Swim Fan

Swim Fan

A high school senior with a promising swimming career has a one-night stand with consequences.

STORYLINE

New Jersey high school senior Ben Cronin is a former juvenile delinquent, whose past criminal behavior was fueled by and for drug use. He credits the support of his now longtime girlfriend Amy Miller and getting into competitive swimming as the primary reasons for turning his life around, which includes working part-time at a hospital where his single mother works.  He has become the star swimmer of his high school team, so much so that scouts from Stanford University are coming in a week’s time to watch Ben swim. Ben has a new swim fan in Madison Bell, a recent transfer student to Ben’s high school. Despite Ben making it clear that he is in a committed relationship, Madison seduces him, the seduction to which he succumbs. They agree afterward that their encounter was a one-time only event, but Ben slowly comes to the realization that despite Madison’s assertions to the contrary, she has more in mind with him. He feels her constant unspoken threats to expose their tryst and ultimately rebuffs her totally, unspoken threats to ruin his life in whatever means possible. Ben quickly learns to what extremes Madison is willing to go, especially when he finds out about her past. He has to figure out how to regain his life back from his known stalker, which is aided by the reason Madison is in New Jersey in the first place.

Synopsis

The story opens with Ben Cronin (Jesse Bradford) who is a star swimmer at his high school and being pressured by his coach to deliver when scouts come to watch him compete in a week. Ben also works at a hospital and has the perfect relationship with his girlfriend, Amy (Shiri Appleby), but the two are under a little pressure since they are leaving for college and aren’t sure if they will get into the same school. One day at school, he helps a new girl named Madison Bell (Erika Christensen) get her locker open by picking the lot with her hair pin. Madison tells him to keep her pin just in case she needs saving again.

Ben’s friend Josh (Clayne Crawford) tells Ben he has a thing for Madison, but she’s staying with her cousin Christopher Dante (James DeBello) whom Josh bullies. Later, Ben nearly hits Madison with his car accidentally, and takes her home, but she leaves her notebook of music in his car and goes to her house to return it. The two go to lunch and Ben tells Madison he’s been in trouble with drugs and stealing before, but he’s changed. Madison tells Ben she plays cello to escape her problems and flirts with him, but Ben tells her he has a girlfriend, which she is fine with. But wants to keep hanging out with him.

The two go to a pool, he encourages her to come out in the water, but she can’t swim and asks him to teach her. Eventually, she persuades him to have sex with her. Ben hesitates, but they do. She asks him to tell her loves her, even if he doesn’t mean it, and he does. They promise to keep it a secret. But Ben starts having trouble focusing on swimming because of his guilt and is criticized by the coach and Josh. At a party that night, Amy introduces Ben to Madison as a friend and the two try to pretend like nothing’s happened. Amy later goes to move Ben’s car, but Madison tells Ben that she left her panties in his truck. Ben barely gets there in time to stop Amy.

Ben tries to avoid Madison even after her attempts to page him and talk to him online with the screenname “swimfan85,” but Madison stops by his house and brings his mother flowers. Ben tells her to back off and Madison gets upset that he wants to pretend nothing even happened. The next day Madison sends naked pictures of herself to Ben and is almost caught by Amy. At swim practice, Ben discovers that Madison is now going out with Josh so he assumes she’s off his back. But she corners him in the locker room and wants to know why he hasn’t been returning her calls. Ben, fed up, just tells her he wants her to leave him alone, but Madison brings up that Ben told her he loved her. Flustered, Ben says she told him to but doesn’t know what else to say and leaves.

At work, Ben is in a bad mood. After somehow giving his favorite patient the wrong medication the patient nearly dies. Ben is fired. Furious, he goes to school to find Madison playing her cello which he throws down. He tells her to leave him alone once and for all, which she agrees to do. He decides to tell Amy the truth, but she’s busy with work they agree to talk the next day. At school the next morning, everyone knows about his one night stand. Amy slaps him and storms out with tears in her eyes.

The next day is the big swim meet. Ben’s urine tests showed traces of steroids and he is kicked off the team and disqualified. The scouts heave and Ben confronts Josh, convinced that he helped Madison. Because he had drug problems in the past, no one, even his mother or Amy, believes Ben. Later Josh and Madison are kissing in a car when Madison starts to call Ben’s name. Josh gets angry and even scolds Madison for messing up Ben’s life. Madison is upset.

In the locker room, Ben finds a bat in his locker which he sets down, then he goes for a swim only to bump into Josh’s dead body floating in the water. His head has been smashed in with a bat that the police say have Ben’s fingerprints on it. They tell him not to leave town. Ben goes to Madison’s house, but Madison is playing cello for her family. In her room, he finds a bottle of steroids and a hospital volunteer coat. Chris finds him there, tells him to leave or Madison will kill him and sneaks him out. With Chris’s help, Ben finds out Madison was obsessed with a sport’s star in her hometown named Jake Donnelly, who was almost killed in a car accident that Madison survived.

Meanwhile Madison is shown in Ben’s car dressed as Ben. She made a copy of his car key when she visited his house and she hits Amy on her bike with Ben’s truck. The police are looking for Ben at the hospital while Madison is dressed as a worker and intending to finish Amy off. But she hears Jake Donnelly’s name being called over the intercom and sees who she believes is him in the hallway. She follows him to the parking garage only to find out its Chris in Jake’s jacket. She attacks him with a scalpel but Ben stops her and holds it to her throat. She admits to Josh’s murder and says Ben doesn’t have the guts to do the same. Ben’s friend Rene (Kia Goodwin) recorded the whole thing. Madison is arrested.

