1. 30 Rock "Anna Howard Shaw Day"

   For single girls everywhere who like to think of themselves as real-life Liz Lemon, this episode was life-changing. No longer do they have to celebrate Valentine's Day, as they now know that Feb. 14 is also the birthday of American suffragette, Anna Howard Shaw. For the rest of us, this 30 Rock was just a great example of quick, funny writing, with plenty of storylines to keep fans interested. Avery Jessup (Elizabeth Banks) was introduced as Jack's new love interest, Jenna mourns the loss of her stalker, and Liz's drug-induced hallucinations involve a cameo by Jon Bon Jovi and a hilarious bit with Jon Hamm, Jason Sudeikis, and Dean Winters as female Jamaican nurses at the dentist's office.

2. Mad Men "For Those Who Think Young"

   Mad Men isn't a particularly romantic show, with most characters cheating on their spouses at one point or another, and the Season 2 Valentine's episode thankfully didn't try to schmaltz the plot up for the holiday. Instead, they stuck with the kind of drama they're good at and let the time era provide the sentimentality. You have the normal problems between Don and Betty Draper, the old love between Roger Sterling and Joan, and this neat new technology called a copier. This episode furthers the plot and gives us a glimpse into how people celebrated the holiday in the '60s, which is exactly what we could hope for from Mad Men.

3. The Simpsons "I Love Lisa"

   Considering this is often hailed as one of the top Simpsons episodes out of the 20-plus seasons the show's been on the air, it's safe to say that this is one of the better Valentine's Day shows. Feeling sorry for dopey, annoying Ralph Wiggum, Lisa gives him a Valentine's card (with a train saying "I Choo-Choo-Choose You"). This obviously confuses sweet, moronic Ralph who then thinks he and Lisa are in love and going to get married. When confronted with Ralph's annoying feelings, Lisa explodes and breaks his heart on TV. This inspires Ralph to give the most moving performance as George Washington that you'll ever see and all is resolved. An important aspect for the series development that comes up in this show is that Ralph is Chief Wiggum's son, a fact that hadn't been established previously.

4. Glee "Silly Love Songs"

   If you hate Glee, you aren't magically going to like this Valentine's episode, but if you love it, or can even just tolerate it, "Silly Love Songs" was a high note. The plot moves along with love in the air for basically all of the teenage characters. Even hefty Lauren Zizes is getting some action from Puck, who sang Queen's "Fat-Bottomed Girls" to her. Other song highlights: Michael Jackson's "Pretty Young Thing," sung by Artie; Katy Perry's "Firework," belted out by Rachel; and Paul McCartney's "Silly Love Songs," performed by the oh-so-talented Warblers.

5. The Office "Valentine's Day"

   This episode is responsible for one of the single greatest TV show merchandising opportunities in history: the Dwight Schrute bobblehead. They may seem commonplace or even outdated now, but six years ago when this episode aired, it was a novel concept. Angela gave one to Dwight for Valentine's Day, and the bar was raised for V-Day gifts everywhere. Another unique aspect of "Valentine's Day" is the fact that Michael actually appears competent as a Dunder-Mifflin employee for once. He shows up to the meeting with his branch's numbers and takes responsibility for a mistake he made, saving Jan's job and winning her affection. The dysfunctional Ryan-and-Kelly relationship also begins on this eventful Valentine's Day.

6. Modern Family "My Funky Valentine"

   You just can't go wrong with Phil Dunphy. He can take any situation, even one that could seem tired to audiences, and make it hilarious. And he can take any holiday and ruin it a little bit for his wife. In this episode, he takes on the role of Clive Bixby in order to heat things up with Claire, but the two end up just getting in a bit of hot water. And we can't forget about the adorable story line with Manny and Cam, who work together to get the attention of Manny's crush. While Manny's thick, smarmy charm can be a little much in other episodes, it works perfectly for the holiday that's all about love and romance.

    

7. Friends "The One With The Birthing Video"

   There are several good Valentine's Friends episodes to choose from, including the one where Chandler gets set up on a date with Janice and the one where Chandler gives Monica a mixed tape with Janice's voice on it. But "The One With The Birthing Video" might be the most memorable if only because it reminds of us what we definitely don't want to be doing on Valentine's Day. Chandler and Monica end up watching a tape of Phoebe's friend giving birth because Chandler thought it was porn, and the two are rightfully traumatized. We also get to see the normally cute and bubbly Joey share his misery with a normally cute and bubbly dog, which is pushed out of our minds because we're still imagining what was on that birthing video.

8. Arrested Development "Marta Complex"

   It's hard to find a "Best of" TV list without someone mentioning Arrested Development, but if you've seen this episode, you know why it's on here. Valentine's Day plays a minor role, merely providing the back story for a surprise party and a candy-heart sign-from-above for George Michael. This allows the story line to develop freely. Throughout the show, Michael and Gob look for a man named Hermano who's having an affair with Gob's girlfriend, unaware that it means "brother" in Spanish. Buster continues his affair with Liza Minnelli's Lucille 2, we found out Maeby was maybe adopted, and we get to see the devastating effects of never-nude syndrome on a marriage.

9. Saturday Night Live "2/14/2009"

   OK, the Jonas Brothers are in this episode, but the rest of the show makes up for it. Alec Baldwin hosted his 14th SNL, delivering the laughs you would expect from the 30 Rock star and American Airlines heckler. One thing's for certain: you'll never play Wii the same way again. And we can't forget the Lil Wayne and Eminem impersonations during Weekend Update, where they sing a song that every guy wishes he could serenade his girl with. You'll feel like you're really watching the misogynistic rappers.

10. Parks and Recreation "Galentine's Day"

    No one is better at showing their love for, well, everything than Leslie Knope. She's passionate, thoughtful, and really good at her job, and yet still can't get her love life quite right. This episode plays into the theory that Valentine's Day is when everyone seems to figure out who they love (or don't love, as the case may be), and yet it does it in a way that's totally true to the rest of the series and doesn't feel like it's playing too much to the holiday, even as they spend half the episode in a room full of hearts and pink decorations. Leslie discovers the problems with Justin and sees through her mom's great love story, Tom confesses his real feelings for Wendy, and April dumps her two gay boyfriends. What's more romantic than that?

