"I'm selfish, impatient and a little insecure. I make mistakes, I am out of control and at times hard to handle. But if you can't handle me at my worst, then you sure as hell don't deserve me at my best." - Marilyn Monroe
As the year is coming to its end, it's time to look back on all of 2008 - the good, the bad, and the fabulous. Today, I'm looking back on all the ladies who proved to be true FGs.
1. Miley Cyrus - She started off the year a little rough, with her controversial photos for Vogue. But she proved to be a girl who learns from her mistakes. Plus, she celebrated her 16th birthday at Disneyland with one of her favorite charities, Youth Service America. Pretty sweet!
2. Taylor Swift - 2008 proved to be an even bigger year for Taylor, including mega-record sales and awards too, including Breakout Artist at the Teen Choice Awards. But the best part? She proves that a real girl with real talent (she writes all of her songs) and a big heart can make her dreams come true.
3. Hillary Clinton - No matter what your political beliefs, Hillary Clinton took a big step for us FGs here in the United States. She was the first woman to be a serious candidate for president. Even though she didn't make it all the way, we are that much closer to having a woman in office.
4. Demi Lovato - She went from being a former kiddie on Barney to the star of Disney's Camp Rock and touring with the Jonas Brothers. Her new music has gotten stellar reviews from Rolling Stones, and she's proven to be one FG not falling in the Hollywood trap (Just listen to "La La Land").
5. Selena Gomez - Selena's starpower continued to grow this year. Not only can the girl act, but she can sing, as she proved in Another Cinderella Story. Not only that, but she proved friendship can survive stardom - she and her best friend Demi (#4 on our list) made time to create web videos together for their fans to enjoy.
6. Britney Spears - This one might seem like a strange choice. And it's true that she started off the year with some... strange behavior. But you know what? She has gotten back to work, started turning her life around, and proved that comebacks are definitely possible.
7. Beyonce - This girl can sing! And she's back, with her new album I Am... Sasha Fierce. Not only that, but she has shown her acting abilities and gotten married to long-time boyfriend Jay-Z. A little class and a lot of hard work can take you a long way!
8. Hayden Panetierre - Although this actress is best known as an activist because of her attempt to stop a dolphin hunt in 2007, she continued to use her starpower for good in 2008. She helped raise funds for SaveTheWhalesAgain.com, and spoke out about the election.
9. Jordin Sparks - Last year's American Idol has had big success this year. She won an AMA and sang "The Star Spangled Banner" at the Super Bowl. This real beauty has attributed American Idol to helping her feel more comfortable in her own skin - and that confidence shows!
10. Maya Angelou - This writer has a little more life experience than the other FGs on this list, but that's exactly why she's here! She released her book Letter to My Daughter to share her life lessons with all of her daughters around the world, which is the type of FG unity I love to see.
So, what do you think? Did I miss any FGs on this list? Let me know what you think!
So I thought I would share some more fun quizzes with you. Hopefully you are on winter break (I am!) and will get some time to chill out. Try them with your friends, and let me know what your answers are!
You know how much I love quotes. So I thought I'd share a few more of my favorites for a little inspiration pick-me-up.
1. "I believe that a worthwhile life is defined by a kind of spiritual journey and a sense of obligation." – Hillary Rodham Clinton
2. "The important thing is not to think much but to love much; and so do that which best stirs you to love." – St. Teresa
3. "Don’t let anyone tell you that you have to be a certain way. Be unique. Be what you feel." – Melissa Ethridge
4. "I feel like people expect a lot out of girls, like you're supposed to know who you are and what you want out of life right now. Some girls know. I did. But lots of people don't know. You have to try a lot of things and not worry about what people are thinking." - Ashley Tisdale
5. "Whether you are happy or whether you are sad, it is wise to remember you are really in process." – Maya Angelou
6. "The thing that is really hard, and really amazing, is giving up on being perfect and beginning the work of becoming yourself." – Anna Quindlen
7. "It is not what you give your friend, but what you are willing to give that determines the quality of friendship." – Mary Dixon Thayer
8. "It is only possible to live happily-ever-after on a day-to-day basis." – Margaret Bonnano
9. "The most courageous act is still to think for yourself. Aloud." - Coco Chanel
As you know, I'm really trying to get in the holiday spirit this year. And one of the most simple ways to do that is music. So for this week's top 10, I am going to share the FG choices for holiday CDs. Check them out for an extra boost of holiday cheer!
