Untangle that tongue: how you can get the convo flowing with your crush!

Girls' Life, Feb-March, 2003 by Jennifer Pangyanszki

2. You're chatting with your crush, and there's a lull in the conversation. You...

A) Fire off a question. You've mentally filed some away for just this moment. B) Point out someone in the hall to poke fun at, just to say something. C) Cross your fingers and hope he'll save the convo. D) Say, "See ya!"

3. You've never talked to your crush on the phone, but his number is flashing on the Caller ID. You... A) Grab it after the second ring. The moment you've been waiting for is here! B) Answer it, trying to keep the giggles under control. C) Debate whether you should pick it up, because you're suddenly having a panic attack. D) Pick up. You need to ask him something about the chem homework.

4. You're on the phone with your BFF when she notices your crush has just fogged on. You... A) Thank your BFF and then get online to say "hey." B) Jump online and IM him. You're tons more comfy chatting with him this way. C) Sign on, just in case he decides to send you a message. D) Figure you'll catch him next time you're online.

5. You're dying to know if your crush is going to the Valentine's dance with someone. You... A) Mention the dance to see if he spills the beans. B) Convince your friend to ask him for you. C) Worry about it until you see him at the dance. D) Just ask him if he's going.

Mostly A's * GETTIN' TO KNOW YOU

As a chit-chatty kinda gal, your open, friendly attitude is great for smooth encounters with your crush. Talking to your crush probably comes just as easily as talking to your BFF. Confidence=cool! So what's your next step? Make sure there are tons of opportunities for you two to keep getting to know each other better. Catch him in the hall or at his locker for chats, or invite him to hang out at the mall with you and your friends. Just remember, there's no need to rush a crush by being overly aggressive or declaring your undying love.

Mostly B's * GETTIN' THE GIGGLES

You're not always shy, just guy shy Why? Could be your tendency to get a case of the sillies around your crush. The excitement can make you feel a little giddy and giggly. But it's not fun--or positive--when a guy reduces you to a neurotic puddle. If you haven t had a lot of crushes, know that feeling comfortable and staying cool around guys takes time. Build up your conversation confidence by getting to know guys as friends first--even the ones you have crushes on. You'll feel more at ease, which could help curb the giggle fits. If there is one particular guy who sends you into bubble zone, try your best to remember that he's just a regular person who wants to know the real you--not the giggle gal.

Mostly C's * GETTIN' GOOSEBUMPS

Ever dash into the girls bathroom to avoid running into your favorite cutie? Thought so. It's natural to panic when confronted by your crush, but you're also cuffing off chances to make a real connection. You're a bright, fun girl, who's full of opinions, interests and a dazzling sense of humor. Your crush needs to know that! To get rid of the pressure so you can be yourself, be realistic. Don't expect perfection every time you open your mouth because it's guaranteed there will be some awkward moments. Pause and think about what you're going to say before blurting out the first thing that pops into your head. And try to approach him in group situations to alleviate the fear factor.