1. Toilet paper

   Nothing is more awkward for a guest than using the facilities and, after it's too late, discovering that there is no toilet paper. And no, the Kleenex box, assuming you have one, is not an option in this situation. So double up, even triple up when you buy rolls of toilet paper. You save money anyway when you buy in bulk. Stay away from the thin, barely tangible stuff as well as the overpriced pillow-y quilt-y brands. And hang the roll so that it dispenses over the top. Add a toilet paper dispenser to your list if necessary.

2. A bathroom rug

   You've heard that expression (perhaps thanks to The Big Lebowski), "It really tied the room together"? That's what a rug does, especially a bathroom rug. What's more, a bathroom rug will prevent you from slipping on a wet floor when you get out of the shower and cracking your skull on the edge of the tub or sink. Buy a thick one with a rubber bottom so it clings to the floor. Dark colors are always good. And remember to wash it once a week.

3. Cotton balls

   When men suffer injuries, like for instance cutting their thumb on a beer can tab, they grunt, squeeze the venom out from the wound, maybe pour a little beer over it, and move on with their day. However your guests, be they male or female, may want to take care of small cuts in a more civilized and hygienic manner. Cotton balls and hydrogen peroxide are just what the doctor ordered if your cute kitty decides she doesn't like your date and gives her a nice scratch on her arm. Add a box of band-aids to your bathroom stock and you can start collecting co-pays from your guests.

4. Air freshener

   But for crying out loud, don't buy Lysol. Instead, try to find something eco-friendly, not hazardous if breathed by humans, and packaged in a cool-looking bottle that's identifies itself for what it is without screaming its purpose. Place on top of the toilet for easy access.

5. A small trash can

   Because not everything can nor should be flushed down the toilet. A trash can with a lid will cut down on smells, mess, and expensive visits from the plumber to unclog your toilet. A metal can will get wet and possibly rust, so don't spend and arm and a leg it. Just buy something simple that gets the job done. Bonus points if you take time to either buy small trash bags or recycle your plastic grocery bags to line the can. Don't forget to empty your little trash can regularly to prevent it from overflowing onto your new bathroom rug.

6. Hand soap

   You've seen the sign that reads, "Employees must wash their hands before returning to work." Well, you should too, as should anyone who ends up using your bathroom. But blasting water on your hands and then wiping them off your pants is not sufficient or classy. And a bar of soap slowly disintegrating into a pool of scummy residue is not only gross, it will probably slip out of your hands onto your new bathroom rug (Don't forget to buy that bathroom rug!). Hand soap, either a bar in its own dish or liquid in a dispenser, is another must-buy for your bathroom. A small hand towel hanging on its own rack, no on the inside doorknob of the bathroom door, will be much appreciated by your guests.

7. Bathtub mat

   Not to be confused with the bathroom rug. A bathtub mat is not only hygienic, it should prevent you and your guests from slipping and breaking a bone or two in the shower. You can go with a boring, but functional self-adhesive bathmat, or something fancier from your neighborhood Bed, Bath, & Beyond. Make sure to clean it occasionally to prevent the build up of mildew.

8. Candle

   This is where personal taste, messaging, and your propensity to accidentally set your house on fire comes in. A candle in some area of the bathroom where it can be lit without scorching your towels sends the message that you consider bathing to be a relaxing, sensuous experience. If you yourself install the shelving in your bathroom for the candle, you'll get bonus points from guests for being handy as well as sensitive. It's your call, guys.

9. Shower liner

   A shower liner correctly sized for the tub will go a long way toward keeping the bathroom dry and clean. If your bathroom is tiny, buy a clear plastic liner so you and your guests won't feel so claustrophobic. Most liners can be cleaned in the washing machine safely, so there's no excuse for letting one hang there until green and black mold and mildew transforms it into a bio-health hazard. To keep water off the floor, the liner needs to hang inside the tub. Buy a shower curtain if you want to get fancy.

10. At least one piece of art

    In such a functional environment, it's nice to include an object or image that might, in some mysterious way, compliment the task at hand and break up the relative monotony of single-life in the bathroom. Here is a purchase that will require you exercise some style and creativity. Whether your artistic choice is edgy or conservative, remember — whoever else goes in your bathroom is more than likely to comment on it.

1. Alexander Wang

   Alexander Wang is all the hype these days and it doesn't take much to see why. Determined to make it big in the fashion industry, Wang dropped out of Parsons School of Design and interned for Marc Jacobs, Derek Lam, and Vogue. By 2007, Wang had launched his first women's collection and added an accessories line in 2008. Wang claimed his place in the fashion industry during New York Fashion Week, where he brought edgy, urban elegance to the runway. His most recent critically acclaimed collections have an athletic, tomboy feel that is unlike anything we've ever seen before.

2. Peter Som

   Peter Som is a talented, trendsetting designer who got his big break at New York Fashion Week in 2001. After years of working for Calvin Klein, Bill Blass, and Michael Kors, Som was able to showcase his bold and sophisticated pieces that he is still known for today. Som's elegant designs and keen eye for detail have earned him worldwide critical acclaim and many major awards.

3. Lazaro Hernandez and Jack McCollough

   Lazaro Hernandez and Jack McCollough are the masterminds behind the New York-based women's wear label, Proenza Schouler. The duo launched their first collection in 2002, which was bought by Barneys New York. Although this was a momentous event in the designers' careers, their debut at New York Fashion Week was just as important and telling for their future in fashion. Today, Proenza Schouler is a runway favorite. The label has earned a reputation for having clever, contemporary pieces that focus on fine craftsmanship and refined ease.

4. Rebecca Taylor

   Rebecca Taylor is the quintessential girl's girl who has made a killing off of her fun and flirty clothes that attract everyone from celebrities to everyday women. This New Zealander has been dominating the runways of New York Fashion Week for years. No matter the season, Taylor always manages to bring sexy, chic cuts and colorful designs to the stage. Whether it's the demureness of her dresses or the colorful consistency of her collections, critics and consumers can't say enough good things about Rebecca Taylor.

5. Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen

   Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen have been style icons since the day they were old enough to dress themselves. The entrepreneurial duo has been involved in fashion since the age of 12, when their Wal-Mart clothing line was created. In 2007, the Olsen twins put their fashion industry knowledge and love for clothing to use by creating the couture label, The Row. Their quest was to create the "perfect" T-shirt that would complement their basics line, but The Row proved to be much more than a modest T-shirt collection. It wasn't until the Olsens made their New York Fashion Week debut in Fall 2010 that they really started being taken seriously as designers. The Row has received a great deal of praise and recognition for its clean lines, fine workmanship, and sophisticated designs.

6. Behnaz Sarafpour

   Behnaz Sarafpour made her fashion debut a little over a decade ago at New York Fashion Week in 2001. After years of interning with big name designers like Anne Klein, Narcisco Rodriguez, and Isaac Mizrahi, Ms. Sarafpour set out to showcase her own designs. Even though her first show was canceled because of the 9/11 attacks, Sarafpour was featured in Vogue and asked to participate in a group fashion show that helped boost her career. Today, Sarafpour is known for her feminine tailoring and chic, clean shapes that meet the needs of the modern fashionista and the everyday woman.

7. Prabal Gurung

   Prabal Gurung took the fashion industry by storm when he launched his first collection during New York Fashion Week in 2009. Gurung's sophisticated designs and impeccable fit immediately caught the attention of critics and the chic set. Season after season, Gurung continues to deliver show-stopping runway looks with unique silhouettes and edgy cuts that clearly set him apart from the pack.

8. Gregory Parkinson

   Gregory Parkinson might seem like a fresh face in fashion, but he's been around longer than you might think. For nearly 16 years, the designer struggled to get noticed and keep his collection afloat during the financial crisis. Determined to weather the storm, Parkinson scraped up any rare fabrics he could find and used them to make his breakthrough collection that earned him a finalist spot for the Council of Fashion Designers of America/Vogue Fashion Fund Award. Although Parkinson didn't win, his name and talents were out in the open. But it was the Spring 2011 New York Fashion Week that really catapulted his career as a serious designer. Parkinson's exquisite workmanship and captivating use of color and print have made him a standout designer on the runway and in commercial retail.

9. Joseph Altuzarra

   From the get-go, young designer Joseph Altuzarra was determined to shake up women's wear by making age-appropriate garments that are both sexy and practical. His vision came to fruition with the launch of his chic clothing line, Altuzarra, in 2008. The Paris-born designer claimed his place in fashion when he showcased his line at New York Fashion Week 2010. Altuzarra's sophisticated looks and technical precision wowed critics, who have since compared his designs to the likes of legendary designers, Tom Ford and Azzadine Alaia.

10. Jen Kao

    Jen Kao is a true maverick of the fashion industry. Her dramatic silhouettes and futuristic designs have made a big splash at past New York Fashion Weeks, where she is known for turning up the volume and making heads turn with wild colors and interesting headpieces. In addition to her usual psychedelic prints and sexy cut-out dresses, the self-proclaimed jetsetter also likes to incorporate trendy, yet practical travel pieces that are comfortable and easy to pack.

1. Happy Together

   When you think of your favorite U.S. sitcoms in the last few decades, Married … With Children probably isn't at the top of your list. But this show has been remade all around the world: Argentina to Armenia, Germany to the UK. The Russian version, called Happy Together, was an incredible success, probably even more liked than the original was in its home country. After just a year on the air, the show was the most popular scripted series on TV among the 18- to 30-year-old demographic. Happy Together plays on the same outrageous, middle-class humor as the U.S. version and followed similar scripts through most of the series, but the Russian version is different in that it actually became its own show, with viewers submitting ideas for new episodes and Russian writers (as well as a few Married … With Children writers) brought new life to the Bundys, er, Bukins.

2. Law & Order: UK

   It's amazing to see just how different the multiple foreign remakes of Law & Order (and its unnecessary American spinoffs) are despite the fact that they all revolve around the same concept and basic plotline each episode. If you've ever tuned into Law & Order: UK thinking it'll be just like the American one with different accents, you probably realized that the customs that surround each country's laws and keeping order really change the show. Laws, sentences, and the whole judicial process are so varied that each nation's series is really its own. In England, for example, the judges and lawyers wear wigs. If that doesn't mutate the show drastically, nothing will.

3. Al Shamshoon

   The Simpsons clan, while it may have become a picture of the all-American family, isn't exactly what you would imagine as ideal entertainment in the Middle East. The culture that The Simpsons seems to make fun of in each episode is often the direct opposite of the way people live in the Arab world. Nevertheless, Dubai's MBC station remade the family into Omar and Mona Shamshoon with a son named Badr. Of course, so many of the show's staples were lost in the making, with Homer drinking soda instead of beer, never going to Moe's since it's a bar, and getting rid of Krusty's rabbi dad. Unsurprisingly, it didn't catch on.

4. My Wonderful Nanny

   The Former Soviet has made a big business out of taking '90s shows from the U.S. and turning them into popular prime-time TV for the modern-day Russian. This localized remake of The Nanny ran through all of the original episodes and then involved original American writers to help create more. The main difference between this show and the U.S. sitcom — and it's a big one — is the absence of Fran Drescher. In the titular role, she had the power to draw viewers in or annoy them to tears, with the latter being more likely. Maybe that's a reason the Russian version performed so well.

5. How I Met Your Mother

   A zany sitcom about six friends living through their crazy 20s is just what Russia ordered. Of course, they didn't quite have the budget to pull it off as well as CBS' original How I Met Your Mother probably deserves. The promo that circulated the Internet last year made it clear that they were using the same characters and bar hangout as the American version, but it all seems just a little bit off. Barney's character (we can only assume they chose some awesome Russian names for our HIMYM friends) seems a little bit too old to be hanging out with the group of young adults, especially with his creepy behavior that Neil Patrick Harris himself can barely pull off. The new Marshall seems to be relegated to playing the goofy guy with bad hair. And those kids don't seem old enough to be hearing about the sexual exploits of their own dad. Maybe children mature faster in Russia.