Ben apologizes to Amy who forgives him and Ben returns home only to find that Madison has escaped and attacked his mother. Ben is knocked out. When he wakes up, he finds his mother unconscious and Amy missing. Ben gets in his car and gets a page from Madison that says “Feel like a dip?”

He heads to the pool where Madison has Amy handcuffed to a chair. When Ben arrives Madison demands Ben admit that he loves her, but Ben refuses so Madison throws Amy into the pool. Ben swims down to save her but is unable to lift the chair and every time he comes up for air Madison tries to hit him with a bat. He goes to Amy once more and finds Madison’s hair pin which he uses to pick the handcuffs and release Amy. Ben resurfaces with Amy in his arms while Madison tries to hit him again. He grabs the bat and pulls Madison into the pool while swimming out with his girlfriend. He gives her CPR to get her breathing again while Madison, who can’t swim, struggles to stay above water. Amy starts breathing again and when they look out to the pool they find that Madison has drowned. 

Pretty Little Liars - Why We Secretly Don't Want To Know A's Identity... Yet

Pretty Little Liars Whose Your A Today?

Pretty Little Liars :Why We Secretly Don’t Want to Know A’s Identity… Yet

Just like every Pretty Little Liars book by Sara Shepard, each ABC Family Pretty Little Liars episode is overflowing with juicy mysteries. The most prominent one of course us the ever-pending question of “WHO IS A?”

Everyone wants to know who’s the sinister stalker behind all those terrifying texts. Unfortunately though, only a handful of people know the creeper’s true identity, including the show’s marvelous creator/executive producer Marlene King. It seems like the Liars still have a while to go until they finally crack the case and find out who the culprit behind all the terror really is.

However, there’s no need to panic. We feel that, in the long run, knowing who Pretty Little Liars’ infamous A can be beneficial. See our top five reasons why below:

˜The OMG Mystery: What’s a heart-pounding case without a twisted villain? A lot of the PLL fun stems from the fact that we don’t know who’s lurking in the shadows of Rosewood’s pristine setting. (It’s never a proper night until A shakes things up a bit).

˜The Cool Leather Gloves: Um-hello… with his/her vast collection of expensive and buttery soft accessories (gloves, jackets, boots, etc.), A totally keeps the leather industry booming. And a good economy means happy people-right? Yeah, A!

˜The Snark Attacks: Let’s be real – A may be one twisted pup but, when it comes to sending texts and scrawling spiteful messages on a clean, white wall, he/she is a beast. We’re always excited to see what pretty little puns A will yank out of his/her hat of rhetorical mastery! More texts? Claro que si!!

˜Scary Can Be Fun: Rosewood may look pretty on the outside—but, on the inside, darkness lingers waiting for the right moment to strike out and inject its venom into an unsuspecting victim. The danger, the thrills, the crazy cliffhangers… each episode positively teems with Hitchcock suspense!

˜Forever and Ever: We’re obsessed with Pretty Little Liars the television series just as much as we’re addicted to Pretty Little Liars the books… and we don’t ever want to bid farewell to Aria, Spencer, Hanna and Emily and those spooky Tuesday nights in Rosewood. As long as A’s identity stays on the hush-hush, we can still tune in to our favorite show every week for more shockers, romance and d-r-a-m-a! (Plus, sometimes collecting clues is more fun than getting to the big reveal!)

Do you think that not knowing A’s identity is half the fun? Do you enjoy figuring out a mystery on your own? Tell us your take on A from Pretty Little Liars in the comments!

The Lying Game - OMG Moments From The Lying Game Premiere!

THE LYING GAME – TV – EPISODES

OMG MOMENTS FROM THE LYING GAME PREMIERE!

ABC Family’s suspenseful new series The Lying Game aired last night and what a scandalous affair it was! We seriously enjoyed tuning in and can’t wait for more upcoming episodes. And if you missed it, no worries because you can still watch the premiere HERE and/or read our “OMG Moments” recap below for the full scoop.

So here five OMG moments that went down in the Lying Game premiere:

˜Emma Becker loves exercising and sporting comfy duds. Emma Becker loves video-chatting with her long-lost twin. Emma Becker loves slamming tennis rackets across her lying, pervy scumbag of a foster brother’s face. Emma Becker rocks!

˜Sutton and Emma officially meet at a gas station while Taylor Swift’s “Enchanted” softly plays in the background. (Um… can we just take a minute to savor this magical moment?) Sutton informs Emma that she’s got a lead on their birth parents but, in order to follow up on it, that she needs to head to Los Angeles. (Cough Thayer cough). She asks Emma to pretend to be her for two days while she jets to LA and back. (Hmm—living in a mansion, cruising around in a BMW convertible, and having access to the greatest walk-in closet ever? Poor Emma).

˜Sutton’s arch nemesis Nisha has no idea who she’s messing with when she challenges “Sutton” (a.k.a. Emma) to a tennis match. Nisha thinks that “Sutton” will cop out and use her aching knee as an excuse to cancel the game. However, Sutton’s not herself these days (ha) and Emma conquers the tennis courts with her fiery backhand serve, and she proves to Nisha that the new Sutton Mercer is a force to be reckoned with. (Nisha looks almost as shocked as Travis did when Emma took him down!) Unfortunately though, Nisha gets in a little revenge by macking on Sutton’s boyfriend Luke. Emma spots the two of them locking lips together after the game.

