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5 Tips to perfect your selfie smile

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Friends taking a selfie

Photo credit: Mark Bowden/iStock/360/Getty images

1. Do a pre-selfie inspection.

Before any big race, you'd take your car to get a tune-up. Likewise, when you take a selfie, you'll thank yourself later if you set aside a few minutes beforehand to tune up your grin. Just think of yourself as your smile's personal pit crew. Dab on a little lip gloss or tint, and check your teeth. You don't want Facebook to try to tag the sprig of cilantro stuck between your teeth.

2. Take care of your teeth.

This should go without saying, no? To give the best impression possible, you're going to want to show off your pearly whites, right? Which, naturally, means your pearlies need to actually be white. If yours have seen better days, brush up on your dental hygiene... literally. Go forth and get some ARM & HAMMER™ Truly Radiant™ toothpaste and an ARM & HAMMER™ Spinbrush™ Truly Radiant™ Deep Clean toothbrush and start using them daily.

3. Find the right lighting.

Don't let your imagination run wild — we're not talking about a glamour-shots-type production, here. We're simply saying that the right lighting can make a huge difference between a sub-par selfie and a pretty fantastic one. For example, if you opt for a location with overhead lighting (ahem, bathroom mirror selfie-aholics), you'll inevitably end up with shadowy raccoon eyes — which, for the record, is only a good look for raccoons — and, more pointedly, dingy-looking chompers. Opt for soft, natural lighting when possible.

4. Check your surroundings

Once you find the optimum lighting for your selfie, you're going to want to take a look around said setting. Nobody really cares to see the trademark toilet-paper-and-tile combo indicative of the bathroom selfie. Also, nothing can distract from your beautiful selfie smile like a heaping pile o' dirty laundry or, even worse, trash. Tidy up your frame or choose another altogether so your gorgeous grin gets the attention it truly deserves. No one likes playing second fiddle to a discarded pizza box.

5. Be yourself.

In other words, just be natural or at least attempt to look natural. If your smile is forced, people will pick up on it. Before you snap that selfie, stop and think. Are you trying to look cool or sexy or [insert appropriate adjective here]? If so, stop and reboot, because odds are good that you're going to wind up with the infamous "duck face" — and trust us, this is one of those fads you'll look back on later and wish you could erase from the memory card of your life. Kind of like Hammer pants. Or scrunchies.

This post is sponsored by ARM & HAMMER™.

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This little feng shui secret can boost your career success

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Black vase

Photo credit: Barbara Freiberga/iStock/360/Getty Images

How does feng shui relate to your career?

The Kan Gua is located near the front entry, and is the career area of a home. "The colors of the Kan Gua are black, navy blue and dark blue," says Diana Hathaway Timmons, color expert at About.com, interior designer and author of Sell Your Home Without Losing Your Zen. "Decorating with these colors in the Kan Gua of your home can enhance career opportunities." She stresses that while using these colors is beneficial, it is important to approach it in a balanced way, or it will create the opposite effect. "Feng shui is all about balance, and that includes the use of colors," she adds. "Using large amounts of dark color in the room traps the chi (energy) and will defeat the purpose of using color as a career enhancement."

Your face to the world

Visualize the front entry to your home, which is what people see first when they approach your home or enter it. "The entry and front door of your home represent your face to the world, how the world sees you and how easily opportunities can come to you," says Anjie Cho, registered New York State architect and feng shui interior designer. "The entry is also related to your path in life as well as the season and energy of winter," Cho adds. "Using black to emphasize water and career will increase your career success. The colors black and dark blue, the number one, wavy shapes and the element of water symbolize this area."

Using the baqua map

How do you determine which areas in your home relate to which segments of your life? "The baqua map is placed over the home’s floor plan, so the Kan Gua will not always lie on the entry or foyer, but it will always be along the front wall," shares Timmons. So if your home's entryway happens to be located front and center, this would be where you would apply the Kan Gua career color cures and enhancements. "If the Kan Gua career area falls in another room on the map, you would apply those color cures and enhancements in that room," she adds.

Individual rooms — like a living area or an office — could also be mapped with the baqua, so that within an area of the home you could also use Kan Gua career enhancement colors and symbols. "This is a great idea if you'd like to apply feng shui career enhancements to your workspace outside the home," says Timmons.

Glossy black table

Photo credit: Zhuk/iStock/360/Getty Images

Put feng shui to work for you

At the door: Cho shares a few tips that anyone can use to capture the essence of feng shui in relation to their career. "If you need some more support in your career you could do some adjustments in this area of your home or office," she shares. "A black welcome mat that's close to the width of the entry door will encourage and attract cash flow for the inhabitants. Using black accent pieces here also will influence and activate one's career," she adds. Consider painting your front door black to strengthen the energy of your home.

Accent a wall: "Decorating with Kan Gua colors and enhancements in an entryway could be as simple as adding an accent wall of deep blue," shares Timmons.

Bring in the water: "Because the Kan Gua element is water, ocean- or fish-related art or even a well-cared-for aquarium can enhance the space," Timmons adds.

Watch the light: Timmons stresses that when using dark colors, you should make sure to use adequate lighting and a mirror or other reflective materials to move the chi energy through the dark space.

Choose things that are meaningful to you: "The main focus should be to have items with a very high energy or special meaning," shares feng shui master Linda Lenore.

Go natural: "Natural stone can be used to raise the vitality of the area. Using black marble, granite or obsidian would be good choices as stone flooring, architectural features or design accessories," adds Lenore. "Placing a beautiful accent piece of furniture made from black walnut might be another possibility. Wooden carvings made from ebony would also be a nice touch."

Accent pieces: "Black lacquer, shiny enamel or porcelain vases are nice accent pieces," says Lenore. "A lovely black and white photo or black-rimmed mirror could work. An area rug with a swirl pattern could make you feel like you are walking on water, able to flow with the 'good fortune' of life," she adds.

Ready to give it a try? Consider incorporating some elements of feng shui into your home and see what it brings into your life and career.

More feng shui

Feng shui — A load of old phooey?
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8 Big thinkers who changed America as we know it

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Mark Zuckerberg

Facebook co-founder

Mark Zuckerberg
Photo credit: David Ramos/Getty Images News/Getty Images

Not only is he one of the most known Americans, his product is one of the most used. Thanks to Mr. Zuckerberg, 1.25 billion people and counting are members of Facebook. Revolutionizing the way we talk, chat and post vacation pictures, Zuckerberg's invention is used for much more than just socializing. The social network promotes many a cause and connects long lost loved ones on a daily basis.

