Lindsay Lohan tattoo's Special Meaning

You can take Lindsay Lohan out of Long Island, but you can't take the Long Island out of Lindsay Lohan. Perhaps that's why the actress permanently inked herself with a quote by L.I.'s greatest Piano Man, Billy Joel. LiLo showed off her latest tattoo to TMZ, a scroll of text on the right side of her ribcage that reads, "Clear as a crystal sharp as a knife I feel like I'm in the prime of my life."

The line is a lyric from Joel's minor Storm Front hit "I Go to Extremes," a song whose title seems to encapsulate the young star's tumultuous time in Hollywood. "[The lyric] represented where she is in life and everything she's been through ... it signifies that she's focused," a source told TMZ.

This isn't Lindsay Lohan's first quotable tattoo: In 2009, she had the Marilyn Monroe quip, "Everyone's a star and deserves the right to twinkle" inked onto her wrist. There's also the Rihanna-inspired "Shhh..." tattoo that she and British singer Lily Allen had etched onto their index fingers after a night of partying in 2009, and the "La Bella Vita" (translation: "The Beautiful Life") on Lindsay Lohan's lower back.

The Amp also has roots on Long Island, so two thumbs up to Lohan for making her body a canvas for Joel's words. However, some of his other lyrics would probably be a better fit. Here are a few suggestions:

• A testament to her reckless behavior: "I'd rather laugh with the sinners than cry with the saints, the sinners are much more fun... only the good die young."

• If she's adamant about ditching her party girl reputation: "You're not the only one who's made mistakes, but they're the only thing that you can truly call your own. Don't forget your second wind."

• To prove that what the tabloid press writes doesn't bother her: "I don't care what you say anymore, this is my life. Go ahead with your own life, leave me alone."

• There's always the Long Island high school yearbook quote route: "They say that these are not the best of times, but they're the only times I've ever known... And so we choose between reality and madness. It's either sadness or euphoria."

• Finally, to describe the current state of her acting career: "Say goodbye to Hollywood, say goodbye, my baby."

May 21, 2011, and Other 'Judgment Days' That Have Come and Gone

No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father."

The Bible couldn't be clearer, right there in the Book of Matthew: chapter 24, verse 36.

But doomsayers have sworn since at least Roman times that they're better sourced than the angels themselves, boldly trotting out predictions down to the day for the Final Judgment/Judgment Day, when, Christians believe, Jesus will descend to earth and set off a chain of events resulting in the end of the world and a new heaven.

May 21, 2011, is the latest attempt to get a jump on Judgment Day, courtesy of Oakland, Calif.-based Family Radio, a nonprofit evangelical Christian group. And, assuming we're all here to follow up, it will make a nice addition on May 22 to this random list of predicted Second Comings we've survived so far.

1. Let's start with Family Radio, whose president, Harold Camping, predicted the End of Days before: Sept. 6, 1994. Camping had been "thrown off a correct calculation because of some verses in Matthew 24," a company spokesman told ABC News this month.

The Christian radio broadcaster is apparently more confident this time around, spending big bucks on 5,000 billboards, posters, fliers and digital bus displays across the country.

2. Edgar Whisenant didn't get it right the first time, either, when he predicted a mid-September 1988 Rapture, even publishing the books "88 Reasons Why the Rapture Will Be in 1988" and "On Borrowed Time." No Apocalypse, no problem. The former NASA engineer simply pushed his predictions off to three subsequent years and wrote books along the way, none of which reportedly sold as well as the first two.

He died in 2001. We're unable to confirm where he's awaiting the big day. (S)

10th The Most Beautiful Places in the World

Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

Our next selection is largely unknown to tourists from the United States, and perhaps that makes it even more precious. The limestone caves of the Plitvice Lakes National Park make the water of its 16 lakes and a handful of waterfalls shimmer brilliant shades of turquoise, silver and green. And to get a better view the lakes' beauty, you'll find a web of wooden plank walkways scattered throughout. But note that there is no true best or worst season to stop by this site in central Croatia. Snow and ice transforms the area into a winter wonderland; in summer the surrounding trees further enhance the hues of the lake water. If at all possible, though, avoid the onslaught of local tourists in July and August.

