Be wise with your tax refund

In 2012, the Internal Revenue Service issued refunds to 110,471,000 taxpayers. The average taxpayer refund was a whopping $2,803.

Big refunds may feel like a good thing but keep in mind what they are, really: Interest-free loans to the government.

Changing your withholding on your federal form W-4 to have less taken out of your check means more for you during the year. The average refund — if taken out in equal installments in your paycheck over the year rather than all at once at tax season — would have resulted in more than $200 per month in your pocket.

Tax season is, of course, a good time to make prospective changes — but what’s done is done for the prior tax year. If you’re expecting a nice-sized refund for 2013, make it count. Here are some top refund ideas for families:

If your refund took you by surprise this year — and is the result of a particular turn of events and not an issue with your withholding — consider applying some or all of your refund toward next year’s tax bill. The IRS makes it easy by allowing you to designate the amount of your refund to be applied toward the next year. Of course, this only makes sense if you expect to owe taxes next year so be sure to ask your tax professional to give you an idea of what your tax picture will look like in 2014 before making the decision.

While you may want to rush out and buy a new pair of Jimmy Choos, check out your debt picture first. A tax refund is a great way to pay off credit card bills or other existing debt, saving you even more money in the long run.

A 529 plan is a great way to save for college. Funds grow tax-deferred until you use the money inside the plan for qualifying education expenses. Some states even offer you a tax break for making contributions making it even more attractive.

Summer camps fill up quickly and tuition tends to come due in winter and early spring. Some camps offer breaks on tuition if you pay early; paying in installments often costs more. If your refund allows you to prepay, you can do it now and save. Of course, be sure to confirm that your child will actually be headed to camp when you pay since most camps don’t offer a refund if you change your mind.

Signing up for summer camp: Is it deductible?>>

Conventional wisdom says that you should have a cushion of at least three months to protect your family from unexpected expenses. Realistically, most of us don’t have the luxury of saving when we should: We’re too busy paying bills now. A refund offers you a great opportunity to put money aside for a rainy day. Consider locking up the money in an investment vehicle like a CD, which makes it less likely that you’ll tap it early. But don’t lock it up too thoroughly: You want to be able to access it in an emergency.

More about family finances

The new tax picture in 2013
Claiming dependents on your taxes
Tax consequences of gifts to kids

Check out three preview videos for The Walking Dead's "This Sorrowful Life" and see how Merle might actually end up being the voice of reason.

In the preview video, we see that Rick is once again being visited by ghosts. Lori appears in regular clothes and not in a flowing white dress though, so that's something. We also see that Rick has decided that the only way to save his people is to give Michonne to the Governor. Merle is dealing with his own dilemmas and might just be wondering if he chose the right side or not. Plus there's a live zombie head on the ground. If all of that doesn't make for what looks like another fantastic episode, I don't know what does.

Why The Walking Dead wins with women>>

In the first sneak-peek clip, we find Glen securing a section of the prison when Daryl comes out to join him. Daryl asks Glen if he's seen Merle, and when Glen doesn't respond, Daryl starts making promises about how he's going to make his brother make things right. Glen is having none of it, but not because of the fact that Merle tied him up, beat him senseless and threw a walker in the room. It's because Merle gave Maggie to a man who terrorized her and Glen definitely cares more about Maggie than he does about himself. Daryl looks contrite, but he really has nothing to say in reply.

In the second sneak-peek clip, we find Merle and Rick having a heart-to-heart. Surprisingly enough, Merle is defending Michonne and pointing out to Rick why giving her to the Governor is wrong. Merle lists all of the things that Governor is likely to do to Michonne, and the scary thing is that we all know he's right. Merle tells Rick that it's not worth doing that to her over just a mere shot at survival and calls him "cold as ice." The most interesting part of this scene might be the fact that we're completely on Merle's side by the time it's over.

The Walking Dead recap: Andrea is in trouble>>

Do you think Rick should sacrifice Michonne? Or do you think Merle is right to call him cold-blooded for even thinking about it?

Image courtesy of AMC

This week on The Vampire Diaries, the race for the cure is heating up. The group has divided into three groups vying against one another. Each has a motive for finding the cure.

Elena and Rebekah

We didn't see this pairing coming at all. But now that emotionless Elena and Rebekah are chumming up to one another, we think the team kinda works. They've got this whole strong, independant woman thing that's hard to resist cheering for.

Elena and Rebekah are after the cure together. Elena doesn't want to take the cure, and she knows if the brothers find it first, they'll force her. Rebekah, on the other hand, wants the cure for herself. So the two ditched Damon in the last episode and went off on their own.

