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Unless you've been living under a rock for the past few months, odds are pretty good that you've heard of this little thing called Pinterest. The hit social sharing service has raked in about 10.4 million active users, making it one of the fastest-growing social sites of all time. But even with all the hype, many people are saying "no" to pinning and here are nine good reasons why. (Photo source: Pinterest)

1. It's a time suck

   All it takes is one visit to Pinterest and you'll understand why it's considered a major time suck. The last thing we all need is another social media website to distract us at work and keep us up late at night. According to a news article from The Week magazine, 1/5 of Pinterest's registered users visit the site every day, and the average user spends approximately 98 minutes per month pinning. Remember, you'll never get that precious time back.

2. You'll feel bad about yourself

   Pinterest is meant to inspire and bring out your inner Martha Stewart, but even with all the delicious recipes and adorable DIY crafts pinned to your board, your inspiration and patience is likely to run dry. In turn, you may breed discontentment for Pinterest and its users, who seem to have all the time, money, and creativity in the world to make these frivolous things. Bottom line: Pinterest gives people false hope of achieving more than is physically possible.

3. Copyright violations

   Pinterest is a copyright nightmare for artists, photographers, bloggers, and anyone else who wants to protect their images from being used improperly. Pinterest members often make the mistake of pinning images they find online without giving credit to the source and linking back to its original site. It might seem harmless and good publicity for the image owners, but it can turn pretty nasty if they decide to sue for damages.

4. It hurts originality

   The main purpose of Pinterest is to inspire new and creative ideas, but in many ways it actually hurts creativity because users can sit back and let the clever ideas roll in without ever having to think outside the box. These great, original ideas are pinned to millions of boards and copied to a tee, but many people don't put their own unique spin on it.

5. You will be followed

   Whether you like it or not, people are going to follow you on Pinterest and comment when they feel like it. Users can choose to follow all of your pins or just your individual boards and scope out everything you like. Not only do you have stalkers on your trail, but they're also copycats who are ripping off your ideas and expecting more creative pins each day.

6. It can be shallow and phony

   Pinterest isn't just cookies and cute quotes; it's also covered in gobs of trash. Now more than ever, you can find pictures of scantily dressed women and men with perfect bodies and over-the-top beauty trends that just scream shallow. Many people hide behind the Pinterest façade and pin things that they think will make them look cool or rich when they're actually nothing like their board represents.

7. Lack of privacy settings

   Pinterest banks on your interest in sharing with others and makes it nearly impossible to have a private profile. Your pinboards are open for the world to see and vice-versa. To make matters worse, users who create their Pinterest profiles through Facebook will automatically follow people with common connections because the site now has access to your online information.

8. It's inconsistent and poorly run

   Pinterest might be pretty, but it's a very inconsistent site. As most avid Pinterest users know, there are plenty of instances where you click on a pin and instead of being directed to the pin's source website, you end up back on the original Pinterest page you were just on. Another common problem pinners encounter is not being able to retrieve a recipe, instructions, or details on a pin because the website was never attached or improperly attached.

9. It can be sneaky

   Pinterest has allegedly been generating revenue by secretly embedding code and tracking links from user-generated pins. Although Pinterest is not required by law to disclose this practice, they may be losing trust with their users by not being up-front about how they make money.

Going through the day without caffeine might sound like the world's worst idea to some people, but there's something to be said about going au naturel every once in a while. Taking a break from caffeine, or abstaining altogether, can replenish your body and mind and even help you sleep better at night. If you want to break free from your caffeine dependence and still have the same energy level as before, check out these helpful tips.

1. Get more sleep the night before

   One of the best ways to ensure that you're energized throughout the day is to get a good night's sleep. When you're tired, you're less alert and less efficient and it shows. Getting that extra hour of sleep can make a big difference in how well you perform the next day and how well you handle stress.

2. Drink more water

   Dehydration is one of the leading causes of fatigue. If you're not getting enough water each day, you might be compromising your daily performance and mood. The good news is dehydration is completely preventable if you drink an adequate amount of water and fluids each day. According to Mayo Clinic, a person's total fluid intake depends on several factors, such as activity level, climate, and health status, but a good rule of thumb is to drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of fluid a day.

3. Increase your magnesium intake

   Magnesium is one of the most forgotten dietary components, but it may be the exact thing you need when you're lacking energy. Magnesium has many important functions, such as maintaining the nervous system and heart rhythm. Those who have low magnesium levels may tire more quickly and experience muscle cramps and spasms. To increase your magnesium intake, eat foods that are high in this essential mineral, such as pumpkin seeds, bran muffins, lima beans, soybeans, spinach, and halibut steaks.

4. Eat small, frequent meals

   Eating small, frequent meals throughout the day is the key to managing your blood sugar levels and having the energy to make it through the day without caffeine. Depending on your activity level and weight, you might want to have as many as five or six small meals that include a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

5. Listen to music while you work

   One of the best ways to make it through the day without caffeine is to stimulate your brain with music. Music can help you stay alert and focused on an assignment, as well as foster creativity. When you're tired, pick upbeat tunes that will have you tapping your feet in no time.

6. Stretch

   Whether you're on your feet or sitting in a chair all day, everyone can benefit from stretching their tired, stiff muscles. Simple stretching exercises can fight fatigue by loosening tight muscles and lowering your stress levels. Just standing up and moving around for a couple minutes can make you feel refreshed and ready to tackle your next work assignment.

7. Take a walk outside

   When you're feeling beat, just get up and take a walk outside. Walking gets your heart pumping and your blood flowing, which is what every tired, sedentary person needs to wake up. Going outside will also stimulate your senses and relax your mind, so that you can come back refreshed and ready to work again.

