Questions 27 and 31: Two period questions for Maddy and Doremi

I hope, by now, everyone is getting the message: A gajillion girls have questions about periods! Here are two more:

Maddy, 11, says simply: I haven't had my periods yet. And Doremi (love that name Do-Re-Mi) asks this:

Dear PLS,
What should I do when I start my first period?
Doremi,11

Basically, I think Maddy and Doremi have the same question. What do you do when you get your first period? We've talked a lot about being prepared, having supplies etc., but we haven't talked as much about what to do when you're having your period for the first time. Here are my best Dos and Don'ts.

1. Tell someone. This is often your mom or grandma or the person who takes care of you most of the time. You need supplies and you might have questions, so don't be so shy that you keep this to yourself. 

2. Try to relax. Think of how many women have had their first periods. That's like, everyone, including your best friend's older sister, the lady next door, famous celebrities, top athletes, and yes, your mom.

3. Take time to learn. Girls stress about tampons, but first take some time to understand pads. Gee, there are a lot of kinds! Girls often ask how you know which way it goes. Some are shaped where there could be a top and a bottom, but others can go either way. And always with the sticky side down! That's how it sticks to your underwear. Girls also ask what to do with a used pad. Never flush one down the toilet. It will clog the whole deal. Most people roll it up, wrap it in toilet paper, and put it in the trash.

4. Be organized. Take extra pads, even pack an extra pair of pants if that helps you feel prepared. Jot down the date you started your period, so you know to expect it in about a month. Though be prepared that your period could be a little unpredictible the first few times you have it.

5. Don't cry over stained underwear. If your underwear or pants get stained, just take care of it and stay cool. Most stains will come out if you hand wash them right away in the sink with cold water and mild soap. Get them as clean as you can, wring out the water, and then wash them in the washing machine. 

6. Don't let your period get in the way. Your period might feel so weird and new that you might think: How can I go to soccer practice? Or even school? But you can and should keep up with your normal routine. Always tell a parent if you don't feel well, but if it's just your period, play on! (Once you have the hang of it, you can try tampons, which make it easier to play sports, even swim.)

Any other advice out there for Maddy and Doremi?

Think pink!
Jemma

Alana thanks us and we...thank Alana!

We have received 40,000 questions from girls over the past few years. Most are seeking advice and we're happy to give it. But Alana made our day with the simple email below.

Thank YOU Alana for writing such a lovely note!

I know you go through emails like this every day, but thanks. Last year, I was on this site because of my period. One year later, im back on because of my first real crush. I just want to say thanks.

Alana

Think pink!
Jemma

Question 30: How can you get organized?

Sometimes I look in my backpack or closet and think: Will I ever get organized? That's what GrammarGeek is wondering about:

Dear PLS,
How do I keep myself more organized? I am always falling behind with my homework, and it's really troublesome. I hate using an agenda and I never use it...

Thanks!
GrammarGeek, 12

I say GrammarGeek is on her way to being better organized. Why? Because she realizes that it's a problem and she's looking for ways to improve. Here's the best advice I've seen on the subject.

Take the quiz to see how organized - or disorganized - you are!

Organize, Focus, Get It Done

Take the Organization Quiz

OK, Pink Locker Girls, what's your best advice for clearing the clutter and getting organized?

Think pink!
Jemma

Question 29: Do you have a crush on a famous person?

Singers, actors, pro athletes...they can be soooooo dreamy. Even though you don't actually know them. That's what's on Katy's mind. Here's her question:

Dear PLS,
What if you've got a crush on someone famous?
Katy, 11

First off, Katy is NOT alone. I have crushed on some celebrities. It's kinda perfect. You can think about them and dream about them, but it's not really real life. The only time it might be a problem is if it gets too extreme, but most people keep it under control. Even if they REALLY like the celebrity, they still keep doing their normal life stuff, like going to school and hanging out with friends. 

All this is making me think of the post we shared about Justin Bieber. Beliebers and nonBelieblers, tell us about your celebrity crushes! Any funny stories? I know someone who kissed a poster on her wall of a certain cute celebrity.

Think pink!
Jemma

Questions 26 & 28: 2 period Qs for Tracy

It's two questions for Tracy today - both about periods.

Dear PLS,
My sister is going through puberty. Will she get diarrhea or cramps in her period?
&
What if I don't have a pad or tampon when i get a period[like in the car]?
Tracy, 9

Good questions! Yes, sometimes cramps in your lower belly go along with periods. Your sister should definitely tell your mom or another adult if she has period cramps. Talking with the doctor is a good idea, too. There may be steps you can take to feel more comfortable. Bottom line: Your period shouldn't get in the way of you doing what you want to do.

Find out more about cramps at the link below:

Period Cramps

As for diarrhea (yuck!), it's can be part of PMS, which stands for premenstrual syndrome. That's a combination of symptoms that can happen 1-2 weeks before a girl's period starts.

Find out more at the link below:

Common Period Problems

And now for Tracy's second question about being someplace AWKWARD, like the car, when you get your period. It happens, but the good news is that usually you have a sign - like feeling something - so you can simply tell whoever's driving that you need to go the bathroom.

Part 2 is always having a pad or tampon with you. If you get caught without one, you can always stop in a convenience store, grocery store, or pharmacy and pick up a box. If you're nervous about asking, just say, "I have to pick up some feminine products." Most everyone will catch your drift.

Any other advice for Tracy?

