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Millenials seek work's benefits: leisure, money - WTOP Radio

(AP) - GEN Y AT WORK: Millenials want more vacation and time for themselves away from the job than young people did 30 years ago, and they also value compensation more, according to a recent study. That may be setting them up for intense ...

Just Who IS Elinor Burkett? (Besides the Woman Forever Known as Kanye ... - Gather.com

By now most of us know Elinor Burkett as the onetime co-producer of Oscar-winning short documentary Music by Prudence who interrupted director Roger Ross Williams' acceptance speech to bray "Let the woman talk. Isn't that the classic thing?" But what ...

Should I see him again? - Boston Globe

I love your column and read it every day. I am hoping for some great advice. I apologize in advance as my story/question is a little long winded but I think the background is needed. I am in my mid 40s and was married for 10 years and have 3 great ...

March 2010 - Weblogs.baltimoresun.com

Have you gotten any tempting offers in the mail from the National Service Award Advisory, or perhaps the Prize Information Bureau? The Consumer Protection Division of Maryland's Attorney General's office charged National Service Award Advisory , a ...

Atlanta Tops the Hotwire 2010 Travel Value Index - Biloxi Sun Herald

SAN FRANCISCO, March 9 -- /PRNewswire/ -- Hotwire.com® , a leading travel discount site, today announced the results of its fifth annual Hotwire® Travel Value Index study, naming Atlanta as the top 2010 destination for vacation deals. Hotwire's ...

HomeAway Keeps Adding On - Private Equity Hub

HomeAway Inc. , an Austin, Texas-based operator of an online vacation rentals website, has acquired the publisher of Brazilian vacation rental site AlugueTemporada.com.br . No financial terms were disclosed. HomeAway has raised over $480 million in ...

The Social Earthquake in Chile - New America Media

Many of the ministers were gone on summer vacation, or licking their wounds as they prepared to turn over their offices to the incoming right wing government of billionaire Sebastian Piñera, who will be sworn in this Thursday. Bachelet declared that ...

Apple getting bigger than Wal-Mart - MSN Money

Just a decade ago, Apple's (AAPL) market cap was several billion dollars. Now, the company's market value is nearly $200 billion, reports Tiernan Ray at Barron's . Wal-Mart's (WMT) market cap is about $206.4 billion, which means Apple could soon ...

On Native Ground - American Reporter

DUMMERSTON, Vt. -- There is much about the case of Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab, the 23-year-old Nigerian accused of attempting to explode a plastic device aboard a flight from Amsterdam to Detroit on Christmas Day, that doesn't add up. If airport ...

Trial under way in dispute over confirmation of Six Flags ... - Chicago Tribune

WILMINGTON, Del. (AP) — Six Flags Inc. on Monday began defending its proposed Chapter 11 reorganization plan, which would give holders of senior secured notes issued by its operating subsidiary more than 90 percent of the equity in the new company ...

Open Question: Where should i go for Vacation?

I get 2 weeks paid vacation a year.. now .. because of the industry im in I cant take both weeks in the 'summer' time *may-aug* but i can take a week here .. or a monday and a firday there ... something like that.. but heres the kicker I dont know where i want to go! ... ive got some ideas ... but dont really know what i want to do ... so... I turn to the ever intelligent group of us who are answer-holics and see what we can come up with... I dont mind driving * id have to rent a car* I would love to fly i would love to take a cruise Ive got about $1500 bonus i was going to use for a vacation fund so... any ideas? more

Open Question: how can a teen take financial revenge?

i am 20 years old today. my story goes back to summer 2006 when I was running my own go-kart tuning shop. there was a guy whom i had given massive support to win his first national race; engines, chassis, spare parts and the most important of all, my 16 year old summer vacation. in return, this d-bag ditched me with $1500+ debt. he never answered my calls and when i saw him, he acted like nothing had happened between us. its been 4 years. i take is as a life lesson, but it still hurts. What can I do to this guy so I can feel better after all? Time for REVENGE more

Open Question: wondering about vacation time?

ok so my employer gives me ten vacation days at the beginning of the year. I work in a car parts factory, so when the major car manufacturers have their summer and winter shutdowns, so do we. I am forced to hold 7 of my vacation days to cover these periods of shutdown. does this sound right? should they be allowed to give us vacation time but refuse to let us use it? just wondering. pisses me off. more

Open Question: ending a long term relationship advice please?

I am a senior in high school and have been dating my boyfriend for the past year. I am going away for college and he is not and we both know that we are not going to be together forever but still its hard...i thought that we would at least make it to the end of the summer but now im having doubts about even making it until the end of the school year. I could explain all the ups and downs of our relationship but that would take forever so the gist is we never had that much in common to begin with, as i have gotten to know him better i liked who he was before i got to really know him i guess because i saw him from a different perspective things are obviously not good if you are disliking someone the more you get to know them, i am at a point where i am having more fun hanging out with my friends than with him but to conflict with all of these obvious reasons we shouldn't stay together other than the fact the he smokes almost everyday and that has a bad impact on our relationship he is really a genuinely nice guy who repects me and treats me well. Hes not a bad guy and i perfectly enjoy his company i just think that i have settled or am just plain satisfied or content with where i am but am not particularly having the time of my life. We have already been extremely close to breaking up so this is sord of my second chance that i already gave him for things to get better and im at square one. We actually had a really great day today we went swimming and hung out and had some intimacy if you get what im saying and these thoughts are completely irrelevant to how i was feeling but then i had about a 2 hour talk with one of my best friends who knows both of us and its just to the point where im comfortable and could go on but whenever anyone asks my opinion about how i really feel about how my relationship is i always seem to come up with what i just told you and how we shouldnt really be together. Its hard because im really close with his family and even some of his extended family i know things like that shouldnt be the reason to stay in it but it does make it hard its a lifestyle that ive adjusted to. Im at the point where i dont need to break up with him and could at any moment but its not an emergency its just i want to do what i want to do as a senior in high school with my friends and not feel trapped or limited in terms of going on vacations with guy friends or anything like that because i have a boyfriend. im not lookign for another relationship and dont like anyone its just an evaluation. Im not really sure what im asking but more than opinions should i break up with him now even though its random and nothing is really wrong? what should i do? who else has been in my shoes? anything will help thank youbtw i didnt lose it to him which isnt really important but it does remind me that im his first realtionship but hes not mine which makes me feel more guilty i jsut feel like im breaking his heart the first is hard to lose but i get what you saying yea i think everyone gave me pretty good advice more

Open Question: I miss my elementary school.?

I miss my elementary school a lot, now I'm in 7th grade and like it sucks, I'm already in my 3rd quarter. Ok, so in elementary school, you could save things till the day before it's due and turn it in and get an A+, you didn't have to study to get A+'s, I A+ced my whole way from 2-6 grade. They were the best experiences and breaking the rules at school with my friends were fun. The rules were just too strict, like no playing tag anymore since people get hurt. We played that for a while too. Then, at lunch in 5th grade we would go to a tree around 200 meters from the teacher's classes to a tree. We somehow agreed on who to be the person who tags and seeks the people who hide. Hide and go seek basically. And we ran around the whole school. It wasn't that fun, but other things were more fun. Breaking rules was a funny theme in 5th grade. In 6th grade, there was a great climax in my life. So our teacher was sick for around 5 months and substitutes came all along. Though before that, during around the end of November. Our class did a project for a event called Carnival at our school hosted on a certain date. And I luckily got in the group with the girl I had a crush on since 4th grade and she came to my school at 4th grade. Well, she didn't really care or notice, but a lot of boys liked her because she was pretty hot and had a big chest and stuff. Though I only liked her because of her shy personality and violent thoughts on the inside. No one else noticed that. Ok, so back in the group. In the class, everyone gets into groups and makes their own projects. I though of an idea with water because activities are always fun with water. There's this spinning wheel and you spinto see what number you get on. Then, there's this water tub thing that you need to fill up water with. Theirs cups and on the bottom of each cup, there'll be a number then you chose your prize depending on the number. I got most of the idea and we did it. Me and the girl's relationship started getting closer and we had some projects together and that's how it started. We passed notes pretty often just about regular stuff. We messaged each other on the computer, I used to message her everyday on the computer since 4th grade. Eventually, during this love period, I found out that she liked me a bit in 4th grade, not in 5th grade, and now she likes me in 6th grade. Ok, that was cool, since my dream finally came true with 3 years of effort. We were intersted in anime and maplestory stuff. We talked a lot and began aiming. We played together like really often though I became a jerk since most guys take advantage or like are just acting dumb when they try to act cool or something and got her mad like 5 times. Though we became lovers again during each breakup. This is not drama, it's just my elementary school experience. I asked her to let me hold her hand. Cmon, don't laugh or hate on me, just think of it has a child's elementary school love story. So then, it was all good till the end of 6th grade. I never go to play day though, it's the last day of school with carnival like stuff except you dont need to pay tickets. Then, I screwed up during this summer. I got her mad once, and I didn't reply to her and she barely replied to me. We broke up... That got me really depressed and ruined my vacation.... Though other than that, in 6th grade it was really fun. Remember how my teacher was sick for 5 months, this woman with boobs that hanged down her stomach was the substitute, people made jokes about her and she assigned us as cience project due the next day that she never graded and lost some of our math assignment, only for the late people though. I never had late work in elementary school. Then, me and my friends, the girl i like and this other really funny girl would talke, the funny girl would share her ipod with me and like watch stuff on her ipod. Aiming was brought popular by me and the funny girl. Then, another important thing was after school. Like I hung out with the funniest guy ever, well he was deaf in one ear, but that made no difference. Like in 5th grade, he was climbing up the slide, but my other friend knocked him off and he feel like 2 feet. Then, he lay there with his eyes closed. Me and 5 other people were staring at him, we're all friends. Then, after 30 seconds. The bell rang, he jumped up, he made a really angry and hilarious constipated face and yelled,"Super Saiyan 4". Then, he ran to the line. And another time was when he was chewing gum and this teacher didn't allow us to chew gum. The teacher caught him and told him to give it to her. She put her hand out and my friend spat his gum on the teacher's hand. Then, she was sighing and yea they went through this funny stuff and he answered the teacher himself saying he should've put it in a tissue and give it to her, but he was still laughing and saying that she told him to give it to her. So in 6th grade after school I would hang ou more