By the looks of the preview, Elena and Rebekah get to Katherine first, and Katherine finally gets the tables turned on her like she deserves. She is, after all, the reason Jeremy is dead.

Will Jeremy Gilbert return to the show, or is he dead for good? >>

Klaus and Silas

Then there's Klaus . Just when it looks like he's about to join the good guys, Silas shows up with a white oak stake and squishes that glimmer of hope. Klaus is forced back to the bad. Silas is fully prepared to use the white oak stake unless Klaus finds and brings him the cure.

No word yet on the context of the clip between Caroline and Klaus, but from the looks of the preview she's got him all tied up. And she's mad. She says, "I will bring you nothing but misery." Could Silas have ditched Shane's form and replaced it with Caroline's likeness?

Joseph Morgan nervous about Vampire Diaries' spinoff The Originals? >>

Damon, Stefan and Caroline

Damon has given up on Elena having fun, and now he's mad. He's joined Caroline and Stefan to find the cure. He's ready to hunt Elena down and make sure she and Rebekah don't get the cure if for no other reason than the fact that he doesn't want to let her win now that she's stabbed him in the back.

A bit vindictive, but that's the Damon we love.

So there are the teams for next week's episode. Who's your money on? Tell us in the comments!

Images courtesy of The CW

Whether your style is sleek and minimalist or beachy and warm, don’t ruin it with an ugly pet bed. Just take a little inspiration from our list to make your dog or cat’s special spot fit seamlessly into your decor.

No matter what the boys say, we know that dogs are a woman’s best friend. Spoil her rotten with these stylish picks.

Give your pet the royal treatment with the Regent Spa Bed. You’ll enjoy the elegant curves of the blond-colored pickled oak while your pup relaxes the day away basking in the warmth of radiant heat panels — the perfect metaphor for Mommy’s warm embrace.

If your bedroom is the epitome of over-the-top feminine luxury, then don’t spoil an otherwise textbook girl-cave with a cheap dog bed! The Brangelina Dog Bed is lacy and plush with a bold leopard print that was made for your canine cover girl.

This pet bed looks fabulous in a Florida room or as a pet-friendly addition to beachy or country-inspired quarters. It comes in whitewash or brown.

If you’re in serious need of a statement piece, why not make it one that keeps your four-legged friend cozy, with an easy way to get a little privacy from more rambunctious guests. Made of luxurious microsuede and a chocolate brown wooden spire, your furry friend will be the talk of the town .

You’ll have no problem keeping Fido off the couch if you give him his very own leather sofa. It may look like a couch for animals of the two-legged variety, but it’s sized just for him. This handmade sofa is upholstered with high-quality leatherette, making it easier to clean than your real-leather sofa.

Maybe even more than dogs, cats like to be pampered. Give them a spot of their very own.

Perhaps your little girl loves her new kitty, but Mittens isn’t too fond of the current sleeping arrangement. This fanciful princess pet tent will let her sleep in style alongside your little angel in the protection of her own canopy bed.

This ultra-modern art deco lounge also doubles as a scratcher. The eco-friendly design attracts cats naturally and it’s a cozy spot to play with the other cats or do what cats do best… chillax.

Give your cats a place to play and relax in your outdoor oasis. This wood pet bed with an upstairs play area will keep cats entertained while you sip margaritas and take in the landscape.

With a pillow inside, it becomes a stylish cat bed that doubles as your nightstand. Or put it in the bathroom with a litter box inside. Either way, your cat will enjoy her privacy without marring your well-honed style.

Perfect for multi-cat households, this little bunk bed has sleek lines and a fresh look. It comes with two liner selections — one in beautiful charcoal imitation suede for a more masculine vibe, and the other a fanciful zebra print that's well suited to a bolder gal’s furnishings, which may even cause your kitty to dream of hunting antelope!

More pet accessories

5 Woof-worthy pet gifts
Holiday gifts for the pet-loving family
Etsy roundup: Merriest pampered pet finds

My Chemical Romance have been off the grid for a few years, and the band has finally announced they have decided to call it a day.

Did the Foo Fighters just break up? Again?>>

My Chemical Romance released their first album almost 12 years ago, in 2002, but really made their way onto the national scene with 2004's Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge. The album featured the hits "Helena" and "I'm Not Okay."

In 2006, they followed up their sophomore album with The Black Parade, a much darker album that was considered an ode to the death of Gerard and Mikey Way's grandmother.

"And though you're dead and gone believe me/Your memory will carry on. We'll carry on," the band sang in the first single from the album, "Welcome to the Black Parade."

In 2010, the band released the album Danger Days: The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys. The album gained many positive reviews, but many of the fans from the 2004 album had grown up or moved on.