Think pink!
Jemma

Question 25: Do tampons hurt?

Today's question comes from Curious, who says she's curious about tampons. She's not alone, tons of girls send us questions about tampons. Why? Well, it's a strange concept at first. I mean I know I was like - say, what? I'm going to put that WHERE?

But the good news is that, when used properly, tampons are a good thing. Here's what Curious wants to know.

Dear PLS,
Do tampons hurt??? i am just starting puberty and i ride and love to swim...
Curious, 10
 
No need to worry. With tampons, you want to follow these rules:
 
1)Stay calm.
2)Ask for help from someone who knows how to use one (your mom, sister, etc.).
3)Buy the right kind for you. Slender ones are best for girls starting out.
4)Only try to insert one when you have your period.
5)Remember that tampons should be removed and changed every four hours or so.
6)Don't let your period stop you from swimming and riding!
 
And if you need more convincing, check out this popular post about whether you really need a tampon for swimming. The answer is a big YES!
 
Can you wear a pad in the pool?
 
Any other encouragement about using tampons?
 
Think pink!
Jemma
 

Question 24: Is it OK to meet guys online?

Amy doesn't give us too much information, but it sounds like she has a boyfriend she met online. This can happen very easily today with Facebook, texting etc. But it isn't a good idea to get super close to someone you've never met in person.

Dear PLS,
i have a boyfriend and we both love each other alot. But the problem is i have never met him face to face, i mean i know how he looks and all but i'm afraid he won't like me back the way i look!! and we are like meeting each other tomorrow!! what should i do?? please help me because i can't stop freaking out!
Amy, 14

OK, Amy, Here are my rules for staying safe:

1)Don't start relationships - even friendships - just through the computer or texting. Someone could pretend to be a nice 14-year-old guy, but could really be a creepy 40-year-old guy. Not good.

2)Only have online or texting conversations with people you know well and have met in person. Do not share info like your phone number, address, or where you go to school with strangers.

3)NEVER agree to meet a stranger in person, even if they seem nice online or have a cute photo.

Sorry this post is a bit of a downer, but better safe than sorry! Can you back me up here, Pink Locker girls?

Think pink!
Jemma

Question 22: Sarah's got a crush problem

Friends like to share lots of things but they don't like sharing crushes very much. Check out Sarah's question.


Dear PLS,
My friend is convinced I like her crush, but I don't. She won't believe me + my other friend is getting her period soon and she's worried. What do I say?
Sarah, 10


Sarah has two questions here, but let's take on the first one. It sounds to me like you've already told your friend you're not crushing on her crush. Keep acting normal and try to move on. If you do like the same guy, that's OK. It happens. But maybe it's best to keep it a quiet crush. In time, you and your friend may move on and have a different crush.


Any other advice about friends and crushes? Have you ever liked your friend's crush?


Think pink!
Jemma

 

Question 21: Jenny's parents say she can't paint her fingernails red

Don't you just love a good manicure? Jenny sure does, but there's a problem. She wants red nails and her mom and dad say NO.

Dear PLS,
What should I dooo ??????????? I want to wear red nail polish. My parents won't let me? Please help me! And pleeeasee don't tell anyone.
Jenny, 10

I think red nail polish is fun, but I understand Jenny's situation. I think she should talk more to her parents about it. Can they agree on a not-too-bright shade of red? What if she agrees to wear it only the weekend and take it off for school? Is there another color, like purple or pink, that they would say yes to? Or, as a last resort, when will they think she's old enough for red polish?
 
You have to be calm and reasonable because parents really like that.
 
Any other nail polish ideas out there?
 
Think pink!
Jemma

Question 20: Brianne wants to play violin

Bravo, Brianne! Playing a musical instrument is great idea. But Brianne's plan to play beautiful music has a bit of a problem. See if you have any advice for her!


Dear PLS,
I really, really want to take violin lessons, but they are too expensive. What should I do?
Brianne, 11


Has this ever happened to you? You really, really, REALLY wanted to do something but your mom or dad said no, it was too expensive? It sounds like that's what's happening to Brianne. Here's my idea for how she can still keep her violin dreams.


I think Brianne should tell her music teacher at your school about the problem. Does he or she have any ideas on how you could get lower-cost lessons? What about the band teacher (if they have one) or the school counselor?


Maybe there's a music school in town that offers scholarships to worthy students? Any other ideas out there? Does anyone play an instrument? Let's encourage Brianne!


Think pink!
Jemma

2012: What are your goals for the new year?

OK, I can't bear to end 2011 writing about discharge. (See post  below.) It's a fact of life, yes, but it's not New Year's Eve-y enough for me. So let's switch topic to HAPPY NEW YEAR! See video for a sweet New Year's Eve song.

But tomorrow, the parties will be over and the new year will have begun. What is your top goal for 2012? I am pledging to update this blog more often! Is that a good idea? ;)

Your resolution can be small, like not biting your nails or not picking on your little brother/sister. Or you might have big plans like learning something completely new. Will you learn a new language, tackle a new sport, learn how to cook or work harder to get better grades?

Good luck with all your hopes and dreams for the new year. And remember that you can always visit the Pink Locker Society for advice and encouragement. Thank you for another great year of giving good advice and listening to one another's concerns.

Think pink in 2012!
Jemma

Heavy discharge: Is it a clue about her first period?

Today's question is tricky...