Taj Mahal, India

Molded out of red sandstone and white marble, and sparkling with the glint of semi-precious stones, this mausoleum of northeastern India needs no justification to appear on our list. Frommer's says, "It's not just the perfect symmetry, the ethereal luminescence, the wonderful proportions, or the sheer scale," that makes us revere the Taj Mahal. It's also "the exquisite detailing covering every inch of marble that justifies it as a wonder of the world." Its amorous background also feeds our admiration: It was commissioned by a 17th century Mughal emperor to honor the memory of his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Consider planning a trip for sometime between October and March to behold Taj's majestic domes, chambers and minarets; that way the weather will be somewhat cooler for walking around. If you have time, stay from the early morning until the late night, as "the radiance of the Taj under the moonlight is beyond any explanation," notes TajMahal.org.uk.

Snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Australia's luscious islands, cays and coral reef system of the Great Barrier Reef are awesome in scope and visuals -- in fact, this reef covers more of the world than any other entry on our list (approximately 135,000 square miles; the only living thing visible from outer space). All who encounter even a small portion of this gorgeous giant are dazzled by its aquamarine waters and honeycomb beaches. Even more beauty awaits you below the water surface: a maze of more than 2,900 spectacular coral reefs and countless marine life. Come to this area just off the coast of Queensland between June and October, so you can avoid the worst of Australia's oppressive heat.

Borobudur in Indonesia

The true origins of this impressive Buddhist monument, located in central Java, are somewhat disputed. According to the UNESCO World Heritage website, the Borobudur temple was founded by a Saliendra dynasty king sometime between 750 and 842 A.D. Still, you don't need a definitive history lesson to fully appreciate its grandeur. Just feast your eyes on its intricately sculpted gray-stone relief panels (slats of stone carved with artwork to depict the life of Buddha) and the perfectly symmetrical stupas (mound-shaped structures containing Buddhist relics). They're even more precious due to their resilience: Borobudur is still gorgeous despite nearby bombings and volcanic eruptions. Try to visit in May; that's when the air is supposedly the cleanest in Java. And plan your trek at sunrise or sunset to witness how the light catches the stupas' perforations.

Grand Canyon, United States

We have to root a little for the home team. And here in the United States, the astonishing depths and incredible sunsets of the Grand Canyon make it a shoe-in on this list. Plus you can enjoy the scenery while you work up a sweat, hiking the rigorous Bright Angel Trail or rafting the Colorado River. As President Theodore Roosevelt famously noted, this park is "one of the great sights which every American, if he can travel at all, must see." Many take Teddy up on his word -- so if you want to explore this northern Arizona park, we suggest you avoid the staggering crowds of the summer. Consider visiting between March and May or September and November, when the weather is pleasant and the lodging rates are reasonable.

The Palace of Versailles, France

The Palace of Versailles might have had humble beginnings, but times have changed. Now, this ain't no simple hunting lodge, but rather an opulent tribute to the former French monarchy. Highlights include the reflective Hall of Mirrors, where world leaders met to sign the 1919 treaty that ended World War I; the manicured French-style gardens, which prominently feature the iconic Bassin d'Apollon (fountain) and the verdant Orangerie garden; and the Petit Trianon, a smaller chateau gifted to the infamous Marie Antoinette by her husband, King Louis XVI. Early summer is idyllic in the Île-de-France region, so plan your sojourn for that season. That's also when you'll find a few music concerts and special events taking place in the Versailles gardens.

Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu's 12 acres of mysterious temples and exquisite terraces are perpetually shrouded in cloud tufts, proving that this ancient site of Peru's Urubamba Valley still lives up to its reputation as the “Lost City of the Incas.” Or at least it seems like it from the pictures. In reality, this ancient city is always overrun with hikers exploring the Inca Trail or catching the view from the Temple of the Sun. So come with plenty of camera film and patience. For fewer crowds -- though not by much -- visit between October and April.