Can a breakup be good for your health?>>

On Friday, March 22, the band posted a message on their website announcing they had broken up.

"Being in this band for the past 12 years has been a true blessing," the band said in the statement.

My Chemical Romance started out traveling the country in a van and evolved into a band playing to stadiums full of people.

"We've gotten to go places we never knew we would," they continued. "We've been able to see and experience things we never imagined possible. We've shared the stage with people we admire, people we look up to, and best of all, our friends."

The message from the band shows no resentment or any reason to believe their relationship with each other has crumbled, just that they feel moving on from the band is the right thing right now.

My Chemical Romance ditches drummer for stealing>>

"And now, like all great things, it has come time for it to end. Thanks for all of your support, and for being part of the adventure. My Chemical Romance."

Photo courtesy Daniel Deme/WENN.com

Winners are in bold:

Favorite TV Show

• Good Luck Charlie
• iCarly
• Victorious
• Wizards of Waverly Place

Favorite Reality Show

• America's Got Talent
• American Idol
• The Voice
• Wipeout

Favorite Cartoon

• The Fairly OddParents
• Phineas and Ferb
• SpongeBob SquarePants
• Tom and Jerry

Favorite TV Actor

• Jake T. Austin
• Lucas Cruikshank
• Ross Lynch
• Carlos Pena Jr.

Sandra Bullock & more to present at the Kids' Choice Awards >>

Favorite TV Actress

• Miranda Cosgrove
• Selena Gomez
• Victoria Justice
• Bridgit Mendler

Favorite Movie

• The Amazing Spider-Man
• The Avengers
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days
• The Hunger Games

Favorite Movie Actor

• Johnny Depp
• Andrew Garfield
• Zachary Gordon
• Will Smith

Favorite Movie Actress

• Vanessa Hudgens
• Scarlett Johansson
• Jennifer Lawrence
• Kristen Stewart

Christina Aguilera, Pitbull and Ke$ha to perform at Kids' Choice Awards >>

Favorite Animated Movie

• Brave
• Ice Age: Continental Drift
• Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted
• Wreck-It Ralph

Favorite Voice from an Animated Movie

• Chris Rock
• Adam Sandler
• Ben Stiller
• Taylor Swift

Favorite Male Buttkicker

• Robert Downey Jr.
• Andrew Garfield
• Chris Hemsworth
• Dwayne Johnson

Favorite Female Buttkicker

• Anne Hathaway
• Scarlett Johansson
• Jennifer Lawrence
• Kristen Stewart

Favorite Music Group

• Big Time Rush
• Bon Jovi
• Maroon 5
• One Direction

Favorite Male Singer

• Justin Bieber
• Bruno Mars
• Blake Shelton
• Usher

Favorite Female Singer

• Adele
• Katy Perry
• Pink
• Taylor Swift

Favorite Song

• "Call Me Maybe"
• "Gangnam Style"
• "We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together"
• "What Makes You Beautiful"

Favorite Male Athlete

• LeBron James
• Michael Phelps
• Tim Tebow
• Shaun White

Favorite Female Athlete

• Gabby Douglas
• Danica Patrick
• Serena Williams
• Venus Williams

Favorite Villain

• Reed Alexander
• Simon Cowell
• Tom Hiddleston
• Julia Roberts

Favorite Video Game

• Just Dance 4
• Mario Kart 7
• Skylanders Giants
• Wii Sports

Favorite App

• Angry Birds
• Fruit Ninja
• Minecraft
• Temple Run

Do you agree with the winners at the 2013 Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards?

Photo: Ai-Wire/WENN.com

Our favorite BAMF of a chef, Anthony Bourdain, returns to television in mid-April. We'd do a dance, but that would only bring his disdain. Tony fans know that's equivalent of burning in hell. So, deep breath. And...

Bourdain's other awesome show, The Layover>>

Last year, world-famous chef, traveler and best-selling author Anthony Bourdain ended his show No Reservations and left the Travel Channel for bigger and better things. Read: He moved to CNN. Travel Channel gave the long-time mocker of the whimpy recipe shows that litter Food Network nearly free rein in choosing the places he'd visit and the local delicacies he'd shove into his mouth. No Reservations was not a show for the faint of heart or people with manners like the queen's. It was for people who slurp, chomp and rumble happily over foods that normal humans would find stomach turning. When he wasn't stuffing his face, Bourdain made sure to fill the show with commentary on the political and social climates of the places he visited, too.

It was never enough, though. He wanted to share more and needed more access. Bourdain visited Beirut, Lebanon, in 2006 and found himself caught in the midst of an intense conflict. As the cameras rolled, there was no way to miss the feeling that he was itching to escape his hotel and wander into the thick of it. Our Ramones-loving chef seemed suddenly very interested in combat reporting.