Does it mean ur gonna get ur period soon when u start getting really bad discharge or does it just come in spurts!! I've had discharge 4 a while but lately it has been worse, what should I do?? DOES IT MEAN IM GONNA GET MY PERIOD?? And, is discharge worse that ur period, cuz it is already a pain!!

Let's start with the fact that discharge IS a sign that a girl's period may be on it's way soon. It usually appears about 6 months to a year before a girl's first period. But I've never heard of the discharge amount being a clue that a first period is going to happen, like, IMMEDIATELY. So I'd relax and stay prepared.

Here's a link to one of our most popular posts all about this topic.

What's in my undies?

Think pink!
Jemma

Ashley answers the GLASSES question!

You probably know you can ask a question HERE.

But you also probably know that we've recieved more than 35,000 questions over the last couple years. So that's A LOT of questions and lots of girls are waiting for answers and advice.

Sometimes, people just pipe up on the blog and say can you answer this question, here it is, even if it doesn't have anything to do with the post. For instance, on a post about gymnastics, Anonymous asked...

I am getting glasses in a few days and i don't know what my friends will think! Will they make fun of me behind my back? Please help me Jemma or somebody!

It's a good question, but before we could even answer it - Bam! - Ashley responded with a great answer:

Hey. It'll be ok I got glasses a year ago. Nobody laughed at me. Pick out a pair u like. If u want 2 u can pick a pair that isn't 2 noticeable. Mine only have half a rim so they aren't 2 noticable. After you've had them 4 awhile u can ask you're mom if u can get contacts.
Ashley

Hurray for Ashley! That's thinking pink and being a helpful contributor to the Pink Locker Society blog.

Here's a little more info on glasses and contacts.

Glasses and Contacts

Think pink!
Jemma

Is her bra a REAL bra?

Have you ever heard the saying: A rose is a rose is a rose? That's a quotable quote from a famous playwright named Shakespeare.

But today's questioner asks: Are all bras REAL bras? In other words, is a bra is a bra is a bra?

Dear PLS,
My mom gave me padded bras. Are they training bras or real bras?
Anonymous


I say, yes. A padded bra is a real bra. A training bra is just a name for a smaller bra for girls who are just beginning to wear bras. Get it? You're in training as a bra wearer. Just like you can be in training as a soccer player or basketball player.

I think "training bra" is kind of a silly term. I mean it's not like bras are so very complicated that it takes a long time to learn how to use one. You just snap or click or slip it on and there you go.

Some girls get all huffy with each other when it comes to bras. They might say a sports bra isn't a bra or a camisole type bra isn't a bra. Or that it's not a real bra unless it's a cup bra. We've actually had another post on just that issue of cup bras. You can read it HERE.

But the bottom line is that a bra IS a bra is a bra. Your bra isn't imaginary is it? And grownup women often choose to wear sports bras, or camisole bras, or bras that don't have cups. So ignore all the blah-blah-blah about bras!

Think pink!
Jemma

Lexi's reading FOREVER CRUSH!

Lexi wrote to say she's reading FOREVER CRUSH. That's awesome - and it's the 3rd book in the Pink Locker Society series. She wants to know if there are other books. Yes! Here are all 4:

Book 1: Only Girls Allowed
Book 2: Best Kept Secret
Book 3: Forever Crush
Book 4: Girls In Charge

Keep on reading, reader girls!

Think pink!
Jemma

Are gymnasts always late bloomers?

Girls worry that playing sports will delay puberty and their first periods. In general, playing sports is great for a girl's health so don't let this fear stop you.

But one of our readers wanted to know specifically about gymnastics. Here's her question:

My gymnastics coach said that gymnasts usually have very very irregular or late periods. Even though I work out 4 hours 3 days a week is that considered extreme cases of olympic workout? Could it be true what she said? Ps She said since they have less body fat:/ plz answer this jemma or someone who really knows what they're talking about!!!!!!!!!!

There's nothing about doing gymnastics that will automatically make a girl's period come late or make it irregular. Here are some reasons why your coach may have said that:

1) Gymnastics is a sport where it can be helpful to be smaller, so it might seem like girls who are gymnasts are also late bloomers. But they may have been late bloomers even if they didn't do gymnastics. Remember that puberty can start as early as age 8 and as late as 14. (First periods usually come about two years after a girl starts developing breasts.)

2) Having excess body fat (being overweight) can be a factor that makes a girl's first period come earlier. Girls who compete in gymnastics are unlikely to have excess body fat.

3) Some girls who compete in gymnastics (and other sports) can get a combination of health problems called female athlete triad. The three problems are: They stop getting their periods, they have "disordered eating," and they have weak bones.

An eating disorder can take different forms. A person might eat too little or eat too much. When your body doesn't get the nutrition and energy it needs, you won't grow properly and your body might not work like it should.

Learn more about Female Athlete Triad and ask your parent or doctor if you have more questions about gymnastics and your health.

Any gymnasts out there? What do you think about this issue?

Think pink!
Jemma

Question 18: Minnie's popularity problem

Minnie (great name, by the way) needs our help. Have you ever been accused of something that you weren't even doing. In this case, people are saying she's trying to be popular.

Dear PLS,
This guy hates me. He used to be like my best friend, but now he hates me because apparently I'm trying to be "popular". Another one of my friends turned on me because of that, and I'm not even trying to be popular!!! I hardly know what it means!!! I'm really not, but no one believes me. What am I doing that could be sending these "vibes"? What do I do?!?! 
Minnie, 12

This is a tough one. Often, you can't really help how popular you are. I know for sure that there are no magic tricks for becoming more popular. So it's probably just as tough to become less popular. Maybe it's that you're hanging around with popular friends. Or maybe you have lots of friends and so you seem more popular than other people.