Robert Lanza

M.D. and stem cell researcher

Robert Lanza

Photo credit: Alex Wong/Getty Images News/Getty Images

A leader in stem cell research, Robert Lanza is changing the future of science and medicine. He was a part of the team that successfully cloned the first early stage embryo, as well as successfully transplanting human embryos into adult human patients. Currently, he is working on clinical trials to cure blindness, and making other advancements in stem cell research that could lead to treatment for Alzheimer's, heart disease and more.

Logan Green

Lyft CEO and co-founder

Logan Green

Photo credit: Steve Jennings/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

Co-founding Zimride at Cornell University, Logan Green wanted a ride share program that was both safe and functional. A Los Angeles native, Green more than understood the ugliness of traffic. Starting young, the CEO was on Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District and was noted as one of America's Best Young Entrepreneurs by Businessweek. Launching Lyft nationwide, Logan Green hopes to make the world of transit a safer place, while connecting others across the country with friendships and jobs.

Megyn Kelly

Lawyer and journalist

Megyn Kelly

Photo credit: Dennis Van Tine/Future Image/WENN.com

Starting off as a corporate litigator, Megyn Kelly decided to try her heels on as a reporter. Finding her true niche, she now hosts her own show The Kelly Files on Fox News Channel. A true renegade, Kelly is known for her spellbinding interviews and intense reporting. A woman who isn't afraid to ask the important questions on behalf of Americans, she is certainly one journalist worth watching.

Reed Hastings

Netflix CEO and co-founder

Reed Hastings

Photo credit: Paul Morigi/Getty Images/Getty Images Entertainment

Thanks in part to this man, you can binge on your favorite TV series all weekend long without ever having to leave your house... or your pajamas. A Boston native, Reed Hastings not only co-founded Netflix, but has previously served on the board for Microsoft and currently sits on Facebook's board. Active in both education and politics, Hastings donates both his time and money to improving both for a better future.

Kathryn Sullivan

Geologist, astronaut and member of the Senate

Kathryn Sullivan

Photo credit: Brad Barket/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

As the first American woman to walk in space, Kathryn Sullivan holds her rightful place in the history books. After her long and successful career at NASA, Sullivan continued her career as an oceanographer with the U.S. Naval Reserve. Currently serving on the Senate as the Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere and NOAA Administrator, she observes weather, climate changes, mapping services and the Earth. An intelligent force of nature, she leads the way for women scientists everywhere.

John Green

Author and co-founder of The Vlog Brothers

John Green

Photo credit: Noam Galai/WireImage/Getty Images

If you haven't heard of the YA novel turned box-office hit, The Fault in Our Stars, you must be living under a rock. The iconic movie and movement comes thanks to author and YouTuber John Green. Born in Indiana, Green is known for his well-written novels, intelligence and heart of gold. Founding Project for Awesome, which donates to YouTube followers' charities of choice, Green was also able to sit in on a Google Hangout with President Obama. An activist for good, John Green uses his fame and riches to change the world. Don't believe it? Become a Nerd Fighter on his and his brother's YouTube channel.

Steve Jobs

Founder of Apple

Steve Jobs

Photo credit: Bob Riha Jr/WireImage/Getty Images

We can't have an article about amazing Americans without mentioning the one and only Steve Jobs. Thanks to the Apple founder, the techno-geeks and social lovers unite with iPhones, iPads and iTunes. The man who worked hard to change history lives on past his death as the creative legend behind one of the most recognized brands in the universe.

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These female entrepreneurs were millionaires by age 20

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Catherine Cook

Photo credit: TEDx Talks via YouTube

Catherine Cook — webpreneur

At ages 15 and 16 respectively, Catherine Cook and her brother David hatched a plan while flipping through their high school yearbook — to create a free online version that was interactive. In 2005, they convinced their older brother Geoff, who was himself a web entrepreneur, to invest $250,000 of start-up capital (and a little of his web-design mojo) to help them build and launch the social networking site myYearbook.com.

The unique thing about this social network was that it was by high school kids for high school kids. Later, they added free online study guides for members. The secret to Catherine's success? She and her brother stuck with their niche audience and really listened to what they wanted, including refusing to rake in additional revenue by placing ads on the members' profile pages.

A short time ago, the site became MeetMe, a place where you can meet people near you while playing fun games, where Catherine Cook acts as the VP of brand strategy.

No one knows exactly how much this gal is worth, but an unidentified investor said these young entrepreneurs raked in well over a cool million.

Bella Weems — jewelry designer

Bella Weems didn't have aspirations of becoming a self-made millionaire. Like most teens, she just wanted her parents to buy her a car for her 16th birthday. But Mom and Dad said no dice. "You have to work for what you have. Things can't just be given to you," says Chrissy Weems, Bella's mother.

She parlayed $350 of babysitting money and a super-creative idea into a 700-employee-strong company worth $250,000,000. Oragami Owl started out as a way for people to make their own custom "lockets" that really tell a story. Now people host Jewelry Bar parties across the nation.

Makes you think twice about agreeing to buy your kid a car.

Bella's Journey from Origami Owl on Vimeo.

Ashley Qualls — theme master

As a teenager, Ashley Qualls started a little website called WhateverLife.com, where she posted free MySpace themes she created for girls her age. Little did she know that idea would lead to serious cash. She was contacted by Ian Moray, marketing director of ValueClick Media, about adding shared-revenue ads to her site, which attracted several hundred-thousand girls a day (more than many popular teen magazine websites).

At first she said no, but she later changed her mind. Eventually, the site made her one of the youngest millionaires in the country. So, when did 40-year-old Moray find out his business partner was 17? When he got a call from FastCompany asking for an interview.

Now that MySpace has become a music site, Qualls has closed up shop. She's currently working as the creative directer and social media marketer at her own company, Lucky Soul Clothing. I wonder if she ever paid her mom back that $8 she loaned her to buy the domain?

Maddie Bradshaw — upcycling guru

Maddie Bradshaw's family has always been into recycling. At the tender age of 10, she decorated her locker with old bottle caps she'd painted, and her friends loved them. She loved them so much, too, that she decided to turn them into necklaces. And if she and her friends liked them, why not everyone else?

So she took $300 she'd saved up from gifts and the tooth fairy, used it to buy supplies and made 50 necklaces. She called them Snap Caps and asked the local toy store to sell them. They were all gone in a few hours. Fast-forward three years later, and she'd already made her first million.

