In case you didn't know, HD-DVD lost the high-def format war against Blu-ray a couple months ago. HD-DVD players and movie discs will cease to be made shortly this year. If you were an early adopter and find yourself stuck with soon-to-be-obsolete HD-DVD hardware and media, there may be a way to get back some of the money you spent.

If you purchased an HD-DVD player prior to February 23, 2008, you could be eligible for a rebate from the place where you purchased the player. Both Amazon and Best Buy announced plans to provide customers with $50 of store credit, if they purchased an HD-DVD player directly from them before February 23 (the date that Toshiba announced plans to end the HD-DVD format). Both stores are automatically sending these rebates to their customers (Amazon is sending emails with rebate codes, Best Buy is mailing out gift cards).

I had purchased an Xbox 360 HD-DVD player from Amazon back in September of last year and did not receive an email from them. I called customer support today, supplied them with my order info, and within an hour, a credit for $50 showed up in my account (which I promptly used to buy Blu-ray discs).

If you purchased an HD-DVD player from Amazon before 2/23/08 and haven't received an email concerning your $50 rebate, contact them through their website. It's fast and easy.

If you purchased an HD-DVD player from Best Buy and haven't received your $50 gift card by May 1, 2008, you can call 1-888-BEST-BUY to verify your eligibility. Click here for more info on Best Buy's rebate.

Other stores are running similar rebates. I've heard that you can physically trade in your HD-DVD player at Circuit City for either credit or a Blu-ray player, but could not find any info on their website. Check with the store you bought your HD-DVD player at to see if they're offering any similar type of "early adopter tax" refunds.

We all hate to ask strangers on the street to take our pictures. It's awkward and the photos never end up looking that great -- at least I always get people who can't hold a camera still. Plus, the whole time, you are thinking "dude, you better not drop my camera!" And we all do what you see here -- take the picture on our own, extend our arm as far as we can and squeeze together to get everyone in. Yea right! Not ideal.

I was happy to come across this nifty pocket-sized gadget called the QuikPod. It's a handheld tripod that can go as far as 18 inches out and easily attaches to any camera or camcorder. You're probably questioning its sturdiness, but since you screw the tripod into the socket of the camera, the camera actually feels very stable on the tripod. It's lightweight too and compact (only 7.5 inches when retracted), so it's perfect when you're traveling. To take a picture, just set your camera on self-timer. There's also a handy little mirro on it so you can see youself (it will be right underneath your camera). It is pretty small, but really you may not even need it after you take several pictures and get a feel for the QuikPod's reach.

No more cutting off a friend from the photo (boy do I hate that!) or missing a photo opportunity when I'm alone or with a buddy. You know I love it! Being so short, I can shoot above the crowds at a concert. What a fun gift too for any fellow shutterbug. It's only $17.90 at Amazon. Or you can get the Deluxe Kit at Quikpod.com for only $24.95. QuikPod also just released a version for a Digital SLR cameras for all you hardcore photographers.

See what's new in digital cameras on AOL Shopping!

• Vans - Can be purchased for under 40 dollars and the more worn they are the cooler they become so you wont have to purchase a new pair for a while.

• Graphic and Humor T-Shirts - Target and Hollister are famous for their t-shirts and their low prices.

• Jeans - Skinny Jeans are in for everyone and Levis has made a comeback. Purchase your child a cool pair of Levi jeans for under $50 dollars.

The issue of age-appropriate dressing has long piqued the interest of many men and women of all ages. Some agree, while others take offense. Should a 15 year old and a 35 year old shop in the same department? There has to be a line drawn somewhere, should the juniors department should be off limits to individuals of a certain age? Perhaps the issue of figure-appropriate dressing should also be included in this discussion. Should you flaunt it if you've got it? Or flatter your figure in tasteful, stylish looks? We can all admire and don the same trends, but each in a different way. The skinny jean is still a hot trend and can be worn by women of all ages. But not all women should wear the SAME pair of skinny jeans.

These are perfect for your tween:

While the higher rise on these will flatter Mom. For those looking for a modest fit and a hint of control, this pair is perfect for you too:

This pair is perfect for the 20 and 30-somethings:

We can all follow the trends, look fabulous and age-appropriate!

However, there are certain fashions that continually top the "don't" list because they aren't flattering on any body of any age. Keep this in mind when you are championing the capri pant. Do exposed ankles keep you that much cooler in hot weather? Your legs appear short and stumpy, even if heels are worn. Why not opt for a flowing skirt? Remember ladies, just because it's comfortable and easy, doesn't mean it's flattering and stylish. Otherwise the muu muu would be a best-seller!

Agree? Or disagree, defend the capri pant. Share your comments with us. See fashion tips for men here.

The new Apple TV allows users to rent/download standard and hi-def movies over the Internet and watch them on their widescreen televisions. No need for a computer. All you need is a free evening and a comfortable chair. Turn on the TV, browse through the Apple TV menu to find the movie you want to watch, and download it. You have 30 days to start watching the movie and 24 hours to finish the movie. Standard definition new releases cost $3.99 and older titles cost $2.99. HD versions of each cost a dollar more.

But that's not all the Apple TV offers. You can also watch or listen to podcasts from your TV, watch YouTube videos, browse photos, or synch with your computer to enjoy all of your iTunes content (music, movies, television shows, etc.).

Apple TV basically brings all of the downloadable media content formerly restricted to your computer into your living room.

With the addition of downloadable movie rentals, Apple TV makes services like Blockbuster and Netflix obsolete.

Have an Apple TV? Let us know what you think by posting a comment here or by submitting a user review!

The debate between pleats and no pleats is a hashed-out subject for sure, but I think it's worth a revisit since many men are still wearing them, even despite protest from their lady. Guys, if you fall in this category, just compare the two photos below.

Now, ladies, I know what you're thinking ... need you say more? But for the guys, let's do a run-down on why there really should be no question about pleats ... as if the photos didn't do justice to my case already!

1. They outdate your image and make you look older than you really are.
2. They pooch out and make you look heavier.
(Some men say pleated pants fit better because of the extra room for the thighs, but if you don't need it, bid the pleats goodbye!)
3. They can stunt your height.
4. They are unattractive.
5. They are not female-approved.

Now, take a look at flat-front pants. They lean you out and the clean lines give you a sleek, modern, not to mention sexier image! I've started the shopping for you, so no more excuses and don't use laziness as an excuse here because these are all available to buy online.

If you're on a budget ... Docker Flat Front Pants
If you can only do designer ... Burberry Flat Front Pants
If you hate to iron ... No-Iron Flat Front Pants
If you aren't looking for khaki ... Levi's Action Flat-Front Garbardine Trousers
If you aren't looking for khaki and on a budget ... Michael Kors Flat Front Pants

Click here to browse on your own!

I have a major shoe crush. The Tory Burch Reva flat makes me giddy. I mean seriously. I have been admiring this shoe from afar for the past year. Initially when they burst on the scene I dismissed them --- thinking that they were overpriced shoes for the high society set but I cant seem to shake them. They are like skittles for your feet, they come in delicious colors like Orchard Pink, Banana Yellow and Grass Green, as well as super practical colors like Brown, Black and Navy. The gold TB logo takes them from mundane to uber sleek.

Okay they are a tad on the pricey side ($195) but they are super comfortable and can be worn with anything from wide leg jeans to skinny jeans (sorry but I think that these are going to be around for a while.)

And did I mention they even come in pint sizes for your mini me, at a "mere" $95 daughters and mommies can be equally sassy.

I am seriously considering indulging. Just need to be able to explain who Tory is to my husband. Maybe I can convince him that she is an out of network doctor from our insurance company.