8. Socialize

   Talking with your co-workers can do wonders for your energy levels. Socializing, especially laughing, can be very refreshing mentally and physically. Whether you're talking about work or the weather, socializing with those around you can stimulate your mind and promote creativity.

9. Exercise in the morning

   It may seem counterintuitive, but working out in the morning can have an energizing effect on you. Not only does exercising in the morning kick start your metabolism and increase blood flow, but it also allows you to take care of other important things after work and get to bed at a decent hour.

10. Take a power nap

    It might seem difficult to catch some Zs while you're at work, but short power naps may be the exact thing that helps you make it through the day caffeine-free. But, remember that it's called a power nap for a reason. This short 10- to 15-minute snooze can happen in your desk chair, a mat, or anywhere else you can close your eyes in peace.

Most musicians can only dream of the day they'll be nominated for a Grammy Award, let alone win one. Having a chart-topping single and a multi-platinum album definitely helps a musician's chances of being selected by the Grammy's panel of recording industry experts, but sometimes that isn't even necessary. Some artists will spend years working on an album that never even gets noticed, while others can put out a poor excuse for an album and get an automatic Grammy nod. With the 54th Annual Grammy Awards right around the corner, it's a good time to reflect on the not-so-worthy Grammy winners who we would really like to see give their awards back.

1. Steely Dan

   Three decades after their prime, the jazz-rock group, Steely Dan, won its first Grammy award in 2000 for Album of the Year. Big names like Eminem and Radiohead were favored to win, but Steely Dan walked away with three awards, including Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals for, "Cousin Dupree," a controversial song about a man's incestuous desire for his cousin. Just for that, they should give back their Grammy.

2. Lil Wayne

   There's no doubt that Lil Wayne is a very successful and talented rapper, but there are certain songs that just don't belong on the Grammys and his are no exception. Lil Wayne's oversexed single, "Lollipop," won the 2008 Grammy for Best Rap Song. Months later, the artist was convicted of criminal weapons charges. Maybe Lil Wayne should return his Grammy and take a break from stardom altogether.

3. Bon Jovi

   Hard rock band Bon Jovi has been churning out hits since the early '80s, but it wasn't until they collaborated with country singer Jennifer Nettles on the hit song "Who Says You Can't Go Home" before they won a Grammy Award for Best Country Collaboration with Vocals. No self-respecting rock band should ever abandon their roots and turn to pop country. Bon Jovi should hope that we all forgive them for this awful song.

4. Lady Antebellum

   Country group Lady Antebellum was the big winner at last year's Grammy Awards. Lady Antebellum's love song about drunk dialing won Record of the Year, Best Country Album, and Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals. Even if you secretly like "Need You Now," and it has brought tears to your eyes once or twice, you might still agree that it's not worthy of a Grammy Award, let alone three!

5. Kanye West

   Any time Kanye West opens his mouth, he seems to win an award. Hip hop's golden boy has been nominated for a whopping 44 Grammys during his relatively short career and won 14 of them. And knowing Kanye he's probably got something to say about the other 30 he didn't win. We know that Kanye isn't used to not being in the spotlight at all times, as seen in the Taylor Swift interruption incident, but we think it's time for another artist to shine.

6. Mariah Carey

   It seems like every time diva Mariah Carey hits a high note, she gets a Grammy nomination. Although Carey has had a whopping total of 34 Grammy nominations throughout her career, she has only won eight times. It might do the singer's ego some good to return all of her Grammy Awards, but if we had to choose just one, she should give back the 2005 award for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance for "We Belong Together." Forget about her five-octave vocal range, that song just sucks.

7. Tim McGraw

   Musician-turned-actor Time McGraw has had his fair share of hits and honors. Country star Taylor Swift even named one of her songs after him! McGraw won Best Male Country Vocal Performance and Best Country Song for his 2004 hit, "Live Like You Were Dying." This old man anthem might have won over the Grammy's panel of industry experts, but we think it's time for McGraw to move on.

8. Outkast

   Outkast is arguably one of the best hip hop groups of all time, but the duo definitely lost some street cred when they released the pop/hip hop single, "Hey Ya!" In 2004, André 3000 and Big Boi took home the Grammy for Best Urban Alternative Performance. As catchy as "Hey Ya!" is, it has become one of the most overplayed songs in music history. If Outkast gave back their Grammy, we wouldn't have to see people "shake it like a Polaroid picture" anymore.

9. Britney Spears

   Britney Spears might have multi-platinum albums and know how to put on one hell of a performance, but the notorious lip-syncher hasn't gotten much love at the Grammy Awards. Out of the eight nominations she's received from 2000-2010, Ms. Spears has only won one award for Best Dance Recording for her hit song, "Toxic." Let's face it, Spears doesn't hold a candle to most of the artists nominated at the Grammys, in terms of genuine talent and vocal abilities.

10. The Dixie Chicks

    Country music sweethearts, The Dixie Chicks, have been winning awards since their first big hit "Wide Open Spaces," but their golden year was 2006, when they swept the 49th Annual Grammy Awards and took home Record of the Year, Album of the Year, and Song of the Year for their album. We get it. The Dixie Chicks are "not ready to make nice," but it's also not nice to steal Grammys away from everyone else.

While it's usually the lead character in popular TV shows that gets all the glory, a few shows have broken the mold and launched secondary characters to stardom. It may seem strange, but because secondary characters have less dialogue and don't always have to carry the plot of a TV show, authors can be more creative in the way they use them. And this can lead to a secondary character exploding into a superstar seemingly overnight. Check out these 10 secondary characters who became TV stars.