The Great Temple of Ramses II in Egypt

During his 67-year reign, Pharaoh Ramses II left many visual reminders of his greatness. Perhaps the best known are the four larger-than-life statues carved into a mountainside of southern Egypt. Many don't realize there's more to this site -- sometimes called Abu Simbel for the town you'll find it in -- than those seated statues seated on the facade. Pass through them and you'll find more detailed statues and intricate hieroglyphs depicting the Egyptian army's victory over ancient Libya, Syria and Nubia. Next door is the smaller Temple of Nefertari, dedicated to the Pharaoh's favorite wife. If you truly want to be wowed, you should swing by Abu Simbel around Feb. 20 or Oct. 20. Twice a year around those days the sun's rays shine directly into the larger temple to illuminate the artwork and statues within.

Great Wall of China

Fiction: The Great Wall of China can be seen from outer space (with the naked eye). Fact: it is pretty fantastic to view up close and personal. It sweeps through approximately 4,000 miles of northern China, and different sections guarantee different tourist experiences: The jungly sections of Simatai and Jinshanling are good for hiking; the arresting and gorgeous Mutianyu stretch is good for snapping photos; and the crowded Badaling portion is good for convenience (it's only an hour away from exciting Beijing). Plan your trip for anytime (just imagine the contrast of the Great Wall with the white snow of winter, the red leaves of fall and the green grass of spring and summer), but do try to bypass the hordes of tourists that visit on the weekends year-round.

The Northern Lights in the Arctic Circle

This scientific phenomenon occurs when charged solar particles collide in the earth's geomagnetic field and create a colorful, magnificent glow in the sky's upper atmosphere. According to the Huffington Post, "ideal viewing conditions are crisp, cold, clear and cloudless skies with little light." And though it is possible to see the Northern Lights in other parts of the globe, this phenomenon is most prevalent in the world's polar regions; the name Aurora Borealis refers to the lights as seen from northern latitudes (Aurora Australis is the name for the lesser-known Southern Lights of the South Pole). For the best viewing, Fodor's recommends visiting Anchorage, Alaska or Calgary, Alberta. You can also see the Northern Lights in parts of Denmark, Finland, Iceland and Russia, among other countries. (S)

[VIDEO] Barcelona Vs Manchester United 3-1 | Barca Vs MU | Champions League

WEMBLEY, England (AP)—Barcelona and Lionel Messi put their places among football’s all-time greats beyond all doubt as the Argentina forward scored one goal and created another in a mesmerizing 3-1 Champions League final win over Manchester United on Saturday.

Barcelona justified its status as overwhelming favorite by dominating possession with trademark one-touch passing. But with Wayne Rooney having equalized Pedro Rodriguez’s first-half opener, the Spanish champions could not force the crucial breakthrough until the Argentina striker conjured a 54th-minute solo strike from the edge of the area.

Man-of-the-match Messi followed his 53rd goal of a remarkable season with a feint and run that eventually led to David Villa receiving possession on the edge of the area, from where the Spain striker curled a shot into the top corner.

A third Champions League title in six seasons and fourth overall means that only Liverpool, AC Milan and fierce rival Real Madrid have won more European Cups than Barcelona’s four.

“I feel privileged,” Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola said. “You always want to win, but the the way we have won is what I am most proud of. This is the way we want to play football.

“Lionel is the best player I have seen and probably the best I will ever see.”

Messi was typically taciturn in his celebration.

“I’m very happy about the match,” Messi said. “We were the better team. We deserved to win.”

No team has dominated Europe so comprehensively since Madrid’s three titles in five seasons from 1998-2002, and even that spell was punctuated by barren seasons.

Guardiola has now won 10 titles—including two European Cups—in his three years in charge of the club he served as a player for 17 years. Alex Ferguson, the most decorated manager in English football history, has needed 25 years with United to win the same number of Champions League titles.