˜Ethan Whitehorse is perhaps the most brooding, mysterious, and sexy guy in all of Scottsdale, Arizona. However, all Emma sees is a “Hungry Dumpty” slash stalker. Thankfully, Ethan neither resembles a short, bald-egg with a top hat and weird pantaloons nor a psycho. And, the reason he’s always hanging around is because he’s Sutton’s secret boyfriend. (That and he’s also probably looking for some action now that his girl’s back from Paris)! Ethan, though, suspects something’s up with his lady friend so he administers the ultimate test and plants a knee-melting kiss on her pretty, pink lips. Emma looks blissfully speechless for a second but then realizes that she’s been busted. Uh-so—will Ethan tell anyone?

˜We were planning on dedicating the fifth OMG moment to Emma for packing another punch… this time in Nisha’s direction at Nisha’s very own fancy schmancy fiesta. However, as fierce and crazy as that cat-fight moment is, the Mercer home robbery takes the cake. Why? Because nothing else gets stolen. The only item that the thief runs off with is Sutton’s deluxe laptop. (Either the “breaking and entering” culprit really loves advanced technology or he/she wants to tap into all of Sutton’s secrets that are really organized on her laptop.)

The Big Ta-Da: When Sutton doesn’t show up to the cabin meeting spot, Emma frets. However, Sutton’s fine and hanging out at a California carnival in a rented vehicle with the license plate EZP 265. She looks like she’s waiting for someone but the person who climbs in abruptly is definitely not someone she was expecting! A frightened Sutton gasps and the screen fades out. 

Shower Diva - Bachelorette Etiquette

SHOWER DIVA – WHERE THE FUN REIGNS

Bachelorette

Bachelorette Etiquette

Get on up! It’s time to party like you’ve never partied before!

Bachelorette Etiquette

Prepare to throw the rules out and bring the booyahs in! Hup! Hup! This is no ordinary tea party, ladies. We’re talking about the hottest, sexiest, wildest, glamour bash on the planet!

The Bride-To-Be’s Bachelorette Party (a.k.a. The Bachelorette) is a rite of passage – it’s the bride’s last night out on the town as a single woman. It’s also a major stress buster generally timed just before the wedding and is guaranteed to bring a major emotional release.

No matter what the Bride’s Bachelorette dream and theme turns out to be (barring a staid tea party that is!), the code of bachelorette conduct begins—and ends—with a vow of strict confidence!

Sisters, let’s get it straight from the gate. The Bachelorette is THE party where no matter what happens it remains a Sacred Trust between sisters. Forever!

So pop the champagne cork! Fill the flutes! Let’s take the Bachelorette Oath of Trust together, right now:

“I, (state your name) do solemnly swear that as a woman of the world I will respect and honor my sisters. I will not reveal the secrets of the evening. I understand that violating this treatment will spread bad karma upon my being and may result in increased bloating and cramping.

If asked about the happenings of the evening I shall reply:

‘Oh, you know, girl stuff, like opening presents and decorating the party with streamers. The bride’s grandmother was there.”

Amen! Yeah! Clink!

That last sentence in the Oath of Trust, where you tell the groom’s guys about the decorating, the presents and the streamers is a time-tested girl strategy! The minute the guys hear the first word-decorating – they’re tuning out. The eyes glaze over. The hand automatically reaches out for another beer. Remember those magic words: “decorating”, “streamers”, and “gifts”. Put them together in one sentence and you’ve got a perfect bachelorette alibi!
Okay, we’re got the Woman Code down. Now it’s time for Diva Darling Bachelorette Etiquette!

Who Throws the Bachelorette?

Anyone so long as she’s close friends with the bride. It could be her Maid-of-Honor, one of her bridesmaids, college sorority sister, favorite cousin, or out of town gal who is flying in before the wedding to pop for the bachelorette bop!

What’s the Theme?

Sleuth it out! Go one-to-one with the bride and tease out her fantasies. Ask her questions and get her creative fires lit. “If you could have one wish in the world fulfilled just before your wedding, what would it be?” Does that sound far fetched? Not necessarily! Listen closely to what she says. If it’s something unlikely to happen within a few days’ time—like ending all hunger on earth forever—there’s a symbolic way to make this happen while doing some real good.

Perhaps you’ll want to ask each bachelorette to make a financial contribution to OXFAM or CARE or to the U.N. World Food Programme in the bride’s name! Present her with a plaque or scroll and a small statuette at her Bachelorette and name her “Person of the Year”. There are as many creative ways to make “out of this world” fantasies come true then you might realize. It just takes imagination!

Perhaps the bride’s fantasies are linked to exotic islands and plush spas. If none of you can afford a Destination Bachelorette in the Bahamas or spa such as The Villa del Parco Hotel in Santa Margherita, Italy you can fulfill that fantasy by booking time at a local, affordable spa. Check out http://www.spa-addicts.com/ online to find one near you if you don’t know of one already.

By now you should have the idea. Above all, get it clear from the beginning what her levels of “wild and crazy” are. Not all bachelorettes want evenings on the town that involve dirty dancing, male strippers, attention from guys and heavy drinking. If your bride pal is on the more conservative side, plan an event that matches her personality and honors her values.

Who Gets Invited?

The usual suspects, Chica! The bridesmaids, closest gal pals, favorite co-workers or business partners, dear cousins, step-sisters, sorority sisters, you name it! Just so long as the bride agrees ahead of time that the guest list is filled with those who are emotionally close.

Diva Rule: Never invite anyone to the Bachelorette who isn’t also invited to the wedding. That would be tacky beyond belief!

Note: If the Bachelorette is anything other than a sedate high tea or evening where you sit around singing hymns, you might want to lose the maiden aunt, grandmother or—heaven forbid—her Mom or Mother-in-Law to be! If you’re planning a sexy lingerie and sex toys style Bachelorette, would you want your staid maiden aunt – or first grade teacher – sitting in a front row seat? I think NOT! We’re just talking common sense here.

