The tempertures are rising and romances are in full bloom as we move into the summer months of adventures, vacations and new beginnings.

We all love the changing of the seasons and all the surprises that are in store, the flowers are blooming and bring luxurious color to our world, our hearts are opening as we look for love, romance and hot partnerships. In the months of summer we are more available to meet the opposite sex as we are spending more time outdoors attending events, traveling and enjoying the summer, but we are also open to many dangers as well.

As it is a wondertime of year, we must be open to other things this time has to offer as well. We meet people and our minds and hearts are open after a long cold winter and we tend to think we are somewhat bulletproof to all the dangers associated with this new found adventure. Granted, that tender embrace, that sweet sensual kiss and that night of firey passion may have been great at the time but will the possible "gift" you were given be worth all that fun and excitement? Somehow, I think not!

Lets review some tips that have been preached for some time now in reference to our human nature, raging hormones and unbridled passion that seem to be more eveident in the summer months since we are wearing less clothing and exposing more of our bodies to the opposite sex.

First of all, you younger girls, although I know your young little bodies look great in those barely there bikinis, short shorts and the "if you bend over your kootsie is gonna show skirts", but, think about what you are wearing before you walk out the door. These type things are an invitation, and hey if you are of legal age and that is what you are going for great, if that is not the kind of attention you want.....then cover your ass! Predators are out and looking for an invitation, don't become a statistic.

Secondly, STD's, need I say more? I will be the first to admit how much I love sex and that exciting rondevous with that stranger that I don't know very well, but I always carry my trusty condoms for protection. I AM NOT condoning sex with strangers or one night stands, but they happen and everyone, men and women should and must be prepared. Before you fall into that heated passion, get to know this person, do not be afraid to ask the questions about STD's, have you been tested?, are you currently infected or on any meds, this is your life we are talking about, are you willing in some cases to let someone else have control over the outcome and possibly the length or quality of your life? Pull your head out of the sand and take control. Never have unprotected sex with someone you do not know. Better yet, if you don't know or doubt the credibility, stop dead in your tracks, pull your pants up and walk away. Remember when it comes to Aids, you are also sleeping with everyone they have slept with in the last 5 yrs, that is a disgusting thought.....ewwwww! A small blister or sore on ones mouth could be herpes, although treatable, still not pleasant. Gawd, how embarrasing would that be to have to tell your date you have genital herpes.....watch how quickly they back away from you and the word spreads. And then there is HIV...the epedimic, we do not hear much about it these days, but do not be fooled, it still exists and although someone may tell you they are not infected and they may not be, they can still be a carrier of the virus and spread it to you and anyone else you come in contact with before you even know you have it. There are many forms of STD's in our world and our lives, be aware of them, the symptoms, the cures or lack thereof and the possibility of your exposure to them. If you do not know much about them, please visit the "Center for Disease Control"s website (WWW.cdc.com) and become educated on the subject, arm yourself with the knowledge, precaution and protection. Enjoy your summer, have the time of your life for the rest of your life, letting no one change the course without your permission. Be safe, be informed, be careful and love with no fear knowing that you are educated and prepared for anything that crosses your path.

Linda Reeves is a 47 year old advice columnist who writes for Cupids Blackbook. She lives in the American Midwest.