I say as long as you're not being stuck up or unfriendly, just keep being your normal self. You could ask your two friends what specifically you are doing that is upsetting them. Remember, if you are popular, that's not a crime!

What else, girls? Have you ever been accused of trying to be popular?

Think pink!
Jemma

Question 19: A guy touched her lip

Question 19 is kind of like Question 17 below (butt looking). Both questions are about other people looking at or touching you.

Dear PLS,
A boy in my class touched my lip and asked if another boy has done that before. Does he like me or is he just being weird?
Qwerty, 11

Once again, I'd say your body is YOUR BODY. So no one gets to just touch you. Sure, it's possible he likes you. He might be trying to be cute or romantic. I've seen mushy scenes in movies where the guy does something like that. He also might be curious about girls. But it really all comes down to you. What did you think about him touching your lip? Do you like him? Has anything happened since?

What else, girls? What's your advice to Qwerty?

Think pink!
Jemma

Question 17: What if a guy looks at your butt?

OK, so after a looooong break, we're back to answering the 76 questions we received on Valentine's Day. We promised to answer them ALL, so we're going to get to it before it's Valentine's Day 2012!

Today, we'll take on two questions - both about guys touching you or looking at you. Both can make you feel kinda weird.

Dear PLS,
It's sorta happening to me, but I witness it all the time. What do you do if a boy looks at your butt..?
Just A Thought, 12

First off, your body is yours - all yours. So if someone is looking at you in a way that feels uncomfortable, you can say, "Please stop staring. It's not polite." And you can always talk with a parent, teacher, or school counselor about something like this. You don't have to put up with someone looking at private parts of you, like your butt. Obsessive staring of any kind is creepy, even if the person is looking at your face.

Sometimes someone looks at you a lot because they're curious or they think you're pretty. So it can be a sort of compliment. It's part of the job of growing up to figure out what's OK and what's not. That goes for boys and girls. And I think it's fair to say that both guys and girls can be clueless about stuff like this.

All right, Pink Locker girls - what's your advice about boys who look at butts? And tell the truth: Have you ever stared at a guy, secretly or not-so-secretly?

Think pink!

Jemma

Period Myths: Don't believe them!

When something is new to you, you're not sure how it works. Periods are like that for a lot of girls. Here are some of the common misunderstandings we've seen recently on the blog.

1)Period flow does NOT stop just because you're taking a bath or swimming. Some girls think this is true, but it's not. Neither "water pressure" nor the chlorine will prevent the blood from coming out. This is especially important to know if you're a girl who is going swimming while she has her period. You'll need to wear a tampon. Don't worry, it's not that bad. You can learn how to use them!

2)Nothing can make your first period come sooner than it's going to. Don't waste time standing on your head, eating certain foods, or believing any superstitions.

3)Just because your friends have their periods and you don't, that doesn't mean there's something wrong with you. Likewise, being the first person in your group to have her period doesn't make you strange either. It's always a good idea to talk to your doctor (or your mom) if you have questions or concerns. But remember that a first period comes about two years after a girl starts developing breasts. And that happens during puberty, which can start as early as 8 and as late as 13.

Do you have any other worries or questions about periods?

Think pink!
Jemma

"Super" will be trick or treating - for a cause!

You know it's going to be good when you get a comment from someone who calls herself "supercallafragilisticexbialladocias!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

(We'll call her "Super" for short.) Super said she's planning on going trick-or-treating but with a twist. She's using the opportunity as a chance to raise money for a good cause. She wants to give the money to a fab organization called Heifer International.

What's a heifer? It's another word for cow. Heifer International allows people to donate live animals to people who need them. Why?

Because if you're poor and you have a cow, you suddenly also have milk. And there's a good chance that your cow (if it's a girl) could have baby cows and then you'll have more cows to make more milk. Get the idea? It works the same way with chickens (eggs) and sheep (wool).This video gives a one-minute explanation of Heifer International.



So hurray for Super and we wish her lots of luck in her fund-raising!

Just one word of caution: Super should not go door-to-door alone, even on Halloween night. She also should have a parent or another adult with her.

Super was wondering if anyone out there had ever used Halloween to raise money for a good cause. If so, let us know? If not, do you think it's a good idea?

Think pink!
Jemma

Don't miss Miss Representation!

We love movie night, especially when it's pumped up by girl power. Tomorrow (Thursday) at 9, you can watch the film, Miss Representation, on the OWN network.

A couple posts ago, our Girl Scout pal Allie did a movie review for us.



And since we're in a "girls are awesome" frame of mind, here are some thoughts and advice from Melissa Houghton. She's executive director of Women in Film & Video DC, a group that supports women who make films.

Want to tell your story on video, TV, or the movies? Here's how to get started:

PLS: For girls who might want to make their own films, what's the process?
Melissa Houghton: It all starts with a good story. Owning the story and feeling it deeply so that you can defend it and have the stamina to see the process to the end. Find people who also want to learn or help you tell your story. You don’t want to do it all yourself and you don’t want to be the only one watching it.

Public access television stations may have a youth program. More schools have media classes. Every community has someone who knows how to tell a story. Nearly every community has a television or radio station with people who love what they do and find time to work with people as passionate as they are.