1. Acoustic Hearts of Winter - Aly & AJ(Must listen: "Greatest Time of Year")
2. Rejoyce: The Christmas Album - Jessica Simpson
3. Let It Snow! - Michael Buble
4. Disney Channel Holiday - Disney Channel Stars (my fave - "Last Christmas" by Ashley Tisdale!)
5. Cheetah-Licious Christmas - The Cheetah Girls (So Cheetah-fabulous!)
6. Now That's What I Call Christmas! - Various Artists
7. The Taylor Swift Holiday Collection - Taylor Swift
8. All Wrapped Up! - Hollywood Records Artists (this includes the JoBros & DemiLovato)
9. Music From the OC: Mix 3 - Have A Very Merry Chrismukkah - Various Artists (Random, but so fun!)
10. My Kind of Christmas - Christina Aguilera(An older one, but that girl can sing!)
So those are my faves. How about you, FGs? What's your fave holiday music? Or is it so not your thing? Leave a comment to let me know what you think.
Even if you're stressed about the holidays, there are lots of things to enjoy about the coming month. Make some time to relax and enjoy the season - you'll be glad you did.
1. Hot Chocolate - Okay, this is one of my favorite things of winter. It's delicious, and believe it or not kinda good for you too. Check out these CosmoGIRL! recipes.
2. Movies - Some of the best movies come out this time of year. I'm excited for Marley & Me, which comes out December 25th. But I've also heard great things about Four Christmases and Twilight, which are both already in theatres.
3. Snow Days - Now is the time! Snow days are fabulous for curling up indoors (or playing outside). Even if you live somewhere it doesn't snow, it's still a great time to get cozy.
4. Dress-Up - With all of the parties and events that come up this month, there's a bunch of chances to get all dressed up. Even if you can't afford a bunch of new stuff (believe me, I can't either!), you can get creative with everything you've got in your closet already.
5. Music - I love, love, love holiday music. And if you need a little boost of holiday cheer this month, music can do it for you. Check it out - Jessica Simpson, Aly & AJ, the Cheetah Girls, and lots of your fave artists have made holiday CDs.
6. Baking - Whether you need treats for friends (or just for yourself), now is a time to get in the kitchen. It's relaxing, fun, and delicious -try this Seventeen.com recipes.
7. School Break - Winter break is getting close! And we could all use one every now and again.
8. Family Time - Okay, maybe they're a little bit crazy. But spending time with the fam can be great, and this month brings a lot of it. And hey, nobody loves you or understands you better -sometimes they can even teach you a thing or two.
9. Giving Back - There are always extra chances to volunteer or reach out to others in need of your help during this month. Keep an eye out, or check out this FG Top 10, if you need ideas.
10. Almost a New Year... December means that the year is almost over, and 2009 will be here soon. New year, new opportunities. What do you want to do with it?
xoxo
The Fab Gal
PS - What are your favorite parts of this month? Leave a comment to share your thoughts.
So holiday season isn't quite here yet, but I am so ready for it! And it's about time to think about going shopping. Maybe you know what's on your wish list, but what are you getting your FGs? If you're like me, you want to get them something special - that' won't break the piggy bank. Think of this list as your starter guide for the perfect presents:
1. Get Crafty - Why not give her something made special by you? Crafts are so fun because they are unique, thoughtful, and won't even cost you too much! Look online for instructions for making jewelry, keepsakes, and all kinds of cute stuff.