1. Steve Urkel on Family Matters

   When you think of '90s sitcoms, the suspender-sporting nerd Steve Urkel has to come to mind. From 1989 to 1998, Urkel, played by actor Jaleel White, starred as the Winslows' pesky teenage next-door neighbor on Family Matters. Although he was introduced as a secondary character halfway through the first season, Urkel quickly won viewers' hearts and became the star of the show.

2. Summer Roberts on The O.C.

   Actress Rachel Bilson made her television debut as the shallow and spoiled Summer Roberts on the hit show, The O.C. Despite her bratty tendencies and secondary character status, Summer Roberts became a favorite among viewers. Bilson's success on The O.C. catapulted her career in film and paved the way for her current leading role as Zoe Hart on CW's Hart of Dixie.

3. Fonzie on Happy Days

   Actor Henry Winkler is an accomplished actor and director in Hollywood, but he will always be remembered first for his role as the smooth talkin' greaser, Fonzie, on the sitcom Happy Days. Originally, "The Fonz" was only supposed to be a minor character, but gradually became the focus of the show after Ron Howard left the series.

4. Angel on Buffy The Vampire Slayer

   Actor David Boreanaz made his television debut as Angel in the series Buffy The Vampire Slayer. Angel plays a cursed vampire who falls in love with Buffy, but the trials and tribulations of their forbidden relationship kept viewers coming back for more. Boreanaz's success on Buffy The Vampire Slayer helped pave the way for his own spinoff, Angel, and his leading role as Special Agent Seeley Booth on the hit show Bones.

5. Barney Fife on The Andy Griffith Show

   Don Knotts' portrayal of Deputy Barney Fife on the The Andy Griffith Show is one of the best examples of a secondary character who made it big. From his signature bug eyes to his nervous clumsiness, Knotts was a comedic genius who made the show a true delight to watch.

6. Niles Crane on Frasier

   The show Frasier was a major success, and much of its popularity can be credited to the work of David Hyde Pierce, who plays psychiatrist Niles Crane. Crane is the quick-witted younger brother of Frasier, who was originally intended to be a minor character, but became a major part of the series. Pierce brought a wacky, yet loveable quality to the show and his outstanding performance was acknowledged with several Emmy nominations and winnings.

7. Pacey Witter on Dawson's Creek

   Before he was starring in the hit TV series Fringe, Joshua Jackson was making teenagers swoon on The WB show, Dawson's Creek. Jackson played the misunderstood bad boy Pacey Witter, who kept the show interesting with his scandalous behavior and romantic quests. Although Pacey was a secondary character to Dawson and Joey, he quickly became one of the favorites out of the group.

8. Kramer on Seinfeld

   Seinfeld wouldn't have been the same without the bizarre and ever-so-funny character Kramer, played by comedian Michael Richards. Although Kramer was a major part of the sitcom, he often came second to Jerry, Elaine, and George's characterization. Nonetheless, Kramer became one of the most beloved characters on Seinfeld and this role helped him land other TV gigs, including appearances on Larry David's Curb Your Enthusiasm.

9. Ellenor Frutt on The Practice

   Camryn Manheim's role of attorney Ellenor Frutt on The Practice helped launch her career into the stratosphere. Manheim's quirky character in the legal drama was easy for many to relate to. She was a single mother that was often emotionally vulnerable and struggled with her weight and appearance. She was also a witty and merciless foe to those who got on her bad side, and her quirky tendencies endeared her to fans of the show.

10. Karen Walker on Will & Grace

    Megan Mullally's portrayal of the alcoholic, gold-digging socialite Karen Walker on Will & Grace became one of the most popular characters on NBC's Must See TV Thursday night lineup from 1998 to 2006. Known for her outlandish comments and high-pitched voice, Walker is considered the show's breakout character and it was this infamous role that helped her move into other comedies, such as Party Down, 30 Rock, and Parks and Recreation.

The big day's almost here. The one where we bring out the junk food, gather our friends in front of the TV, and watch the most exciting Sunday broadcast of the year: the Super Bowl commercials. Not everyone can be fans of one of the two teams playing each year, and the halftime shows lately haven't been worth waiting for, so the only tradition we still all have high hopes for are the ads. Even in mostly disappointing years ad-wise, there are a few buzzed-about commercials that really grab the public's attention. The only problem is that many of the products get completely overlooked in favor of discussing the content of the commercial. These 10 promos entertained and intrigued us, but didn't make us like their brand any more than we already did.

1. Acura NSX "Transactions"

   In one of the ads released before this year's Super Bowl, Jerry Seinfeld does whatever it takes to get his hands on the first Acura NSX or, as you'll remember it, some new car. The commercial is great, with Seinfeld references, imagination, and classic Jerry humor, but the vehicle they're trying to sell is the most forgettable part of the whole spot. Seinfeld thinks of crazy and entertaining ways to try to win the favor of the guy who's in line to get the first … what was the name again? You've got the Soup Nazi, sock puppets, and even Jay Leno, but somehow the car still zips right out of your head.

2. Budweiser "Wassup"

   There's no accounting for how popular this annoying 2000 Super Bowl ad became. You couldn't go anywhere for years without hearing someone loudly ask you, "Wassuuuuuuuup?" Besides the guys in the commercial holding Budweisers and mentioning a couple times that they're drinking a Bud, this ad could be for just about anything. And even though most of us remember that it's a Budweiser commercial (because no one does more talked-about Super Bowl spots than Anheiser-Busch), it definitely didn't make anyone more fond of the cheap beer.