But she's more than just the founder of 40-employee company m3 girl designs. She wrote a book called You Can Start a Business, Too, and founded a new jewelry line, "Spark of Life," geared toward older teens.

Juliette Brindak — webpreneur

Another 10-year-old, Juliette Brindak, launched the site Miss O and Friends as a website by girls for girls. The site features games, quizzes, advice on boys and more. She's also launched a branded line of books.

Today, she works with her family to keep providing the same quality content for teens she started with, has done a TEDx Talk and is the writer of a syndicated column called KidsCounsel where she gives advice to young girls.

More on female entrepreneurs

7 Tips for mom entrepreneurs
Women entrepreneurs: The Silpada success story
Top 10 female entrepreneurs

2014 Daytime Emmys: Soap stars dish on beauty, Kathy Griffin

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JenLilleyyellowdressPhoto credits: Nikki Nelson/WENN.com

The soap stars were out in full force on Thursday night as the Television Academy Daytime Programming Peer Group governors honored the Daytime Emmy nominees. SheKnows was there on the red carpet and got the inside scoop on how some of your favorite celebrities were preparing for the big day and controversial host Kathy Griffin.

Cast members from The Young and the Restless were celebrating their 26 nominations, and cast members from Days of Our Lives and The Bold and the Beautiful were celebrating theirs as well. While the men seemed pretty nonchalant about getting ready for the red carpet, the ladies had a much bigger beauty routine in store.

2014 Daytime Emmy nominees: Ellen DeGeneres, Dr. Oz >>

DOOL star Jen Lilley shared, "We do have it the toughest. We have to wear Spanx and suck in, and I ate graham crackers for lunch. Will my zippers zip is always the question."

Supporting Actress in a Drama Series nominee for Y&R Amelia Heinle is taking the beauty routine all in stride. She said, "I'm going to make sure I show up on time. I got a dress, I got some shoes… I think I'm good to go."

On the flip side, most of the men told us they were doing nothing but putting on a tux for the big day. Y&R's Redaric Williams joked, "Nothing. I'm not doing anything, and I've had this suit forever. No makeup, no nothing."

Kathy Griffin to emcee Daytime Emmy Awards >>

The one thing everyone was prepping for, though, was Kathy Griffin's hosting gig for the Daytime Emmys. With the show being streamed on the internet and not on a broadcast or cable network for the first time, the stars are expecting quite a show.

ElizabethHendricksonbraid

Elizabeth Hendrickson, a nominee for her role as Chloe Mitchell on Y&R, is a big champion of the comedian. She explained, "I am expecting to pee in my pants. I love Kathy Griffin. I hope she just takes it to the max. She's the perfect choice now that we are crossing over to the internet."

DOOL nominee for Supporting Actor in a Drama Series Eric Martsolf said, "Kathy goes outside of the box. She's a little bit crazy, a little bit bonkers, but I think it's the adrenalized shot that the Daytime Emmys needs."

The one person who was a bit hesitant was handsome Y&R star and nominee Peter Bergman, who laughed that he "hoped" they were in good hands with Griffin. Bergman, a veteran of the Daytime Emmys, had a bit of sage advice for first-time nominees: "Don't forget to have fun!"

SheKnows will be on the red carpet on Sunday for the Daytime Emmys.

Jill Duggar gets her first kiss at the altar

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Duggarfamilyphoto

Photo credit: TLC

The Duggar family continues to grow, welcoming a son-in-law to the family on Saturday. Jill Duggar, second daughter to Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar, married Derick Dillard in front of over 1,000 family members and friends in Springdale, Arkansas.

People has the exclusive photo of the newlyweds, who shared their first kiss after making their wedding vows. The 23-year-old bride and her new husband didn't hold hands until their engagement, honoring their strict Christian beliefs to wait until marriage.

The Duggars want more children, visit fertility clinic >>

The 19 Kids and Counting star told the entertainment magazine when the couple were courting, "I think it is safer and makes it more special to wait to kiss until your wedding day. To save the physical side of your marriage for your wedding day and not going further than you should — we want to have no regrets."

Jim Bob is the one who introduced Derick to his daughter. He took Jill to meet Derick in Nepal, where he was doing mission work.

Jill's sisters were a part of the wedding party, with her older sisters serving as bridesmaids and her younger sisters and a niece acting as flower girls. The older brothers were groomsmen, five brothers were ushers and the youngest brother and a nephew served as ring-bearers. It was certainly a full house.

Michelle Duggar reveals struggle with bulimia >>

The family was emotional about the departure of their sister from the house.

Dad Jim Bob shared, "It really hit me that Jill was leaving as she was packing her bag the other night. We all realized she was really leaving. We are so glad that Derick is an answer to her prayers. It's an emotional time, but a joyful time."

Even younger sister Jinger Duggar felt a bit sad.

She explained, "Jill is just enjoying this time. Derick has such a tender, caring heart. I couldn't have picked a better person for my sister. We are going to miss her so much."

The couple are off on their honeymoon to an undisclosed location.

Congratulations, Jill and Derick!

Everyday inspiration: Compliment five people

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Women talking at gym | Sheknows.com

Photo credit: John Fedele/Blend Images/Getty Images

Challenge: compliment five people

Why? Set a goal to compliment five people today. It may be difficult at first, but with some practice you just might get a little addicted to the happiness boost that comes from dishing out praise.

Lauren with David Beckham | Sheknows.com

Lauren: I love giving people compliments. It is so easy to do and it can really make someone's day. It makes me feel great when a friend tells me I look nice or did a good job on something. So this SheKnows challenge was an easy one. Especially since this week David Beckham came to our news station for an interview. So all my beautiful coworkers just happened to look even more fabulous than usual. I dished out compliments on hair, dresses and fantastic shoes. But the best compliment that day came from Mr. Beckham himself when he said, "Everyone looks lovely today," as girls gathered around him for a group shot. So I guess his compliment trumped mine. That's OK. I get it.

Danielle with taxi driver | Sheknows.com

Danielle: Complimenting five people was an easy challenge for me. As a clinical psychologist, I am very aware that people respond to praise and positive encouragement. I feel that this is especially important to remember in Manhattan, a fast-paced environment where it is easy to feel isolated even when surrounded by many people. Reaching out and offering a compliment is such a good way to validate others and show them that their efforts are appreciated. Among the five people I complimented was the driver of a wheelchair-accessible taxi. I commended him on his courteous service and the extra time he took to make me feel safe and comfortable. Hopefully, this will also encourage more NYC taxi drivers to choose to drive wheelchair-accessible cabs.

