good with this goal and was just wondering if you think it'll work and how fast i'd be able to lose the 20 lbs. thanks!

Your diet sounds fantastic, though I suggest counting the calories to make sure that you're not eating too much because foods tend to have more calories than you'd think. For example, whole wheat rice and the wrap for lunch could have a lot more calories than you're anticipating. You should probably be aiming to eat around 1500 calories each day. Also, some form of protein at breakfast instead of the special k cereal will keep you fuller longer.

For your exercise, you should probably be doing more than 2 miles a day. For optimum fat loss, you should be doing atleast 30 minutes of cardio 5-6 days a week. Unless you run exceedingly slow, 2 miles won't take you 30 minutes. You should either run for a longer amount of time or add in some other form of cardio on top of your two miles.

Just so you know, I've lost over 20 lbs. I used to weigh 135 lbs at 5'1, but I now weigh 114 lbs. I know what I'm talking about!

Q: Hello, I am a 13 year old girl, and i want to lose wieght and just be healthier. Im actually at a good wieght, but I do sports and want to be fit for them. I always go jogging, but lately i haven't been because i don't want to go alone (my sister or brother usually went with me, but they never want to anymore) and i just don't know how to get motivated if the people i trust aren't helping me! So my question is, how do i get motivated to lose wieght and get healthier?

If you're at a good weight as you said then why do you want to lose weight? That doesn't make any sense. lol

Q: I try to use vasaline after a shower and/or creams, nothing is working. So i have very dry skin and sensitive skin and sometimes red. How do get smoother less dry skin, so that before i put my foundation on it doesn't make my foundation and other makeup look dry? thank you.

Cetaphil works wonders on dry skin! Make sure that you get the kind that comes in a jar rather than a pump bottle because the ones that come in the pump bottles are loaded down with water and not as effective. It can be found in local drug stores or department stores! :)

Also, always apply the lotion to slightly damp skin after a shower for best results.

Q: My school has a dress code and i hate it! We have to wear collar shirts and they have to be a sertan color. Where can i get solid collar shirts?

Ralph Lauren :)

Q: 16/f
I have a gay friend which claims it's not against the laws of nature while I think it is.He said animals can be homosexual.Has he lost his mind?!

You're the one who has lost her mind. He's completely right. Why is he friends with you again?

Q: One more question about Wendy said to Stacy tall and thin but how would you have interpreted "We are like my friend average" This got Stacy upset the average part, because every one always tells her she is thin.

Stacy: "Wendy you always tell me I am tall and thin."
Wendy: You are tall and thin. But what I mean by average is that we don't need a specialty store that we can go into any store and buy off the rack. Whether it is 95 dollars or 95 cents."

THIS IS THE FIRST PART: PART ONE
READ this and tell me how you interpret everything Wendy said
So can Stacy accept Wendy's answer that she thinks Stacy is tall and thin and between sizes 2 and 8

Tonight Stacy telephoned Wendy.

Stacy: "My sister is a snob and will not shop in stores unless she can spend a lot of money."
Wendy" I have a friend like that as well, she will only buy things that are expensive. Today I bumped into her and she showed me a blouse she purchased for $95, but it was ok looking"
Stacy: "Again my sister is like that she has to spend a lot"
Wendy "Is your sister thin, heavy"
Stacy "Heavy."
Wendy "Maybe that is why your sister spends a lot because she is heavy she has to get clothes that fit. We are like my friend average"

This got Stacy upset the average part, because every one always tells Stacy she is thin.

Stacy: "Wendy you always tell me I am tall and thin."
Wendy: You are tall and thin. But what I mean by average is that we don't need a specialty store that we can go into any store and buy off the rack. Whether it is 95 dollars or 95 cents.

Stacy: "But I still do not understand average"\
Wendy "We are not anorexic or heavy, we can go into any store and buy off the rack, your sister cannot, average can be anywhere from a size 2 to 14" I

Stacy: "But you said to me that I am tall and thin
Wendy: "You are tall and thin, you are far from being heavy, have you looked in the mirror. We are not super skinny or overly fat. You are tall and thin"
Stacy: "You once said to me that you think I am any where from a size 2 to 8"
Wendy: "I am not good at sizes but if I have to make an educated guess I would say between 2 and 8"
So when they were about to hang up
Stacy "Just confirming tall and thin and between size 2 and 8"
Wendy: "Exactly"

PART TWO: UPDATE: THIS MORNING Stacy had to telephone Wendy to tell Wendy she printed out the definitions for the computer.

Then

Stacy: "Don't get mad at me, but you said you think I am tall and thin and between size 2 and 8"
Wendy:" Yes, I have something to ask you but you wont get insulted"
Stacy: "I don't think so"
Wendy: "My friend asked me if I wanted a few pairs of pants of hers
Stacy: "No thanks, but you think I am tall and thin and between size 2 and 8"
Wendy:" Yes and that is what the pants are"
Stacy: "Why what size are the pants"
Wendy: "No I am not telling you you said no for the pants so I will donate them. My friend told me she gained a few pounds and she wanted to know if I wanted the pants, but they are too long on me and a little big and you are in the middle"
Stacy: "But you think I am tall and thin and between size 2 and 8"
Wendy: For the 16 thousand time yes"

SO HOW WOULD YOU INTERPRET "THE PANTS ARE BIG ON ME. AND "but they are too long on me and a little big and you are in the middle" KEEP IN MIND WENDY IS SHORT

Stacy has very low self-esteem and should probably seek counseling.

Q: Keep In Mind I'm like 4'10 or 4'11.. How Much Do You Think I Weight (Look At The Pictures) And What Size Bra Do You Think I Wear (Look At The Pictures)

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I Dont Need Any Dumb Feedback.. If You Want To Help Me By Answering My Questions Thanks If you Want To Be Dumb Then Dont Even Bother!

Thank You