How to start a conversation with a girl online?

[Hello]

Theres a girl that i like from high school and we just started to follow each other on twitter. She has liked me for a while too. She might have a boyfriend though so I don't want to sound flirty or anything. I just want to be a friend to her for now. I just want to know how to start a conversation AND keep a conversation going so there aren't any awkward pauses.

[Bubble o.O]

just try saying hi n hello, hows your day going...like this..if u want her to be your fren then just say...lets keep in touch..

[Sage]

Be random! Lol really, just bring up random rubbish or facts or anything about your life and if she likes to talk, she'll keep the conversation going.

[Jenny]

YOU: Yo homey, how it be hanging?
HER: What?
YOU: That's my gangsta impression.
HER: Oookay.
YOU: Haven't you seen that new gangsta video?
HER: I don't think so.
YOU: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQw4w9WgXcQ

It's MINT, I tell ya.