6. Geordie Shore

   If there is one show that most Americans probably wish would just die off, it's MTV's Jersey Shore. When it was announced that the show was being remade in the UK, it made us all wonder, "Is there really another group of people as ridiculous as the one in New Jersey?" MTV chose Newcastle, a town known for its huge nightlife, and they certainly got closer to the original than we hoped was possible. There's no duplicating Jersey Shore, though. Geordies, as they're called, live in a cold climate, though none of them wear coats (or much else) and they all manage to keep up their tans much like the Jersey cast. They speak in a dialect that's almost a totally different language, but unlike with the Jersey accent, most people prior to the show felt that the accent made them seem friendlier and more trustworthy. The main difference: no Snooki. What's a shore without her?

7. Everybody Loves Kostya

   Though Russia may have taken some of our slightly less popular shows and turned them into gold, they had trouble with one of America's favorites: Everybody Loves Raymond. Raymond creator Phil Rosenthal went to Russia to help them create their own version and discovered that their sense of humor really wasn't the same as the American audience. The studio's head of comedy told Rosenthal that he didn't think the show was funny, and during production, Rosenthal had to try to tone down the slapstick humor, since apparently Russians think it's hilarious to see a guy kicked in the nuts. Despite casting actors that look very similar to the original, Everybody Loves Kostya just didn't turn out as well as Raymond. You can see why in Rosenthal's documentary, Exporting Raymond.

8. Powerpuff Girls Z

   The Cartoon Network series The Powerpuff Girls featured adorable kindergarten-aged superheroes who dealt with silly situations involving evil villains and growing up. The show was known for its use of humor and references to old American pop culture. Japan's anime version of the show involves the same main characters (plus some new ones) but they're all grown up. Well, almost. These Powerpuff Girls are in seventh grade and use weapons rather than just their adorable super powers. Much of the history of the girls has changed in the Japanese version — they're no longer sisters, they weren't created in a lab, and their cute but despicable nemesis monkey Mojo Jojo didn't start out as a lab assistant. And let's be honest: the show doesn't have the same kick without the ridiculous pop culture nods.

9. The Apprentice UK

   How can you have The Apprentice without Donald Trump? The best that British producers could do was bringing on Sir Alan Sugar, also known as Lord Sugar or Baron Sugar of Clapton. Sure, he sounds important, but does he have entertainingly bad hair? The answer is no. The concept of the British show is the same and much like the U.S. version, it evolved into a spinoff where celebrities compete for charity. But the show changed throughout the series, with one season's prize being an investment in a business the winner would create, shared 50/50 with Sugar. Those Brits just always have to change things up, don't they? They should be fired.

10. 24

    It may be the perfect time for India to introduce their own version of the butt-kicking show 24 since they recently announced the approval of a new National Counter-Terrorism Centre. But there's no doubt that the Indian version of 24, which producer Anil Kapoor bought the rights to in late 2011, will be a totally different experience than the American version (below). Jack Bauer is the prototypical American hero, protecting the nation and its interests sometimes using questionable methods. Though no videos of the new version have been leaked (yet), there's no doubt that the Indian Bauer will do things a little bit differently and that the threats faced will be considerably changed to make it more realistic for the local audience.

1. Flat Hat Club at College of William & Mary

   The original F.H.C. Society, which really stood for some secret Latin phrase but is more commonly referred to as the Flat Hat Club, was the first collegiate society in the U.S., formed in 1750. Thomas Jefferson himself was a member, and the group had a secret handshake (like any good organization does) and met to discuss the day's issues. The group disbanded during the American Revolution, and it wasn't until the early 20th century that the society came back, in a slightly different form. It now includes 12 undergrad guys and four professors, while the original had only six students. The activities of the all-male group are kept secret, though they are assumed to be altruistic.

2. The Noble NoZe Brotherhood at Baylor University

   At a huge Baptist university, there's bound to be some people who just aren't ready to take it all so seriously. Founded in 1924 around the joke that one guy's nose was so big you could form a club around it, the NoZe Brothers main jobs are putting out the satirical Baylor paper, The Rope, pulling pranks on unsuspecting students and university officials, and wandering around at campus events in the Groucho glasses that hide members' identities. Several important people with ties to Baylor have been named "ornery" brothers, including university president Ken Starr, Heisman winner Robert Griffin III, and President George W. Bush, while Rand Paul, the son of Ron Paul, was revealed in 2010 to be a former member.

3. The Machine at University of Alabama

   What started as Theta Nu Epsilon became known as The Machine after being referred to as such in an article in the school paper in the '20s. This group is a campus political machine made up of members of the school's sororities and fraternities who take actions to sway the student government elections at Alabama. Since the university is located in the Deep South, it's not surprising that the Machine has been accused of racism in the past, though many who may or may not be part of the group say that the stories are all highly exaggerated. Some of these legends include assaults, office break-ins, and cross burnings. A school administrator even suggested an editor at the school newspaper change his locks after running a story about the Machine. Whether the tales have gotten out of hand or not, only a handful of student government presidents have won without being backed by the Machine.

4. The Bullingdon Club at Oxford University

   It's hard to say whether this society is actually secretive or whether it's so elitist that people wish it was secretive. Started way back in 1780, The Bullingdon Club has been causing destruction wherever they go for centuries. The group is made up of only the richest, most prestigious students, and many go on to become important in the world of British politics and business. We're talking Prime Minister David Cameron, BBC commentator David Dimbleby, and numerous kings. Many of the members try to keep a low profile about the club while they're in it (thus its secretive nature), and for good reason: the main events for the club are to rent out restaurants and clubs for extravagant dinners, get drunk, and then make a contest out of destroying the place.

5. Skull and Bones at Yale University

   The most well-known collegiate secret society, Skull and Bones has made a name for itself through its famous alumni (President George W. Bush, Supreme Court justices, and spies, for instance) and mysterious activities perpetuated by movies and the media. Since 1832, the group has tapped 15 seniors a year for membership who then go through an initiation process at a tomb-like building said to contain the skull of Geronimo, stolen by previous Bonesmen. The aim of the group seems to be to get members to positions of power later in life, though conspiracy theorists will tell you that they were behind the Kennedy assassination and the nuclear bomb. That's how you know it's a good club — the crazies love to talk about it.

