By Cheryl Mattox Berry
Turning 18
Just about every young lady wants to do something special to celebrate her 18th birthday, the age you officially become an adult. For me, it was being able to walk into a bar and order a fruity cocktail with an umbrella on top. Others, prefer to make a louder and showier statement. Whatever way you decide to announce your entry into adulthood, make sure you don’t embarrass yourself or your family. The best way to show that you’re an adult is to act like one. Are you listening Miley Cyrus?
Emergency Cash
Attention Young Ladies: Never leave home without some just-in-case money. I’m not talking about a debit card or credit card. I mean cold, hard cash. I was reminded of this recently when two ninth grade girls from a high school near my house knocked on the door and asked me for a couple of dollars to ride the bus home. They missed the big yellow school bus, and there was no one to pick them up. After giving them the third-degree to make sure they weren’t scamming me, I gave them the money and some advice: Always keep a few dollars tucked in your backpack and don’t ask strangers for money.
Walking in High Heels
Wobbling on a pair of mile-high heels will definitely turn heads and elicit laughter, too. Some girls can swap a pair of sneakers for four-inch heels and keep moving. Others, not so much. Before stepping out, take a few laps around the house. Practice walking with your eyes straight ahead instead of staring at your feet. If it’s taking too long to get your balance, you’re obviously not ready for diva shoes so buy a shorter heel. High heels aren’t for everyone. They certainly weren’t for me.
Buffets
My mother hates buffets because she says they make diners overeat. I didn’t think so at first, but now I have to agree with her. Time and again, I’ve seen teens load their plates with all kinds of fatty, greasy and starchy food. Then, they come back for a second and third helping. After scarfing down the entrees, they pile sugary desserts on their plates. Buffets remind me of animals eating at a trough. If you go to a buffet, try to eat a balanced meal in the right portions. That way you won’t feel sick like most people do after feeding at a buffet.