2. Share the Music - Holiday music is so my thing, so one year I handed out mixed CDs of my fave holiday tunes. Even if you don't want to go with the holiday theme, you could make your friends a "friendship soundtrack," with all the songs that remind you of them.
3. Bake Up Some Love - Let's face it, who doesn't love good food? Whipping up a batch of sugar cookies or another treat is fun for you, and you'll have presents that all of your friends can enjoy.
4. Capture the Memories - If you and your BFF take a lot of photos, why not gather them up for her? Photo albums, scrapbooks, or even a collage are sweet and creative.
5. Save it for Later - If your friend is truly the girl who has it all, why not give her something that isn't found in a store? Make up a gift certificate for a girls' night, spa day, or slumber party - redeemable whenever she wants.
6. Get Her Started - Is there a hobby she's always wanted to try - scrapbooking, making sushi, running, whatever? Make her a starter pack of things to help her get going on that dream.
7. Spread the Joy - Maybe you can find a gift that's double duty - something cute that also gives part of the proceeds to charity. Better yet, you and your girls can decide to skip the gifts this year, and each donate $10 to a cause you love.
8. Her Faves - What things always make you think of your friend? Does she have a favorite food, favorite lip gloss, favorite candle? Whatever those things are, they are probably a safe bet for presents. Make her a friendship box of all of those things that remind you of her. It's a safe bet, and she will know you were truly thinking of her.
9. Your Fave - If you're at a loss at what to get for a new friend, why not give her something that you love? A favorite book, CD, or treat will show you are thoughtful - and help her get to know you a little better.
10. Skip it! - If you and your friends are running out of ideas (or $) for gifts to give, why not just skip it? Have a holiday party for yourselves instead. It will help you get pumped for winter break, and the memories will last long after the wrapping paper's gone.
What are your gift ideas, FG? What are you getting for your friends this year? Let me know by comment or at The Fab Gal Myspace Blog.
I've been crusing around YouTube lately, and I am totally obsessed with all of the celebrity videos out there right now. I especially love series of web shows put out by celebs themselves - it's just fun to see that even these big stars have their silly moments. So check out these celebrity YouTube channels for some fun.
1. The Miley and Mandy Show - Miley Cyrus and her best friend, Mandy Jiroux, created this crazy web show just for their fans to enjoy.
2. Seventeen Magazine - You know Seventeen is one of my favorite mags. Go here for behind-the-scenes scoop.
3. Demi & Selena - Not to be outdone by Miley and Mandy, these two famous BFFs decided to start their own show (complete with Jonas Brothers guest appearances).
4. Hollywood Records - If music videos are your thing, this is the one to check out. They produce and feature everyone from Hilary Duff and Hayden Panetierre to the Plain White T's and Jesse McCartney.
5. Taylor Swift - If you're a true Taylor fan, this is for you - it's got everything from music videos to vlogs made by Taylor herself (like the clip I showed you the other day).
6. PopStar Magazine - Funny interviews and candid clips of celebs talking to PopStar Magazine. Weren't you always wondering what Drew Seeley would do as president?
7. The Real Alyson Stoner - This cutie from Camp Rock has a channel to chat with her fans. Keep an eye on her - she's one of the next big stars.
8. Ashley Tisdale - I think all of the Disney stars have YouTube channels these days! Mostly trailers, but there is a great one of the HSM crew pranking Zac.
9. The Ro and Co Show - Did you know Cody Linley, Hannah Montana's TV BF Jake Ryan, could rap? Well, you just have to see it to believe it.
10. Alpha Kitty - This isn't your typical celeb video, but it's way cool. They're made by Atoosa, the former editor of Seventeen and CosmoGIRL!.
Okay, FGs! Check them out, enjoy, and let me know if you find any other great videos!
There's no better way to give back than to give your time. And there are so many ways to help. It's good for the community, but it makes you feel good too. So this week's Top 10 is full of great places for you to lend a hand.