6. The Spades at Auburn University

   Each year, 10 seniors are selected to become a Spade, based on their contributions to the university or position of influence. Depending on who you talk to, the mission of the Spades is either the noble deed of establishing scholarships and the like or the not-so-noble task of manipulating campus activities. It's hard to say since their activities are anonymous and they supposedly meet in the woods. Many acts of kindness have been attributed to The Spades, but they have also been accused of pressuring editors of the school paper to nix certain stories, influencing student elections, and hazing new members with firearms. Members of the group aren't kept secret, but mystery still surrounds their purpose and actions.

7. Seven Society at University of Virginia

   If you want to raise your chances of getting into a secret society, look into attending the University of Virginia. There are at least 10 well established groups, with the possibility of others being formed recently. The nature of the societies varies from being service-oriented to the bizarre — the Rotunda Peers are rumored to exist with the purpose of urinating on the campus Rotunda at night. The Seven Society is one of the most secretive groups, said to have originated when a group of eight agreed to meet for a card game but only seven showed up. Members' identities are kept secret until they die; then a wreath of black magnolias shaped like a seven is supposedly placed on their grave. To let the university know a former member has died, the bell tower at the chapel on campus chimes every seven seconds at seven past the hour, striking the seventh dissonant chord.

8. Quill and Dagger at Cornell University

   This infamous club was founded in 1893 and was actually the first Ivy League group to let women run in their old boys' club. Members are chosen based on their character and reputation of service on campus, and the names of new members are published in the school newspaper every semester. The secret part is what they do and what goes on in meetings. They meet on the top floor of a campus tower, and entry onto the floor by anyone outside of the group is forbidden. Quill and Dagger, along with another society on campus, Sphynx Head, supposedly work for the betterment of the Cornell community and campus, but most people are unsure of exactly what each contribute.

9. Eucleian Society at New York University

   This literary group keeps most of its members' names under lock and key, and its internal procedures are even more thoroughly shrouded. All documents and records have been redacted and most are written in a strange shorthand (though it seems like a bad idea to be keeping records of your secret society to begin with). The society used to hold publicized literary events (with frequent lecturer Edgar Allen Poe) and became a progressive voice on campus and in the city, speaking out in their two publications in favor of gender equality (though they don't accept female members) and Native Americans' rights and satirizing news items of the day. Today, the group is quieter and their activities are largely unknown.

10. Cadaver Society at Washington and Lee University

    Members of the Cadaver Society know how to have fun but also know that it's important to contribute to their alma mater. The identities of the group members are kept secret but it's said they are mostly pre-med students (where do they find the time?). You can see their mark around campus — a letter C with a skull inside — and it often accompanies one of the pranks the group likes to pull. They only appear after dark and even then, they wear black capes and hoods to conceal who they are. On the kinder side of things, though, Cadavers have also contributed money to different university endeavors, including the fitness center and new stadium.

Many people have already jumped on board the new Facebook Timeline layout, either because they love to be on the forefront of Facebook technology or because they were afraid they'd get left behind in the social media dust. But many late adopters are waiting until they're forced to switch over, a change that Facebook has announced is coming for everyone in the next few weeks whether you like it or not. For people who love Facebook and hate change, this transition will undoubtedly come with a lot of complaining and threats to leave the site for good. If you're afraid Timeline is going to ruin your online life, calm yourself down and read these reasons the new layout is nothing to whine about.

1. There are worse things going on in the world

   Sure, the crises around the world may not affect you as directly as a change to your favorite social media site, but there are bigger things than your old profile that you should petition for. Syria's close to war, the euro zone is falling deeper into debt, and natural disasters seem to be happening every day. And let's not forget that the world is supposed to end in December. Sure, we all hate perspective, but when it comes to something as meaningless as Facebook updates, we probably need it.

2. People adapt to new interfaces all the time

   You're probably happy about the technological advances developers and engineers have made in the past several decades. And changes to the user interface are just part of the process of moving forward. In fact, most of the time, they make your life easier once you adjust. Many sites and programs that you use constantly have changed and you've survived — Google and Yahoo! search, email servers like G-mail, Windows and Mac operating systems, iTunes, and Twitter to name just a handful. In all likelihood, you can't remember the old interface or how you lived without the one you use now.

3. You've learned to use "new" Facebook before

   Remember that time Facebook changed so much that you couldn't figure out how to use it? Unless you're 80 years old and don't know how to use computers very well, that time hasn't come yet. While it's an annoyance to find the rearranged features, all of us eventually get used to them and settle back into our daily routines of checking our News Feed every 12 minutes. If you need a reminder about these non-life-altering design changes, think back to 2006 when there was no News Feed, 2008 when Mark Zuckerberg separated features into tabs, 2009 when status updates overwhelmed our home page, and 2010 when we got that nifty strip of photos at the top of our profile page. We'll grow accustomed to this one in time, too.

4. You have a chance to get used to it before you embarrass yourself

   A change on Facebook, where you're connected to everyone you've ever met, can be scary. The chances of you humiliating yourself as you get used to the new format and click on the wrong things are very high. Luckily, though, Facebook is trying to avoid those horror stories of you accidentally broadcasting inappropriate details of your latest rash or sexual encounter, and they've given everyone a seven-day window to get your Timeline looking like you want it.

5. It's nostalgic

   The world got a glimpse of Facebook's nostalgia factor when they introduced the "See friendship" option a couple years ago. You could suddenly see all the Facebook interactions between you and a friend since the beginning of your cyber relationship. Facebook Timeline just expands that idea. Now you can look back on specific years of your life, seeing the jobs you started, photos that were uploaded then, and who you became friends with. You can also add major life events to your life's timeline, as serious as a death or as mundane as when you got glasses. Creating yours and looking through old posts will certainly bring back some warm, fuzzy feelings. It's no wonder it was called "Facebook Memories" when it was accidentally released for a hot minute in 2010 before being taken down quickly.

6. You have more control

   Before Timeline, you didn't have much say over how your wall posts and latest activities were displayed. They basically sat on your wall in the order they were posted. Now you can choose what posts are highlighted, with the ability to resize them based on importance (or how pretty or funny they are, if that's how you roll). You can also easily look at every post and activity you've done since you first joined the site by clicking on the activity log, so you can edit out anything embarrassing you did in your college days … or at least choose which groups of people can see it. Your mom and employer don't necessarily need to read the wall posts where you and a friend made plans to create a gravity bong out of a milk jug. You can choose which stories are displayed and how people see them, which gives you a second chance to make smarter Facebook decisions.