It’s always important to think about your ultimate audience – how will you reach them, what do you want them to do or feel after they see your film? There are lots of really good books about producing movies and more memoirs by filmmakers who share a lot of what they’ve learned – Christine Vachon, Sidney Lumet, Maureen Ryan and many others share their stories and the process.

Our Women in Film & Video chapter works with high school students to make public service announcements for local non-profit organizations so the students can learn the process.

PLS: What's a movie you recommend to girls because it does a great job of representing women?
Melissa Houghton: Nim’s Island, Whip It, Sunshine Cleaning and interestingly, all of them were written and directed by women!

PLS: If you could ask girls and young women to take just one action, what would it be?
Melissa Houghton: Stand up for themselves and not let others influence their decisions about what they want to be.

Thanks to Melissa for giving us some film-making advice!

Think pink(and go make a movie!)
Jemma

Rootbeerfloat has a bumpy question

Our post on hairy legs and shaving got a lot of comments - 87! Rootbeerfloat was one of them. Actually, she wrote in twice so she seriously wants an answer. Here's her question:

Comment 1
I have a leg question. I have little red bumps on the back of my legs. I have had them for as long as I can remember. What are they?!

Comment 2
Can someone PLEASE answer my question about the URB!!! (Unidentified Red Bumps). Again, I have these red bumps on the backside of my legs. I have had them next to forever. What are they?!

I hope this answer isn't too disappointing but red bumps could be a lot of things, including irritation due to shaving. Sometimes the best solution is to talk with a parent and have a doctor check them out.

Someone kindly wrote in to say that bumps are sometimes caused by a funny-sounding skin problem called molluscum contagiosum. Here's some info about that, but only the doctor can tell you for sure what your bumps are and if you need treatment for them.

Molluscum contagiosum

Think pink!
Jemma

A movie starring ... you!

You're a star, of course, but have you ever thought about how movies get made? It's someone's idea. You've got ideas. So that means YOU could make a movie. It could be a true story (a documentary) or it could be a completely made up story. If you're in charge of the movie, that makes you the director.

OK, all you directors, what kind of movie would you make? Who would star in it and what would the story be about? Would you let your friends play the characters? Would the ending be happy or sad?

Think pink!
Jemma

A movie review for you!

Movies are fun, of course, but they can also SHAKE UP how you think about things. A movie called Miss Representation does just that.

Miss Representation = misrepresentation. Get it?

Sometimes women and girls are misrepresented in ads, on TV, and in movies. This happens when women are shown in super skimpy clothes and when they're playing "dumb" characters. You know what I'm talking about - the guys are off saving the world and the girl characters are just kind of standing by, looking cute.

Don't get me wrong. Cute is great, but it's not all we girls are. Girl Scouts knows that for sure, so we asked Allie, a longtime Girl Scout to give us her video movie review of Miss Representation. Maybe you'll want to check it out, too!

Who are your favorite girl or women characters on TV or in the movies? Tell us!

Think pink!
Jemma

Get the truth about what's in your bra!

We've noticed some comments lately (which we did not publish) that reveal some misunderstandings about breasts/boobs/whatever you call them.

We thought we'd clear these ideas up, so everyone can know the facts and not be worried about stuff they don't need to worry about.

Truth #1:Playing sports doesn't' make you flat.
This can be a little confusing, but if you have less body fat (a good thing!), your breasts may be smaller because there's just less of you. And girls who are very active often can be in this leaner category.

In extreme cases of very intense workout schedules (think Olympic athlete), having less body fat can delay someone's first period. But most typical girls will benefit from playing sports and it will make their bodies healthier.

It's also important to note that playing sports isn't going to make your already developed breasts disappear. Someone said they thought this happened to ballerinas. More likely is that people who end up being great at ballet also have lean, ballerina-like bodies.

Truth #2: Bras don't prevent - or cause - breast cancer. We've had girls write in saying they finally agreed to wear a bra because they didn't want to get breast cancer. Other girls worry about whether certain kinds of bras are cancer-causing. But there's no connection between bras and this serious illness, which typically affects older women.

It's a good idea to know a little bit about breast cancer, though. Here's an article that explains more: Breast Cancer

We recently wrote a post about how we read every comment people post and the rules we use for deciding which ones to publish. Basically, we OK everything unless it's mean, inappropriate, or a girl has shared too much personal info.

Now we'll add another category: We don't post comments that are wrong about health issues. Don't feel bad if you made one of these comments. Let's all keep learning together!

Think pink!
Jemma

An answer for Beth: This boy is a boob!

Let's help our friend Beth. Here's her question. (Once you read it, you'll understand why I gave this post the headline above!)

Dear PLS,
I NEED HELP> ok i realllllyyyy liked this guy and he really likes me except his friend told me hes not gonna ask me out until my boobs get bigger. i am so mad and he's a jerk should i tell him off? what should I say?
Beth

OK, this question is easy for me to answer. It's not nice, not fair, and mean for someone to say they'll go out with you but only if your body changes. It's as mean as if you told a guy: I'll date you but only after you grow taller and get bigger muscles. We can't control how quickly we go through puberty and, I'd like to add, no one should be talking about your body that way.

I think the best response to all this is no response. Hopefully, he'll grow up and apologize someday. Or maybe his silly friend is to blame. Either way, move on and leave that whole experience in the dust!

Who else has advice? Anyone else have something like this happen to them?

Think pink!
Jemma

Can you be a book reviewer at age 12? Melina says yes!