We seriously loved The Layover>>

Now, with the help of a new network, the same old Tony will have some brand-new access. We're certain there will be plenty of squirting, chewy "nasty bits," but as he travels up rivers into hard-to-reach places and slips into hard-to-access, war-torn countries, viewers are destined to witness a lot more commentary, too. Hopefully.

Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown starts on Sunday, April 14, at 9/8c on CNN. The first season will find Bourdain in places like Libya; Colombia; and Tangier, Morocco as well as up the Congo River .

Image courtesy of WENN

1. Pitbull gets slimed while Christina Aguilera shows off her weight loss

Pitbull and Christina Aguilera started off the 2013 Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards with a duet of their new song, "Feel This Moment." Aguilera showed off her pipes during the song, but Pitbull ended up getting slimed.

Complete 2013 Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Award winners >>

2. Ke$ha gives an amazing performance

Ke$ha donned a crazy, colorful outfit to perform "C'mon" and "We R Who We R" at the 2013 KCAs. The best part? Her bearded backup dancers.

"Kids' Choice is always one of the most fun awards shows of the year," she said before the show. "I can't wait to come out and party with all of my animals!!!"

And party she did.

3. Sandra Bullock gets slimed

Sandra Bullock was very worried about getting slimed while presenting at the 2013 Kids' Choice Awards since she's been dumped on in the past. Co-presenter Neil Patrick Harris promised to save her from the green goo, but his magic wand ended up getting them slimed. There's always next year, Sandra!

4. Danica Patrick wins Favorite Female Athlete

We love all the talented women in the Favorite Female Athlete category, but we were pumped when NASCAR racer Danica Patrick won the award. Girl power!

Danica Patrick talks about dominating in a "man's" sport >>

5. Josh Duhamel and Nick Cannon go sumo — and get slimed!

Host Josh Duhamel spent the entire show sliming everyone from Pitbull to basketball pro Dwight Howard to the audience. We got the last laugh, though, when a sumo suit–clad Duhamel and show correspondent Nick Cannon got slimed after presenting Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson with his Favorite Male Buttkicker award. Karma stinks, Josh!

What was your favorite moment from the 2013 Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards?

Photo: C.Smith/WENN.com

1

Before he became a captain in Monroe's militia, Neville had a very mundane job. What was his profession before the power went out?

A)Insurance adjuster
B)Printer salesperson
C)Accountant
D)Fast-food franchise owner

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The answer

A) Insurance adjuster

Neville was a humble insurance adjuster whose boss was always beating him down. After the power went out, he decided to fight back and show everyone who the real boss is.

Up next: Question 2>>

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2

Nate's proven he can handle himself in a fight against the toughest opponents. What is his weapon of choice?

A) The sword
B) The switchblade
C) The crossbow
D) Explosives

{pageBreak}

The answer

C) The crossbow

The crossbow. No one's ever made a bow and arrow look so sexy. Well, except Stephen Amell in Arrow. But it's a close call.

Up next: Question 3>>

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3

We know Miles and Monroe go way back, but how far back? When did they meet?

A) Along the road after the power went out
B) In the military
C)At Rachel and Ben's wedding
D) They went to grade school together

{pageBreak}

The answer

B) In the military

In the military. In the first episode, we learn that Miles and Monroe were BFFs in the military, and it's been brought up several times in the first season

Up next: Question 4>>

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4

You have to learn quite a few survival skills in a postapocalyptic world, including surgery. After Maggie was attacked by thugs, Aaron tried to save her by stitching up this part of her body:

A)Wrist
B) Artery in her leg
C) Abdomen
D) Artery in her throat

{pageBreak}

The answer

B) Artery in her leg

Maggie was stabbed in the leg, which cut a major artery. Aaron tried to save her but was too late, and Maggie lost too much blood. Maggie, we hardly knew ye, but you still made us cry like babies when you died.

Up next: Question 5>>

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5

Now that we've gotten you warmed up with some trivia, let's see how you'd fair on your own...

Oh, no! The power has really gone out! What's the best lighting source to have on hand?

A) Battery-operated flashlight
B) Solar-powered flashlight
C) Crank flashlight
D) Candles and matches?

{pageBreak}

The answer

C) Crank flashlight

While any of those choices would do in a pinch, a crank light is the best option: You can't run out of batteries; it'll never be too cloudy; and no matter how much it rains, you won't have to try to light a wet match.

Up next: Question 6>>

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6

Which weapon should you master?

