By Guest Writer A.E. Zander

The night sky was dim in the park my brothers and sister and I walked in. Laying abandoned on the ground sat a plastic beach ball, proving to be irresistible to my brother, who instantly whacked it high up in the air- and straight against my eye. I don’t think I’ll ever forget his horrified look at the black ring around my eye. (more…)

Dear BJ,

I think my friend might be depressed but I’m not sure. He cries a lot and acts tired all the time. Should I be worried about it, or is he just going through drama?

- Worried (more…)

By RTF Editor BJ Hamrick

Imagine this: You’re walking down the street minding your own business, when something green and slimy hits the pavement two inches in front of you.

Gross. Is Herbert Johnston spitting his gum at you again? That is so 4th grade.

Suddenly the green thing moves. It moans as it jiggles. And you realize – this is not Herbert’s gum.

This… thing… is alive. (more…)

by RTF Assistant Editor Halee Matthews

I have a new friend. We’re in the early stages of friendship, just getting to know one another, but she seems pretty cool so far. She’s easy-going and fun to be around. She listens to everything I say. She always wants to do whatever I want to do. She even looks a little like me. (more…)

We decided to suspend Retro Day this week in favor of this interview because making you wait an extra day just seemed mean. (Don’t worry, Retro Day will resume next week.)

By RTF Media Editor Jamin Goecker

JG: What went through your head when you heard that your music was becoming so successful?

CM: “Nunh unh… For real?!…Who says?” (more…)

By RTF Media Editor Jamin Goecker

Chris McClarney’s first CD, Introducing Chris McClarney, is coming out this January — but he is not new to having his music appreciated. With absolutely no marketing dollars behind him, his songs found their way onto the iTunes charts and have touched the hearts of Christians around the world.

Jamin Goecker: Chris, when did you develop an interest in music?

Chris McClarney: I have been singing for as long as I can remember. We had a piano at the house and I was playing as soon as I could reach the keys.

Sometime around 13-14 years old I decided that guitar would be the better instrument for impressing the ladies, and mostly due to its portability (you can’t exactly carry a baby grand in your trunk), guitar became my primary means of making music. (more…)

by RTF Assistant Editor Halee Matthews

“I really like this guy and I think he likes me. The problem is, he’s dating my friend. What do I do?” ~ Shayla

****

Hey Shayla,

I’m sorry you’re struggling with such a complicated crush. I know how painful they can be. Tempting as it may be to express your feelings, you should do nothing. I know that’s freakishly hard, but this guy is dating your friend. So if you want to respect her and not lose her friendship, you shouldn’t do or say anything.

Here’s something else to consider: If he really does like you, why is he still dating your friend? He either doesn’t like you or he’s using her.

If the guy continues to date your friend but tries to express feelings for you, tell her. Wouldn’t you want someone to tell you if your boyfriend was hitting on another girl? You friend will be grateful, and your friendship might be stronger because of it.

I know the whole situation is tough. It’s painful to watch someone you like date someone else. But the best thing you can do right now is respect your friend’s relationship and stay away from her guy.

Halee

P.S. If you’ve got a question, we’d love to hear from you!

By RTF Staff Writer Derek Hanisch

I looked at Brandon, my wingman.  “THEM?” I mouthed.  He nodded.  I gulped.  The “them” in question were an older man and women sitting on the beach of Panama City Beach, Florida, enjoying the rays of the wonderful day.  Doubts started to crawl around in my mind, thumping off the hollow walls. (more…)