Jenny: Life is fast-paced and chaotic. I'm usually wrapped up in what I have going on and fail to notice those around me. This week I decided to change course. I took the time to acknowledge the people I see every day. As a result I paid compliments to my mailman, a coworker, my son's teacher, a cashier and my neighbor. My accolades were short and sweet but heartfelt. In return I received smiles, a hug and a new friend. Stepping out of my own life for a moment was more rewarding than I ever could have imagined.

Marcy: My most recent challenge called me to compliment five people. I had trouble finding five to compliment genuinely. Are my standards too high? Or maybe I wasn't tuned in? When I finally saw a woman whose hair I wanted to compliment, I was on an escalator going the opposite way and I froze. I felt embarrassed and scared to just shout, "I love your hair!" What a bummer. I bet it would have made her day.

Our Everyday Inspiration series wants to inspire you with small ways to improve your life. We've asked 20 women to take on a variety of small challenges and share their results. See all of our Everyday Inspiration challenges here, and meet the women here.

What your body language says in an interview

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Happy business woman leaving an interview

Photo credit: Chris Ryan/Caiaimage/Getty images

Handshakes help bonding

First things first, make sure you have a strong handshake. That is the first tangible impression you give to your interviewer, and it can get things started on the right foot. Avoid the two-handed handshake, cautions Joe Navarro, former FBI counterintelligence agent and author of What Every Body is Saying. "But if there's an opportunity to touch the interviewer on the arm naturally, that can work to your benefit," Navarro says. "That causes the release of oxytocin, which is a bonding chemical, and it might help you get the job." Studies have shown that people applying for loans were more likely to get the loan if they created that contact.

Smiling shows enthusiasm

It might seem like a no-brainer, but the other important element of your first impression is your smile. "Smiling is appropriate at the beginning and the end of the interview, along with when you are talking about your accomplishments," says Lisa Elia, a media trainer, and founder of Elia Erickson Consulting. Smiling at these times, or whenever your interviewer is smiling, will show your enthusiasm for the job. "A slight smile or pleasant 'resting face' is something to aspire to throughout the interview," Elia says. And if you're headed out to an interview during or after your lunch break, freshen your smile with ARM & HAMMER™ Truly Radiant™ toothpaste and ARM & HAMMER™ Spinbrush™ Truly Radiant™ Deep Clean toothbrush.

Tilting your head shows interest

While mastering the business appropriate smile is necessary, even more important than the smile is the head tilt. "When you tilt your head to the side, what you're saying is 'I'm listening; I’m receptive; I'm capable of learning new things.' And we never understood the power of that until we did studies that showed babies are already receptive to head tilts at just a few months of age," Navarro says.

Speak with your hands for emphasis

Once you're in the office or conference room, the next thing to think about is how you sit. It goes without saying that adopting a straight posture will give a better impression. And leaning slightly forward will indicate to the interviewer that you are interested in what they are saying, while leaning back will convey arrogance or disinterest. If it's comfortable for you, it's perfectly OK to cross your legs at the knee or the ankle, but avoid crossing your legs with one ankle on the opposite knee, as it is too casual a posture.

When you first sit down, it is best to start with your hands on your lap or on the arms of your chair. "But as soon as the questions and answers start, you want to demonstrate with your hands," says Navarro. "Our brains are actually seduced by hands that illustrate a point," he adds. Good news for those of you who talk with your hands naturally. Just be sure not to punctuate your speech too emphatically with hand gestures, cautions Elia, as it can make you appear nervous, flighty or immature.

Eye contact to avoid arrogance

One of the biggest challenges during an interview is finding a comfortable pattern of eye contact. Looking at the interviewer when they are speaking will convey interest, and when you're speaking, it's perfectly natural to glance away when you're gathering your thoughts. Just avoid looking around rapidly; it can come across as nervous or untrustworthy. It's also important to keep your eyes focused on your interviewer as you're entering their office instead of looking around too much, which Navarro says can come off as arrogance.

Fidgeting is distracting

If you are nervous about the interview, make sure you don't display any of the behaviors that can betray your nerves. Fidgeting or repetitive movements can be soothing, but they are very noticeable, and can let your interviewer know that you feel unqualified for the job. Men should pay attention to bouncing their legs and women should avoid playing with their hair or jewelry. When in doubt, do your best to mirror the behavior of your interviewer. That doesn't mean repeating his or her actions gesture for gesture, but simply reading their nonverbal cues and adopting the same level of formality.

Power pose before you interview

One final note: Don't underestimate the power of the power pose, says Navarro. Studies have shown that just two minutes of a power pose can make you more confident in an interview or other stressful situation. Not only does it increase your feeling of power, it also raises your testosterone level, which makes you appear more self-assured to others. So follow Madonna’s advice, and strike a pose.

This post is sponsored by ARM & HAMMER™.

More interview tips

10 Steps to make a good job interview great
25 Surprisingly tricky interview questions
Biggest job interview blunders to avoid


Sunday dinner: Cheesy shrimp and grits

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Cheesy shrimp and grits

For a Sunday dinner with a Southern flair, serve a dish like cheesy shrimp and grits. This is comfort food you can enjoy any time of year.

Cheesy shrimp and grits

Many people add bacon to this dish for its smoky and salty flavor. Instead of bacon, I used chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a different sort of smoky and spicy flair.

Cheesy shrimp and grits

Cheesy shrimp and grits recipe

Serves 4

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound frozen shrimp, thawed, tails removed
  • 1 cup uncooked grits
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced, plus 1 teaspoon adobo sauce (more to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Directions:

  1. Cook the grits according to the package directions. When finished cooking, remove from heat, and add the paprika and cheese.
  2. Stir the cheese into the grits, cover the pan, and set it aside.
  3. To a skillet over medium heat, add the butter and olive oil. Add the shrimp, salt and black pepper, and stir, cooking for about 1 minute.
  4. Add the garlic, peppers and adobo sauce. Toss to combine, and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat, add the lemon juice and parsley, and toss to combine.
  6. Place the grits in a serving bowl with the shrimp and its sauce on top.
  7. Serve warm.

Indulge in a Southern-style Sunday dinner.