7. It makes stalking easier

   If you've made it past the first level of privacy settings on a person's profile, you have information laid out conveniently for your stalking pleasure. Thinking of getting into a new relationship? Check out the dude's history with girlfriends (if they weren't Facebook official, they really didn't count anyway). Look for any red flags in each year of his life. Find out where he was born. These facts will come in handy on dates, or when deciding to refuse dates. You'll also get much more personal information than you did before if the person is fully taking advantage of Timeline and adding in photos and events from the pre-Facebook years.

8. It's perfect for over-sharers

   On the opposite end of the spectrum from the stalker is the over-sharer. You love divulging intimate details of your life and see Facebook as the perfect outlet for your narcissistic tendencies. Timeline is going to make your life even easier. Not only can you tell the world exactly when you got each piercing, first kiss, or started new eating habits through the Life Events feature, you can also use the Apps section to let people follow what movies you're watching, music you're listening to, and what ingredients they're frying up at the moment.

9. You'll seem more worldly than you are

   One new, fun feature of the Timeline is Maps, which automatically shows you the places you've been if you have any photos with the location tagged. The even greater part is that you can go back and add the location to photos of yourself (or choose not to) or just add places you've been so that you'll look like a world traveler. Your map will start to fill out with pinpoints of your trips and you'll have another way to view your photos and memories, by location rather than time.

10. You're never actually going to leave Facebook

    Fine, you don't like Timeline. But are you ever going to follow through on your threats to leave Facebook? Probably not. Even if you really hate the new layout and decide to stop checking in on your friends as often as before, Facebook has become a way of getting things done. Many sites only let you leave comments or quickly create accounts by using your Facebook (OK, or Twitter) profile. You can share large numbers of photos easily and quickly through a Facebook album, especially when compared to a photo-filled email to your friends, as well as see other people's pictures that you otherwise wouldn't have access to. The convenience of Facebook outweighs your hatred of Timeline so let's all just agree to suck it up this time and give Timeline a chance.

1. Vin Diesel

   After his breakout role in Saving Private Ryan, Diesel's rise to becoming a household name was fast and furious. Yeah, we went there. Besides the Fast and Furious franchise, he's also done some kid's movies and voice work. While Diesel's playing characters on film, his twin brother, Paul Vincent, whose frizzy red hair assures you will never mistake him for his brother, works as a film editor. Diesel seems to keep his life pretty private so not much more is known about Vincent.

2. Scarlett Johansson

   OK, Hunter Johansson, who's three minutes younger than Scar-Jo, isn't a total disappointment, but he is a pretty normal guy outside of his sister's famous shadow. Though he sometimes accompanies Scarlett to fancy events and was named one of People's Hot Bachelors in a 2008 issue, he's a jeans-and-T-shirt kind of guy who served as President Barack Obama's Denver campaign organizer in 2008.

3. Ashton Kutcher

   Poor Michael Kutcher probably felt like he was being Punk'd when his fraternal twin brother found insane fame. The brother of the former That '70s Show and now Two and a Half Men star led a hard life, diagnosed with cerebral palsy when he was a child and undergoing a heart transplant when he was 13. Michael, who now has a seven-year-old and works selling retirement plans, says Ashton was beside him through the whole ordeal. Michael has used his brother's notoriety to lobby for a group that helps kids with cerebral palsy.

4. John Elway

   John and his sister Jana Elway came into the world just 11 minutes apart, but they wouldn't leave it together. Jana died fighting lung cancer in 2002 when the twins were 42. The two were especially close in an already-close family, and Jana's death was just one in a series of heartbreaks in John's personal life, falling between their father's death and his divorce with his wife. Jana was a teacher and was married with two children.

5. Kofi Annan

   The former Secretary-General of the UN was born a twin, a trait that was considered lucky in his tribal town in Ghana. Both he and his sister Efua were given the middle name Atta, which means "twin" in the local language. While Kofi rose to important positions within the World Health Organization and United Nations, Efua seems to have stayed out of the spotlight, with not much information available about her besides the fact that she died in 1991 of an illness. Sadly, she didn't get to see her twin brother make Secretary-General in 1997.

6. Gisele Bündchen

   If there was ever an instance when you probably wished you were an identical twin, it'd be if your sister was an internationally famous super model like Gisele Bündchen. Unfortunately for Patricia Bündchen, though, (who really is pretty attractive in her own right) she and Gisele are fraternal twinsies. Patricia spends her time living in Brazil and working as Gisele's manager, keeping track of mentions in the press and her million-dollar bookings.

7. Alanis Morissette

   OK, Wade Morissette, the twin brother of rock goddess Alanis, isn't exactly your average man with an average job. He's a yoga instructor and kirtan singer. Don't know what that is? Yeah, we had to look it up. Kirtan is Sanskrit call-and-response chanting, whose sacred vibrations are supposed to calm and center a person much like meditation or yoga itself might. So while Alanis was busy belting out angry-girl ballads like "You Oughta Know," Wade has spent his time spreading serenity with renditions of chants like "Om Namah Shivaya."

8. Duffy

   This Welsh songbird sky-rocketed to fame across the pond and has been rising steadily in the U.S. music world. Aimee Ann Duffy, who just uses her surname for her music, has a twin sister named Katy. The girls' parents divorced when they were 10 and at 15, Aimee moved away to live with her dad and to pursue her music career. The two reunited a few years ago, but while Aimee is a singer/songwriter sensation, Katy is just a normal 27-year-old. Aimee admits, though, that she's glad they don't look alike because Katy parties a lot and might get her too much bad press.

9. Kiefer Sutherland

   There's definitely a family resemblance between 24 star Kiefer and twin sister Rachel Sutherland. It's up to you whether that's a good or bad thing. The two were born seven minutes apart in 1966 in London. With her brother and both parents, Donald Sutherland and Shirley Douglas, in the acting business, it's no surprise that Rachel also found a Hollywood job — supervising post-production on movies.

10. Parker Posey

    Parker Posey, queen of indie films and staple in Christopher Guest productions, didn't grow up as bizarrely as some of her characters might lead you to believe. Her dad owned a local car dealership and her mom was a housewife. Her twin brother Chris also took a more traditional route, attending Georgetown and becoming a lawyer in Atlanta. Parker says he was always the smart one growing up and she was always the absent-minded dreamer. It seems to have worked out for both of them!