Open Question: Is this fate, or is life trying to torture me?

I'm 18. Long story short, there was this girl I was friends with and I liked her. Well, she didn't like me and after that a whole host of problems happened because she didn't trust me. I tried my best to be her friend, but it was difficult. She really didn't care about how I felt or how she lied to me. Well, we stopped talking for a bit, she came back, and then we talked again for a while. But I asked her again and she said no. So I did the mature thing and stayed away to deal with it. Well, when I came back, she flipped out and started accusing me of things. I asked her I would like to start over, she just said to give her space and it would probably take years for her to get over it. It's been three months and we haven't talked since. We just so happen to have the same classes, so that is hard to deal with. We sit at opposite ends. Her and I don't even acknowledge each other's presence and it's very awkward. Well, something weird about us is that we have almost the exact same birthday. Also, I've seen her accidentally quite a few times, especially during key moments in my life. It's hard to explain that without getting into the full story, but just trust me. Yesterday I went to visit my high school and her friend just so happened to be there. I also saw a picture of her. Then this guy kept mentioning her, as if he had no idea what was going on between us. I said nothing, but believe me, I didn't want to talk about it. And now, the real shocker is that yesterday, I went to the theatre to escape my problems. Well, she just so happened to be there ushering. Essentially, my problem was there greeting me at the door. And it's kind of funny because when I gave her my ticket, she told me to enjoy the show in a lower tone than everybody else got. The same problem happened when she just so happened to be in the row in front of me during that last show. So basically, these past three months have been difficult. It's either I keep hearing her name, or I keep seeing her accidentally, or something reminds me of her. And the worst part is that her and I are actually attempting to go down the exact same path in university. We both want to act, we both want to audition for the program in university. Hell, I wouldn't be surprised if her audition date was the exact same as mine. You know, I am really angry and bitter about this and I tried to be her friend, but she was the one who left me. I tried to be a good, supportive friend, but she used me. And yet I still care about her. Though I hate her attitude, I like the person that is beneath that, but she won't reveal that part. I just want us to make up and be friends again, but she just won't let me. So now I'm trying to understand just what is going on. Either two things are taking place here: her and I are meant to be together and fate is trying to force us together somehow, or fate is simply trying to torture me. I just don't get it. I'm trying so hard to get over this and move on with my life, but fate clearly doesn't want me to. Believe me, I can't wait for my summer vacation so I won't have to deal with her for a while. Can you please help me understand this?And yes, I'm putting this in the mental health section because I already have some significant problems and this is only making it worse. I've been thinking about suicide more deeply recently, not just because of her, but also due to several other things going on in my life. Don't tell me to go to a counselor because I'm already seeing one. I just need a bit more help. more

Open Question: You are so selfish! you only care about yourself?

You are so selfish! you only care about yourself? My cousin is staying with us for a couple of months during the summer and I had all these plans with friends. My parents now told me that I can't hang out or go places for 1 month because we have to make her feel welcome (going shopping vacations and stuff) I wouldn't mind it if my best friend didn't have to go to europe for a year. I asked my parents if we could switch months like instead of doing vacations in june we can go in july. 2 questions #1 question- Am I really that selfish #2- would you rather have your child hang with a friend she wont see until begging of next year or with her cousin that she can see litterly everyday? The vacations have yet to be set.my cousin doesnt need help she can hang out with me and my friends she can go she has a car. more

Resolved Question: Did your family spend vacations together?

Even though we weren't very well off, my dad usually managed to take all of us on a week long vacation every summer, although with six children it couldn't have been much of a vacation for my mother, ha ha. We pretty much stayed in our home state of Michigan, but would rent a cabin "up north" on a lake, Houghton Lake or Torch Lake, and we had fun fishing and swimming. Sometimes we'd take a cousin with us, someone we didn't get to see all the time. Once we traveled through the Upper Peninsula, through to Canada at Sault Ste. Marie, and traveled back south through Ontario. What memories do you have of vacations with your family? Do families still do this, or are there too many commitments at home? more

Open Question: Cheap Summer Vacations from Hawaii?

What are the cheapest places (NON-US, CARIBBEAN, CANADA,or MEXICO) to go to from Hawaii for a summer vacation? Please help me :) I live in Hawaii and I'd like to go somewhere out of the country but NEW.. that I haven't ever been to... What are the cheapest places I can go to from here? more

Resolved Question: What do I do about my friends leaving me out all the time?

I am in 8th grade. At the beginning of the school year, a new school was built in my area and I switched schools. NONE of my friends came with me. Ever since summer vacation, it's like my friends have gradually been drifting away from me. At the last school, there was a group of about 4 of us. We hung out together and what not and it was all good. :D Then, I got into a huge fight with two of the people in the group and I'm kinda NOT friends with them anymore. My other friends, who I have known way longer than the other two, are still friends with them. Ever since summer vacation, one of my friends has labeled herself bi and now has a crush on one of my other friends (who she is very close to me as well.) Although there were 4 of us, I am only really close with two of them (the bi and her "crush", both of whom are my best friends.) Not only that, but it's like I don't matter as much to them. My thoughts and my opinions aren't worth as much. Over the months, they've gradually stopped talking to me as much. I have to put forth the conversation, and when I ask about hanging out they usually just decline and say they have plans or that they can't. I put on a brave face and be cool about it, but really I'm broken. This is even in cases where I've asked a week in advance to hang out. I have other friends, and I hang out with them too, but these two people are my best friends. I've known them the longest (ever since middle school, when I moved here.) I don't know what I did. I'm always nice, I quickly take the blame for arguments just to avoid fights in the first place, I give them gifts and I make them laugh. We share secrets and have fun. Now? Not so much. They're indifferent towards me. They don't care about my feelings. They shrug it all off. Really recently, (today actually) The friend I'm not friends with anymore, and my two best friends went to go see Alice In Wonderland. I actually ASKED one of my friends on SUNDAY if we should go see it together and tag along my other best friend too. She told me that she already had plans to go see it. I was just talking to my other best friend (the crush one) on Facebook and she told me that she just got back from seeing the movie with both of them. She also told me that they just planned to see it on Wednesday. (This is the one my bi friend has a crush on. She's very mellow and gives the straight facts. I guarantee that she isn't lying or anything.) Why did my other friend lie to me? This is DEFINITELY not the first time she's done things without me. And I can't just stop being friends with her. I really do care about her. I don't want to lose another best friend. I have talked to them about it a couple of times face to face. (I don't talk about serious matters over texts or IM). They say sorry but don't understand how they're leaving me out. I'm sinking into depression and am always crying. And no, I can't just make new friends at my school. I'm not shy or anything. I'm actually pretty social, but I'm not close enough to anyone there that I'd actually call a friend and hang out with. I've had a sit down talk with both my parents and told them everything, and they gave me advice and it's helped a little bit, but now it's worse than when we started. Do they ignore me because I don't go to school with them anymore? Not seeing me face to face just makes them forget about me? What do I do? I just can't pretend to be happy anymore.I actually did call up one of my other best friends to ask if she wanted to see the movie with me. I've still got her and another one at least. I think my bi friend is just going through a phase. :\ I think she got two wires crossed and now she thinks she's bisexual all of a sudden. She could be so... young sometimes. (But I'm young too so...?)Thanks, you guys make me feel motivated. :D It's not that they're bad friends. It's not like they do this a LOT. I'm just having trouble with mainly one friend (and that affects almost all my friends) I have a couple of friends going to Charter high schools, but most of them are just going to the one near their junior high. But you are right. I AM young and everyone goes through this I figured that out soon enough, I guess when you're young though, it feels like the whole world will shatter with just one tiny crack. I've told myself I'll make more friends in high school, and I will. Actually, most of my friends are guys, the only girl ones are the ones I listed. Anyways, thanks for motivating me. I've been feeling kinda crappy lately. more

Resolved Question: Where should I take my kids for summer vacation?