A) Sword
B) Crossbow
C) Switchblade
D) Shotgun

{pageBreak}

The answer

A) Sword

Watching Miles fight off the militia has proven the value of becoming a good sword fighter. Unlike with a crossbow or a shotgun, you never have to worry about running out of ammo. It keeps enemies further away than a switchblade, and — let's be honest — how many sword fighters will there be in a post-apocalyptic world? If I were you, I'd start learning now... just in case.

Up next: Question 7>>

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7

Basic survival skills will only get you so far in a world without power. You might have to do some things you probably should've spent eight years in med school for, like performing emergency surgery and stitching up an artery. Where is a main artery that could cause someone to bleed out if it were cut?

A) The elbow
B) The abdomen
C) The thigh
D) The back of the neck

{pageBreak}

The answer

C) The thigh

We learned from watching Aaron try to save Maggie that the thigh is a dangerous place to get stabbed! Even a small cut to the major artery there could end it all. Don't hesitate to sew that bad boy up and save a life. I bet you wish now you'd paid attention when your mom tried to teach you to sew!

Photo credit: NBC

We caught up with Jennifer Jones, blogger at IHeart Organizing, and asked her to share her best tips for getting your space in shape this spring.

Must-have products

First things first, you can't clean and organize like a pro without the right products — and you don't need a ton to get the job done right. Jones suggests the following to help you get your space spick and span.

• High quality, versatile handheld vacuum for getting under the couch cushions, along baseboards, in the corners of the ceilings and in the backs of the kitchen cabinets
• Cleaning checklist
• Timer
• Sponges and a bucket
• All-purpose cleaner
• Pretty rubber gloves
• Music player and cheering squad

When it comes to getting organized, Jones loves having generic, all-purpose bins around, since they can work anywhere . She also suggests picking up some drawer dividers if you don't have any to prevent excess items from making their way into the drawers over the course of the year. Her label maker is also always on hand and stocked with clear tape. "Labels keep the whole family in check," she tells us.

Spring cleaning: What not to do

Some people think nothing of donning their rubber gloves and grabbing a mop and bucket, while others cringe at the thought of getting near a feather duster. If you find yourself more in the latter category, there are a few spring cleaning don'ts that may be holding you back from getting the job done efficiently. "First, I think people try to take on too much, in too little time. There is no rule that it all has to be done within the first weekend of spring," notes Jones. Rather than trying to do too much at once, she suggests keeping a consistent cleaning plan throughout the entire year, so that when spring cleaning time comes, you can focus on a few of the bigger tasks over the course of a few different weekends.

"I make a list of the items I wish to accomplish, which are oftentimes all those things I only get to once or twice a year, and then schedule time for each," she says. "Of course, it's always a good idea to get the family involved whenever possible, blast some great tunes and set a reward for when you check that final item off of your list."

Streamlining the process

Now that you know what not to do and you have your basic products on hand, it's time to streamline your spring-cleaning process. Start by getting a cleaning caddy. Jones suggests putting all of your cleaning tools into a portable caddy that you can easily transport from space to space. Next, set a timer and give yourself a time limit in each room, or for each project. "Remind yourself that spending a few extra minutes on each space in the spring means you will be rewarded throughout the rest of the year," she says. "When you have accomplished your spring cleaning list, celebrate your successes by going out for ice cream or splurging on that pretty pair of shoes you have been eying up."

Making the process more fun

Still don't relish the thought of picking up the broom or cleaning out the closets? Make spring cleaning more fun by finding ways to relate it to what you love or any hobbies you have. "If you love to paint, craft, build or even read, there are ways to incorporate those hobbies into your projects," says Jones. "Build an organizer, craft some labels, paint the inside of your pantry and listen to books on tape while doing it all," she advises. "And while you are going through your home, take note of ways that you can maintain certain items and tasks throughout the year so you have less to do each year when springtime rolls around."

More from Decorating Diva

Top 5 home decorating don'ts
Make your home pop with purple home accents
Prettiest patterns to add to your home

Dress to impress

Fashion forward cats will be at the forefront of it all with this multicolor polka dot dress by Rockin Dogs Etsy Shop. Brightly colored in all the right hues, your kitty will look fit to strut the catwalk. This darling cat dress includes an easy on/easy off design with velcro at the neck and belly for a fuss-free outfit.

Something’s fishy

This season, your cat should feast in style with a stunningly vibrant Hing Fish Bowl cat food dish. It's available in the hottest spring colors, so Fluffy will love chowing down a gourmet meal in an equally exquisite serving dish. For an added bonus, the removable stainless steel bowls are dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.

Nest egg

Let your cat embrace her individuality in a pet bed that’s as unique as she is. This Easter Egg Cat Ball Bed by The Cat Ball presents a seasonably chic upgrade from everyday cat beds. This handcrafted beauty will keep your pet entertained while offering a cozy nook to rest in.