1. Habitat for Humanity - This organization builds affordable housing for low-income families. You have to be 16 to build, but check out their Youth Program for other ways to help.
2. Special Olympics - They provide athletic opportunities for people with different kinds of disabilities, and they're always in need of volunteers to help with events. Learn more here.
3. Zoo - Many zoos have programs for teens to volunteer. If working with animals is your thing, call up your local zoo to see what opportunities are available.
4. American Red Cross - If you are interested in learning more about the medical field, this is a great place to help out. Use their volunteer finder to see what's available. Your local hospital would probably have volunteer positions as well.
5. Food Bank - Sharing food is probably one of the simplest, and most appreciated, acts of kindness - and food banks could sure use your help. Check out Feeding America to find a food bank in your area.
6. Salvation Army - You know those bell ringers outside the big stores at Christmastime? They're ringing for the Salvation Army. It's a great project to do with friends to spread holiday cheer. Check out their site to learn more.
7. Komen for the Cure - Breast cancer affects a lot of women and families worldwide. Find an event to help raise money for research by going to the Komen website.
8. Support the Troops - There are so many ways to help out and support the US Troops and their families, either by sending care packages, or even donating your cell phone to Cell Phones for Soldiers. A perfect way to give if you don't have a lot of time.
9. Keep America Beautiful - If the environment is your thing, this is the organization for you. They have all kinds of local opportunities, to keep your community lovely. Learn more here.
10. VolunteerMatch - This site is a great starting point for finding great volunteer opportunities in your area. They have many of the organizations listed above, as well as a whole lot more, all in one place. Start looking for your match at here.
So, what is your favorite color? Well, some people say it has a lot to do with personality. Check out what I found out about "color personality," and see if yours matches up!
1. Blue - Dreamy and optimistic, you often have your head in the clouds. Still, you are very compassionate, caring, and always faithful to your friends.
2. Green - You are always real and sensitive to others' needs - you are a peace-loving girl. This makes green-lovers great listeners.
3. Purple - You value being unique and always stay true to yourself. Purple people also tend to be creative and artistic.
4. Orange - You are fun-loving and social, and always the life of the party. You tend to be bold and fearless, and maybe even a little dramatic.
5. Black - You are very sophisticated, and come off as a little mysterious. You keep a lot just beneath the surface.
6. Pink - You are charming and loving towards everyone. Pink-lovers also enjoy getting that extra special treatment.
7. Red - You are passionate, ambitious, and clear about what you want. Red girls are real movers and shakers!
8. Silver - You are thoughtful and considerate of your emotions. You always think about what you want before you act.
9. Yellow - You are sunny and imaginative. You prefer freedom to responsibility, and love to be adventurous!
10. Gold - You have big dreams and are willing to go after them! You are always on-the-go and live life to the fullest.
Okay, so there you go! Does your favorite color match you? How about your BFFs? It's fun to give it a try!
Halloween is almost here. Are you dressing up? I am! I haven't decided what I want to be yet, and if you haven't either, that's okay! Becuase this week's Top 10 is the best FG Halloween costumes.
1. Selena Gomez & Demi Lovato - A lot of people have dressed up as Paris & Nicole. But why don't you and your BFF dress up as these two good girl BFFs? Check it out here.
2. High School Musical Cast - The movie just came out yesterday, so why not celebrate by dressing up as your fave character? This is a great one to do with a group!
3. Princess - It's what you always dressed up as when you were little, but there's no reason you can't bring it back. Once a princess, always a princess.
4. Night Sky - If you want an awesome DIY costume, check out this idea from GirlsLife.
5. Jonas Brothers - You might be in love with them, but why can't you be them? Check out this idea from Seventeen.
6. Decades - If you don't have time to go costume shopping, dressing from your fave decade is always easy to do. Bright colors and off the shoulder tops for the 80s, tie-dye for the 70s, or even a flapper dress for the 40s - there's a lot of options.
7. Vampire - An old classic, but the Twilight series is bringing vampire back into fashion. You can make it as cooky or cute as you want!