More Sunday dinner recipes

Grilled maple-chipotle chicken kebabs
Red Thai curry pulled pork tacos with slaw
Hearty pasta with beef ragu

Eggplant, pine nut and cherry flatbread pizza

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Eggplant, pine nut and cherry flatbread pizza

There are nights when the thought of cooking just completely drains me. Sometimes I'm able to get into the kitchen and throw something together, and other nights it's straight to the phone to call for takeout. This simple flatbread recipe came from an idea my husband had one night. I had a few extra pieces of flatbread hanging around, so he started slicing up vegetables and piling them on the bread with just a dash of cheese. We popped them in the oven and ate them piping hot with a giant side of fresh berries. The bread, cheese, vegetables and fruit all totally worked together. So instead of keeping them separate, I threw it all together. Say hello to your new favorite lunch, dinner and even cocktail party appetizer.

Eggplant, pine nut and cherry flatbread pizza recipe

Yields 2

Ingredients:

  • 2 (12-inch) pieces flatbread or naan bread (found in the bakery department)
  • Olive oil
  • Garlic powder
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (I used colby jack)
  • 1 baby eggplant, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup Bing cherries, pitted and cut in half
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F, and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Brush your flatbread with olive oil, and sprinkle on a desired amount of garlic powder.
  3. Sprinkle each flatbread with 1/4 cup of cheese, and top with slices of eggplant and cherries.
  4. Top each slice of flatbread with the remaining cheese, 1/4 cup per pizza.
  5. Place in the oven, bake for about 5 minutes, remove, and top with pine nuts. Place the pizzas back into the oven, and bake for another 5 to 7 minutes or until the bread is crisp and the cheese has melted.
  6. Enjoy as a meal, or slice into small pieces to serve as an appetizer.

More flatbread pizza recipes

Hawaiian barbecue chicken flatbread pizza
Flatbread with hummus and roasted tomatoes

Balsamic strawberry and goat cheese flatbread pizza

Heavenly Nutella cashew milkshake

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Nutella cashew milkshake recipe

With a jar of Nutella in front of you, anything is possible. We spread it on bread, biscuits and pancakes, and we mix it into our baking. I think everyone will agree that the best part is licking the spoon. My daughter, a big Nutella fan, asks for it as the grand finale to her meal.

Heavenly Nutella cashew milkshake

As we enter the summer season, a Nutella drink — with lots of ice and cashews for texture and loads of nutrients — isn't a bad idea. Cashew nuts are rich in antioxidants and monounsaturated fats similar to those found in olive oil. With our favorite hazelnut spread and cashews for added nutrition, let's drink up on the hot days of summer.

Nutella cashew milkshake recipe

Serves 2

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups milk
  • 1/3 cup Nutella
  • 1/2 cup unsalted cashew nuts
  • Ice (amount depends on desired consistency)

Directions:

  1. In a blender, blend together all the ingredients until smooth. Add more ice to achieve the desired consistency.
  2. Serve immediately.

More Nutella recipes

Layered Nutella mousse in a jar
Nutella pudding

Chocolaty Nutella and pistachio pastries

Only in America: 7 Absurd things you won't see anywhere else

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Uncle Sam

Photo credit: Tom Le Goff/Photodisc/Getty Images

Christmas decorations hitting stores in October

The Nightmare Before Christmas GIF

GIF via Warhead

Before dust even has time to settle on the candy corn, fake cobwebs and witch costumes, department stores and supercenters are draping every aisle in tinsel and toys in preparation for Christmas. Jack Skellington would be proud.

Pizzas getting delivered anywhere, everywhere, anytime

Pizza delivered to the Emmys

GIF via sarahmarieh.wordpress

Need a pizza? No problem. You can get it delivered at record pace and nearly around the clock. Heck, you can even get it delivered to the Academy Awards, if you're Ellen DeGeneres at least. Odds are pretty good, in fact, that you could call 9-1-1 and Papa John's at the same time and see pizza long before you ever see a blood pressure cuff.

Hot dogs in packages of ten, buns in packages of eight

Hot Dogs

GIF via matt01ss

Hot dogs were first created in Germany, so maybe something got lost in translation. There's really no other way to explain why they would package 10 wieners together but only eight buns. What are we supposed to do with the last two hot dogs? Smoke 'em? In order to come out even, you would need to buy eight packages of wieners and 10 packages of buns... and that's a whole lotta hot dog.

Square dancing... with tractors

Tractor Square Dance

GIF via VC Tractor Videos

Square dancing, you say? People do that, you say? Why, yes, people in America do. But we'll do you one better. In some parts of the country where this type of jig is particularly popular, they don't just square dance — they do it with tractors. Seriously, it's spectacular.

People putting ketchup on a perfectly good steak

Yum

GIF via lushed-for-lust/Tumblr

We have ketchup-flavored potato chips. There are tutorials on Pinterest devoted to getting the maximum amount of ketchup in those mini white paper cups they give you at some restaurants. Clearly, we love our ketchup. So, is it really that shocking that we slather our steaks in the stuff?

A festival… for everything

Grits Festival

GIF via Quaker

Hey, we live in the land of the free and the home of the brave, so it's our prerogative to throw as many parties as we like. And by parties we mean festivals. And by festivals we totally mean any excuse to consume funnel cake and watch people do things like flail about in a giant vat of grits.

Pop stars taking the field during football games

Beyonce at Super Bowl

GIF via CJ CJC

Halftime used to only be good for bathroom breaks in between watching your favorite teams duke it out over the pigskin during a game of good ol' all-American football. But nowadays it serves quite a different purpose — pop stars, parading around amid pyrotechnics, strut their stuff in the center of the field during Super Bowl halftime. Um, go team?

More on America

American baby names
American vs. Mexican food
We find out what Americans are doing between the sheets

12 Ways to make over your home with a Sharpie

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Assorted marker colors
Photo credit: Vitali Dyatchenko/iStock/360/Getty Images

1. Black-and-white chevron mirror

Black and white chevron mirror

Photo credit: Amy Krist

Make this gorgeous designer-inspired pattern mirror from just a plate charger, mirror tile and the help of a black Sharpie.

2. Leopard-print seat cover

Leopard print seat cover

Photo credit: Little Green Notebook

Take a boring chair cover and give it a chic makeover by adding spots with a Sharpie marker.

3. Lamp shade with a message

Lamp shade with a message

Photo credit: A Little Glass Box

Create a beautiful lamp shade cover with a special message. Hand write your favorite quotes or words of inspiration to create this whimsical lamp shade.