Bachelorette’s usually don’t go over about 10-12 people. Ten or less is ideal. It’s easier to accommodate the crowd in restaurants, bars, spas, hotel party suites (such as those in Las Vegas), wineries for wine tastings, cooking classes, even at Extreme Boot Camp (a new craze) if your Bride-to-Be wants a day of workin’ it hard under military style pressure! Yeah, yeah, I know! There really are people who like that sort of thing.

Who Not to Invite

None of the groom’s ex-girl friends, no matter how close you happen to be to them. Alcohol and emotions running high could lead to upsets and (possibly) fights that I don’t even want to think about.

Find out from the bride if there is anyone she is dead set against inviting to her party. For example, the bride’s parents may have social favors to pay off which forces them into inviting the dreaded you-know-who to the wedding – someone like the boss’s witchy daughter. But if the bride can’t stand the sight of her, she’s not to set food anywhere near the bride or her bachelorettes!

When do you hold the Bachelorette?

Please don’t tell me you’re thinking of throwing the Bachelorette the night before the ceremony! It’s way to close to the biggest day of her life –her wedding! She needs to be rested, sober, centered and looking like a million bucks. So do her bridesmaids! Her wedding photo is going to shine all revealing lights on her and her wedding party. The very last thing the bride would want is to be photographed with dark circles under her eyes and looking green around the edges. No way! Sure, there’s Photoshop for those imperfections, but let’s try to remember that there’s not a software program in the world that can eliminate how she feels. If she feels sick at her wedding, not even a Renoir or Monet could reach inside and paint away memories of a migraine headache!

Strive to hold the Bachelorette anywhere from a week to two days before the wedding. If the party needs to come down to the last minute, try and start early so you can (fingers crossed!) get home earlier. Coordinating the Bachelorette to coincide with the timing of the groom’s Bachelor Party is a great idea. That way both bride and groom are freed up to attend other events where they both need to be present.

Yes, there are co-ed bachelorette/bachelor parties too! That’s a special theme which we’ll take up elsewhere on The Shower Diva.

Save-the-Dates, Invitations and RSVPs

Time is premium the closer the bride gets to her wedding day. The same is true for her attendants! Make sure you clear the party date well in advance with the bride, then send out those every famous Save-the-Date cards. The same rules apply for the planning phrase for the Bachelorette as for wedding shower planning.

Diva Rule – Don’t let invitees try to switch dates and plans on you. The Bachelorette may be a girls night out, but this time the party isn’t about “them.” It’s about the Bride-to-Be. Good manners means everyone falls in line. You bet your booty when it comes to be one of their turns, all the girlfriends are going to step up to the plate for her too! This is the Woman’s Code of Honor.

What About Gifts?

Optional! Since the bachelorettes generally chip in a pre-set amount to cover most expenses – including that all important sober limo driver – no additional shower-type gift is required. However, jokes, favors, sexy nighties, sex toys and the like are always welcomed – yeah! The more the merrier.

Budget – Who Pays?

As stated above, the Bachelorette is usually a shared expense divided among all the invitees. By the time the Bachelorette rolls around, the Maid-of-Honor (the lady who gave the bride her bridal shower) is most likely to be tapped out financially. Even if all the bride’s attendants chipped in for her shower, too. The more expenses you can pool, the easier it is on all concerned. Share, share, and share some more! You’re bound to have a glorious experience!

Here’s a partial list of the typical expenses bachelorettes usually spring for. Remember: The Bride-to-Be never, ever pays for a thing!

˜Transportation (Limos, Taxis, Trains)

˜Food and Drinks

˜Entertainment, such as a comedy club, Vegas headliner act

˜Exotic entertainment (strippers)

˜Overnight accommodations

˜Favors (they’re a must for memories!)

˜Gifts, if desired, for the bride such as lingerie, sex toys, etc.

˜Entrance fees – amusement parks, museums, etc.

˜Party incidentals – See’s Chocolate! (Forget Godiva, See’s is the best!)

If you’re hanging out in a hotel suite or weekending at an upscale spa, or even chilling at someone’s house, here are some other expense considerations

˜Sexy videos

˜Champagne and gorgeous champagne glasses

˜Romantic CDs of the Bride-to-Be’s favorite music

˜Body Paints

˜Whipped Cream

˜Romantic poetry

˜A sex manual!

˜Props – Pull Out All The Stops!

If you’re going out on the town or even if you’re staying in, check out a great tutorial at The Knot on The 7 Things You Must Have at a Bachelorette Party. Keep in mind before you click on the link that this is not for the prude or faint of heart – it’s very racy staff. If it’s not appropriate for the kind of Bachelorette the bride wants, skip it. Unless you’re curious of course!

The camera rule is all-important. Digital and disposable cameras ONLY. The Maid of Honor is in charge of confiscating all disposable cameras at the end of the evening. And all digital images must be approved before leaving the room. That way no unflattering pictures get printed and circulated at the wedding. Tacky beyond belief! – but you know WHAT? Things like that do happen.

But not on our watch here at The Shower Diva

Yahoo! I wish I was going out with you!

Her Campus -- Drunk -- Drunk Etiquette: 5 Rules For The Party Scene

Her Campus

Drunk

DRUNK ETIQUETTE: 5 RULES FOR THE PARTY SCENE

BY MICHAELA LEUNG

As college students, we are all pretty familiar with the party scene. Whether you’re an occasional bar-hopper, or every-weekend-function-goer; we should all be familiar with drunk etiquette.