8. Cartoon Girl - What was your fave show as a kid? Rugrats? The Flinestones? Ninja Turtles? Try dressing up as one of the characters from that show to bring back to good 'ol days.
9. Boy - If you really want to get crazy, why not try a boy's costume? Napoleon Dynamite, The Joker, Indiana Jones... there are so many options! It might take some extra work, but it will be worth the shock factor.
10. Your Best Friend - If you're really low on time, why not just switch clothes with a buddy? You can trade places (and clothes) for the night, and really walk in each other's shoes!
I hope this helps! Let me know your fab costume ideas here or at The Fab Gal Myspace.
Well, one of my favorite seasons is in full swing, and there is a lot to look forward to! Here are my top 10 favorite things about this fall...
1. High School Musical 3 (October 24) - The big finale is coming this Friday to the big screens. You can bet it's going to be pretty fabulous.
2. Halloween (October 31) - Who doesn't love to dress up and get candy? It's time to pick out a costume!
3. Fall Fashion - Cute scarves, jackets, hats... the good thing about cold weather? It gives you more room to accesorize!
4. Election Day (November 4) - Even if you're not voting, history is being made! You'll definitely want to keep up.
5. Cozy Weather - Okay, okay, maybe fall means it's getting too cold to play outside (depending where you live). But cool weather also means excuses to stay in, curl up, and make hot chocolate!
6. World Kindess Day (Nov. 13) - Sounds like a reason to celebrate to me! Think of secret (or not-so-secret) ways to show kindness to others.
7. Thanksgiving (November 27) - A great day to eat good food and celebrate all that you're thankful for. My favorite part? What comes the next day...
8. Black Friday (November 28) - It's the day after Thanksgiving when you can get up early to shop! Good sales means it's a fab time to do some holiday shopping (or buy something for yourself).
9. TV - All the fall shows are back in full swing, with new episodes! Whatever your show, that's something to cheer about.
10. Zac Efron's Birthday - It's today. You can't tell me that's not a reason to celebrate...
6. Quote: “Where other people are obsessed with the idea that I am always reinventing myself, I’d rather think that I’m shedding my layers, and slowly revealing myself. It feels to me like I’m just getting closer to the core of who I really am.” – Madonna
7. TV Show: Extreme Makeover Home Edition (a totally different kind of makeover!)
This week's list isn't the ususal Top 10 list. But I think horoscopes can be really fun, to see how accurate they are. So here is a little bit about each of the signs. See how you match up!
1. Aquarius (Birthdays 1/20-2/18) - You are a forward thinker who always has a positive attitude. You stand out because you don't mind being original or unconvential. Best Color: Hot Pink
2. Pisces (2/19-3/20) - You are very intuitive, which makes you skilled at reading people. You are also a compassionate person who loves to help others. Best Color: Pale Violet
3. Aries (3/21-4/19) - You are headstrong and always go after what you want. Your energetic and daring nature makes you fun to be with. Best Color: Bright Red
4. Taurus (4/20-5/20) - You are a person of stability and you like things to stay the same. You are a loyal gal whose friends can always depend on. Best Color: Golden Brown
5. Gemini (5/21-6/20) - You are the queen of multi-tasking. You are also very quick-witted and good at convincing people to do what you want. Best Color: Silver
6. Cancer (6/21-7/22) - You are emotional and sensitive. You also have a very caring heart and always look out for others. Best Color: Sea Green
7. Leo (7/23-8/22) - You are a natural leader with strong confidence. You can also be quite dramatic and enjoy performing for others. Best Color: Yellow
8. Virgo ( 8/23-9/22) - You are skilled at organization and have a keen eye for detail. You are the go-to gal for solving problems. Best Color: Forest Green
9. Libra (9/23-10/22) - You have a balanced point of view and always see both sides of a situation. You have an impeccable taste for art and beauty. Best Color: Pale Pink
10. Scorpio (10/23 - 11/22) - You are intense and passionate about everything you do. Your sharp focus helps you accomplish any goal you go after. Best Color: Black
11. Sagittarius (11/23-12/21) - You are an adventurer whose good attitude makes any situation fun. You also have a strong sense of truth and honesty. Best Color: Turquoise
12. Capricorn (12/22-1/19) - You are classy, mature, and driven. You are a hard-worker who has the patience to stick with a project once you've started. Best Color: Gray
So this week I told you about some girls who were using "fat" talk right and left. So I decided maybe all we need is a little more body love. Here are some tips to get you there...