More must-have accessories for pets:

Get the look: The dog days of spring
Accessories for posh pets
Designer furniture for cat lovers

Get ready to impress the family! Start your Sunday meal with a popular restaurant-style appetizer they'll love. This Sunday dinner recipe for baked calamari with spicy marinara sauce is definitely restaurant quality, but this version is baked, not fried. That means a tasty, healthier option to serve the family at home, without the mess involved in frying.

Ask your grocer or fish market associate to clean the calamari for you. That way, when you get home, all you really need to do is cut the tubes into rings and prep them for baking. Easy!

Baked calamari with spicy marinara sauce recipe

Serves 4

Ingredients:

For the calamari

• 1 pound calamari tubes
• 1-1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 1-1/4 cups buttermilk
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Nonstick cooking spray
• 1 lemon cut into wedges, for garnish

For the sauce

• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1-2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:

For the calamari

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Spray 2 baking sheets lightly with the nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
2. Pat the calamari tubes dry with a few paper towels. Cut the tubes into 1/2-inch rings .
3. In a shallow bowl, add the breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper and mix well. Set the bowl near your baking sheets.
4. In a second shallow bowl, add the milk. Set the bowl near your baking sheets.
5. Add the flour to a large, plastic zip-closed bag.
6. Put the calamari rings in the plastic bag with the flour, seal the bag, and shake so the calamari gets coated with flour.
7. Remove the rings, one by one, and dip them in the milk, then in the breadcrumb mixture, making sure they're thoroughly coated. Place them on the baking sheets in a single layer.
8. Lightly spray the tops of the calamari with the nonstick cooking spray.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the coating turns golden.

For the sauce

1. In a saucepan over low heat, add the marinara sauce, red pepper flakes and garlic.
2. When heated through, remove from the heat and add the Parmesan cheese. Mix to combine.
3. Serve the calamari with the warm sauce and lemon wedges.

You'll love how easy it is to make this dish!

More Sunday dinner recipes

Shrimp and arugula sandwiches
Baked eggplant Parmesan
Pasta with Brussels sprouts

He stole our hearts in Bridesmaids, and he seems like the perfect guy to bring home to mom.

That's why Chris O'Dowd is fast becoming Hollywood's newest "it" boy.

The Irish funnyman is in talks to star in the comedy St. Vincent de Van Nuys, opposite Melissa McCarthy and Bill Murray.

The film follows a single mother and her 12-year-old son, who develop a strong relationship with their next-door neighbor . O'Dowd will play a priest who questions the influence the neighbor has on the boy and his mother.

O'Dowd previously played a priest in the 2003 drama The Conspiracy of Silence, alongside Downton Abbey star Hugh Bonneville.

Melissa McCarthy may appear in St. Vincent de Van Nuys>>

O'Dowd and McCarthy both appeared in Bridesmaids in 2011 as well as last year's This Is 40, but unfortunately they didn't have any scenes together.

Hopefully, we'll get to see these two titans of comedy work side by side in St. Vincent de Van Nuys.

O'Dowd rose to fame due to his work on the hilarious British sitcom The IT Crowd and has since taken on supporting roles in Friends with Kids, opposite Maya Rudolph and Jon Hamm, and the HBO series Girls.

Chris O'Dowd denies Michael Bay slam >>

The 32-year-old is currently starring in the acclaimed musical comedy The Sapphires. Set in 1968 Australia, the film follows a down-on-his-luck Irishman who becomes the manager a group of all-female Aboriginal soul singers. Much of the plot centers on the band's visit to war-torn Vietnam.

The Sapphires: Funnyman Chris O'Dowd sings>>

This November, the actor will be seen in the highly anticipated Thor:The Dark World and the forthcoming TV series Family Tree.

Image courtsey Wenn.com

I am so blessed

Beyond just coping and getting through one cycle to the next, when you’re on the infertility roller coaster you need to remind yourself of all the good you do have and hold on to that for dear life.

My husband and I have been trying for nearly three years to have our second child. Despite our struggles, we try to remember to count our blessings.

I made a vow to myself that I would not let my struggles with infertility get the best of me, that I would not get caught up in the emotional roller coaster. That I would not become consumed with getting pregnant or allow myself to be swallowed up in the research, treatments, disappointments or longing that accompany me on this journey, and that I would not lose focus on what I already have or take any of the good things in my life for granted.

Admittedly, some days this is a lot easier said than done.