4. Sharpie dinnerware stenciling

Sharpie dinnerware stenciling

Photo credit: The Sweetest Occasion

Remember the original Sharpie mug idea? You can also apply it to dinnerware. Use a stencil, or get creative and doodle a design to personalize your plates.

5. Sharpie zen stones

Sharpie zenstones

Photo credit: Sand Between My Toes

Bring out your inner doodler, and draw on rocks to create decorative pieces for around the home.

6. Moroccan-patterned carpet

Moroccan patterned carpet

Photo credit: 29 Rue House

Add some character to a plain rug by stenciling on a geometric pattern with a Sharpie.

7. Scripted pillowcases

Scripted pillow cases

Photo credit: A Subtle Revelry

Rest your head on a love note with these simple Sharpie scripted pillowcases.

8. Sharpie wallpaper

Sharpie wallpaper

Photo credit: Vintage Revivals

Brighten white walls with a creative wallpaper design made with a Sharpie. This is a great inexpensive alternative to real wallpaper.

9. Antique door lock designs

Antique door lock designs

Photo credit: Crafty Little Gnome

Add a little character to your doors with drawn on Alice in Wonderland-type doorknob plates.

10. Doodle lightbulbs

Doodle light bulbs

Photo credit: Eclectically Vintage

These graphic bulbs can be hung in your favorite light or displayed in a bowl for instant pop art.

11. Gold Sharpie table edging

Gold Sharpie table edging

Photo credit: Dream Green DIY

Add a glamorous touch to any table by adding gold trim with a Sharpie.

12. DIY Sharpie storage boxes

 DIY Sharpie storage boxes

Photo credit: Salty Mom

Paint your shoe boxes white and Sharpie them into chic vintage luggage storage boxes.

More fun with Sharpies

How to make Sharpie glass art
DIY Sharpie dinnerware
Sharpie tie dyed T-shirts

Falling Skies: How Drew Roy really feels about a Hal/Maggie/Ben love triangle

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Falling Skies - Drew Roy interview

Photo credit: Adriana M. Barraza/WENN.com

Falling Skies begins its fourth season on Sunday at 10/9c on TNT. SheKnows spoke exclusively with star Drew Roy (who plays Hal Mason on the show) about what's coming up for his character and everyone else who has survived the alien invasion.

Beam me up, Scotty: Falling Skies renewed for Season 3 >>

Lexi is one character who has been on a lot of fans' minds, and Roy promised there will be a lot happening with her in Season 4.

"This is a pretty unique season in the fact that, as you can all probably guess, that Lexi character is really going to be a pivotal part of the season. The character of Lexi continues to unfold. So, as soon as you think you kind of know what that character's all about, something new will be introduced and spins everything in a different direction. You'll love her sometimes, you'll hate her at other times, and she's a central figure of this season. Everything revolves around her," Roy revealed.

Another big theme in Season 4 will be everyone learning to cope after they are all split up during an attack. "You get to check out these characters interacting with other characters they don't usually talk with, and you get to see new relationships formed and bonded and see what comes up," Roy said.

Hal and Maggie definitely had some struggles last season. When Season 4 opens, Hal will be trying to move on, but things are going to get real complicated real fast.

"Hal is the kind of guy that likes to get it all out on the table, deal with it and move on," Roy said. "I don't think he likes to hold grudges. So as this season opens, you see him making another attempt to talk with Maggie [and] put that behind them so they can go back to being who they are together — Hal and Maggie — and trusting each other. But Maggie doesn't want to have anything to do with it and shuts Hal out, and moments after that, an attack happens and they become split up."

Falling Skies cast chats: Noah Wyle and Drew Roy >>

Fans of Hal and Maggie are going to have to wait a while to see their favorite couple reunited. "It's about halfway through the season before they'll see each other again," Roy revealed. "You're going to see Hal on a mission to find his brothers and Maggie. He doesn't know if they're alive or dead. He's going to be leading people to help them out, but also for himself, to be able to hopefully to find [his] family members."

But it won't just be the distance between them that is going to challenge Hal and Maggie's relationship this season. There's a big twist coming.

"At the same time, there's a little romance going on between Ben and Maggie — unbeknownst to Hal —  and that is a huge obstacle he has to deal with once he finally finds them. After the joy of coming back and being connected with them washes off, he begins to realize that there's a little bit more going on than he could have ever expected," Roy said.

The Hal/Maggie/Ben love triangle was a twist that came as quite the surprise to the actor. "When they first told me about that, I honestly didn't like it," Roy shared. "I didn't see how it was going to work. It didn't make sense to me. I felt like it was going to leave all three characters in an unglamorous light. I just couldn't understand how and why we were doing this."

Once Roy and his co-stars got over their initial shock, they worked hard to make the story into something they (and the fans) could get behind.

"Because of [the surprise], we really took a lot of time to break those scenes down. Sarah [Carter], who plays Maggie, and Connor [Jessup], who plays Ben, and I would all talk and try to figure out what would be the best way to do this, and because of that attention to detail, we really turned it into something that's kind of interesting."

Roy encouraged fans to give the new storyline a shot and advised they may be surprised with how they feel about it later in the season. "It's going to take a little getting used to, I think, seeing Maggie and Ben interacting with each other," Roy said. "But it's a slow build, and it's one of these stories that I think that different people watching can justify being a fan of each of the three characters and their motivation for why they're doing what they're doing."

Moon Bloodgood talks Falling Skies >>

After a while, Roy was happy to take on the new challenge. "[When I read the script,] I felt like it might be the wrong thing to do, but then again that competitive side of it came out and I was like, 'All right, let's just figure out how to make this work,' and that's what I love about acting. I love puzzles, and I feel like every scene is a puzzle."

SPOILERS: How Sleepy Hollow is pushing more boundaries in Season 2

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Sleepy Hollow - Tom Mison and Nicole Beharie

Photo credit: Fox

Sleepy Hollow's first season brought a lot of surprises, but according to the show's stars and creators, you haven't seen anything yet. SheKnows was recently on the red carpet and spoke to stars Tom Mison (Ichabod Crane) and Nicole Beharie (Abbie), co-creator Roberto Orci, executive producers Len Wiseman and Mark Goffman and producer Heather Kadin. We got the scoop on Sleepy Hollow's upcoming second season.