1. Exercise - Besides being good for you physically, exercise makes you feel good about your body. Find some time every week for it.
2. Eat Healthy - You don't have to eat nothing but broccoli and tofu, but your body deserves the best fuel. Take care of it by eating some more fruits and veggies.
3. Sleep - If you don't have sleep, you'll be less likely to feel good and less likely to take care of yourself. So try to sign off IM at a reasonable hour. Your body needs it!
4. Dress for You - Skinny jeans not for you? It's cool. Wear what you love and makes you feel good.
5. Surround Yourself - If you surround yourself with people who constantly diet or talk bad about their bodies, it's gonna rub off on you eventually. Surround yourself with positive FGs.
6. List it Out - Write down all of the things that you love about your body (and yourself). When you're down, bring out the list to remember how truly Fab you are.
7. Sweet Talk - It's good to be around positive people, but it's also important to be one yourself. When you hear that negative talk going in your head, try to turn it around. Tell yourself that you may not be perfect, but you are pretty darn great (You've got a list to prove it).
8. Stay Clean - I don't mean showering (although that's a good thing too). I mean staying clean of the things that make you feel bad about your body - drinking, smoking, dieting, or anything else that doesn't show your body the utmost respect. You don't need it.
9. Play - Find some time to do something fun - dancing, roller skating, basketball - that reminds you what great things you can do with your body.
10. Celebrate You! - You are awesome, whether you realize it or not. It's good to treat yourself every now and again.
As much as I love to shop, there are only so many times that me and my girlfriends can go to the mall. And there are only so many movies in the theater. So if you and your friends are tired of the same old things, read on. This week's Top 10 is fun things that you can do with your BFFs, or new Fs, or whoever!
1. Camping - I just went yesterday for the first time ever! Even if you aren't a nature girl, there is something magic about lying outside under the stars. Plus, think of all the games you can play when it gets dark! Just make sure you find a safe campsite (or use your backyard).
2. Make a Movie - If you've got a video camera, put it to good use! You can make a TV show, or a music video, or just be silly Miley and Mandy style. Get creative!
3. Ice Skating - You've probably been roller skating a million times. But how about ice skating? It's even more fun. Hot Chocolate is necessary.
4. Try a New Restaurant - You never know what might become the favorite for you and your girls. If there's nowhere new, at least try a new flavor of ice cream or pizza toppings and your usual place.
5. Learn to Dance - You can bust a move to your fave songs on the radio. But what about ballroom dancing? Swing dancing? Hip hop? Find a class and get on your dancing shoes.
6. Photo Shoot - It's pretty silly, but me and my cousins love to dress up and take pictures. We always end up with some new things to put on Facebook, as well as a lot of laughs!
7. Work it Out - It's hard to find time (and motivation) to fit exercise into your schedule. But if you do it with your friends, it's so easy! Try yoga, jogging, kickboxing, or whatever you enjoy.
8. TV Marathon - Sometimes it feels good to just chill out. But instead of watching the same old shows, rent a DVD of something you've never watched before (Friends? Gilmore Girls? I Love Lucy?). You'll have something to share that not everybody has seen.
9. Road Trip - This one takes a little extra time and planning. If you see a good concert or event coming up in a city nearby, see if you can work out (maybe as an early birthday present!) for your parents to take you and a few friends. It'll be worth the memories!