Drunk etiquette is exactly what it sounds like. As much as we all love to have fun, as young collegiettes, we must stay ladylike at all times. Here are a few rules for how to have fun, be safe and remain ladylike.

*1. Establish the DD: This should be no-brainer, but sadly, it can sometimes cause problems. Before you leave the house, decide whom the DD is. If you don’t, at the end of the night, it could spark an argument or worse you could be left stranded or behind bars. That would definitely cause a major blow to any night. Just play it safe, and be clear.

*2. Know your limits: Yes, having fun is the ultimate goal, but as it is with all good things, moderation needs to practiced. No one wants to be seen hugging the toilet at the end of the night. You don’t want things getting out of control, resulting in you acting out of character or doing something you will regret the next day.

*3. Look out for your friends: As girls, we should look out for each other. Be conscious of your friends and situations they may be putting themselves in. Watch out for people who may be looking to take advantage of your friends. Also, be on the lookout and make sure they don’t do anything out of character. Don’t egg on your friends to do things they could potentially be embarrassed about the next day; the laugh you get out of it won’t be worth their reputations.

*4. Control your emotions: We are all known to get a little reckless with our emotions when alcohol gets involved. You may be an “angry drunk” or a “sad drunk,” but most importantly, remember that you are a “public drunk”. Don’t let your emotions get the best of you to the point where you’re the girl at the party crying or the girl getting kicked out of the party for causing an uproar. Either way, the only result will be total embarrassment.

*5. Be aware of your surroundings: You’re out to have fun, but unfortunately not everyone has such good intentions. While you’re focused on having fun, look at who is around you and where you are. Take note of the address and the look of the area just in case. Don’t put yourself in potentially dangerous situations just for a good time.

These tips can go a long way. For the sake of having a fun and successful night, keep these in mind next time you step out for a girls night!

Teenage Bucket List: 20 Things To Do Before You're 20!

Huff Post Teen Prom

TEENAGE BUCKET LIST: 20 THINGS TO DO BEFORE YOU’RE 20!

THE HUFFINGTON POST – BY HANNAH ORENSTEIN

There’s a reason that teen movies are so full of awesome adventures and misadventures – being a teenager is the perfect time for those fun, crazy things you would (probably) never do as an adult. You only live once (#yolo) and you’re only a teenager once, so make these years of friends and freedom count. Before you officially enter adulthood and turn 20, create a teenage bucket list of all the things you want to do and experiences you’re dying to have. Always wanted to take a road trip, participate in a flash mob or have a Hollywood-worthy kiss? Now’s the time to make it happen. See how many items you’ve accomplished – or that you still need to check off your list!

This is just our bucket list – so what’s on yours? Do you have any crazy, unforgettable memories that you want to make before you turn 20?

TAKE A ROAD TRIP

Pile into a car with your best friends and hit the road! Whether you pick a destination beforehand or go where the road takes you, you’ll have a blast.

HAVE AN EPIC KISS

Whether it’s in the rain like Allie and Noah, upside down like Spiderman and Mary Jane, or on prom night, go in for a Hollywood-perfect kiss with someone who deserves it!

TRY A FOOD YOU CAN’T PRONOUNCE

You never know – it might end up being your new favorite!

RECORD A COVER OF YOUR FAVORITE SONG AND POST IT ON YOUTUBE

It might lead to fame and fortune (a la Justin Bieber), or it could lead to a silly afternoon in front of your computer and a couple comments on YouTube. The only way to find out is to try it yourself and see!

GO SKINNY DIPPING

Go skinny dipping on a warm summer night with your friends. Just remember – leave your phones at home. This is one album you don’t want on Facebook!

PARTICIPATE IN A FLASH MOB

Totally crazy? Sure. But should you do it? Of course!

FALL IN LOVE – AND GET YOUR HEART BROKEN

Going through a major breakup or getting your heart broken is always a painful experience, but it makes you realize that you’ll come out the other side okay – and maybe even better than before.

SLEEP UNDER THE STARS FOR ONE NIGHT

Nothing is more beautiful than a night under the stars. Head into the woods for a weekend of camping ands savor the sights!

PULL A (FUN) ALL-NIGHTER

You’ll probably have to pull an all-nighter (or two) by the time you turn 20 to finish studying for a test or writing an essay. So it’s only fair to spend a second all-nighter – after a nap, of course! – full of fun with friends until dawn to reward yourself for a job well-done.

GO ELECTRONICS-FREE FOR 24 HOURS

If the thought of 24 hours without your cell phone, laptop and iPad makes you break into a cold sweat, cutting out electronics for a day could be a beneficial technology detox for you. Attempt to enjoy the break! You might find it surprisingly refreshing.

VOTE

This one’s a biggie. After you turn 18, flex your political power by voting in local, state-wide and national elections. You might be surprised how good it feels to voice your views.

HAVE A MEANINGFUL CONVERSATION WITH A STRANGER

You never know what you might have in common with the woman sitting next to you on the bus, the guy waiting in line behind you at the grocery store, or the couple sitting on a bench near you at the park.

GET A PASSPORT, AND TAKE IT SOMEWHERE!

Even if you don’t have the budget for a big post-graduation Eurotrip, everyone should still have a Passport. It doesn’t take too much time, effort or money to get one made, and you’ll have it for all your future travels for the next 10 years. In the meantime, whip it out as your form of identification on your next train or bus ride.

LEARN TO PLAY A SONG ON AN INSTRUMENT

Always wanted to learn to play “Blackbird” on the guitar or “The Scientist” on your brother’s keyboard? Make it happen. With a few weeks of lessons, a teach-yourself manual or even just YouTube tutorials, you can experience a different side of one of your favorite songs.