3. Reebok "Terry Tate: Office Linebacker"

   This memorable and hilarious concept came at us during the 2003 game, but it's hard to remember who was behind it. In the commercial, Terry Tate brings motivation and rules enforcement to the workplace by tackling anyone who doesn't abide by the office's regulations. He may be wearing a Reebok logo around his neck and on his jersey, but it's easy to ignore during all the hard-hitting action. It could've been advertising any sports brand or company, but we respect Reebok for teaching us that "If you kill the joe, you make some mo'."

4. EDS "Cat Herders"

   Chances are you couldn't tell us what EDS stands for or what the company does. But if you saw this commercial during the Super Bowl in 2000, you at least remember their ridiculous ad campaign. EDS, or Electronic Data Systems, is apparently an HP company that specializes in "managing the complexities of the digital economy," which has nothing to do with the funny ad about a bunch of cowboys who herd cats. The rough riders show off their scratches, roll lint off their coats around the campfire, and fetch stray kitties from trees. And somehow EDS thought we'd remember they do something similar, only with technology. It's a fuzzy connection, but we appreciate the humor anyway.

5. Ameriquest "Romantic Dinner"

   The situation Ameriquest portrays in this 2006 commercial is one that would be horrifying for everyone involved and has probably discouraged men everywhere to avoid cooking nice surprise meals for their ladies. A little misunderstanding has the woman thinking her boyfriend really hates her cat and had the Super Bowl audience laughing, but most of us probably couldn't remember what the commercial was advertising. Even the tagline seems like a bit of a stretch. Ameriquest, the mortgage company, says they won't judge you too quickly when you come in to use their services, but the connection wasn't strong enough to make us remember anything but a bloody cat.

6. Nationwide "Rollin' VIP"

   Say what you will about Kevin Federline (seriously, go ahead. He deserves it), but the guy knows how to laugh at himself. During the 2007 Super Bowl, we all were rolling our eyes as K-Fed was rapping about rolling VIP, thinking some advertising firm had really missed the mark. But then we see that Federline is working as a lowly fry-boy at a fast-food joint and getting in trouble for his dreams of the high life. Nationwide must be referencing his quick fall from pop-culture grace when they use their "Life comes at you fast" catch phrase, but the tie-in's pretty weak. Even if you have a (former) celebrity that everyone's going to talk about, you have to make sure your brand is inseparable from the commercial. In this case, it wasn't.

7. CareerBuilder "Office Monkeys"

   This 2005 promo used two of our favorite things: monkeys dressed as people and the idea that everyone you work with is a total idiot. OK, they were chimps, but the love for this ad still stands — there's a chimpanzee smoking a cigar, for goodness' sake! The one competent worker in the joint tries to show them that profits are way, way down, but the revelry continues because ignorance is bliss. This commercial was hailed as one of the best of 2005, but it didn't really give viewers the urge to jump on CareerBuilder.com, especially when more well-known sites like Monster.com had been in on the big-game ads for years.

8. McDonald's "The Showdown"

   The star power and concept of this 1993 commercial could've worked in the favor of pretty much any company. Basketball legends Larry Bird and Michael Jordan (wearing a great example of '90s fashion) square off in a shooting contest over McDonald's Big Mac, but it might as well have been the worst burger in the world since they never actually get around to eating it. Even with high-quality players promoting their restaurant, the quality of the food itself didn't rise to the occasion and no one besides star-struck kids were fooled by two grown, wealthy men saying they eat Big Macs.

9. eTrade "eTrade Baby"

   Super Bowl parties and the Internet were abuzz in 2008 after the eTrade baby made his debut to tell us about buying stock from the site. Everyone was trying to decide whether the baby was annoying and creepy or cute and funny. The votes seemed to be split pretty evenly between the two. Even though eTrade says they had an uptick in business following the commercial's release, most of us probably didn't hear a lot of talk about the company itself when there was disgusting baby puke to discuss.

10. SoBe Life Water "Thrillicious"

    There's a difference between creating an unforgettable ad that will make everyone remember a product and making one that people can't get out of their heads because they don't understand what the company was thinking. "Thrillious" was the latter. PepsiCo introduced SoBe Life Water in 2008 by broadcasting this weird ad featuring Naomi Campbell and a bunch of lizards dancing to "Thriller." It left the audience wondering how any of the elements went together and why that should make them buy this brand of enhanced water. Rather than contributing to a lasting brand, the commercial got SoBe a lot of immediate attention that died down just as quickly.

Have you ever, after watching an ad on television, had the feeling that you just saw something you weren't supposed to see? Or swore never to purchase the product that was advertised? Or wondered if you were hallucinating and maybe even losing your mind? History has shown that marketing geniuses have green-lighted some truly weird television ads. Here are 10 of them: the cool, the strange, and the hopelessly offensive.

1. Sugar Rice Krinkles

   Clowns get a bad rap, and vintage commercials like this one do nothing to help their cause. Sure, Krinkles the Clown's anticipation and enjoyment of this sugar-infused breakfast cereal seems sincere and innocent. But the vibe of the commercial is unsettling: the stark, cheap, second-hand set, the lack of ambient sound — as if Krinkles is actually living several stories beneath the ground in a padded room. And then there's Krinkles' kabuki-like face paint. Is it any wonder that many grown adults harbor an fear of clowns?

2. Chanel Egoiste

   This surreal bit of '90s-era new wave is about as intense as it gets when it comes to television ads for men's fragrances. Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned, especially if she's French. The man in this ad is smart enough to keep his sorry self hidden as his romantic conquests shriek from the balconies, "Show yourself selfish! O rage! O despair! Selfish! Selfish!!!" Is it weird or is it just … well, French?