I live in Ottawa Canada, so would like something on east coast, willing to go to US, no more than 2 days drive or major city that would have cheap air fare. Like the idea of a beach (Ocean) vacation. Would like to go for 1 week, maybe 10 days. Looking to spend around $2000 total. Any ideas? In the past we've gone to Sesame Place/Philadelphia/Atlantic City, Mt Tremblant, Great Wolf Lodge Niagara Falls more

Voting Question: Does my civilian spouse have a chance at keeping the ex from moving to another duty station with the kids?

My spouse's ex-spouse just married an active duty soldier. We just discovered that they may be re-locating to another duty station in approx 6 months. My spouse and the ex have 2 teenage children together and they have joint custody, but the ex-spouse has physical custody. Their visitation agreement provides that the kids spend time with us during their extended school vacations (Winter, Spring, and Summer). Occasionally they spend 3-day weekends with us as well. The kids have expressed their desire to spend more time with us, but the ex-spouse is often disagreeable to that idea. We live approx 1.5 hours away from the kids and in a different state. Currently, my spouse is primarily responsible for all transportation of the children during visitation and that would be difficult to accomplish if they moved away. We are able to provide a loving and stable environment. The ex-spouse has moved every other year for the past 8 years. The kids are currently 15 and 13 and they can't even remember their own address. The ex-spouse also has another 7 year old child with another civilian. The ex previously told us that they (ex and current spouse) would try and stay at their current duty station, but we don't feel there was any good faith behind that statement. Overall, the ex is a decent parent, but there have been many times where my spouse has been called to smooth things over with the kids. Both of the kids have expressed their desire to live with us, but they change their tune when they speak with the ex. I believe they are afraid to upset either of their parents and don't want to have to choose between them. They'd rather the adults fight everything out and just be told what to do that way they know they didn't hurt anyone's feelings. According to state law, the ex is required to petition the court for a modification. Does my spouse have a fighting chance at opposing the petition for modification, if one is even filed, and winning? Or is this a losing battle from the getgo? Bottom line...My spouse wants to be able to tell the children that we fought for them. I agree, but at the same time I have my doubts as I don't want to subject the children to a huge custody battle. Personally, I think I'd want to know that my father or mother at least tried to keep me in his/her life. But then again, I've never been put in this type of situation so I'm not sure either way. Any advise would be very helpful.I'm here on behalf of my spouse as he does not know what to do and he does not use the internet. I'm being supportive of my spouse and his current situation. He's been in court before regarding a similar situation with his ex and he was able to stop her from leaving once, but the difference now is that she's married. I never showed up to the court house or even talked to the kids about this stuff. I leave it to the two of them to work things out. However, if my spouse asks me for advice, I do my best to help him. In this instance, I didn't know what to do. I was clearly conflicted and that's why I came here to seek out some advice, not to be attacked. However, I can respect that this is a public board and everyone is entitled to his/her opinion. Am I supposed to just tell my spouse that he needs to work it out on his own and to leave me out of it? If so, I can do that, but only if I think it'll be truly beneficial to him to do so. more

Voting Question: I need some advice..?

So recently, my grandmother has passed away. It was in January, but it feels so recent. She died on the same day that my great uncle died, last year. Strange? Anyways, its just starting to set in that she's gone, because she was my best friend. I used to stay at her house in the summer time, but now it's different. She's gone, and I miss her terribly. At school I put on a happy face, and try not to damper everyone's mood. When I'm alone, and have time to think? I start to get sad because I think about her. I don't really like to talk about this stuff in front of my family, because she was very close to all of us, and it makes us sad. At her wake, (there was only pictures of her!) I was trying hard not to cry because everyone was there hugging me, and patting my shoulder. So I rushed into the basement where my cousin, and my best friend was. But I need advice. And my best friends house (my cousin) lives right next to where my grandmother lived, and we'd always go down there and hang out. And over April Vacation, and summer, I don't know what I will do because I'm going there, and their pool for the summer is right near her house. Any Ideas? Anything will help!Thank you all, but I'm also afraid because one of her sons who just loves $ Was going to tear the house down. The last thing I would want to see is a bulldozer. I think I will keep one of her Bee pins, (Her name was Beatrice and everytime she went to work she wore them on her waitress vest) more

Voting Question: help on vacation ideas in florida!!!?

my grandpa has taken me on summer trips since i was five, weve been to minnesota, nashville, cherokee north carolina, and giant city illinois. and this year we were thinking about florida. i am fourteen years old he is 60 but acts and looks 45 are there any places near the beach (with activities that i would like and him too) but are also kinda like the places that i have listed thank you! i just want to make this fun for the both of us! more

Resolved Question: What is the atmosphere like in Cancun in early July?

I am on the verge of booking a trip with eight of my friends (23-25 years old) to Cancun for the first week of July -- July 3rd-10th -- this summer (2010). I'm hoping the city is busier with tourists during this week due to a vacation day in the US (July 4th... most people will have the 5th off), but I'm unsure what the atmosphere will be like. We're going to stay at the Grand Oasis Cancun Hotel and we're hoping for a crazy atmosphere with lots of young people that are hoping to have the same kind of trip as us. But I'm wondering what people's general take is on what the city will be like at this time of the year? Will it be packed (we hope yes)? Will it be crazy (we hope so)? Will the bars/clubs be full and people partying hard every night (we really hope so)? If anyone could give me any input on Cancun at that time of the year based on their prior experiences, I would REALLY appreciate it. Thanks! more

Resolved Question: Summer vacation spots on the east coast thats NOT a beach?

What is a nice vacation spot to visit with a few friends for a week on the east coast or even in the midwest? I live in Philadelphia, and it cant be TOO far from us by driving distance, but it doesnt have to be too close either. It also cannot be a beach. A bunch of people go to the beach for this senior week and do nothing. Any place fun thats not a beach around the east coast?I also didn't mean that there can't be a beach ANYWHERE. I just meant not a place like Myrtle Beach or Ocean City. i.e. Maryland, Chicago, NY. but those are all i could think of. more

Resolved Question: Vacation in Myrtle Beach this summer, what should my friends and I do?

Were looking to do something a lot like the Buried Life on MTV. Make a list and try and do everything in 2 weeks. Four 17 year olds and ones 16. So just give us some things we should add to our list, thanks. more

Voting Question: Strange Girl Situation?

Just like 80% of Yahoo Answers users, I have a frustrating and incomprehensible Girl Problem On my way into this relationship, I was solid: I acted positive, confident, intelligent towards this girl who's a big nerd. Unfortunately, things didn't go perfectly, although they went very well. She was always coming over to my apartment, and I wasn't even being a 'player', I just wasn't at all needy to visit her apartment, and the power in the relationship was clearly mine. Then, we both moved apart. I knew that distance doesn't work, so I decided to break up with her, but leave things on good terms. We went on a vacation, and she was insecure as hell the whole time, that I "would certainly find some girl in the next week". She did, however, get me to make a pact with her that we would tell the other if we did anything with someone else. (Please let me know if this is reasonable, because at the time I thought it was!) I began to search for women in my new temporary summer residence. I lined up a date with one, and called the girl to let her know. She went terribly upset, thinking she was with still 'with' me, and such. I didn't go on the date, and I scheduled another vacation with this girl. After this, I was ready to move on again, and called to break up with her. We were a country apart, and I know that relationships are based on face-to-face interaction, and spending time with a person. She was hysterical, and at some point I went to visit her in her new home. Now I'm visiting her a second time, and I will transition from the facts to the feelings, telling the same story from a more emotional perspective. Early on, I didn't think she would amount to much, and I have a pretty dismal attitude toward most women and most men. I believe in some awesome friends, and I think an amazing woman may be out there somewhere, but I've never been very satisfied with women in the past, and this girl didn't seem like she would be all that different. However, she was really intelligent and we got along more or less. Her issues were getting over a boy who cheated on her, and then a boy who she left, though she felt they were both in love. This recent ex moved on quickly to another woman, and she remains jealous to this day. I fit her "type" and excelled her past boys in looks. She claims to have been pressuring me for sex in the beginning, initiating things, and I remember just having sex with her, but it didn't last very long and I never regarded her as an equal because of the lack of long-lasting, intimate sex. She feels in hindsight that the relationship was very good at that point, but I remember feeling awfully lonely at night when she'd be snoring next to me, and I'm dreaming of noone specific, but a woman that would stay awake having sex and talking for hours. She was depressed, and I narcissistically pictured myself as her hero, bringing her back from spiting boys forever, which is somewhat how she viewed me then. However, I lost my job and traveled the whole year, and generally acted in a way that left her thinking of me as an unfocused child. There's some truth to that, as I'm young and really had/have no certainty in what I want from life yet, I'm seeking adventure. As the relationship wore on, she frequently smiles and says I'm "so cuuuute", but it's somehow in an unsexual manner. However, she also feels very jealous and doesn't want me moving on to another woman. I feel the same way toward her moving on with another man, although I'm not quite satisfied. I think we both could be not satisfied BECAUSE the other is not in love with us, and that's the only thing missing? Or maybe we lack 'chemistry'. Whatever it is, I can't fully explain it from the frame of 'player' mindsets like Askmen.com which I've read. I can say that in some way, I've lost her interest. I've failed to make her feel romantic and believe in me because I lack this singular, guiding purpose in life. And I also don't give her 'trinkets' because I don't think they will amp up her attraction for me. I feel as though both of us are trapped loving each other and feeling some sexual attraction, but not quite enough, and this failure to satisfy each other, combined with her trust issues from past relationships is poisoning the situation. Intellectually and in almost every other way, we really hit things off. Though we both don't consider marriage a good idea at our young age (haha, half our friends are married, but still, we're in our low-20s), she at one point felt she wanted to marry me. Can some girls out there explain the truth about what's going on in her head? All at once, she's being mutually exclusive to me, wanting to move on, and not wanting me to move on. And now, after me trying to move on, and not really getting traction in any one place or job, and seeing her become much more optimistic, resilient, fit and happy in her new home, I'm feeling toward her the same way she felt and feels about me. Now I don't want her to move on, I'd feel more