GET A JOB. ANY JOB.

Even if you can’t stand your summer job at the mall, the experience of having responsibility to an employer and making your own money is an essential part of the passage to adulthood. For better or worse, your first job is something you’ll never forget – so don’t wait until you’re out of college to get one!

WRITE A LOVE LETTER TO YOURSELF. OPEN 10 YEARS LATER

Profess your undying love – to yourself. Purely for the purpose of celebrating you, write a letter filled with all the things you love and appreciate about yourself. It’s a nice self-esteem boosting activity, and when you’re older, you’ll love the reminder of what made you are so awesome as a teen.

LEARN TO HAVE A BASIC CONVERSATION IN A FOREIGN LANGUAGE

Ever wanted to don a beret and have a conversation en francais, like a real Parisian? Make it happen! Get an audio guide or Rosetta Stone and learn to have a basic conversation in the language you’ve been dying to learn, whether its Swedish or Swahili. You never know when you might use it!

DANCE IN THE RAIN

There’s something about the act of dancing freely – and being caught in a major downpour – that makes you feel alive like almost nothing else does. So instead of running for cover the next time it starts coming down, start your own impromptu dance party and feel the rush!

GO TO A MOVIE OR DINNER BY YOURSELF

It might feel intimidating to go to a movie or out to dinner by yourself at first, but it builds tons of confidence.

LEARN TO COOK YOUR FAVORITE MEAL

Before long, you’ll be living away from home and craving your favorite home-cooked meal. Spend some quality time with Mom or Dad in the kitchen – they’ll be happy to teach you to cook for yourself! 

Prom Girl: Costs-- How Much Will The Prom Cost?

Prom Girl

Everything you need to know about Prom!

Besides a dress, the shoes, and all the accessories you need, what else do you need to know about prom? Read the tips from PromGirl’s Prom Guide and get the most out of your prom experience. Whether tips about cost, or info for your date, or how to best remember your prom forever, it’s in here! Just choose a section below or on the left to learn everything you ever wanted to know about prom.

Costs – How Much Will The Prom Cost?

It all depends on your budget. Cost can vary greatly. It could cost anywhere from $175 to $2100. Let’s try to break it down to give you and idea of what it may cost.

Prom Tickets:

$20 to $250 depending on the location. If your prom is being held in a fancy hotel, ballroom, or a night club it may be more costly than if it is being held in your school gymnasium. Remember, ticket prices usually include entry into the dance, the dinner, and the beverages, so find out before your plan to do a big dinner first!

Pre-Prom Dinner:

A lot of proms don’t provide a full dinner; so you may decide to go out to eat. Dinner could run anywhere from $25 to $130 per person. It depends on where you decide dine.

Hair/Makeup/Nails & Stuff:

This cost will vary depending on your choices. You may decide to go to a salon to get your hair, makeup, and nails done, or you might opt to do it yourself. The cost here could be anywhere from $30 to $275.

Prom Gown:

The cost of your gown is completely up to you, and your budget. You may stitch one up yourself, go to a “one-of-a-kind” boutique, visit a thrift store, or hit a department store. Most prom dresses cost between $100 and $400.

Boutonniere/Flowers For Him:

The boy’s boutonniere usually costs from $10 to $20. It depends on the type of flowers.

Formal Photography:

Prices for professional photos range from $30 to $125. Most prom committees arrange for a photographer to take portraits of couples at some point during the evening. You will probably receive a pricelist beforehand. They may be prepaid, or you may need to pay at the event, so don’t forget your cash or check. You may choose not to get formal photos and use your own camera. Hey, that’s cool too.

Limousine Rental:

Renting a limo is an extravagant option, but it is very common. They could cost anywhere from $200 to $500. The best approach is to get a group and split the cost. 

Prom Girl -- Dating

Prom Girl

Everything you need to know about Prom!

Besides a dress, the shoes, and all the accessories you need, what else do you need to know about prom? Read the tips from PromGirl’s Prom Guide and get the most out of your prom experience. Whether tips about cost, or info for your date, or how to best remember your prom forever, it’s in here! Just choose a section below or on the left to learn everything you ever wanted to know about prom.

Dating

Molly On… Dating

“I think traditionally, every girl dreams about having a guy ask her to prom just like in the movies… but in real life sometimes girls have to be bolder than guys. Some guys are intimidated by us gals, and really want to ask us out, but don’t know how. I think asking a guy is perfectly alright, as long as you feel confident… and just remember, if he says no, a pack of girls can sometimes be just as fun as a boy/girl date.”

The best way to turn someone down is thank them for their offer, then tell them that unfortunately someone got to you first. And tell them that you’ll see them there and save a dance for them. Even if you have no intention of dancing with this person, it’s still a nice gesture. Just be gracious. I always think to myself, wow, I made an impression on this person enough for them to dig up the courage to ask me out.”

Your Date

Advice on finding, keeping or ditching the guy of your dreams (or nightmares)

It’s year thirteen of the new millennium and this is not Peggy Sue’s prom it’s yours. What I mean by this is times have changed since the fifties. A lot of things that weren’t acceptable are now perfectly fine.

©You don’t need to have a boyfriend to have a date. It’s perfectly acceptable to go to prom with a group of friends. And they don’t have to be just girls either. You can go with a mixed group of guys and girls who aren’t “involved” with each other, just friends, and just fun.

©Going alone has become totally appropriate.

©Asking a boy to your prom is completely okay. Yup, it’s okay because it’s your prom and it’s your night. But, asking a young man if he would like to take you to his prom may be a little too forward. Good manners dictates whoever’s school is throwing the prom has the asking privileges, but it’s your call. Mom may say that this is wrong, but again times have changed. You may want to talk this over with her, keep in mind to stay level headed. Don’t argue, or tell her she is old, just tell her that it is accepted in today’s society to call boys, and ask them out.