3. Baby Laugh A Lot

   Sure, it's fun — and even healthy — to laugh. And that's what Remco's Baby Laugh A Lot does. Set her on a table, give her a push so she begins rocking back and forth, and she'll start to laugh. And laugh. And laugh. And laugh some more. Suddenly, the non-stop laughter begins to sound malevolent. And the additional giggling male voice-over only adds to the nightmarish quality of this ad. The repeated shots of young girls suddenly turning their heads as if startled by Baby Laugh A Lot's psychotic laughter call to mind an especially memorable film performance by a certain child actress.

4. John Lydon (aka Johnny Rotten) Country Life Butter

   You've got to hand it to the marketing team for the British-made Country Life Butter. Somehow, they were able to convince former Sex Pistols singer Johnny Rotten (now John Lydon) to appear in a series of ads extolling the virtues of their product while taking a few digs at stereotypical "British" living. The genteel humor of the ad may strike some as a bit weird, given that Lydon is the man who snarled his way through the Pistols' 1976 banned hit single "Anarchy in the U.K."

5. Sony Tape

   Ah, the '80s! Considering that this was the decade of Max Headroom and the birth of MTV, it makes total sense that Sony would green-light this straightforward ad featuring a cassette tape being ejected, flipped over, and then replaced inside the toaster-like skull of an attractive bald woman. The commercial has less to say about the quality of Sony's cassette tape and more about Sony being a company on the cutting edge. Of what? Who knows. Maybe one of their executives just really dug bald women.

6. Jell-O

   Confucious say, is very racist commercial, no? Our guess is that no Chinese-American had anything whatsoever to do with this excruciating vintage TV ad for Jell-O. You have to wonder if Bill Cosby was hired years later as a product spokesman to help erase from our country's collective memory this cartoon featuring "Chinese-type baby" and a truly cringe-inducing voice-over. It's possible that Cosby's efforts redeemed this strange gelatinous snack, a favorite of anyone who just had their tonsils out.

7. Irish Spring

   What could be more Irish than outdoor wrestling, pocket knives, and turtleneck cable-knit sweaters? Television advertising has a long history of grabbing the most obvious, misinformed ethnic stereotypes and blowing them out of proportion in an effort to sell junk food or, in this case, bar soap. Why is it necessary to slice the bar of soap with a pocket knife? Why exactly is Irish Spring a "manly" soap? And why don't we see men with chests as hairy as this dude's in today's TV commercials?

8. Coke (Hilltop)

   In the age of the Arab Spring and Occupy Wall Street, this classic commercial from the flower power era, where a multicultural mob of idealistic young hippies sings the praises of the über-corporate drink-product Coca-Cola, seems like the product of a massive brain-washing experiment. But admittedly, it's a great tune. And the lyrics "I'd like to buy the world a Coke!" were not only prescient given the triumph of globalization, but kind of endearing, depending upon how cynical you are.

9. Winston Cigarettes featuring the Flintstones

   Breakfast cereal, children's chewable vitamins, and of course, cigarettes! The Flintstones was always a show for adults, what with Fred clearly mimicking Jackie Gleason in laugh-tracked episodes and humor based more on domestic arguments than caring for a pet dinosaur. So it only makes sense that during the show's run Fred and Barney would, as they do in this ad, take a time out to enjoy Winston cigarettes while their wives, dressed in skimpy, animal-skin outfits, take care of the lawn work. What's surprising is that the Flintstones were never tapped to hustle beer or hard liquor.

10. Calvin Klein Obsession

    There was a series of truly weird Bergman-meets-Fellini ads for Obsession fragrance in the '90s, and this one is the weirdest. Its hapless Justin Bieber-esque protagonist is unable to comprehend the needs of one truly batty femme fatale who has probably set the course for all of his future intimate relationships with the opposite sex. How did these actors read their lines without laughing? Saturday Night Live, of course, brilliantly co-opted this ad campaign which already teetered toward self-parody.

Unlike wine, not all musicians get better with age. Those who've stood the test of time have to make a tough decision to either milk it for all they've got or call it quits while they're still on top. Although their tenacity is admirable, there comes a point when all successful musicians have to say enough is enough. On that note, check out these 10 aging musicians who really need to quit.

1. Ringo Starr

   Ex-Beatle drummer Ringo Starr has had his fair share of successes and failures in his solo career, but a couple of album flops and old age haven't stopped this former mop-top from playing. Starr will release another album at the end of January, called Ringo 2012, which is a nod to his successful 1973 album, Ringo. The new album features a handful of Ringo repeats, which makes us wonder if he's gone completely senile or is just milking his hits for all they're worth.

2. Steven Tyler

   Sometime Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler has gone to great lengths to hide his age and connect with the younger generation as a pop singer and now judge of American Idol. But there are some things even the "hippest" of musicians can't get away with. Tyler's recent butchering of "The Star-Spangled Banner" may be the last time the 63-year-old rock star is asked to perform at a big event. If he's smart, he'd get out now while he still remembers his name.

3. Eagles

   There's no question that the Eagles are an awesome and incredibly talented band, but Don Henley and the crew won't always have baby boomers to keep them afloat, especially if they keep charging $150 to $230 per ticket to see them in concert. The Eagles' last album, Long Road Out of Eden, was a huge success, and even though there have been talks of doing an eighth album, there's a better option out there: retirement.

4. Bob Dylan

   Music legend Bob Dylan has been rocking out for more than 50 years and he continues to release new material and perform every chance he gets. Even though the 70-year-old singer-songwriter doesn't appear to be slowing down anytime soon, his suffering vocal cords may be the one thing that keeps him from continuing his music career. But when should Dylan retire? The answer is blowing in the wind.