Resolved Question: Do you think I could get into Columbia University?

I'm currently a Junior in high school, and so I've started to think about colleges, etc, and even though I haven't even visited it yet I feel like Columbia might be the best school for me. So what I'm wondering, is do you think that I would have a chance of getting in / what should I do to improve my chances? I currently have a 4.0 GPA unweighted, probably about 4.5-4.6 weighted. For all of high school I've taken all honors for my core classes (math, science, english, and social studies), and this year I'm taking two AP's, AP Calc AB and AP US History. Next year I'll be taking 4. (AP Statistics, AP French, AP Government and Politics, and AP Biology). I also took the PSAT's and got a 206, which is approximately a 2060 on the SAT's. I'm taking the actual SAT's in a couple of weeks and hope that I will actually do better on them. List of extracurriculars/ volunteer work: Several Dance classes a week Recreational basketball program Key Club (9th grade) Writer's Circle (11th grade) March of Dimes Walk (7th grade-present) Teaching a religion class (8th grade-present) Volunteered at Vacation Bible Camp (and will again this summer) Went on a mission trip (+ again this summer) Also apparently the person who lives across the street from my grandparent's beach house is a professor at Columbia, if that would help at all? So what do you think? more

Resolved Question: girlfriends parents hate me and think im a screw up and girlfriend is realizing they may be right HELP PLEAS?

Okay i have been dating this girl for 2 years. Let me start off by saying that. I am 18 she is 17. I live in Alaska so the law is fine. Her mother is from Argentina and her dad is the Commissioner of corrections so he is a very successful man. I love this girl with all my heart. We were each others firsts for everything. Sex included. Now, when we started dating i was working at a place called fred myers. I got busted for shoplifting deli food on lunch. They thought i got fired because after that i stopped working there. But i really got fired because after that day i had taken 2 weeks of vacation and my boss just said that i am taking to much time to spend with my GF. So they layed me off. So there is the first bad thing - a theif in their eyes. Next - My family isnt the richest. But we are not poor we are more of a little upperclass but not rich rich. I also come from a family where all problems can be solved if you confront them. Her family however is the exact opposite. her family HATES CONFRONTATION mainly because her dad is a political person and they just dont like that. Her family is pretty wealthy too. So the first homecoming we had some stuff went down and her mom got really mad and tried to split us apart. Saying i was no good and a piece of sh*t basicly. My girlfriend and me decided to take a 1 week break and i finally begged her parents for forgivness. But before we broke up i was so crushed because i knew it was going to happen that my dad called and confronted them saying that there drama starting is effecting our family now and he wants to know what is going on. Nothing wrong with that but her parents bacicly said after he hung up "the nerve of that c0cksucker" So a year went by and we started having sex. Well we wanted her to get on Birth controll that way we would limit the risk of having a kid. But her mom grew up as a Jhevias wittness (sorry for spelling) so her sex morals were very strict. No sex till marrage. But we were in love and we knew it was right so we hid it from her family. Well this last summer her mom found her pills and freaked. Banning me from seeing her and wanted us to split. everyday was a constant fight to stay together. She loved me so much but she knew that it would make her mom and family so happy if i would just leave the family alone. After the summer passed they started to welcome me into the house and they acted as if i was their daughters boyfriend again. christmas went by. new years. Everything. Untill this last week. So we have been talking about prom for a while. I myself am pulling a fifth year of highschool because i really just want to graduate. They think i am a failure and my girlfriend couldnt help but agree. I think i am too but i am not giving up! We went prom dress shopping wednesday. Everything was great! We had so much fun looking for dresses. Well i got to her house to drop her off and her mom asked if i could drive her into eagle river and drop her off at her school so when she got off work she could take her into anchorage for some more prom dress shopping. I said No problem! The next morning i picked up my gf and everyone was happy. We got to my gf's school and her mom called and asked me to promise i would be safe. i of course said i would. Well her mom called the school to let them know that i was picking her up and they said "You sure you want him picking her up? He is a pretty bad driver." Well that sent her mom over the edge - she texted me saying dont worry about it and she would pick her up - i thought nothing of it and said no problem glad i could help. Well that night my gf called and i could tell instantly that something was wrong. She started talking about how her mom thinks im unhealthy because i stay up late sometimes and i dont wake up at like 6am everyday and how im a little overweight which i can agree with i could lose some weight. But then she said that sentance. "I cant do this anymore Zack.." My heart sank. I asked what? She said us. I cant take living through hell with my parents. we need to call it quits. Well i was holding back tears and i starting begging her no no no i can change tell me what i have to do and she kept saying there is nothing i can do it is not fixable. Now i was thinking she found another guy but she is the most faithful girl i have ever met. These last couple of days have been hell for me and on friday i went and saw her after school and she was still gun ho about this break up. She kept saying "i just want my mom to be happy" I cant understand any of this because i am so in love with her and i dont see a problem with her dating another guy because this same thing happened with her sister except her mom actually walked in on them having sex. But her mom broke them apart too and her sister pretty much shunned every guy out of her life and is pretty much a nun now. I can see alex doing that but i dont want her to have to live a lie more

Voting Question: Am I wrong or is my mother wrong?

I'm 16 years old and live in Ohio, along with my five best friends. We've all been friends forever and all of our parents know each other and all of us. We're all really good kids: we get great grades, we don't drink, smoke, or do anything bad. We were all talking and we said we want to go on a vacation together, just us six. We decided we want to go to Fort Lauderdale, Florida this summer. We want to earn the money to go ourselves, so our parents don't have to pay for any part of it. We'd fly there, get a taxi to our hotel, get a nice suite that we could all stay in (or two separate rooms if needed) stay for 5-7 days, get a taxi to the airport, and fly back home. My mom said absolutely not and if we want to go then we can wait until it's the summer after our senior year and a parent would have to go with us. She said that we aren't old enough to travel by ourselves. And maybe when we're seniors all the parents can go along too, but for now, no. She also said that most parents wouldn't let their kids do this. I say that who knows if I will still have the same friends? or, what if nobody wants to do it by then? and plus we'll probably be saving up more for college then, so we won't want to spend our money on that. and that would defeat the purpose of us going on our own and earning it all ourselves. Plus, once one parent wants to go, the whole family wants to go. when one family goes, all want to go and then its just to much and the whole idea is shot. Give your honest opinion. Thanks. more

Resolved Question: Tropical Vacation ideas close to US?

My family is looking to take a vacation this summer (2010) to somewhere tropical, and not too expensive. It needs to be close to the US, somewhere near cuba, so the plane tickets aren't too expensive. I've never been out of the country before, so i'm not really sure where I'd like to go (i'm the kid in the family btw). I want somewhere that "has it all." Beaches, pools, activities and fun! We'd be going in mid to late June most likely. Any ideas? Going to the Bahamas was up in the air, but I need some more tropical countries close to home THANKS! more

Voting Question: Help! Is he gay?does he like me?