We love our reader girls, so we wanted to celebrate today's queen of reading: Melina! She reads ten books a week in the summer and four or five a week during the school year.

She loves reading and has been reviewing books on her blog since 5th grade. Her blog is called Reading Vacation, which we also love because books are an excellent (and cheap) way of taking your imagination on vacation.

Here's her review of the latest Pink Locker Society book, The Forever Crush.

And here's what Melina had to say about her booky, booky life.

Do you remember your favorite books from when you were little?

That’s easy! Fairy tales were my favorites when I was just starting to read. I had several books filled with classic fairy tales. When I moved on to chapter books, my favorites were the Rainbow Magic books by Daisy Meadows. I read them all!

When did you first realize that reading was going to be something VERY IMPORTANT in your life?

There was not a specific moment when I realized that reading would become my obsession. Instead, it was more of a gradual slide. My weekly trips to the library became more frequent and I added the local bookstore too. Before long, my bookshelves were overflowing with amazing stories. I couldn’t get enough!

How did you get started in your book blogging?

For a very long time, books have interested me. So, when I heard about book blogs a light bulb went off in my head. Instant inspiration! I knew it was the perfect thing to nurture my reading love. Next thing I knew I had my mom at the computer signing me up for a blog. And Reading Vacation was born.

It is so fun to talk about books with other readers. When I was on spring break in fifth grade, my parents introduced me to blogs online. A blog gives you a platform to talk about anything that interests you and share your thoughts with others. Instant inspiration! I knew that I wanted to start my own blog. That week, Reading Vacation was born.

What is your absolute favorite book of all time and why?

There are so many to choose from! My all-time favorite book is The Goose Girl by Shannon Hale. It is a wonderful fairy tale retelling.

Do you always feel like reading? Does it ever feel like work?

I almost always feel like reading, but sometimes I would rather spend time with friends or just relax alone and take a break. If reading ever felt like work, I would close down my blog. I don’t ever want it to feel like I HAVE to do it.

Did you come up with the blog name Reading Vacation? If there's a story behind it, please share.

Originally, I planned to name my blog Reading Paradise. I loved it! Unfortunately, Reading Paradise was already taken by a college student in Cyprus. So, I thought what else sounded relaxing, soothing, and made me think of books? Reading Vacation of course! It was perfect!

Do you own a ton of books or do you get books from the library?
When I first started Reading Vacation, most of my books came from the public and school library. Now, I get nearly all of my books from authors and publishers who are requesting reviews. I also trade books with other book bloggers around the country.

Do you have a Kindle, Nook, or iPad? Do you like e-readers or paper books?

I received a Kindle for Christmas last year after dropping many“subtle” hints to my parents. I love both e-readers and paper books, but each for different reasons.

E-readers are amazing! With just one click, I can have a new book in my hand ready to read. Not only that, but I can carry around hundreds of books in one handy little device. I think e-readers are the future of books.

Paper books smell so yummy when they are brand new. I like to arrange my books on my bookcase to show off all the beautiful covers. There’s just something special about seeing them all lined up. It is also much easier to loan a paper book to a friend.

Do you belong to any book clubs?

I have never been part of a traditional book club. However, I like to think of the book blogging community as a giant book club. We talk about books on twitter and comment on each other’s blogs. They are a supportive group of friends with a common interest.

If you could go out to lunch with and interview any author, who would it be?

Suzanne Collins, author of The Hunger Games trilogy.

Where would you interview Ms. Collins? I would interview her in Colorado. Katniss, the main character in The Hunger Games lived in the area that used to be known as Colorado.

Would you bring a friend?

I would bring my little brother Travis, because he loves The Hunger Games books too. Plus, it would get him to stop pestering me with questions about the books that I don’t know the answer to. Two birds with one stone!

What would your No. 1 question be?

I would ask Suzanne Collins to write a short story just for me.

Borders bookstore closes, so where do you buy the books?

It's sad to see a big bookstore chain like Borders is closing. Several girls have written to the blog to say they don't know where they'll get Pink Locker Society books now.

Fortunately, there are other bookstores and websites that sell the book series. Here's some info about BUYING THE BOOKS.

The fourth book - GIRLS IN CHARGE - comes out September 27!

You can get a sneak peek HERE.

Think pink!
Jemma

How do you open a school locker?

School is on the way and since this is the Pink LOCKER Society, we decided we better talk about lockers. First, how do you open one?

Practice makes perfect, so you can try this at home if you have a lock. Opening a locker is all about three things:

• Knowing your combination - the series of three numbers that you have to turn to on the locker's dial.


• Knowing which direction to turn the locker's dial and how many spins to spin.


• Knowing a few tricks, like you can't go directly from the first number in the combination to the second number. You have to pass your second number once before pausing there.


• Knowing not to panic. Before you know it you'll be opening your locker without even thinking about it!

WATCH OUR VIDEO to see how it's done!

Here's a cheat sheet. The sample combination is 11-17-23, like in the video. If you know your locker combination, you can substitute it in steps #3, #4, and #5.

1. Spin the spinner 2 times in a clockwise direction to reset it.

2. Stop at zero.

3. Spin it clockwise again toward your first number: 11.

4. Spin it the other way (counterclockwise), but don’t stop at your second number (17) the first time you pass it. After you’ve gone around once, touch 17.