5. Paul McCartney

   Rock-and-roll legend Paul McCartney changed the face of music in more ways than one. After The Beatles broke up, McCartney's solo career quickly became an unbelievable success, leading not only to awards and No. 1 singles, but also to the finest honor in the kingdom: knighthood. Nonetheless, Sir Paul McCartney is pushing 70, and we can't help but wonder when this musical innovator may start slowing down. He performs less often now than he once did, and his tumultuous marital roller coaster may not be helping him feel young. It's only a matter of time before Sir Paul retires for good, but we hope it's sooner than later.

6. The Who

   Let's face it — The Who just aren't who they used to be. The English rock band that gave us smash hits like "Baba O'Riley," "Who Are You," and "Won't Get Fooled Again," are treading on as a twosome and it's just not the same. Even though being asked to perform at the Super Bowl isn't too shabby, Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend should just quit while they're on top and enjoy their golden years.

7. Bruce Springsteen

   Bruce Springsteen may have been "The Boss" in the '80s and '90s, but we think his "Glory Days" are numbered. Despite his age, Bruce isn't throwing in the towel just yet. In fact, Springsteen and the E Street Band will be touring in 2012, following the release of his 17th album, Wrecking Ball, which is said to be his angriest and most political album to date. Oh, disgruntled old men and their rock and roll.

8. Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

   Sorry to be a heartbreaker, but it might be time for Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers to call it quits. Petty has had a long and fruitful career, full of chart-topping hits and musical achievements, but the 61-year-old rock star refuses to slow down now. In 2010, Petty and the Heartbreakers put out their 12th album, titled Mojo. Petty should stop searching for his mojo and enjoy retirement.

9. U2

   U2 is considered by many to be one of the best bands of all time, but that doesn't mean that their latest music lives up to their name. U2's last album, No Line on the Horizon, suffered low sales and it didn't have a hit single. The band has let their music slide more than ever and they've put a great deal of focus on humanitarian causes and social issues instead. Considering the legacy they've already created for themselves on and off stage, U2 could quit at any moment and go down in history as the best (and possibly the kindest) band ever.

10. Sting

    Sting is one of the best, if not the best, singer/bass players of all time. His three-piece band The Police crafted some of the most famous songs of the past 30 years, including the worldwide hit "Every Breath You Take." He's certainly a rock icon, but an aged icon now. When Sting's not working on music, he's championing fundraising efforts in Haiti or trying to save the rainforests with his foundation. After almost three decades apart, The Police recently reformed and undertook a World Tour. There's no more sure sign that a performer needs to call it quits then when he decides to get the old band back together.

Does life imitate art? Or does art imitate life? Always a pertinent question, especially when it comes to high school.

Coming of age is never easy. Riddled with insecurities, having to act sure when you are indeed unsure — adolescence is a battleground that can dictate behaviors for the rest of your life. What you'll react to, who you'll associate with, what you're interested in make adolescence, specifically high school, as informing as it is formative. For those amid the throes of this monstrous life moment, or those who remember it well, and even for those who don't, luckily, there is TV. The high school life and experience are perfectly serialized in a smattering of shows, and a good day-long TV marathon every now and again can go a long way in shaping beliefs about this special time. But what of the cognitive disconnects? There are moments when you think, "This couldn’t possibly be real, and it certainly didn't happen to me this way." For those times, consider the following ten ways that TV high school in no way resembles real life.

1. You'll Never be Chosen to Kill Vampires

   Sorry, Buffy fans. There isn't really any leeway on this one. Unless you take it upon yourself and a fledgling mental illness to identify, hunt, and eliminate those that you deem to be supernatural, you won't be driving stakes through anyone's heart during high school. Unless, of course, you try your hand at dating.

2. People Don't Spontaneously Break Into Song

   With sincerest apologies to fans of Glee, you probably won't see high school students dealing with tough issues like homosexuality, bullying, and teen pregnancies by spontaneously debuting perfect-pitched, well choreographed numbers in the choir room or the cafeteria. Also pertinent for the musically inclined: please be aware that Jane Lynch is in no way your arch nemesis, and Gwenyth Paltrow won't show up to be your substitute teacher any time soon. Them's the breaks.

3. High School Students are Usually High School-Aged

   More astute fans of The OC, Dawson's Creek, Buffy, and lots of other high school TV series may have noticed that their favorite sophomores look more like twenty-somethings than tween queens. If your high school catered to adolescents on the increasingly seasoned end of the spectrum, you're probably mistaking it for college.

4. High School Kids Aren't Afraid of Caffeine Pills

   With the majority of current high schoolers trying some combination of sex, drugs, or rock 'n' roll, the edgier episodes of Saved By the Bell have become but trite exemplars of days gone by. Kids these days don't get excited or scared by the idea of popping one too many No-Doz. They're all too busy having awkward high school sex, smoking pot, or taking their Adderall prescription because their parents say so.

5. If You're a Troubled Teen From the Wrong Side of the Tracks, the Richest Family in Town Won't Adopt You

   Long before Ryan took over The OC, Will Smith was the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. Although a weekend-long marathon of one or both of these shows may imbue you with dreams otherwise, the vast majority of raggedy teens with behavior problems and a heart of gold don't have the opportunity to have their lives get flip-turned upside down based solely on the altruism of others. In these times of economic hardship for most, high schoolers are more likely to resemble the riches-to-rags (or, at least, model home) teens from Arrested Development.