I know that no matter what I say, there are those of you who will insist on finding a boy to take to the prom. Just remember that the sooner you get a date the better. You will have a lot of planning to do.

Remember: The soon you get a date the better. You and your date will have a lot to do.

How to Talk to Boys

For those of you who have no problem talking to boys or getting boys to talk to you for that matter, read this. It never hurts to brush up on your communication skills. You might just learn how to catch that perfect boy who has been mysteriously unobtainable.

So you’re nervous about talking to this guy (that’s completely understandable). You would really like him to ask you to the prom, but first you have to get him to notice you. Then you have to get him to talk to you.

First off, don’t stare. That could creep him out! If you’re lucky a simple smile could work. Then if he comes over; you’re halfway there. Uh-oh! You panic! You can’t think of anything to say. You have to talk! Here are some Ice Breakers…

Be Direct

“What’s your name?”

(If you know it say) Well, hello, Matthew Martin! (But only if that’s his name)

Be Funny

“You live around here?”

“Do you go to school here?”

(WARNING! This is only funny if you’re in school at the time)

“Looks like the love portion I slipped in your grub at lunch worked. You do worship me now don’t you?”

Excuse me…

Is it “many are called but few are chosen,” or “many are cold but few are frozen?” By the way do you have a date for the prom?

Be Flirtatious

But only if that’s in your nature

“I couldn’t help but notice you drooling over me.”

“Would you like to take me out sometime, like prom night?”

Or Be Funny And Flirtatious

*Your name must be Visa, because you’re everywhere I want to be.”

*”I seem to have lost my phone number, may I have yours?”

* “ I’m new in town; may I have directions to your house?

* “There must be something wrong with my eyes; I can’t take them off you.”

* “Are you from Tennessee? Cause you’re the only ten I see.”

* “ May I borrow a quarter? I’d like to call my mom and tell her I just met the guy of my dreams.”

* “You must be tired, you’ve been running through my mind all day.”

* “If I could rearrange the alphabet, I’d put U and I together.”

* “Did it hurt when you fell from heaven?”

* “Are you a surgeon? Cause you took my heart away!”

* “Do you have a band-aid? I scraped my knee when I fell for you.”

* “ Look at his shirt label and when he asks what you are doing say, “I’m checking to see if you were made in heaven.”

* “Is it hot in here or is it just you?”

* “If I pet you would you follow me home?”

Get His Attention

Now that you have his attention, you’ll have to make conversation. You also want to get to know him. Okay he’s cute, but do you have anything in common? Is he good to you? Find out! Ask him some questions. Ask him something about him, sports, clothes, art, movies, music, current affairs, even school. Don’t start off the conversation talking about you. While I’m sure you’re very interesting, you want to know about him, don’t you?

Remember: Even the coolest guys feel insecure about approaching girls; not to mention asking them out—

It’s wise to know that some guys may feel uncomfortable about going to your prom for reasons of often than you. Maybe they can’t dance, or they think they will look funny in a tuxedo. He may also be wondering if he can afford all of this. Things can add up, the tickets, limousine, dinner, corsage, photos and who knows what else!

That’s why you’ll have to get him talking. Find out if there is anything you can do to help. Then you can get him to ask you to the prom.

You hate his choice of music, movies, sports, or politics…

You found a guy you would like to get to know better. He’s cute and athletic but you notice an ICP sticker on his book bag. You Hate ICP. You think their repulsive. Don’t worry about it. I’m sure there are many ideas and opinions you have in common; find them. No need to zero in on one or two things you disagree on. And don’t make the common mistake of pretending to like things he likes just so he’ll like you. Besides, once you have him eating out of your hand you can introduce him to music you like… that is if he hasn’t got you hooked by then. Remember it is a two way street.

Dating: Other Schools

The Prom Date From Another Planet

If there isn’t anybody in your school you want to ask to the prom, or wants to ask you, you may be luckier than you think. Look at your love-struck friends whose grades and performance are suffering because they can’t go to their third period class without touching base with lover boy at his locker.

Still, if you feel uncomfortable about going date less: solution! Talk to a cousin, aunt or another family member who doesn’t live too near you, and let them know that you are on the market for a prom date. Talk to someone from another neighborhood preferably from another school district. You won’t believe how many available dates come out of the woodwork! Aunt Edna will know the cutest boy!

Advantages of Interplanetary Dating

I know, I know, you feel a little on the edge because your date is from the great unknown. You’ve heard the expression “always look on the bright side”? Here are some of those sides…

*1. You don’t have the fear of rejection! Nobody but your best friend, sister, cousin, mom, Aunt Edna or whoever fixed you up knows you’re even fishing in another pond. So if he blows you off, you won’t have to hear about it in school on Monday. He’s not from your school or even your world.

*2. You can dump him after the prom. You can just go back to your own planet and forget you ever met him. When you’re friends ask whatever happened too… you can just tell them the truth; you dumped him. If he dumped you, you can tell them that too. People often say, I dumped him, even if it was the other way around. Steer clear of lying, if you are embarrassed to say you were dumped, just tell them you broke up, or it didn’t work. If you get a rep for telling lies, no one will want to believe you about anything. Besides, some people will believe what they want anyhow.

*3. There is a certain amount of intrigue and appeal to having a mystery date! You may develop a completely different aura and become more interesting to your classmates!