10. Share the love - How often do you tell your friends how much you appreciate them? Write them a card, or make a special day to celebrate what you share. It will make all of you feel great.
So, to finish out our friends week, I thought it would be cool to count down the top ten FG famous best friends. These are just some of my faves...
1. Demi Lovato & Selena Gomez - Cutest story ever! These two Disney girls have been BFFs since their days on Barney. Soon, they'll be starring in the movie Princess Protection Program together.
2. Carmen, Tibby, Lena, & Bridget - In the book or in the movie, these Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants girls make quite a crew. It's amazing that four totally different girls can share one pair of pants.
3. Miley & Lily - The girls of Hannah Montana get to live the rock star life together and have some crazy adventures as regular best friends. The best of both worlds!
4. Serena & Blair - Probably not the best example, but we love these Gossip Girl on-and-off friends as much as they love each other (most of the time).
5. The Cheetah Girls - In real life and on-screen, these girls are as loyal as they are fierce. So cheetah-licious!
6. Miley & Mandy - Miley's name is already on the list, but this time it's with her real-life BFF, Many. Have you seen the "Miley and Mandy Show" on YouTube? Check it out!
7. Drake & Josh - So, they are boys, and they can be a little...weird. But you've got to love this hilarious duo!
8. Raven & Chelsea - Before all the rest, these two That's So Raven stars were known for getting in crazy situations and wearing wacky disguises. They always had each other's back!
9. Alex & Harper - The girls of Wizards of Waverly Place are be totally different - Harper is the goofy gal, and Alex is a tough chick. But they always share the Funky Hat song!
10. You and your BFF! - Okay, maybe not famous yet. But who knows? I bet we'll be seeing your names someday...
Of course, our Fab Gal site is totally awesome. But there are some other amazing sites for teen girls out there, and I want to share them with you. They're always on the side for you to click on, but this week they're front and center. Check out this week's top 10 of FabGal - approved websites and let me know what you think!
1. BeingGirl - This site is put together by the people who make Tampax, but it has advice on everything - body issues, boys, you name it! There are also fun polls and Your Locker for you to store your fave articles.
2. Girls Life - The website for the popular magazine has been recently updated. It has all the advice and quizzes like you get in the magazine, but the coolest feature is "Girl Talk," where girls can give their opinions on all kinds of girls issues (and it's 100% safe!).
3. Alpha Kitty - This webchannel is made by Atoosa, former editor of Seventeen. Not sure what an Alpha Kitty is? Well then check it out!
4. My Feet Aren't Ugly - This site is based on the book I've told you all about. There's also extra articles, links, and more info about the book by Debra Beck.
5. Seventeen - Seventeen's website is jam-packed with articles, videos, and quizzes about everything a teen girl could want to know about! Make sure you sign the Body Peace pledge too!
6. Teen - If you're looking for quizzes, this is the place to go! They have 'em on everything from celeb trivia to friendships and flirting. Too fun!
7. With Jess - Jessica Weiner is one of my fave authors. Her site is all about what it means to be an "Actionist" in your everyday life. You will be inspired!
8. CosmoGIRL! - Another magazine site that I love. The coolest thing about CosmoGIRL! is their Project 2024 to get a CG! in office by that year. Online they also have interviews with women professionals in every field.
9. Girls Inc. - I just learned about this company recently, but they are totally FG. They work to help girls achieve their best, and their site is filled with stories and tips for strong, smart girls like you!
10. The Fab Gal Myspace - Okay, okay, this is a shameless plug. But for real, our myspace is just a place for you to let me know what you think about the site, what you want to see more of, etc. I post weekly blog topics for you to comment on. Check it out!
There you go - some stellar sites for you to check out when you're web-surfing. Have a fabulous 3-day weekend!
I don't know about you, but I have been crazy-busy lately. I enjoy it, but sometimes living at high-speed can wear you down, and it's good to take some time to take care of yourself. Here are some small ways for a FG to get some TLC.