5. Spin clockwise again and go directly to your third number (23).

6. Pull down and open your lock!

Think pink!
Jemma

Comments we'll happily publish and ones we won't (and why)

We've published THOUSANDS of comments since we launched this blog. And we review EVERY SINGLE ONE first before deciding to share it with the world.

We do that for a few reasons:

1. We don't want people using swear words or talking about inappropriate stuff.
2. We don't want people being mean to each other - especially the person who's been brave enough to share a problem and ask a question.
3. We don't want anyone sharing too much personal info about themselves. For instance, we don't want to publish anyone's phone number or home address or email address.

But 99.9% of all the comments we get don't break any of those rules. And we are super amazed and grateful for the wonderful, kind, funny comments that you guys offer up every day.

Recently, we received a few comments we chose not to publish. One bunch came from someone who was pretending to be different characters in the Pink Locker Society books. It's excellent that you've read the books and know the details so well, but we'd like everyone who posts on this blog to be themselves. You don't have to give your name - Anonymous is fine - but we'd rather not have people pretending to be other people.

Another group of comments came from some girls who maybe didn't even realize they were being a little mean. We didn't publish those comments because they used what I call the "aggressive uhm."

What's that? When someone says "Uhm, or um or uh..." before the rest of their sentence and, by what follows, seem to want to the other person to feel stupid.

Here's an example:
Uhm, well for your problem you need to go to the doctor.

This just felt a little mean to us, so we deleted this comment.

Another one started like this...

Um, Annie, I have those allergies, too ...

Uhm + using another commenter's name = we won't publish it.

So stop the aggressive uhm and keep those wonderful kind, honest, and understanding comments coming!

Think pink!
Jemma

Start reading it now! GIRLS IN CHARGE - the 4th book in the Pink Locker Society series

Readers of this blog are especially special. That's why you get a SNEAK PEEK at the next book in the Pink Locker Society series. It's called GIRLS IN CHARGE.

In it, you'll learn a lot more about Forrest (yes, our saga continues). It starts on Valentine's Day, just to give you a hint.

You'll also find out how 8th grade ended up for me, Piper, Kate, Bet and the Pink Locker Society in general. Last, but not least, there's the matter of me becoming a BIG SISTER!

Start reading now. The whole book comes out on September 27.

Think pink!
Jemma

Healthy, strong bones = Strong, healthy girls!

Anyone who reads our blog knows that we want girls to be happy and also HEALTHY. Part of being healthy is having strong bones. You know that you can do certain exercises to get stronger muscles, but how do you get stronger bones?

Hint: It's a lot about what you eat and drink. A little dancing helps, too.

TAKE OUR QUIZ and see what you know (and don't know) about your bones.

Thanks to Best Bones Forever! for helping us get the right answers to these important questions.

Think pink!
Jemma

DanceStar asks ... How to you become a Pink Locker Society?

Awwww...thank you to DanceStar for this sweet question:

I was wondering how do you become a PLS? I want to be one.

That's really flattering that you'd like to be part of a Pink Locker Society. There's no official process. Maybe you and your friends could start a club and answer questions from other girls? Could it be something you do at school?

Best of luck with it and let us know how it turns out.

Think pink!
Jemma

Question No. 15: Lydia makes our day!

So as everyone knows, we promised to answer every question submitted on Valentine's Day and it's taking us, like, A WHILE to do that.

See all the questions HERE.

So it was sooo delightful to get to Question No. 15 and find that Lydia's question wasn't exactly a question. Here's what she wrote:

Dear PLS,
PLS all of u r supereme cool!!!!
Lydia, 10+

Thanks, Lydia. You are supreme cool, too!

Think pink!
Jemma

Question No. 14: It's a hairy leg emergency!

What is it about shaving your legs? You go along for all those years, not caring or not noticing that there's some hair on your legs. Then, all of a sudden, you can't stop noticing it.

Does the hair change or is it just that YOU have changed and suddenly you are NOT OK with hairy legs? Leg hair is today's topic of the day from E.P.

Dear PLS,
I have big black hairs on my legs and I beg my mom to let me shave but she won't let me what do I do?
E.P., 12

There are two important steps to take here: Talking to your mom and then learning how to remove hair safely. If your mom has said no, try a new approach. Have a longer conversation and try very hard not to get upset or angry.

Tell her calmly why you want to shave your legs. Are you being teased? Does the hair make you feel embarrassed to wear shorts and bathing suits? Ask if she remembers when she started shaving her legs and the reasons why she wanted to start.

Ask your mom to please show you how to do remove leg hair safely. You might mention that you're willing to try any method she thinks is best. Some moms are worried about girls using razors because they're sharp. Other moms just don't want their daughters to shave their legs because it feels like the girl is "growing up too fast."

If after a calm, mature talk, your mom still says no, what can you do? Ask her at what age she will feel comfortable with you shaving. At least you can negotiate a future date when you can start shaving. Goodbye, hairy legs!

Any other advice for E.P.? How did you convince your mom? And what was it like the first time you tried shaving?

Think pink!
Jemma

Question No. 41: Can you make your first period come faster?

Finally, 41! You guys have been asking for this question and here it is.

Hey PLS,
I need to know if there is any way to get your period sooner, and how to tell your mom when you get it and if it's ok to use tampons some before you get your period.
Thanks,
Kat-K.R.D, 10

Let's take Kat's questions one by one:

1. Can you speed up your first period?
No, you can't speed up your period. It's frustrating that there's no one age for first periods.