How To Turn A Dude Down

Uh, oh! Mr. Not-So-Right has just worked up the courage to ask you to the Prom. Don’t panic. It’s not as bad as you think. Try these simple rules to stay cool, and to let him still think you’re all that!

Do Be Honest: Tell him you’re flattered and you’re glad he thought of you. Then explain your situation. “I already promised my friends we’d all go together, “or “There’s someone else I was planning to ask.”

Don’t dangle the carrot in front of him: Saying maybe is the ultimate in bad manners. If he’s a suitable second choice, then you should ask choice #1, to insure Mr. Almost-Right doesn’t have time to find another date if #1 falls through. Then you can be the decision maker.

Don’t Lie: Claiming you’re skipping the prom will come back to bite you. He’ll see you there and you’ll look like a total jerk and even feel worse!

Do Consider His Feelings: Treat him with respect and be genuine when you see him in the halls. He’ll come out of it with a not-so bruised ego, and you’ll have one more admirer in the world.

10 Dating Crises (Part 1)

What’s The Worse That Can Happen?

Dilemma #1: Date doesn’t dance.

Everything is perfect. You (of course) look fabulous, thee music is superb, the lights are low, and the perfect song cones on. Problem! Your date won’t get out on the dance floor.

Solution: Don’t freak out, he might not know how to dance. Start him out slow! Begin with a few slow dances, and gradually work him up to fast up to faster dances. If he still refuses, just go have fun. Dance with your girl friends.

Dilemma #2: Date can’t keep his hands off of you.

All evening, your date lavishes a lot of attention to you. You totally eat up. But after the partying, he still won’t lay off. It gets a little creepy, and he needs to back off.

Solution: Well… you do look great, but this is no reason for him to lose respect for you (or control). Just talk to him. He may just be caught up in the whole romance of the evening. Try to not make a scene, but if he still won’t back off, make as much of a scene as necessary.

Dilemma #3: Date hates his picture taken.

Your date arrives at your house and everyone is ready for picture taking. You go to that perfect little picture spot, and show your beautiful smile. Then you look up to see your date with no expression on his face. What to do, what to do?

Solution: Try to loosen your date, tickle him or push him in jest. If this doesn’t work, just ask him to smile and act like he wants to go to prom. If all else falls, give him the puppy dog lip and eyes. That always works!

Dilemma #4: Date dances with another girl.

Your guy likes to dance so much that when your feet get tired, and you need a rest he keeps going like the “energizer bunny.” When you sit down and realize he is not following you, you look for him to find he is dancing with someone else!

Solution: What would you do in his situation? If she is a friend of his, try to be understanding. He is just having fun. But if she is some random girl, or one of those girls that you just can’t stand, get back onto those dancing feet and cut in. Don’t be rude about it, but make it obvious that he is yours.

Dilemma #5: Date’s tux doesn’t fit.

Its 24 hours before the big day, and your date goes to pick up his tux. Like a good boy, he tries it on when he gets to the shop. They ordered him the wrong size, and everything is way too tight!

Solution: Usually it is just a mix up of orders, and someone else’s tux will be too big, but if the shop is isn’t able to do anything about it, try going to another shop if this doesn’t work, see if anyone you know has one he can wear. Or, you might be able to buy one. Check out the local department store. Even some thrift shops have inexpensive tuxedos.

Ten Date Crises (Part 2)

What Else Could Possibly Happen?

Dilemma #6: Your date doesn’t show up.

So you are all ready and waiting for your date to arrive. And waiting, and waiting, and waiting…

Solution: The first thing you should do is try calling his house. If nobody answers or you don’t know his number, call up some of your friends that are going to prom. Ask if you can hitch a ride with them, and try to enjoy yourself as best as you can. Believe me, there may be a million reasons he didn’t show, and you can deal with that later! Leave word for him if he shows at your house, and go to the prom anyway.

Dilemma #7: Your date is bored and wants to leave.

Your date doesn’t seem to be into this whole prom thing. He’s had that “is it over yet,” look on his face all night. When you try to talk to him, he tells you how bored he is, and asks you if you want to leave.

Solution: Tell him how important the night is to you. If he doesn’t understand or just keeps complaining, let him go home. He’s not worth your time if he can’t sacrifice a little boredom for your sake.

Dilemma #8: Your date leaves during the prom.

You take a minute to fix your makeup and hair in the ladies room and when you return, your friends inform you that your date left with his buds to start the partying early.

Solution: Don’t take it personally! If a guy can do this on one of the most special nights of your life, then he is a real creep! Just finish the night off and have fun without him. Your friends will be there to bad mouth him, and cheer you up. Be glad you found out now, before anything serious developed.

Dilemma #9: Your date picks out the gaudiest outfit on Earth.

You didn’t have tine to go with your date to pick out his tux, but you did tell him not to clash with your dress. Well he shows up and it doesn’t matter what dress you would have chosen; he clashes with everything!

Solution: Well… it’s his prom too. Okay, so it was inconsiderate of him to get such a flashy outfit, but what can you do? It’s already time to go. Just go and have fun. Whatever you do, don’t cry and ruin the makeup that took forever to put on. Who knows, this may put you in the yearbook a bunch of times. At the very least his tux will be a topic of conversation.

Dilemma #10: Oops! Your date is shorter than you when you wear heels.

After pondering over whom the perfect prom date would be, you choose one. And the winner is_______ (fill in the blank with prom date). He’s funny, smart, sweet, and… short!

Solution: Don’t ever let any bit of vanity get in your way. Beauty is only skin deep. Just don’t let this problem get any worse, buy flats. If anyone dares say anything, don’t hurt his feelings. Jus smile, and say “he is perfect,” and continue with your perfect evening.