1. The Afghan girl on National Geographic

   You may not know her name or even her nationality, but there's no doubt that you've seen the photo of the girl with sea-green eyes blazing from the cover of National Geographic. The image appeared on the front of the publication in 1985 and 25 years later, we still remember her. It turns out her name is Sharbata Gula and a photographer snapped the photo when she was in a refugee camp in Pakistan after Soviet bombs had killed her parents. Her image told the story of countless Afghan people who were terrorized by war for decades yet often forgotten by the Western world.

2. Black-on-black Twin Towers on The New Yorker

   Immediately after the immense tragedy of 9/11, the media had a hard time walking the line between giving the public essential information and sensationalizing the event. Many people felt that images showing victims or the explosions were too graphic and insensitive in the wake of the event. When The New Yorker editors were trying to find the appropriate cover image for their issue after 9/11, they felt that all the photographs out there weren't contributing to the public's understanding and were becoming white noise. Their first idea was to publish an all-black cover; then it evolved into showing the outline of the towers in black on the black cover. What they ended up with is a powerful image that evokes the loss and tragedy without offending.

3. "Is God Dead?" on Time

   This incredibly controversial 1966 cover was the first Time cover to use only text with no image. The article that the cover referred to discussed the increasingly secular nature of the U.S., including the "God Is Dead" movement. Science was becoming more important than religion in explaining natural phenomena and some theologians were including God less in their studies. The cover enraged many members of the public and the clergy, and newspapers all over the country received letters for their opinion sections from angry Americans who believed Time was promoting a secular agenda.

4. Yoko Ono and a naked John Lennon on Rolling Stone

   The undeniably odd image on a 1981 cover of the music mag was made even more unique by its eerie timing. Legendary celebrity photographer Annie Leibovitz had arranged to photograph Lennon and Ono and both were originally supposed to appear nude. Right before the shoot, however, Ono chickened out and she remained fully clothed next to the bare Lennon. The photo session was on Dec. 8, 1980 — the same day that Lennon was fatally shot by a fan. The cover serves as a glimpse into the musician's last hours alive.

5. Muhammad Ali as St. Sebastian on Esquire

   Boxing legend Ali made a strong political statement in this photo where he was mimicking a painting of St. Sebastian, a Roman soldier who was killed for converting to Christianity. After converting to Islam, Ali refused the draft in 1967 for religious reasons and was thus sentenced to five years in prison and stripped of his heavyweight title. His reputation was destroyed as many saw him as a traitor and he wasn't allowed to box. The Esquire image shows Ali with arrows in him, displaying him as a martyr for the cause of peace. After the cover's release in '68, the photo could be found in dorm rooms across the country as a sort of stand against the Vietnam War, touching on the important issues of the draft, race, and religion.

6. Katiti Kironde on Glamour

   You may not recognize this cover image, but it's certainly one for the books. In 1968, Katiti Kironde, an African-American college student, entered Glamour's contest to find the 10 best-dressed college girls. She won and was placed on the cover, becoming the first black woman to be featured on the front of a women's magazine. This cover paved the way for the appearance of all the black models, celebrities, and inspiring women we love.

7. The camels merger on The Economist

   The normally dry and serious Economist gave a new meaning to business mergers in 1994 when they depicted two camels having, ahem, a merger of their own on the cover. The accompanying article was titled "The Trouble With Mergers," and was meant to highlight the downsides of the onslaught of predicted mergers at the time. The animal sex act was only on the cover of the North American version, but it got attention all over the world. And you can bet you won't think of a merger without picturing a couple of camels bumping uglies from now on.

8. Ellen DeGeneres comes out on Time

   It's hard to believe that 15 years ago, there weren't any openly gay TV stars in the U.S. But DeGeneres changed all that in 1997 when she confirmed her homosexuality on the cover of Time. The title next to her photo said, "Yep, I'm Gay," and the issue came out just slightly before DeGeneres' character on her prime-time sitcom Ellen did the same. As society has become more accepting and tolerant of homosexuality, many more celebrities and actors have felt comfortable revealing that they are gay, but none sent shock waves through the acting world and the American public like DeGeneres' cover confession.

9. "Living" fetus on Life

   The image of "Life Before Birth" on a 1965 issue of Life Magazine is breath-taking. A fetus in its amniotic sac is set against a space-like background in full color. Before this amazing photo by Swedish photographer Lennart Nilsson, most photos of fetuses were grainy, black-and-white images. The accompanying article educated the public on the development of fetuses by depicting various stages and body parts. Though the photos presented as living embryos and fetuses were actually dead, this magazine cover emphasized the importance of knowledge in reducing the deaths of infants and mothers, and many also took it as a symbol of the anti-abortion movement.

1. Thumbs Up

   Want to piss off a former Soviet? In most of the Western world, the thumbs up is an informal way to signal a positive response. or indicates something positive. But, watch out. In Russia, Latin America, Greece, the Middle East, and parts of Africa, the thumbs up is basically the equivalent of the middle finger. Word to the wise: learn how to say "thank you" and "good job" in the language of whatever country you're planning to visit.

2. Moutza

   Your palms are open toward your listener and you make an "L" shape with your thumbs. Be your fingers together or extended, this is called the moutza. In parts of Western Europe, Pakistan, and Africa, this seemingly benign gesture is an ancient insult, and one of the most crass hand signals possible. Not only dismissive, but also implying that your target should eat excrement and/or suggesting that you have some creative ideas on ways to bed your listener's sister, the moutza is a particularly rude insult to dish out. Be mindful of your hand position when gesticulating wildly, especially at parties, and especially in Greece, from where the moutza originates.

3. Two-Finger Tap

   Heading to the Pyramids? Be mindful of the two-finger tap. When tapping your two index fingers together, make sure that your target is someone super sexy. In Egypt, this gesture indicates the desire to have sex. No one's saying there's a darn thing wrong with illicit, 'round-the-world nooky, just make sure that you don't flash this sign unless you're willing to actually, um, tap that.