“They do mesmerize you with their passing and we never really did control Messi,” Ferguson said. “But many people have said that.

“In my time as manager, it’s the best team I’ve faced.”

With Pedro scoring Barcelona’s opening goal midway through the first half from an imaginative through ball from stand-in captain Xavi Hernandez, the win was as comprehensive as its 2-0 victory over United in the 2009 final in Rome.

“When Rome finished, I thought we had played a good game, but when I looked at it again I wasn’t that impressed,” Guardiola said. “But it has served its purpose.

“I think we played much better than the game two years ago.”

The performance was so comfortable that Guardiola was able to bring on regular captain Carles Puyol for the last few moments, giving the injury-hit defender the chance to play a part in a memorable triumph.

But in a gesture symbolizing Barcelona’s team ethic, Puyol handed the armband over to Eric Abidal—whose place in the team had been in doubt after he had surgery this season to remove a liver tumor—and the France defender lifted the famous trophy.

“Players are human beings,” Guardiola said. “Carles has made a great gesture and it has made us stronger.”

United improved upon its 2009 final performance in Rome and did equalize in the 34th through Rooney, but could do little to disrupt Europe’s dominant footballing force.

Xavi orchestrated play from in front of Sergio Busquets, while Andres Iniesta and Messi tormented United with the pinpoint accuracy of their passing.

For half an hour, the match followed the same pattern as the 2009 final. United unsettled Barcelona with constant pressure on the man in possession and dominated the first 10 minutes before the Spanish league champions burst into life.

Barcelona pushed the United players deep into their own half and kept them there, with Xavi, Villa, Iniesta and Messi finding space where none seemed to exist.

Xavi created the first goal, drawing four opponents by dribbling to the edge of the area before releasing a diagonal pass into the path of Pedro, who arrived down the right to hit a firm shot past Van der Sar at his near post.

United responded by returning to its pressing game and it yielded an equalizer within seven minutes. From its own throw, Barcelona gave away possession on the right touchline to spark a five-player move as skillful as any in the match.

Rio Ferdinand, Fabio da Silva and Michael Carrick were all involved before Rooney carried the ball to the edge of the area and, slipping it to Ryan Giggs with the outside of his right boot, continued his run.

The veteran Giggs controlled with one touch and knocked it back to with his second, giving Rooney the perfect set-up to curl a shot past the reach of goalkeeper Victor Valdes and in at the far post.

But after emerging more than a minute late from the dressing room, Barcelona showed its mettle by retaining possession for almost 2 1/2 minutes at the start of the second half.

Messi’s solo effort then sent the Barcelona fans massed at the west end of the 90,000-seat stadium wild, and the volume was just as loud when Messi twisted and turned past substitute Nani near the right corner flag and carried the ball into the area.

The diminutive No. 10 lost control just when he looked likely to supply a killer pass but Busquets did it for him, finding Villa in space. The Spain striker looked up and sent the ball curling past Van der Sar.

The former Netherlands goalkeeper had already made stops from Messi, Xavi and Iniesta in his final match before retirement, but could do little but watch it sail past him.

“They were the better team so we cant really argue,” Ferdinand said. “They’re a great side with great players.”

Lineups:
Barcelona: Victor Valdes, Dani Alves (Carles Puyol, 88), Javier Mascherano, Gerard Pique, Eric Abidal, Xavi Hernandez, Sergio Busquets, Andres Iniesta, Pedro Rodriguez (Ibrahim Afellay, 90), Lionel Messi, David Villa (Seydou Keita, 86).

Manchester United: Edwin van der Sar, Fabio da Silva (Nani, 69), Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic, Patrice Evra, Antonio Valencia, Michael Carrick (Paul Scholes, 77), Ryan Giggs, Park Ji-sung, Wayne Rooney, Javier Hernandez.

VIDEO Barca vs MU with score 3-1 | Final Champions League | Barcelona vs Manchester United