6. Polaris Won't Play A Theme Song In Your Front Yard

   Everyone has an infinite playlist in their high school heads, be it internal or in their earbuds. But one thing you can count on (besides the unlikelihood of your little brother having a well-placed vintage sailor's tattoo) is that an alternative band won't greet you musically as you emerge from your school bus after a hard day of high school life. While The Adventures of Pete & Pete does highlight some of the more realistic struggles of high school life — unrequited love; constant bullying; the beautiful, strife-ridden existentialism implicit in coming-of-age; substitute teachers; kooky, embarrassing parents; marching band — you can be certain that Polaris won't be jam-mobbing your yard any time soon.

7. No One Is the Anonymous Perez Hilton of Your School

   Not that you needed reassurance that Gossip Girl wasn't representative of real life, but there is a slim chance that there exists a spectre of the juiciest rumors that feeds directly to your cell phone. Gossip may be one of the more fun/hurtful parts of high school life, but there's nary a high school student that doesn't take credit for having the latest scoop.

8. The Cute Blond Alternateen is Not A Private Detective

   This is especially true if you live in California, where an inordinate amount of high school TV shows are set. You may have a ragtag set of friends that help you solve your problems, but you won't be the Veronica Mars of your school. Additionally, you probably won't have a sage for a parent, especially if (s)he is a cop.

9. You Won't Work On A Dude Ranch In The Summer

   It's not completely impossible, but Hey Dude! made it seem like the most well-adjusted cool kids were spending their summers pranking the higher-ups of a privately owned ranch resort. If you wanted to be a rockstar, more than likely you spent your high school summers at band camp. And if you were head cheerleader, you probably spent your summers being worshipped, getting laid, and practicing your back handspring. The only realistic part of this entire scenario is Ben Ernst's son Buddy, who consistently acts like he wants to be anywhere else.

10. Your High School Principal Is Not A Mad Scientist

    Are you even aware of Clone High? In this cartoon that was an early voiceover vehicle for Will Forte (and many others), clones of famous historical figures were created by the Board of Shadowy Figures, were placed in foster homes, and are now amid the perils of high school life. With a murderous scientist for a principal, an Andy Dick-voiced sheep clone for a teacher, and cameos by Tom Green, Marilyn Manson, Jack Black, and Mena Suvari's forehead, there is little about the details of Clone High that rings true about any non-clone's high school life. This show is a true sleeper classic with a sadly small cult following. Even though it won't help you navigate through more than a wonky version of historical celebrities, Clone High could be just the thing to relieve you from the pressures of the daily grind.

Most vacationers, even those concerned about safety, take certain things for granted when they take a trip. One of those things might be that the ultra modern cruise ship they paid a fortune to sail on won't sink. After all, we've come a long way (100 years) since the Titanic sank in the 1912. The recent cruise ship sinking seems to indicate that we may need to rethink the safety of cruises or find another vacation alternative that is a bit safer and just as fun. Here are 10 safer (and more fun) ways to travel than a cruise ship.

1. Plane

   One of the safest and most convenient ways to travel is by plane. Flying allows you to cover more ground in a shorter amount of time, which leaves you more time to explore your destinations. Although air travel is expensive and has its hassles, it is extremely efficient and incredibly safe.

2. Train

   Train travel is a relaxing and rather cheap way to get from point A to point B. Although trains do not move as fast as airplanes, they do cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time, even while you're asleep. Passengers also have a little more freedom to move around and some trains are equipped with private sleeping and bathroom quarters.

3. Automobile

   Traveling by automobile gives you the freedom to go wherever and stop whenever you please. If you're a confident driver and good with directions, then you may be able to drive in unfamiliar places with no problem. Whether you like to drive alone or ride with your best buds, there's nothing better than a good old-fashioned road trip.

4. Bus

   Buses may be one of the most underrated forms of transportation, but they provide a cheap and efficient way to get where you need to go. Buses may not be the roomiest or most comfortable form of transportation, but they do let you kick back and avoid the stress of driving for a very low price.

5. By foot

   Traveling by foot might seem daunting to do all day, but there are so many benefits to seeing the sights by foot. Whether you're hiking or taking the pedestrian route, traveling by foot provides a more interactive and detailed experience. Not only is walking safe, but it will also help you work off some calories after grubbing.

6. Horse

   Horseback isn't the most conventional way to get around, but if you're looking for an exciting and fun way to see the world, the horse could be your travel friend. Horses are strong and hard-working animals that are capable of traveling on various terrains to get you where you want to be. Whether you want to trek along the rugged countryside or take a stroll on the beach, horseback is the way to go.

7. Boat

   Whether you take a sailboat, a yacht, or a small boat, traveling on the water is an exciting way to see the world. Cruise ships can be very restricting and leave little room for exploration at the port stops. But when you're behind the wheel, you have more control over your journey and personal safety.

8. Motorcycle

   OK, OK, so motorcycles aren't the safest form of transportation, but they are certainly affordable and fun to cruise around on. There's nothing quite like riding on a motorcycle, with the wind blowing through your hair and the peacefulness of the open road. Motorcyclists also have the freedom to pull over and take in the sights whenever they please, making traveling even easier.

9. Bicycle

   Bicycling is a fun and safe way to travel, especially if you pack light. With the right bike and equipment, you can travel as long as you want and tackle a wide range of terrains. Whether you want to hit the paved roads or climb a mountain, biking is an exhilarating and unique way to see the world.

10. Motor scooter

    If you simply want to cruise around a town and quickly zip through streets, a motor scooter may be your best option for transportation. Motor scooters are fun and generally safe to take on short trips throughout urban cities.

Music has charms to soothe the savage beast (or breast, if you're going with the correct but weirder version of the saying), but these movies-turned-musicals have the power to have us plugging our ears and rolling our eyes. While many films have transitioned well to the stage, like Monty Python and the Holy Grail adaptation Spamalot, as well as The Producers, many others have failed to live up to the success the movie experienced. Some words are just better left unsung.