War is who? Biggest shockers from the Sleepy Hollow Season 1 finale >>

At the end of the Season 1 finale, fans were left to pick their jaws up off the floor as the show revealed some shocking moments. As it turned out, the second Horseman Ichabod and Abbie had been waiting for was already there, in the form of the seemingly kindly Henry Parrish — who also happened to be Ichabod and Katrina's son. Add to that the fact that Abbie was left in Purgatory after trading places, Captain Irving was arrested for murder and Abbie's sister Jenny was left in a totaled vehicle by the side of the road, and it's anyone's guess where they will all end up in the second season.

"Dire circumstances require dire measures, and they go for it. I think everybody has to go for it to get out of their predicament," Beharie said of the challenges these characters will face in Season 2.

One theme that will be explored in the second season is the idea of a villain, according to Orci. "Sometimes you get a villain and they're just a villain. In this case, it happens to be Ichabod Crane's son and Katrina's son. What role did they really play in making him a villain? Can this villain be redeemed in some way? Do we want to redeem him?" Orci said.

Kadin told us that, thanks to strong fan reactions in the first season, the creators are going to really be able to push things in the second. "In the first season of any show, you're trying to figure out what works, what doesn't work, what do people respond to, what can we get away with our characters — and this time we had a better sense of that and we know where we can push things, and we're able to push things in really fun ways," Kadin said.

INTERVIEW: Sleepy Hollow's Tom Mison says affair would be "fiery" >

The creators plan to push the boundaries in Season 2 by adding new characters. "One of the characters that we have coming in [is] this character Nick Holly," Orci said. "He is an antiquities dealer, but he's been all over the place, so through him we're going to start to see how different religions and different myths start to overlap a little bit — how a lot of the stories we tell ourselves maybe have common origins."

Fans can expect to meet some new historical figures, too. "We have a new historical figure who we're going to feature prominently in the premiere, and then I think he will be a big part of the season: Benjamin Franklin. And he's a blast. We've cast Tim Busfield and we're having a lot of fun with him."

There will also be some new creatures added into the mix. "We're introducing a creature called the Kindred, which is a doppelgänger to our Headless Horseman, and our heroes realize possibly one way to battle a monster is to create a monster of their own that they may or may not be able to wield or trust. We've got a very wicked twist on the Pied Piper this year as well."

Wiseman said that fans will see "some real troubles and drama between our leads in terms of, are they going to be able to fight for the same side with the same goal in mind?"

He added one question that some of the characters will be asking themselves: "Is everybody on board for if you have to kill a loved one to save the overall world — would you actually do that? What happens with our characters in that struggle?"

Don't expect Sleepy Hollow's new sheriff to help out as much as Captain Irving did. "She's going to be much more of an obstacle for Abbie and Crane than we've seen in the past," Goffman said, adding that the new sheriff's "whole goal is cleaning up this mess that the city is in."

Sleepy Hollow premiere: Why we liked it >>

Summing up what fans can expect in Sleepy Hollow Season 2, Wiseman said, "People die, people cry."


Katie Couric weds at her home in East Hampton

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KatieCouricwhitejacket

Photo credit: C.Smith/WENN.com

Katie Couric was a June bride on Saturday when she married John Molner in East Hampton, New York. The Yahoo! News anchor tweeted out a photo to her followers that showed the newlyweds gazing adoringly at each other.

Her gown, designed by Carmen Marc Valvo, had ivory beading and embroidered Chantilly lace. Couric wore her hair up, with a white flower accessorizing her look. To prove she wasn't a bridezilla, the TV personality decided on a dress only one week before the nuptials.

Is Katie Couric returning to the Today show? >>

The former Today Show journalist told People she had a little help picking out her dress.

She said, "I hope this isn't bad luck, but I actually tried it on for him. I tried on a number of dresses, and I was so busy. I had a crazy spring."

The couple, who got engaged in September, kept the wedding small with approximately 50 guests and their children from previous marriages, adding some "traditional touches" to their backyard wedding. Molner's kids, Allie and Henry, and Couric's daughters, Ellie and Carrie, performed readings. Carrie also sang for the couple.

Newly engaged Katie Couric made love a priority >>

Her 51-year-old husband even helped plan the wedding.

Couric joked, "I call John 'Groomzilla!' We're a very modern couple."

However, there was one thing the New York couple wanted, and they got their wish.

She shared, "We wanted to keep the wedding just very low-key. This is not my first rodeo so I didn't want to go too crazy, and neither did John."

Congratulations, Katie and John!

How to make your own scented candles

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DIY scented candles

Materials

  • Wax flakes
  • Pre-waxed candle wicks
  • Containers for candles
  • Non-toxic crayon or candle color block
  • Essential oils

Tools:

  • Glass container
  • Saucepan or pot
  • Skewers or chopsticks
  • Tape
  • Stove
  • Scissors

DIY scented candles: supplies

Directions:

Prep work

You’ll want to start off by cleaning your glass containers. Using regular dish soap will do the job, just make sure you dry them thoroughly when you’re done.

Step 1: Setting up your wicks

DIY scented candles: Setting up your wicks

To set up the candlewicks in your containers, you’ll want to lay the metal piece flat against the bottom. Then use your chopsticks/skewers to hold up the wicks, and tape the ends of the chopsticks to keep everything in place.

Step 2: Measuring the wax flakes

DIY scented candles: Measuring wax flakes

Measure out the amount of candle wax flakes you’ll need for each of your containers. The rule of thumb is two times the amount of wax flakes to fill each container.

Step 3: Melting the wax

DIY scented candles: Melting wax

Fill a saucepan with water to about the halfway mark. Place your measured amount of wax flakes in the glass container. Then place the glass container in the saucepan. Be sure the water level is low enough, so it won’t splash into the wax flakes when it starts to boil. Turn your stove on to medium-high, and use a metal spoon to stir occasionally.

Step 4: Adding color to your candles

DIY scented candles: Add color to your candle

This is an optional step. Your candles will come out a naturally milky white, but if you’d like to add a little color, you can use a non-toxic crayon or candle color block. I typically use 1/8 inch of red crayon per 16 fl. oz. to get a soft pastel color. Want a brighter color? Use a little bit more, only adding color a bit at a time. Like food coloring, a small amount goes a long way. Simply melt your color along with your wax flakes. Warning: The color will look a lot brighter in the melted mixture but will turn a milky color as it cools.