So my friend..ugh this is comlicated. During the summer we went on vacation together. I guess you can say were very touchy. Btw I'm bi. But I'm not the sterotypical type. I have terrible style (sweats r my life) I play sports, and I have a lot of friends. I'm not out yet either..So back to my story. We shared the same bed, we fooled around like we were havin sex but it was jus joking. Anyway we hung out like everyday for like 2 weeks after. He constantly slaps my butt and clings to me and stuff. So this one day, he came over. This is what happend..we were laying on my bed and I was on my stomache and he like jumped on me. Umm we kind of dry humped..but I couldn't tell if he was joking or being serious..he let me do it to him. He even said at one point what if your sis walked in on us? He showed me his thing and stuf like that but then he went home after. I wanted to make a move so bad but I wasn't sure if he felt the same way bout me. We kind of drifted since summer because we have different friends and stuff likethat. But he does sports like me and stuff. He still slaps my butt and stuff and grabs my junk sometimes and he's veeeery clingy on guys. He doesn't hang out with any girls btw.. So I want to see how hefeels bout me without outing myself cuz I honestly am not ready to come out. He was my first and only guy crush and I can't lose him but idk if I should move on or pursue it. Please help me and tell me EXACTLY what to do! Thanks in advance. more

Resolved Question: Are there any public swimming beaches on Table Rock Lake that allow dogs?

I'm going to Branson this summer with my family and we're bringing our 2 dogs. I'm looking to spend at least one day at a public beach and want to make sure I'm able to bring the dogs along. Would hate to take my dogs on vacation with us just to leave them in the cabin all day. more

Voting Question: How do you deal with this girl situation?

I work for my family. I ran one of their retail stores for the fours summers I was home on college break. We hired this girl who was five years younger than me. When she was a freshman in HS I was a sophmore in college. We worked together for three summers. She always hit on me, actually told me she loved me a few times. I rejected her all the time. She kept asking me out over and over. Always would try to hug me and I would always push her away. The .ast summer I worked with her she really wanted to stay in contact with me when I went back to school. I said no. She said we could just be friend. Then she told me she was the age of consent and then she said she was 18. She seemed like frantic to stay in contact with me. She told me she loved me and looked like she was going to cry the last day we worked together. I refused to have any contact with her outside of work like I had for the last years I worked with her. It is completely inappropriate to have any outside contact with her outside of work. I added her to facebook a few months later and she sent me a message she was the age of consent. I told her no. She flipped out on me told me to never talk to her. She basically told me to F myself. I have never said a word to her since. I came back that summer after graduating. She never worked for us again. Guess who was standing in my place of work the day I came back. I ignored her. She did it again at the end of the summer and I ignored her again. She "bumped" into my mom the days after both occasions that I ignored her. The next summer I guess she was 18, she came in my store every day for two weeks, randomly bumped into my parents a lot, even my co workers mentioned to her friends how much she was in my store. I found out that someone was calling my store asking when I working, this happened a lot. I also notice a ton (like everyday) someone hanging up when I picked up the ringing phone. I ignored her every time she tried to talk to me. Mutual friends of ours have talked to each other and she was never mentioned. This past summer she came into my store the day I came back from a long vacation. She stared at me and I ignored her and she walked out. I haven't heard from her in almost 10 months. Her mom comes into my store every couple of months like nothing has happened. I like being tempted to get involved with a underage female employee and then having her stalk me. more

Resolved Question: missing a girl bad, can't move on?

Here's the situation. During vacation a year and a half ago some friends and I went to Europe. I ended up meeting the most amazing girl I've ever met. She is Greek and lives in Athens. We hit it off right away and it was like a dream. My friends went home, i ended up paying extra to extend my vacation and said goodbye to my friends, and stayed with her for 2 weeks. It was more than just a fling, after I eventually returned home, we stayed close. We would talk EVERYDAY for hours (Greece has free long-distance to America). We would talk go on the webcamera a little each day, etc. etc. She begged me to come to Greece again...so i did. I spent Christmas and New Years with her instead of my family (for the first time). But I felt she was worth it, and we had such a strong connection. She PROMISED me if I returned, she would visit America the following summer. So then fast-foward.. She just started acting different, I think because of the distance. but I was still crazy about her... so it hurt me badly when she started changing. #1 it made me look bad to my family, after talking about how great this girl was, then to tell them she wouldn't be visiting in the summer. 2. she never kept her promise after I flew there and went out of my way. So I did some things like threaten her with words if she was going to treat me differently and start erasing me slowly from her life.... But I never would have done any of these threats, it was ONLY to get us to continue talking, because I loved her that much and didn't want to lose her. but now, it is like I can't over-come the mistakes I made... but there were REASONS, and the things were NEVER intended to hurt her, and I never would have hurt her. I know this sounds stupid, but it is the truth. They were empty threats at all times, because I could never hurt her. but her basically forgetting our good times made me hurt BADLY. Now I can't move on, because I'm haunted with these thoughts that maybe it was a minor problem or a mood she was going through, and that maybe things would have worked out.. but now, because of my mistakes, I am constantly haunted. And we aren't close enough now for her to even bother listening to me try to tell her that my mistakes were bad, but never intended to hurt her... only to keep her in my life. What do I do? It is like I can't move on, because I have these regrets, and also SHE WAS SO PERFECT IN EVERY WAY...and my ideal. And it was mutual. She was as crazy of me as I was of her in the beginning... and now I want that back, and will do anything for it.. I have the money, I can buy a house in Greece, I would learn Greek with all my effort. I will open my business in Athens, etc etc. But what can I do? I would do anything for her, why won't she at least hear me out. Because I am just lost without her, and the regrets are unbearable. I can't move on like this, and I can move forward like this, if she won't listen to me or care about me again. So what can I do??? more

Resolved Question: I am missing a girl badly, what should i do?

Resolved Question: I am missing a girl badly and need her back, whats the best strategy?

Resolved Question: I am missing a girl badly?

Resolved Question: Family Question Help?

I finallly have a family problem, yey. basically My mom has a sister who is married and has a 3 year old toddler, my mom's sister comes to visit us in summer vacation, spring break, and other times, but she is SO bitchy, she always screams at her toddler and is impolite to my mom, who doesnt care, she is never in a good mood and i cant sleep at night because of her constant bitching at her baby, she is even rude to me, but my dad says there is nothing I can do about it. And we have to buy her stuff that she never pays back. She is not here at the moment, nor do i want her to be. How do I prevent her from coming over to ruin my life, she stays for like, the WHOLE summer vacation and the WHOLE spring break? she lives in China, so she usually books a flight. I do not want her to come back, because she is rude and doesnt care about us, or her baby, I think that she thinks her baby is an obstacle, that's why she keeps screaming at it, she also yells at her husband. My sister and I hate her, My parents are OK about her, help, please?Also, my dad will hate me if I say I dont like her, If i dont let her come over, and my mom doesnt really care about her coming over. I also dont have enough money to move out to an apartment while she's here. more

Resolved Question: My mom is going to Italy for a vaction, leaving us behind, and i dont want her to.?

my mom has a friend who is taking her to italy for around a month. i told my mom about how i dont want her to go and my feelings about it. and she keeps say that she never had a vacation before when she was LYING and she went on alot of vacations before and how she didnt have one in 4 years. she keeps braging about it and i tell her to stop and she keeps going on. i cant ignore it because i have a dream of going to italy. she has been to europe before for 2 weeks and with the my step dad, she is now seperated with. i have to spend time with my dad over the summer i dont mind it but me and my sis have no friends up there. and she is leaving 3 kids and i dont think that is right. my grandma says that she deserves a vacation when i think she doesnt, she has been out in chicago every weekend for the past months. and i already dont like her doing that, my grandma says that i should think that she shouldnt go to italy but she doesnt change a thing on they way i think and keeps telling me that. PLZ HELP I DONT KNOW WHAT TO DO! more

Voting Question: Amex cc: Why was I only approved for $2000?

I just applied for "Blue from american express" that I plan to use when I travel to Europe this summer for 3 weeks. I was approved within 5 seconds for only $2000. I monitor my credit monthly with a credit service and my 3 credit scores are in the 707-730 ranges, annual Salary >50K, current debt is less than 5% of available, my reported length of credit experience is over 10 years. Is this amount for a credit line normal in this economy or is two grand considered a high credit limit? Yahoo Answers seems to be flooded with people excited about receiving a $300 walmart card with their 630 fico's, but going on vacation with a $2000 limit will force me to use my debit cards in a foreign country. Blue from Amex http://www201.americanexpress.com/getthecard/learn-about/Blue Blue from Amex card terms http://www201.americanexpress.com/apply/FmacAction?csi=38/31209/b/4&print=yes&fromTNC=yes&TermsKey=US_en/Acquisition/CCSG/81/00_1000_PAS_NPA_PS_B_LongOffer1_Def Thanks in advance...Please don't include links, I wont go to them because they are generally sales crap from people spamming yahoo. Just answer if you know the answers on yahoo answers... it's kinda the point of it. more

Resolved Question: Should I go to Hawaii or go on vacation with my family?

