DEAR ABBY: I am 14 years old and have a boyfriend the same age. We see each other at school and talk on the phone (I am not allowed to date yet). Many times our conversations are about nothing. Can you please help me think of some things to talk about with him? I get embarrassed by the long silences on the phone, but I don't want to hang up.
I would appreciate any help you can give me. -- CLUELESS IN NEW ORLEANS
DEAR CLUELESS: Ask your boyfriend questions about himself, his family, hobbies, pets, etc. It is easy to talk about events at school that you are both familiar with, and friends you have in common.
What about a favorite television program, movie or book? Also, there are many events happening in the world every day. Read the newspaper and ask him what he thinks about something currently in the news.