1. Exercise - I'll admit this is not always my first choice when I'm stressed. But taking care of your body always makes you feel better, and being active clears your head. Plus, endorphins can boost your mood!
2. Journal - When you're feeling overwhelmed, writing it out can be a good release for what you're feeling. It doesn't have to be A+ material - it's for your eyes only!
3. Spa Day - What better way to relax? It's cool if you can't afford to go to a real salon - I couldn't either. You can find all kinds of recipes for homemade masks online. That, a cucumber, and some nail polish and you're good to go!
4. Get Outside - There's something pretty magical about the sun for making you feel better. Take a few minutes to walk outside and see some natural beauty - it will definitely brighten your day.
5. Enjoy your Favorites - Sometimes when life gets hard, all you need is some of your comforts. Whatever it is, be it your favorite food or listening to the Jonas Brothers CD for the millionth time, go ahead and enjoy it!
6. Support System - When I'm not sure what to do, I always know I have some people that are ready to listen in a heartbeat. Having someone that you can call on when things get rough is the best thing.
7. Go for Ice Cream - They say it's bad to turn to food when you're sad, but sometimes it's good to let yourself indulge after a long, hard week of tests, boys, chores, etc. Get a little of your favorite food - be it ice cream, pizza, whatever - to treat yourself.
8. Listen to Music - Music can be so powerful in lifting you mood. Grab your favorite CD, turn up the stereo, and if you want to, dance! You'll feel so much better.
9. Take a deep breath - My mom always tells me to do this when life seems like too much. I always think it sounds silly, but it does work! When you're freaking out, take a few deep breaths, and just remember to take it one step at a time.
10. Laugh! - Laughter is the best medicine, right? I get it from my fave TV shows and hanging out with my best friends. There's no way to explain it, but it always makes you feel better!
How do you relax when life gets stressful, FGs? I hope you find sometime to do those things during your fabulously busy life! And remember, I'm always here when you need it.
So we talked about how teens are basically taking over the world (okay, maybe not). And here are my top 10 of the teens that are using their powers for good...
1. Miley Cyrus - Of course, of course. She is the queen of the power teens. This girl has done it all, and she seems to have fun doing it! The best of both worlds.
2. Raven - I remember hearing a story how Raven mapped out her career on a place mat when she was 15, and slowly but surely she has been checking those things off. I don't know how true that is, but she has definitely been successful!
3. Jonas Brothers - The only boys on the list. Think how far they've come, even in just the last year. They went from playing little shows to having the #1 album on iTunes. Pretty sweet for a group of brothers!
4. Amanda Bynes - She's awesome, isn't she? She went from "The Amanda Show" at 13 to having her own affordable-but-cute fashion line today. The girl is all that!
5. Aly & AJ - Another family group. What I love about them is that they have stayed true to themselves, and they are genuinely talented - they both play instruments, sing, and write music! Talk about good genes.
6. Hayden Panetierre - From a FG poll a while back, Hayden is one of your favorites! And for good reason - this teen knows how to use her fame for good, bringing awareness to animal rights and other great causes.
7. Taylor Swift - This girl has a lot of power in the country world! She was one of the youngest to ever win the CMA Horizon Awards, along with so many others. And she still has time to update her Myspace...
8. Jordin Sparks - She went from being just a regular 17 year-old to winning American Idol and making music with Chris Brown. If that's not teen power, I don't know what is!
9. Emma Roberts - Sure, she's got a famous aunt, but she's also got amazing talent and serious business smarts. She is careful about the roles she chooses, and she stays away from the celeb party scene. Emma is in it for the long run, just like Julia!
10. Demi Lovato - She hasn't hit the top yet, but you can bet she will soon! Starring in a Disney movie, touring with the Jonas Brothers, recording an album... and that's just 2008! Keep your eyes on Demi in 2009, for sure.
Those are my top 10 Power Teens, but who are yours? Let me know here by comment, and you can always share your thoughts about all things FG at The Fab Gal Myspace.
