DEAR HARRIETTE: I am about to be in an awkward situation. I was recently engaged in a pretty intense process to see if I would be hired for a job. I worked a lot with the human-resources director, and we grew to be friendly. Then, when I didn't get the job, she sort of disappeared. Next week I am going to an event where I'm sure she will be present. I'm wondering, how should I react to her? There won't be that many people there, so I don't think I can avoid her. But I'm not sure what to say, either. -- Unsure, Dallas
DEAR UNSURE: First, you have to shore up your confidence. You didn't get the job, which may make you feel vulnerable or unsteady. That's natural.
What you can do is literally count your blessings. Write down what you know to be good and great about yourself, personally and professionally. Remember the good qualities that made you a viable candidate for the job. Recall positive interactions that you had with the human-resources director. Then remind yourself of the nature of the event you will be attending.
When you go to the event and see the HR director, walk right over to her and say hello. Ask how she is doing, and listen to her response. You can offer something about yourself if you like. Or you can say "good to see you" and keep moving.
By being proactive and seeking her out, you will show that you are confident and strong. Hold that intention, and the jitters should subside.
DEAR HARRIETTE: My son has been going to camp for a month now, and I just learned that two weeks into the camp, several children came down with lice. I was never notified of this. I learned only because the children were talking about it among themselves. When I inquired, the camp director said that it was true but that it was under control.
Every time there has been a lice outbreak at my son's school, we have gotten notifications immediately so that we would know to watch for lice. I am outraged at the lax behavior of this counselor. What can I do about it? -- Itchy, Chicago
DEAR ITCHY: Please know that schools and camps are not required to inform parents of lice outbreaks. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, head lice outbreaks are relatively common in schools. Lice do not compromise children's health, and they can be treated effectively.
This, of course, doesn't make parents feel better. It's still unnerving when a child brings home head lice.
While the camp policy may not be on your side, you can still reach out to the camp administrator and make it clear that you wish you had been informed. Ask for this to become the policy in the future.
For more information on preventing or treating head lice, visit www.cdc.gov/parasites/lice/head/prevent.html.