Our miracle baby

My husband and I now, after almost three years of trying to have a second child, consider our son, Lucas our miracle baby. He was conceived without any reproductive intervention and carried to full term with zero complications. He is a true blessing to us both and proof that we can do this! Lucas' existence helps me realize what a gift getting pregnant, staying pregnant and having a child is. Whenever I feel I'm losing ground or getting too caught up in this fight to have a second child, I just look at him. He centers me and gives me the strength to carry on.

Practicing gratitude

I also take a lot of deep breaths, count to 10, make myself pause and think about what I am grateful for. I make a grateful list every day using the app, Gratitude Journal. These lists serve as reminders of all of the things, big and small that I have to be thankful for — a family bike ride, DVR full of my favorite guilty-pleasure shows, walking along the beach searching for seashells, finishing a book that made a profound impact on my heart and soul, kissing or seeing Lucas' face light up at the sight of a bowl of ice cream with rainbow sprinkles.

Another exercise that helps me is to imagine how I will thank everyone who has supported me along the way once I finally am pregnant— the doctors, nurses and countless other specialists. I imagine how my husband and I will announce our pregnancy to our family and friends and I visualize sharing my pregnancy with Lucas and preparing him to be a big brother. I think about reaching the end of this very rocky road and looking back on it with gratitude, as strange as that may sound. However we get there, I know it will all be worth it in the end.

Gratitude has been medically proven to lift our spirits and improve our health. A little gratitude goes a long way, and for me creates a lot of happiness and calmness in my life. There is always more to be thankful for!

It’s hard to deal with the disappointment and pain of not getting pregnant, but focusing on all the positive things in my life and reminding myself of everything I do have is very therapeutic and it's what gets me through.

Image credit: Tonya Wertman

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Whether you're hosting Easter brunch for family and friends or just treating your kids to something special, these brunch ideas range from casual to spectacular.

Ham, egg and cheese waffle sandwiches

This unique sandwich contains all of your favorite breakfast foods in one and mixes the sweet with the savory!

Get the recipe>>

Ham and cheese quiche

Try this eggs-traordinary quiche recipe that is not only quick and easy to make but is crustless and kind to the hips, too.

Get the recipe>>

Chicken and waffle sandwiches

Want a breakfast that will bring a little southern comfort your way? Three words: chicken, waffles, syrup.

Get the recipe>>

Use up some of that leftover Easter candy in these desserts the kids will love. And feel free to use some of it to treat yourself to a candy cocktail.

Marshmallow Peep martini

Peeps. Yes, you can eat them but try them in your favorite martini with equally delightful marshmallow vodka.

Get the recipe>>

Chocolate bird nests

Make this traditional treat with a creative twist the entire family will have fun with.

Get the recipe>>

Jelly bean flower cupcakes

April showers bring May flowers with these charming and refreshing jelly bean flower cupcakes.

Get the recipe>>

Impress your friends and family this Easter with one of these meaty main dishes.

Bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin

Pair this gourmet pork tenderloin with a side of savory mashed potatoes, string beans and homemade warm applesauce.

Get the recipe>>

Herb & garlic rubbed prime rib

Forgo your typical lamb or turkey this holiday and set your eyes on a prime rib feast instead.

Get the recipe>>

Roasted chicken

Say no to that store-bought rotisserie and check out this almost-effortless, moist roasted chicken.

Get the recipe>>

More Easter recipes

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Django Unchained: pretty successful movie, right? Nominated for five Oscars, made $413 million worldwide, gave Jamie Foxx his first big role since 2004's Ray. But it wasn't good enough for Will Smith.

When plans for the psycho Western were announced, rumors had Smith as Django. But he turned it down. Why?

"Django wasn’t the lead, so it was like, I need to be the lead. The other character was the lead!" the actor explained to Entertainment Weekly.

Ohhhhh. So just having the hero's arc in which you're delivered out of slavery, save a damsel in distress and literally ride away with her on a horse at the end of the movie — that wasn't the lead? Despite the movie being called Django Unchained? Got it.

Smith tells Entertainment Weekly he begged director Quentin Tarantino to add a little something to Django's role.

After Earth: Will and Jaden Smith survive together>>

"I was like, ‘No, Quentin, please, I need to kill the bad guy!'" Smith told EW.

Instead, it was Christoph Waltz, playing bounty hunter Dr. King Schultz, who dispatched big bad Calvin Candie, played by Leonardo DiCaprio, setting off an epic bloody battle. Waltz turned in a comedically epic performance that definitely stole the movie, and won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor at this year's Oscar ceremony.

Smith did say that he loved Django Unchained when he saw it. "I thought it was brilliant," he said. "Just not for me."