First periods come about two years after a girl starts developing breasts. And that happens during puberty, which can start as early as 8 and as late as 13.

2. How do you tell your mom when you get it?
The answer is any way you feel comfortable. You could say something simple like, "Mom, I think I got my first period." Or if you're feeling a little shy, send her a text, an email or leave her a note.

Some girls feel so nervous they don't tell anyone. That makes it tough because you need someone to help get you the supplies (pads or tampons) that you need. And you'll probably have other questions you'll want to ask.

3. Can you try tampons before your first period?
It's no problem to take one out and have a look - but doctors don't recommend actually inserting one before your period. You might want to ask your mom for some basic info before you get your period. Learning how tampons work can be part of the talk.

Any other advice for Kat about first periods?

There's more info here:
Periods
Tampons

Think pink!
Jemma

Question No. 72: How to deal with food allergies?

Eating is just something we do every day - no big deal, right?

Well, it's a pretty big deal if you have food allergies, like our friend Grace. It sounds to me like she's doing a good job of handling this problem. Do you have food allergies? Maybe you can give her some advice?

Dear PLS,
I have food allergies, so a lot of times I'm left out of things. My mom says people won't want to take me places because of the food. I've gotten used to not eating when everyone else is eating, but it makes me irritated when people complain that someone's eating in front of them, and that's what I live with. I don't want to say "Welcome to my life!" though either. What should I do?
Grace, 11 (almost 12!)

Hey Grace, I think you should ask your friends to read this: My Friend Has a Food Allergy. How Can I Help?

The message is for people to try to help you avoid the foods you have to skip. But that they shouldn't focus too much on your allergies.

Any other food allergic girls out there? What's your best advice?

Think pink!
Jemma

Question No. 71: Where is her passion?

Some people, even though they're only in middle school, are already realllllllly good at something, like sports or singing or doing math.

That's terrific, for them. You might hear teachers and parents giving them compliments and telling them how they're on track to be INCREDIBLY good at whatever it is. So they might someday get a scholarship or be famous, or whatever.

But that's not most of us. I'm OK at lots of stuff and pretty good at running and I get good grades. But I'm not a superstar and I don't really know if I have found my "passion."

Hannah is in the same situation. Let's give her some advice.

Dear PLS,
My sister has always wanted to play the violin and she's been playing it for 7 years. My mom calls it her passion. I haven't found my 'passion' yet, and I'm afraid it's costing my parents too much money if I'm trying new things.
Hannah, 12

I think 12 is a good age to try things, so I wouldn't feel guilty about that. Maybe look for things that you can try without spending oodles of money. If you like to try sports, look for free classes or stuff offered at your school.

May I recommend running, which is a low-cost activity, and you basically only need sneakers and a good, safe place to run. And I also wanted to say your question was very well written. Perhaps you have an interest in writing?

Most important, I would try not to feel pressure about this. I mean, I've heard of people who are in college and still don't know exactly what they want to do! Keep exploring, trying lots of stuff, and maybe your passion will sneak up on you!

Think pink!
Jemma

Question No. 16: Why are 6th grade girls so mean and unfriendly?

What an excellent question. Let's help Bailey figure this one out.

Dear PLS,
Why are girls so mean in sixth grade? They have groups and think they're popular. I'm sick of it. Some advice?:)
Bailey, 11

I sigh at this question because I think it's really LARGE. Why are people mean at all - whatever their age? But I'll give it my best shot.

I think girls are sometimes mean because they don't feel very confident. Sixth grade is a little wobbly because it's the first year of middle school. Everyone is kind of terrified that they will have no friends, will never be popular, and/or never get that certain someone to notice them.

I don't like it one bit, but girls might feel more confidence by sticking together in tight, impossible-to-break-into groups. They feel they belong because they don't let others into the group. And sometimes being mean and pushing people away becomes something this group does as an activity. It stinks, but I think that's why it happens.

What can you do? Here's the good news: You can create your own "in crowd" and it can be a nicer kind. All you need is a good friend. Two or three makes it even more fun. And you guys can hang out together and try not to worry to much about anyone else. By being nice to people, in general, your group might become popular for all the right reasons.

Agree with me Pink Locker girls? Any other advice for dealing with 6th grade meanies?

Think pink!
Jemma

Valentine's Day update!

OK, we admit it. We received 76 questions on Valentine's Day and we still haven't gotten around to answering all of them.

But, as promised, we DEFINITELY, will answer them all.

If you'd like to see all 76 questions, check them out. And if you are one of the girls who asked a question that hasn't been answered yet, thank you for your patience!

Which ones should we tackle next?

Think pink!
Jemma

Question No. 13: Eryn says boo to bras!

Some girls beg for a bra. Others say boo. That's Eryn. She's 11 and doesn't like them one bit.

Did you have to warm up to bras? If so, let's give Eryn some advice.

Dear PLS,
I JUST started wearing a bra. (Do you see my age?!) And, I don't like it! What do I do?
Eryn, 11

I think Eryn is an "early bloomer," which I know can be a little uncomfortable. Me, on the other hand, I'm just the opposite. I was anxious to get a bra and be just like the rest of my friends. But I get what Eryn is saying. She'd rather not have this new bother.

My advice is make sure you have bras that are comfortable. And if you don't like wearing them, skip them whenever you can, like on the weekends. A sports bra or camisole can take the place of a bra and be more comfortable, too.

Any other bra advice for our friend, Eryn?

Think pink!
Jemma