First, my mom said we were going to go to Hawaii this summer and visit relatives. I was super excited, then all of a sudden today she goes "Oh no need, Let's just go to disney land or wherever else you want to go. So the new plan was to go to disney land. My mom asked my brother and sister what they would like to do and of course they said disney land. That's 2 againsts one (majority rules). Anyways, my dad and I just had a little talk. He told me that he could tell that I was dissapointed. He also said that he could send me to Hawaii on my own if I wanted to. Then he said, "Although, It would be really great if you joined us instead, but if it makes you happy, I can pay for your fair to Hawaii, you just have to tell your mom." I REALLY REALLY REALLY want to go to Hawaii it's just the fact I don't want to dissapoint my parents and think I love the family in Hawaii more than I love them. See, they don't really get along and I'm just in the middle. They manage to only get along when I ask them to. It's just I've been wanting to visit Hawaii for a really looooooooong time. I just don't want my parents to be mad. Help me what do you think? what would you do? more

Voting Question: vacation for besties? :D?

my best friends and I wanna plan a trip for the summer there could be up to like 9 of us.. we thought about key largo in the keys or an all inclusive trip to cancun we want something not outragous in price though like a special or something..any good trip ideas where u had a blast or anything fun we all can go on together? thanks guys :) more

Voting Question: he said he needs a break ?? please help me understand !!?

i'm 19 , i have been dating this guy for almost a year now , first two months of our relation we were in the same country dating , than he had to leave to italy to finish his studies , he do come on his vacations back "as he tells me , he only come back for me" , far distance relations drives everyone crazy , and do drive me crazy too sometimes , still i love him with all my heart , and take everything to make us work , i do feel his love , but now all of a sudden he told me that he is depressed and that being far from me is not helping him , and that he needs a break until he come back , which is summers , i really cant stay away from him , and stop talking to him , does he want to break up but he doesn't know how to say it ?? the last thing he said to me that he loves me , and he wants me to wait for him till this break is up , still i don't understand him??t more

Resolved Question: Why do some parents do everything without the kids?

When I sit and listen to my husband talk with his friends I get so annoyed. Few seem to be willing to give their all to their families. Most are more concerned with golfing or hanging out in the local pub on weekends watching the game or fight. My husband isn't like that at all. Everything we do is together as a family. We very rarely leave our kids and go out. We find things to do that all of us can do together. We go swimming at the local indoor pool, bowling, movie night, or just go to dinner together. In the summer we have outdoor fires at home, go camping, fishing, swimming, and ride bikes together. I see all these other people who their main priority is leaving the kids at home. That is OK once in a while but not all the time. Kids need interaction and need to feel as though they are included. I could never go on a vacation and leave my kids. I would feel so guilty that I was having fun and they were not! Are some parents just not as giving as me?I figured I'd get some nasty cooments by those who feel the need to argue a point but really just feel guilt. Leaving your kids for a dinner date with your spouse isn't what I meant. I mean leaving the kids constantly and going out without them. To bars or even on vacations like many couples do. I mean if you want to live like your childless then why have kids in the first place?and cathrl69. I am no saint but I do go to bed every night knowing my kids never feel neglected or unimportant. They know they are the most important aspect of our lives. I am very proud of that. Not everyone is willing to sacrifice so much for their kids. Life for me isn't about my own happiness. It's about making my kids happy. I am happy when they are happy.I know people who have gone to beach and left the kids at home with grandma. Gone to the amusement park and left the kids at home so they could ride coasters all day not be stuck in kiddie land. People who go to the bar on weekends and get drunk leaving the kids at home in front of the TV or video game with the sitter. They could be doing something together as a family instead. Just my opinion! What happened to being a Family in US? No wonder kids have issues. They feel unwanted, neglected, and lost!Charlie, grow up and keep it clean. My children do have their own bedrooms I don't know about yours? more

Resolved Question: If you were my mother, what would you have named us? (kinda long BNG?)?

I made one of these earlier, and there were a few people asking I make something like it again. So here it goes. :) Its kind of long, because my mom had a lot of kids! Hehee. What would you have named my siblings and I if you were our mother? 1. You and your husband have just arrived home from a vacation in Venice, Italy. You have been married for 3 years, but haven't been trying to conceive yet. But when you return home, you find out you're pregnant! 9 months later you give birth to your first child, a baby boy. He was a big boy, with chunky legs and cheeks. He has dark brown hair and green eyes. Your husband and you pick an Italian name for him, and give him your fathers name as a middle name. 2. Your first born son is now 3, and you think it is time to start trying to conceive again. It takes you a while, but you finally find out you are pregnant again! And double blessed, you're having twins! You carry them almost full term, then have a natural birth. They identical twins, both boys.. They are a little on the small side, so they have to stay in the hospital a while. You give your baby #1 a strong biblical first name, and baby #2's middle name is a color. 3. Another 3 years have passed now, and all your children are doing great. Your first born is 6, and the twins are 3. And then you find out you're pregnant, again! This time it is a little girl. She has brown hair and blue eyes. She is delivered breech, but besides that she is perfectly fine and healthy. You give her a first name that is an unusual twist on a more common name, and her middle name is after your best friend. 4. You and your husband hold off on the baby making for a while, focusing on your children you have now and your careers. You work at home to be with the kids, while your husband is a drug & alcohol addiction therapist. Your children are 11, 8, 8 and 5 before you try for another. This time you have a little more difficulty getting pregnant, but finally conceive in the summer. Your baby boy is born healthy and happy 9 months later. His first name must start with an D, and his middle name must start with a J. 5. Now you're getting up there in age. Having your first child 14 years ago, you have a feeling this baby will be your last. After finding out it is a girl, you want to give her a very girly and pretty name.This is what my mother named us: 1. Nico Alexander 2. Elijah Gaelin & Joshua Brown 3. Alicen Hannah (me!) 4. Declan Jacob 5. Ashleigh Jade more

Resolved Question: Advice on academic dilemma -> English studies for foreigners.?

Some years ago, I had the option of taking the PET (an ESOL examination for the University of Cambridge). I sat for a mock exam and took 9,20 or so. On 2008 I sat for the First Certificate in English (FCE) examination and I took a B. I wasn't confident at all and I wished I had made the course again, because I felt I didn't give my best (I didn't study much either). My main weaknesses are that there is a lot of vocabulary I lack of and that I'm not successful at the Writing paper (in which I have to produce articles, essays, etc). This last thing was the easiest for me many years ago. Anyway, the following year I took lessons to sit for Advanced (I think there should be more than 1 year between each course. The difference in requirement is great in comparison to other lower courses). I didn't study much, especially because school work is always more urgent, and we students were usually given a lot of photocopies and all the conversations with the teacher were random. Sooo disorganized. I spent the whole "health vacations" (1 month) studying and writing texts. On December I took it and passed with a C. Now the dilemma. The only course that is after this one is Proficiency (to sit for the CPE exam). Lessons start in March. It was estimated that about 40% of the British population would be able to pass it. Haha. That's mostly because of the cultural and common sense requirements, I guess (I think I have enough to undestand ideas in texts). Well. I won't take the examination obviously, but I'm supposed to take the lessons anyway. I want to continue my studies so that I don't want to lose touch with English; otherwise, I'd miss and forget it. Besides, this year (and not in 2 or 3) my mom will still pay for it, as I am 17. It's so expensive that I'm feeling guilty in advance. I'd rather she had sent me to North America as part of an exchange program this summer XP but she wouldn't. Whatever... If I take Proficiency, I would have to attend at 7!!! pm, I will probably understand about 30-50% and I would have an only teacher to choose (the same one I had this year and 2 ys ago) who I dislike and who probably dislikes me a lot, hehe, (apart from her problems and the fact that evidently she prejudges a lot, probably because I don't speak much in class (I'm not witty) and she speaks non-stop, ). If I re-take Advanced (which I want to do but is disencouraged by everyone I've talked to... all the teachers there are on a rush to make us do a lot of exercises, to pass and skip levels, etc...). Well... if I take it again, there is a chance that another teacher is in charge (Idk who the alternative one is). But really, to be honest, I want to do the First Certificate again XP Haha but I'm dead if I suggest it. What on earth should I do??? Thanks for those ones who read all this. I know I went into a lot of details! more

Resolved Question: Where is the best place in America to take a family of six on a vacation?

Me my and my family are planning on taking a vacation at the end of the summer. We can go anywhere in America. There is a two year old girl who is very stubborn and doesn't do anything she doesn't want to do, a seven year old boy who doesn't like things that are too scary, a thirteen year old girl who wants to do something thrilling but not too scary, a eighteen year old boy who is mentally challenged so he likes the same as the seven year old, than my dad wants to do something SUPER thrilling, and than my step mom doesn't really care as long as everyone's happy. We can go to anywhere in America but it will be the end of the summer so we don't want to wait in too long of lines or be super hot the entire time. We also live on a tropical island so beaches aren't really what we are looking for ,but we do like water parks. Please give us suggestions and if you have been to that place you don't have to but it would be nice to give a review of that place. Message me if you need more details. Thanks more

Resolved Question: What do you think of my short story? I got bored and wrote it, im in the 9th grade.?