Step 5: Add scent

Add scent

Once all the wax is completely melted, remove the wax mixture from the stove. My rule of thumb is 10 drops of essential oil per 16 fl. oz. It makes for a moderately scented candle. Use less or more depending on taste, and feel free to experiment and mix oils to create a scent of your own. Add the measured amount of essential oil to your wax mixture and give it a good stir to make sure it’s well-mixed.

Step 6: Pouring the wax

DIY scented candles: Pouring wax

Make sure your containers are in a good location where they won’t need to be moved for a few hours. Then slowly pour your melted wax mixture into your containers.

Step 7: Setting your candle

DIY scented candles: Setting your candle

Allow 3-4 hours for your candles to cool and solidify. It’s best to let them solidify at room temperature, so the cooling process is gradual. This prevents cracks in the wax.

DIY scented candles

More crafts to make

DIY Caged pearl necklace
12 DIY projects for candles
DIY heart candles

Prosciutto-wrapped chicken roll-ups stuffed with asparagus

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Chicken, prosciutto and asparagus roll-ups

During the summer I could eat asparagus almost every single night. Luckily my sweet husband doesn't mind my asparagus obsession and gladly eats whatever I put in front of him. This balsamic asparagus-stuffed chicken is the perfect way to get your vegetables and meat all in one bite. Trust me, if you're a fan of chicken, delicious Italian meats and asparagus, then this dish is for you.

Prosciutto-wrapped chicken roll-ups stuffed with asparagus recipe

Serves 4

Ingredients:

  • 16 large pencil-size asparagus spears, ends trimmed
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Garlic powder, to taste
  • 4 large chicken cutlets
  • 8 thin slices prosciutto

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
  2. In a large, oven-safe skillet, add the asparagus, vinegar and olive oil. Season with salt, pepper and garlic powder. Cook over medium-high heat until the asparagus just starts to soften, about 3 minutes.
  3. Lay out the chicken cutlets, and season them with salt, pepper and garlic powder.
  4. Add the asparagus spears to the centers of the chicken cutlets, and bring the short sides of the chicken cutlets up over the asparagus.
  5. Wrap the cutlets in 2 pieces of prosciutto each. Use a toothpick to secure the prosciutto so it stays wrapped around the chicken.
  6. Carefully pick up the chicken packets, and add them back to the pan you used to cook the asparagus.
  7. Place the pan in the oven, and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked. The cooking time of the chicken will depend on the thickness of the cutlets.

More chicken recipes

One-skillet cilantro lime chicken dinner
One-pot chicken enchilada pasta

Loaded baked potato chicken casserole

Conan O'Brien saves family home from auction

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conano'brienblackjacket

Photo credit: Adriana M. Barraza/WENN.com

A wrong address and an overdue bill almost cost Conan O'Brien's family their home. On Monday, the comedian paid an $8,000 back-tax bill on a Westerly, Rhode Island, home that is owned by his parents. The home was set to be auctioned off on Tuesday due to the delinquent bill.

A reporter for the town newspaper, The Westerly Sun, was the one who noticed the tax bill and contacted the TBS star about the family home.

Us Weekly spoke with the TV personality about the mix-up.

He said, "As soon as I was made aware that the tax bill on my parents' house was being mailed to the wrong address, I paid the bill immediately. The problem has been corrected. I am grateful to the reporter at the Westerly Sun who spotted this error and notified me."

VIDEO: Does Conan O'Brien have a long-lost son? >>

According to the Associated Press, the house is located near the shore in the New England state and is currently valued at $723,000. O'Brien pays the bills on the home, but a source shared that his accounting firm in Los Angeles never received the statement.

The insider told Us Weekly, "As soon as he was made aware, he paid the bill in full."

MTV Movie Awards 2014: Why it totally sucked >>

The good news is that the house was immediately removed from auction once the tab was paid in full. Now O'Brien has a place to visit when he heads back home to the East Coast.

PHOTO: Madonna's daughter Lourdes heads to prom

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Madonna

Photo credit: FayesVision/WENN.com

It seems like just yesterday that Madonna was starring in Evita and thrilling fans by announcing her first pregnancy — but now, her baby is graduating high school and sharing prom pictures.

Madonna Instagrammed a snapshot of daughter, Lourdes Leon, with her gal pals on prom night, and the teen beauty — the spitting image of her famous mom — is pretty in polka dots.

Madonna's new Instagram pic is the pits >>

Lourdes waxed philosophical on fashion and the rite of passage that is leaving high school in a new blog post.

"Looking back on the past four years of high school means looking back on unfortunate outfits I wore confidently to school (good for me)," she wrote.

Madonna has a new boy toy — and he's only 26 >>

"Oh how I wish I could go back in time and urge my 14 year old self NOT to wear black rhinestone studded t-shirts with bloody skulls on them, purchased from really 'hip' stores (wtf is hip anyways). I like to reassure myself though, that I had to go through that awkward time of 'trying stuff out' to figure out what I liked wearing best. I still don't think that I have a defined style, maybe because I don't want to limit myself to what I should wear. Makes me happy knowing that I went to an arts school where any kind of style could fly: It gave me the confidence and the yolo spirit I needed to successfully look like a clown (it's fine). Despite my unfortunate fashion choices I definitely don't look back on High School with any bitterness.

"Even the times when cockroaches crawled out of my locker, or when trying to concentrate during an exam next to a room full of people rehearsing for show choir (ha), or walking up 7 flights of stairs on a Monday, or the lunchroom flash mobs. You know, standard things." she continued. "I know that I was lucky enough to go to a truly exceptional High School that produces high quality shows and actually teaches you the craft of what you're studying. So many things that have been a part of my everyday routine for the past four years now suddenly aren't and it's weird because so much more lies ahead – yet it feels almost empty to wrap up high school. Of course I'll miss the friends that I've made and the family that makes up the drama department, but it's really beautiful to be able to see all of the people I dearly love and care for, people that I grew up with for four years, go on and pursue their passions, whatever they may be, and find their place.

"I feel like High School Graduation is something I've been talking about forever and now its finally here. I was so excited about 'being done with school' and now that I'm actually done I'm like clammy and sweating and nervous because… WHAT?!?! Knowing that I'm going to have to wake myself up for class, and not someone banging vigorously at my door for 5 full minutes, relieves me and worries me a little. Wrapping up High School has been pretty hectic (not actually doing THAT much so idk why) and words cannot express my excitement to sit in the sun and jam wiv friends."

No word on what's next for Lourdes, besides running her Material Girl fashion line, but she and Madonna were spotted touring the University of Michigan last fall.

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