1. Spiderman

   Fine, this started as a comic book, not a movie, but the stage version, called Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark, mimicked the popular film franchise. Some of the big problems with the idea of putting an action flick in front of a live audience is the danger and the huge cost associated with keeping actors safe. And even with the record-breaking budget of $70 million, Spider-Man couldn't seem to keep its actors from injury. Several cast members were hurt during rehearsals and many began to think of the show as cursed. The director left, the stunts were toned down, which made them more boring, and the whole story was rewritten. And to top it off, the songs, written by U2's Bono and the Edge, received lackluster reviews. The show may have picked up since its original disasters but it feels more like pre-spider bite Peter Parker rather than the impressive Spiderman.

2. The Wedding Singer

   Just because the movie had "singer" in the title doesn't mean it needed to involve more music. The 1998 film succeeded largely due to having Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore as the leads and because we all felt we were in on the joke that the movie seemed to be playing on: "Look how crazy we all were in the '80s!" Watching the musical, though, you feel like you're just watching a cast of celebrity impersonators, rather than a bunch of people living blissfully through the golden years of the '80s. Though the plot follows very closely along with that of the movie, developing a depth in the characters seems to have been foregone for dance numbers that evoke memories of the decade's music videos. Most of us will agree that the songs in the movie version were plenty with just the right amount of sass and humor. The extras in the musical just make it tiring.

3. 9 to 5

   Young people who aren't familiar with the 1980 hit film starring Dolly Parton, Lily Tomlin, and Jane Fonda as they try to overthrow their horrible boss are missing out. If they don't know about the musical based on the movie, they're pretty lucky. Sitting through it feels a bit like working a 9-to-5 job, trying to keep up with every set change and looking for a moment of peace and quiet. Parton took part in adapting the movie for the stage, but much like her hair and her breasts, the show is obviously overinflated. Even with a standout actress like Allison Janney in the lead role, the show flopped with its caricatures of the characters, campy, slapstick humor, and loud musical numbers.

4. Carrie

   Yes, Carrie, as in Stephen King's Carrie. Do we need to go farther than saying the cast dances and sings about slaughtering a pig? OK, we will, but it's not going to get any better, as you'd probably expect. Some of the bizarre source material for the extravagant Broadway numbers provides laughs, but a lot of the lyrics and lines are corny to the point of being unenjoyable and the acting leaves a lot to be desired. None of the vulnerability and cruelty of high school are fully realized in this adaptation. The King novel/movie could've been turned into a dark smash-hit, something like Sweeney Todd, but all aspects of the production missed the mark.

5. Big

   Some things just don't work without Tom Hanks. Meg Ryan, "Life is like a box of chocolates," and of course, the classic tale of a boy turned into a grown-up, Big. Producers thought this movie would be a huge money-maker as a Broadway play, so in 1996, they opened it with high hopes. One of these producers, though, was F.A.O. Schwarz, the famous toy store with the floor piano you play with your feet, and this might have been the nail in the Big coffin. After opening in Detroit, audiences panned the show for coming off as a two-hour advertisement for the toy store, with promotional lines of dialogue and tie-ins in every scene. It was overhauled for Broadway, but still met mixed reviews, many believing it didn't share the heart and charm of the movie.

6. Saturday Night Fever

   You can't really go wrong musically with the Bee Gees' music that carries this musical, but beyond the fun of the rock group, there isn't a lot of new substance to sink your teeth into. Any of the grit or wonder that bedecked the movie in the '70s is gone; references to race, drugs, or violence that brought a realism to the screen have been replaced with vapid impersonations of the film's characters. If you're just looking for a cheesy disco play or Bee Gees tribute show to attend with your kids, Saturday Night Fever will work but don't expect it to have any of the impact the film had.

7. Dirty Dancing

   It's a hard, though not impossible, feat to make a musical raw and dirty with the rehearsed, precise dance numbers and exaggerated acting. Spring Awakening managed to come of age with an edgy, praised production. Unfortunately, the musical adaptation of Dirty Dancing couldn't make the story of a girl growing up and losing her innocence look convincing. Instead, the story is campy — literally. Of course, it takes place at a camp-style summer resort and the story gets so weighed down by unnecessary camp activities that you lose sight of the plot. Even with stunning dancing from some characters and decent acting, like you would've found in the Los Angeles production, the musical deserves to be put in a corner.

8. High Fidelity

   A lot of musicals try to cash in on the success and nostalgia factor a certain movie had with audiences. When that movie (and the book it was based on) relied heavily on characters that walked a fine line between being unbearably annoying and enchantingly relatable, it's virtually impossible to recreate that charm on the musical stage, a place that is slightly annoying to begin with. High Fidelity's story focuses on extreme music snobs, another problem for creators of the musical who have to match the exacting taste level of the show's main characters. With so-so music and under-developed characters, the musical adaptation becomes totally forgettable, which is probably good since it might tarnish your fondness for the movie.

9. Young Frankenstein

   Maybe this musical would've performed better without the high expectations set by Mel Brooks' other Broadway musical, The Producers, a classic, hilarious take on producing a theatrical failure. Brooks seems to have gotten a personal taste of a Broadway flop with Young Frankenstein, modeled after his well-loved movie about Dr. Frankenstein's grandson. While the movie found success in parodying the early, black-and-white horror movies, the stage couldn't produce such an effect and with seats as expensive as $450 a head, the play just wasn't good enough. Musical numbers were unvaried and loud, and jokes were delivered with the ease of a hippo doing the tango. The play closed in 2009, just over a year after it opened.