When I recall some of the best times in my life, I often think about a little trip I took back in the summer of '04. If made into a movie, this story could be considered a drama, comedy, or even a romance tale, but most would consider it all three rolled into one. It came about suddenly and unexpectedly. My friend of many years, Bert, and his mother decided to join several of their friends at the last minute on a trip to their favorite vacation spot, Destin, Florida. I was then invited along by Bert as we did most everything together. Besides the planning that comes along with most vacations, it started out very typical. We loaded up the car on a Friday afternoon, and planned to leave the next morning, however, at 3 AM we all three, (Bert, myself, and Bert's mom), found ourselves wide awake and, figuring we wouldn't get much sleep anyway, decided to depart for Florida right then and there. After a quick stop at Hardee's to fulfill our late night munchies, we were on our way. To take up the time we decided to watch some movies on a portable DVD player we had brought along, which in theory was a good idea, but not in the backseat with Bert. He was quickly asleep and had taken up most of the room. I tried to keep my own space, but within 30 minutes he had sprawled out all over the backseat, including on top of me, and I couldn't stand it. I decided to move up to the front seat with Bert's mom, which wasn't so bad, except for the fact that for the next eight hours, of which about 3 of them I had the pleasure of sleeping, she forced me to listen to some of the worst music I have ever experienced in my entire life. I'm still not quite sure who it was singing, but a female country singer giving her rendition of famous Elvis songs has never sounded so bad. At about noon my ears were finally granted some relief when Bert awoke and commanded his mom to turn on some new music and stop torturing me. The next few hours were not so bad. I had good music, someone to talk to, and some nice ocean views. Even with all this, the time couldn't come soon enough for us to get out of the car and get our vacation started. Right around 3PM we finally rolled into the parking lot of our motel, The Ocean Moon Inn. I couldn't wait to get unpacked, get poolside, and get some tropical drinks in my hand...sure, I got all that, but I also got something I didn't bargain for. As I stepped out of the car the first thing I had to do was stretch, as it had been a very long and cramped ride. As I was doing so I gazed up to take in what would be my home for the next week, and as I swung my view from left to right, there she was, sitting with a group of friends on the staircase leading up to the second floor. We made eye contact for what seemed to be forever, and then she glanced away. My heart thumped, I felt a sudden rush of adrenaline, and then I quickly grabbed my bags and made my way down a hallway and out of sight to think about what had just happened. I wasn't sure if Bert had seen her or not, I was sure he noticed the loud group of mostly boys surrounding one or two girls, but I wasn't sure if he had really noticed the one that I had, or the way that she looked at me. The motel was a sort of "L" shape. It had two stories, and was quite small with only about 30 rooms. They all opened up to the pool which was in the center of the "L". It was an outdoor motel with no lobby, no indoor hallways, no convention rooms, as in you were either inside a bedroom, or you were outdoors. Bert followed me as we quickly made our way to room 205. We were familiar with its location as we had both stayed in it only a year before, along with Bert having stayed in it with his family for nearly the past 5 years. We opened the door and a cool breeze rushed us from inside the room. Bert unknowingly plopped down onto one of the beds, and rolled over as if to go to sleep. I stood there for a few moments and then blurted out, "Did you see that girl?" "What girl," said Bert, his voice muffled by the pillow his face was planted in. "The one at the top of the steps!" Bert rolled over, "Which one at the top of the steps...the dark haired one?" I nodded my head. "Yeah, what about her?" said Bert.” Did you think she was hot?" I didn't reply. I just stood there with a "DUH" look on my face. A few more seconds passed and finally Burt assured me, "She wasn't that great." Dismissing the idea entirely and rolling back over. For the next hour or two we relaxed, watched MTV, and ate Cheetos...correction, Bert relaxed, watched MTV, I also ate the Cheetos (and some Ho-Ho's), but I couldn't do anything but think about those few seconds that I made eye contact with the girl on the stairs and the feeling that she gave me, even though I didn't even know her. I didn't want to make a big deal out of it, as Bert obviously didn't feel the same way as I did, but I couldn't get her out of my head. I wond more

Resolved Question: I working on a manga ._." Any suggestions on it?

My manga is basically for all ages, since there are basically no mature content -- scratch that, absolutely NO MATURE CONTENT, unless crushes count o_o... Anyways the manga's call Secrets of Us Siblings Characters: Kichi Yamazaki- "Bubbly" intelligent girl, once frowned when she confessed her love to Hiro Saito during graduation. Lives in a home of one older sibling (Hideki) and two younger siblings (Kaori and Ichigo.) She also is taken care of her single mom. Hiro Saito- Cold heartened boy according to Kichi (after she confessed to him) , he has an older brother named Makoto. His father is keeping a secret from him since 5th grade and told him during summer vacation of 10th grade. Rin Suzuki- Rin S. is Kichi's best friend, her family comes from wealthy ancestors. Even if she is 100% tomboy she never wears the same outfit twice. PLOT: Kichi Yamazaki confessed her love to Hiro Suzuki, he then tells her his true feelings. . . he likes someone else. Before Kichi can become heart broken she lies and said that her friends dared her to say that she than runs away without a single teardrop. After waking up to a flashback from that day, she is more aware of getting heartbroken more than ever, she make a plan simple enough to accomplish or is it? She will have to try and avoid him for the rest of the year. The goes on and on I have the basics but still ahve to add more details to it. Lets just say Hiro's Dad's secret involves Hiro's mom's never ending business trip. more

Voting Question: Is it normal to back to an ex? This person walked out twice why would he take her back?

I was seeing a man for 8 months. We were together all the time either doing stuff just the two of us or with our kids. I am attached to his kids after all this time and his kids are attached to me. My kids are also attached to him and his kids. He has a baby with another woman that he had a long relationship with. She walked out on him not once but twice. She told him that she could not help but look at his older 2 children and know that they are the reason she won't have anymore children. He told her after they had the baby that he doesn't want anymore. She left with the baby the day before the baby's first birthday. She then came back and stayed for 2 weeks and left again. She moved back to her hometown with her parents so they could help her. He is raising his 2 other children and then was layed off from work so he moved back to his parents. When she found out I was in the picture she started coming around more and more with all sorts of excuses. She then called him and said that she was getting kicked out of her house. He decided that he has to take care of his baby ( I don't have a problem with that at all) but they are going to rent a house together and he hasn't spoken to me since. I am heart broken. We were just planning a summer vacation and talking about doing a lot of things that couples do and now I am no longer in the picture with no explanation nothing. Why would someone go back to a person that left twice and hurt his children and him so bad? He always told me that she was unstable....is this going to work for him?When he told me that she was kicked out of her house he said they were going to rent a place and that he was happy to have his baby in his life but not happy about her. Why can't he just say they are back together instead of denying it?? And when he told me we were in public at his sons wrestling practice with all the kids there and his daughter sitting on my lap!! more

Voting Question: kids ruining summer vacation! what to do! i dont want them here!?

i don want my aunt uncle n their 3 children to come with us on MY vacation. it is MY vacation, my gma and i have gona every year ever since i was very little and now i guess they wanna start coming everyy year!! they made my vacation crappy last year! ugh i dont want them to come! im 13 so i dont have any say in it though, but idk.Thanks, and i think i'll tell her that if they go on spring vacation with us, please make them stay home on summer vacation because it's not even my vacation anymore it doesn't feel like, and i don't even like kids): more

Resolved Question: When can I return to the USA?

Hi there, I’m an 18 year old Canadian who frequently travels to the United States to visit my aunt and uncle who live there. Through high school, I would only visit for a week or two at a time every few months. After High school I planned on taking a year off to travel, so, after graduating, I received the graduation present to go to the States to visit with my family, and do some traveling while I was there (Florida, Grand Canyon, etc.) I ended up staying 5 months in the US. After coming back home to Canada, about a week later my Uncle called me up to explain that he was going to California and asked if I wanted to go. Of course I said yes. We booked the tickets for the following weekend, and I packed. When I got to the airport, everything seemed fine until I got to Customs. Usually they would just ask me who I’m staying with, and let me through. This time, they pulled me aside into an interrogation room! Needless to say I was terrified and confused as to why the sudden change, but they explained to me that I had just gone to the states for 5 months, came back for two weeks, and then was planning another month long trip there. The officer asked if I had a job, bills, etc. under my name in Canada, and I had been gone for 5 months so I hadn’t had any recent documents. I was told by others that he was trying to make sure I wasn’t a 'Defacto US Citizen'. They asked many questions, including what my aunt and uncle did as a profession, how much money I had on me, and they even said to me 'what is your boyfriends name down there?' ... When I don’t even have a boyfriend down there? The man had asked for my Itinerary, but I told him I hadn’t printed it out, because with all my trips down there I never printed it out, and it hadn’t been a problem. He then assumed that I only had a 1-WAY Ticket to the US, and he assumed I didn’t plan on coming back. I don't see why he couldn’t have just went on his computer and checked if I had one or not (don’t they have access to this information?) After waiting another 30 minutes while he got someone to check for him, he let me through, but he stapled this small white paper to one of my Passport pages that said I had to be back in Canada by the specified date (which was the date that was on my Itinerary), or else there would be a warrant for my arrest! I realize he was only taking precautions, and doing his job. So finally, my question is, when can I return to the USA to see my family again? I do have a job now, and I have bills under my name. I returned home at the beginning of February, and I wanted to go down in June and spend the summer there (until mid August), so I can have a small vacation before I start College in September. I will have been home for 3 months, working full-time. Will they let me back in? Should I bring evidence that I plan to return home, just incase? (Such as my College acceptance letter, to prove ill be home by September? My Bills, paystubs, etc?) I'll be sure to bring my itinerary. Any help or personal experiences will be helpful. The last thing I want to be is banned from the US and not be able to see my family at all! more

Voting Question: Please help me. I'll give 10 points. I'm so lost. Please?! Anyone!?