For his part, Tarantino told Total Film in 2012 that Smith was "one of the people" that he met with, but when he met with Foxx, it was all over. "You just know when you meet the guy, and I met the guy… I met with six magnificent actors, but he was the cowboy and I was looking for the cowboy."

Will Smith and son Jaden Smith will appear together in Smiths-in-space summer tentpole After Earth.

Image courtesy FayesVision/WENN.com

A college athlete's body is a finely-tuned engine that needs the right fuel to make it go. It's up to sports nutritionists to give those bodies the right foods for peak performance, but everyone can learn something from their advice.

WHAT YOU AND THE TEAM should BE EATING

What March Madness champs are eating

March Madness is one of the greatest spectacles in sports. It's like the excitement of professional football's championship game, but repeated over three weekends. Sixty-eight teams enter, but only one survives. Of course, building a championship team is no simple task. It requires hard work, practice and good nutrition.

Have you ever wondered what college basketball players eat? Here are some thoughts on good eating from some of college basketball's best nutritionists and nutrition resources with ideas on how you can take what they recommend for the players and use it for your own healthy eating.

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You know when you've had a bad week and you don't feel like anyone cares? Kip Moore does. And he shows you what you could have with him.

Probably not.

But he made me feel that way, so I'll believe what I want, and you can see for yourselves when you watch his latest music video. He may have debuted the video on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, but this video is no laughing matter.

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If country music doesn't charm you already, this song will. It's sung to a girl and lovingly addresses every want the singer has and the belief he has in their love. The video depicts an array of couples through the ages. It captures those delicate moments, from hand-holding to leaning on shoulders, that perhaps we now take for granted. It's as though the director of the video found the secret to love: it's appreciating those little moments. It's so simple, and perhaps that's the reason why it resonated so deeply. What I took from it is that this type of love does exist and you must set your standards accordingly.

What's the lineup for this year's CMA Music Festival?>>

It gives you hope for that real love that lasts through the ages. It gives you hope for someone who needs you that bad and loves you so tenderly. If Justin Timberlake's latest video for "Mirrors" pays tribute to a great love, this is filmed in anticipation of it.

Justin Timberlake handles the Kanye West drama with class>>

The couples are so inextricably connected it's hard to believe they're acting! But I think the takeaway is that this is no fantasy.

It's also adorable watching Mr. Moore sing along, because his puppy dog eyes and lit-from-within stares are a bit giggle-inducing. So, readers, press play and send a comment my way letting me know what you think.

Photo courtesy of Aaron Gilbert

Need something else to watch? Check out our other editor's picks:

Justin Timberlake "Mirrors"
Daley feat. Marsha Ambrosius "Alone Together"
Kelly Rowland "Kisses Down Low"

Hang this pretty sun catcher in the window to serve as a reminder for the real reason why we celebrate Easter.

What you'll need:

• wax paper
• construction paper
• crayons
• scissors
• hole punch
• string
• tape
• marker
• iron
• ironing board
• towel

What you'll do:

More crafts for kids

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While the world has been talking about Robin Thicke and Justin Timberlake , UK artist Daley has been around and I'm almost ashamed to say I didn't discover him until now.

Guess which annoying American duo recently made a debut in the UK>>

While his voice is so high I almost thought it was a woman , watching him in action is worthy of being an editor's pick. The story isn't much other than pent-up frustration and sensual black-and-white lighting, but it's got understated class.

Which country music video had a lot of similar pent-up frustration?>>

If that doesn't get your interest flowing, watching this swagger-laden artist is entertaining enough. With a Bruno Mars-esque hairstyle and hipster glasses, he graces the screen with so much R&B flare he reminds me of Maxwell. He's obviously got some mega-sized personality, and unless he also part-times as an actor, he's completely enamored of his music by the looks of it. He sings with a fever and passion, and yearns to get each word out — it flows out so connected it's as though it was stitched together. While you may think you could simply hear it in the song, his performance in this video made me notice it. You can respect that type of dedication and immersion, particularly when you see it displayed so vividly on-screen. And the original "Songstress" herself, Madame Ambrosius, kills it on the female vocals. If I could snap my fingers to this steamy display of poetic outpouring, I would.

Where does Bruno Mars get his style inspiration from?>>

A Universal Republic singer-songwriter, Daley finished up a tour with other famed sexy-cool artist Miguel back in January. I look forward to stalking his music more, since this isn't a voice you've heard on the radio yet. Produced by Canei Finch, the song is from the EP Alone Together. Watch the video below and drop a comment to let me know what you think!

Photo courtesy of Olivia Rose Photography

Need something else to watch? Check out our other editor's video picks:

Kip Moore "Hey Pretty Girl"
Kelly Rowland "Kisses Down Low"
Justin Timberlake "Mirrors"