4. Come Hither

   You want to beckon your conversation partner closer, perhaps intending to be sexually suggestive. You make what you believe to be an international hand sign for "come closer" – stretching your index finger toward your new friend then curling it toward you. Sounds like the start of a bad romance novel. In the Philippines, however, this gesture is so nasty that it warrants arrest. In most countries it's considered somewhat obscene. When traveling abroad, you'd probably be better off using a simple wave.

5. Sake Circle

   Here's one that won't get you arrested, killed, or even beaten up. If you're traveling in Japan, the best way to ask someone to accompany you for a drink is to pantomime a traditional sake cup. First make a fist, then extend your thumb and index finger out to create a small circle, and you'll be hobnobbing in a rice wine haze in no time flat.

6. The Corna

   Listen up, sports fans! The corna, meaning horns, has both positive and negative connotations worldwide. When disagreeing with a football (soccer) referee during the World Cup, flashing the corna – the American sign for "heavy metal," made commonly popular by Rodney James Dio and the University of Texas – suggests that the ref's wife is unfaithful. In Hindu and Buddhist culture, however, an identical gesture is called the Karana Mudra, and symbolizes the exorcism of demons.

7. Flipping the Bird

   This one you should already know. Perhaps the only truly universal hand gesture, in certain parts of the Middle East, feel free to accomplish your same non-verbal communique with the upwards thrust of the index finger. Here's hoping that you, dear traveler, are a more worldly person than some, and elect not to use this gesture in favor of international civility.

8. V for…Victory?

   More like V for Vendetta! An Anglo-Saxon hand sign deriving from the Middle Ages, Winston Churchill and, later, Richard Nixon appropriated the index and middle-fingered gesture as a symbol for victory in their respective popular cultures. It may look like a backwards peace sign, but on the streets and sports arenas of the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, expect neither peace nor victory as a response to this gesture. When traveling the world, avoid ordering two drinks with this sign for "shove it," instead opting again for a wave and a smile.

9. Sticking Out Your Tongue

   Not exactly a hand gesture, but included in this list because no one wants you getting arrested in Italy. In late 2009, an appeals court in Italy ruled that sticking your tongue out at a person with whom you are arguing is so insulting that it ought to be, and indeed now is, illegal. But hold out hope, ye traveling tonguers! And maybe book a ticket to Tibet instead. For Tibetans, this gesture is considered a friendly greeting. Make sure to indicate your understanding of such, or diffuse an argument in Italy, by accompanying this gesture with a cheeky smile.

10. Chin Flick

    You'd think that a reasonable facsimile of the American Sign Language gesture for "thank you" wouldn't resemble so closely a common European symbol for "f— you," but you'd be wrong. Other than a smile, there really is no universal signal for "thank you." Skip the sign language savvy when traveling abroad, as you may offend someone. Or an entire street gang of someones. This doesn't end well for you. Always be as polite as possible, and attempt to learn a few basic niceties in your destination language, per favore.

1. Ibiza, Spain

   Ever wonder why some men are paid thousands of dollars a night to … play records? Maybe you can get an answer next time you're on the Spanish island of Ibiza hitting its famous clubs, clubs, and more clubs usually crammed to fire-code capacity with famous and not-so-famous party people. The Spanish Tourist Board desperately wants to promote the island as a destination for families. Good luck!

2. Island of St. Barts

   The strangely titled website "St. Barths (sic) Online" describes the ideal island visitor as "Classical Wealthy Americans … They don't make a mess, they are always friendly and polite, and they are not intimidated by extravagant prices." So all you poor people, when visiting St. Barts, make sure to keep yourself scarce, mm-kay?

3. Paris

   "Voulez-vous coucher avec moi ce soir?" If you can at least say that then you're ready to head to Paris, France! Home to the Eiffel Tower, designer boutiques, and Disneyland Paris – the most popular tourist attraction in Europe! U-S-A! U-S-A!

4. New York City

   During her NYC visit, reality TV star Sarah Palin famously had a slice of chain restaurant pizza with reality TV star Donald Trump. Surrounded by cameras, this photo-op disguised as a "real New York" experience is an anomaly in a city whose citizenry could give a flying flip whether you are famous or not. Stars get punched in the face, passed up by cabs, and occasionally much worse. So why do they come? We guess because it's a great place to deflate a much-inflated ego. Why non-famous people choose to live in New York City is anybody's guess.

5. The Côte d'Azur aka the French Riviera

   One of the first-ever modern resorts, this destination is located along the extent of the Mediterranean coastline of southern France. The Riviera city of Cannes hosts the famous annual film festival (the most obvious spot for celebrity gawking) while neighboring Nice hosts a spectacular jazz festival.

6. The Bahamas

   Consisting of 29 islands north of Cuba, south of Florida, "the Bahamas" is practically a euphemism for any place one can imagine as being sunnier and more relaxing than wherever you are now. Oprah Winfrey, Johnny Depp, and Colombian's most famous export Shakira (second only to Juan Valdez) each own a home in the Bahamas, although you'll have to do some digging to figure out exactly where they live. And of course suffer a security beatdown when you try to visit. Dec. 26 through Jan. 1 you can witness the Junkanoo festival, celebrated by the locals to commemorate the island's freedom from slavery.

7. Rome

   There are plenty of things to do in Rome for just 10 bucks, but if money isn't an issue, chances are this is one of your favorite places to vacation. It's where the young and beautiful go to honeymoon while preparing for their inevitable divorce.

8. New Orleans

   The history and culture of this city is most likely lost on the stars who visit hoping only to drink and drug themselves into oblivion. Fortunately for non-famous visitors, such decadence is usually contained to two or three streets in the French Quarter, leaving the rest of the city relatively vomit-free.

9. Miami

   The former stomping ground of Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack has lost none of its glamour and allure and is probably the only place where a man can wear white Capri pants, a pink sleeveless tank top, and sandals, and be considered fashionable.

10. Home to Mom and Dad

    Where does Lady Gaga go when the pressure of being famous gets to be too much and she needs a break? Back home to the apartment on New York's Upper West Side where she grew up, which is still owned by her proudly supportive Mom and Dad. "I'm in hotels all the time," Gaga recently told Vanity Fair. "When I can, I'd much rather spend the time with my parents." And perhaps there's something healthy about being a famous adult and having your parents ask you to please clean your room and take out the trash.