Well, I am a 15 year old lost girl who feels like she is stuck in life. I am gay and have known for about two or three years. I know that it isn't a phase. Please read this whole thing because it is very important. Well, my whole mom's side of the family is Christian. I am too. I was raised as one and plan on staying one for the rest of my life. It's only me and my mom living together. My dad's side of the family is not Christian. They don't really have a religion. My parents never got married. They aren't together and haven't been for about 5 years now. My dad isn't the best person in the world. His girlfriend, who I call my step-mom, does drugs and so does her family. She has two young kids, 8 years old and 13 years old. I love them to death. I treat them like my real sisters. Anyways, I have only told 3 of my friends that I am gay. I plan on coming out to all of my friends when I feel the time is right. But, I have been stressing out so bad the past few months because I feel like I am living a lie. I put on a smile for my family and friends, I talk about cute boys with everyone so that I "fit in". I just am not happy in life right now. I wouldn't say I am depressed because I do have a lot of fun. But, not happy. I really would like to come out to my family on both sides. I know that my fathers side of the family will be completely accepting of who I am because my dad's brother (my uncle) is gay and no one seems to mind. What I stress about is my mom. I know that the other people on that side of the family will be accepting, but I honestly don't think she will be okay with it. I know that everyone says that it takes time and getting used to, but I don't think she will ever accept me for who I am. I believe that if I tell her, she will not allow me to live under her roof any longer because I am gay. And, I refuse to live with my father because we have such a good relationship right now and I don't want to ruin it. And, because of the drama! I know that if I get kicked out my sister on my dad's side of the family would take me in. I already asked if I could come live with her if things get worse at my mom's (we don't get along very well). She said it would be completely fine if I lived with her. I haven't told her I am gay, but I plan on telling her very soon. I just get sick to my stomach when I think about telling my mom. And, people tell me to wait until I'm older, but I can't. I need to tell her now because I can't live like this anymore. It's eating me alive! I was planning on telling my mother when we go on vacation. It's just me and her. I think we are going to California for vacation. Like LA or San Diego. I was going to tell her during a nice dinner or on a walk or something when we were on vacation. We will be going on vacation this summer. So, in a few months is when I would like to tell her. But, I don't think that I will be able to tell her to her face because I can't think about what her reaction will be. It makes me cringe. Even if I bring up something about being gay, she makes the rudest remarks! She is so cold-hearted sometimes. It makes me think, how can she be a Christian and say this? For example, when Ellen DeGeneres (big fan!) recently got her new hair-do, I told my mom that I loved it and wanted to try it and she said in these exact words, "Ewww! That is a gay hairstyle. Why would you want that? You know that kind of lifestyle is against God." Well, me and my mother have different beliefs. I believe that if you love God with all of your heart and accept him as your savior, that you have your spot in Heaven. God wants us all to be happy. Whether it be with a man or a woman! Love is love. She happens to think that gay people will go to Hell because God doesn't approve of it. I know that a lot of people think that, and I can't make that decision for people, but that's not what I believe. I am just so scared to tell my mother. I was also thinking about just writing her a very long letter and explaining what I believe in and that I am gay. I usually write her a letter if I have something important to say because it is how I express myself and I can get everything down that I want to say without her interrupting. She has a VERY bad problem with interrupting, let me tell you! So, do you think I should tell her face to face while in California when we are alone with no other family then tell everyone else later on, or do you think I should just write her a letter? Please tell me what you are thinking and give me some advice! If you are gay and are out, please tell me your story! Thank you so much for sticking with me. Sorry it's long, but I needed to get it out! -Kristi P.S. The best answer will receive 10 points! P.S.S. I am also scared that my mom will try to put me through some sort of counseling or therapy to try and "cure" me! What do I do if she does? And, if I do get kicked out, is it legal for me to live with my 26 year old sister?? more

Voting Question: urgent! cousins ruining my vacation! help!!?

Going on vacation soon, Spring Break. Were going to South Carolina to my uncle rons, as we do every spring & summer. Last summer, my aunt and uncle and their 3 kids, 7, 5, and 2 now, went with us. they kinda invited themselves because my uncle ron is his brother. well, its MY vacation because my grandma and i have went there every year since i was very little. so yeah it is MY vacation my problem here is that the kids are so annoying. the 5 yr old cries over every little thing(middle child) and the 7 yr old is so hiper and none of them will listen to me when i tell them theyre not suppost to be doing something theyre doing. the 2 yr old gets ALL the attention and to get my grandmas attention sometimes i have to scream "hey im gonna go jump off tha balcony!" and she knows im joking so she laughs and asks me wat i want. well, i dont get to do anything i want cos when the kids r with us they never want to go shopping really. they get tired and soon loose patience. my aunt sits on her bum while shes there and doesnt even offer to help with dinner or clean dishes. the kids r soo hyper(theyre all boys) and they r always fighting or following me around and bugging me and waking me up in the morning while im trying to sleep!!! they are rough with the dogs too! theyre small dogs! they jump around and run thru the house and everything! the 2 yr old, whenever he cries mamaw always gets him n loves on him and he always gets what he wants. i always have my own momey my uncle gives me, so my grandma doesnt have to buy me anything. but all her attention is towards the baby! he makes EVERYONE happy xcept me. also, the boys think they know it ALL> u cnt tell them theyre wrong! they will argue but the most annoying is when they cry over stupidstuff. we dont get to really go to all the places i wanna go 2 when the baby is with us cos mamaws like we will go when we dont have baby because im tired. blahblahblah. we all share the same house while were there too... the kids also scream and r being loud in the house and it annoys my papaw and me. we tell them to calm down but the brats dont listen. i go get my aunt or uncle. but they ruin MY vacation!! and theyre coming with us again this year!! i really dont like kids at ALL and it upsets me that theyre coming because i just get shoved to the side when theyre here. im the only girl in a family of boys and im 13. HELP PLZ! PS: the 7 yr old & 7 yr old are my mamaws stepgrandkidsI cant visit another relative, i always go to my uncles. we have every year and theres no other relative id visit. more

Resolved Question: Please help! EMERGENCY!! 10 points?!? CLICK HERE!! Please help me?

Resolved Question: My life is stuck in time. Please help? Anyone? I'll give you 10 points!?

Voting Question: Thinking about telling my mom? Please help me! 10 points?!?

Voting Question: What am I to do about this girl?

This is a very long background story but you need to read it before you understand the whole thing. I met this girl, lets call her P, at this 5 week long educational program we had over two summer ago. She had a crush on me starting the first week but I was already occupied with another girl. Things did not work out with me and that girl and afterwards, P and I started flirting a lot. I tried to get things started with P but she wouldn't have it, she didn't want to be my rebound (I swear that she never was just a rebound). Well she ended up getting together with this other guy during the five week program, but both P and I knew that she was never that into him. After the program ended and we both went back to our homes (we live at least 3 hrs apart), I would call her every other night and we would talk for hours. My whole senior year of high school, i would make occasional trips to see her and other friends. Twice she told me she doesn't have any more feelings for me when I come and see and twice we still end up being closer than just friends. Towards the end of my senior year, she was upset because her parents made her go on vacation with them and she would miss her senior prom. Well i decided to ask her, because i figure a girl's senior prom is really important. Well P agreed and she came down for the weekend. I took her out and later that night we went to this quiet little place where we started to talk about "us" (this being after she told me her feelings for me are strictly platonic). Well things heated up and we started to make out. She stopped at one point and said "I can't do this", but still continued to kiss me. I took her to prom and at some points during the weekend we'd be fine, at other points, she wouldn't even let me hold her hand... After prom, i took her up state for a science competition she had. Our good byes were rough i was hurt. I told her not to expect contact from me for a while. It's been 10 months since then and i still find myself thinking about her. But she has never contacted me either. We both live in different states now. I just can't seem to forget about her. But i guess she has forgotten about me though, right? It's been so long since she tried to talk to me. What do am i to do about this girl? more