Shallow gal? My BFF just told me my guy friend likes me. I like him too, but there's one problem. He's a little overweight. I can't get it off my mind. What should I do?

DAVE Physical attraction is important, but it shouldn't be the determining factor. If the only drawback is that he's a "little" overweight, don't let that be a deal-breaker. What if he thought you're a "little" too blonde for him? Wouldn't that seem silly? Put the weight issue aside, and focus on his positives. I'm sure they far, um, outweigh the negatives.

BILL You could be the one to help get your portly pal in shape. Plan your dates as workouts: Meet him at the roller rink, take hikes in the woods, go mountain biking. Maybe his excess weight will disappear along with your superficiality.

Last week, I gave this guy a note telling him I like him. He wrote back a really nice note. But then he asked this girl (who doesn't like me? if he should go out with me. She told him no because we'd make a "terrible" couple.

DAVE Written communication can be special. I've learned more about some girls from IMs and e-mails than face-to-face encounters. Written emotions have the advantage of reflection and don't come with the awkwardness of social interaction. Since your note was well-received, send another. Without blasting the other girl, mention some reasons you two would make a good couple.

BILL Britney and Kevin are a terrible couple. But that doesn't stop them from having a UPN show. Actually, they might be a good couple. But it's a terrible show. My point is, a relationship should be about you two, not outsiders. Tell the guy you don't care what other people think, you like him. See how he responds. If he's more interested in the opinions of others, you've saved yourself some hassle by finding out early on.

I'm having a b-day party--yay! This is my first boy/girl party, and I have no idea what to do! Usually, it's just me and the gals, and we do gossip and girl stuff.

BILL This is why music was created. Play it loud. Smile, and keep the party short. You'll be surprised how much you enjoy guys if you don't have to actually speak to us and discover how dopey we are.

DAVE Bill's on to something: Cut the chat, and cue the iPod. Before the big night, e-mail everyone for playlist requests. Just be sure to invite more girls than guys; otherwise, you'll be jamming Rage Against the Machine all night.

I like this boy, and my guy friend (who's so sweet) asked him out for me. But the guy said no! I'm so bummed. Do you think it's because my friend asked him? Should I ask him out myself?

DAVE If you're bummed, take another shot. Some guys are simply too embarrassed to discuss chick biz with a buddy. So give your crush the chance to answer in person--all he can say is "no" again. Just be prepared for that possibility.

BILL Maybe they were at a loud ballgame. Your friend said, "Would you go out with Taryn?" and he heard: "Do you have a dog named Sharon?" Happens all the time. Get the full scoop, then decide if you want to ask him yourself.

Got a question? Send it to Bill and Dave, c/o Girls' Life, 4517 Harford Road, Baltimore, MO 21214, or e-mail it to [e-mail].