January 2017 Archives
January 31
Why don't people think my bedroom is real?
I live in a 1BR unit in a large corporate apartment complex. The bedroom is distinct and separate, this is not a studio or loft. The bedroom does not have an exterior window--just a glass brick "window" to the interior hallway. When I mention this to people, the inevitable response is something along the lines of "That's not allowed!" or "Isn't that against code?" or "They can't legally call it a bedroom!" What on earth are they talking about? I'm asking because I want to understand and be able to respond, not because I care whether or not it's up to code or "legally" a bedroom.
posted by rhiannonstone at 9:27 PM PST - 21 comments
posted by rhiannonstone at 9:27 PM PST - 21 comments
Feel-good non-fiction about American history.
I'm about to spend a week off and I'm distraught about current events, so I'm looking for a quality read about American history that'll help me relax and refocus. [more inside]
Is it possible to remove grout/cement stains from an old tub?
I'm retiling a tub enclosure. Baring the tub revealed stains on the tub enamel from the old cement/grout. Our tile guy would like to re-tile the tub exposing some of the previously covered up tub enamel. We don't want to re-enamel the tub. Is there any products you suggest we use to try to remove the old grout/cement stains? He suggested we try foaming oven cleaner.
copy/paste comments on Trump's Facebook page?
On Donald Trump's Facebook page,the top comments are repeated several times by different Facebook users. How is that orchestrated? [more inside]
Royalties for song on TV show
A song I co-wrote and performed on was used in an obscure TV show that played on North American cable in 2009-10. Would a license fee or royalties have been paid for use of the song? If so, where would that money have ended up? [more inside]
posted by Gerald Bostock at 6:16 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by Gerald Bostock at 6:16 PM PST - 7 comments
Easy ways to tile print a large image
I want to make a big (4' across) picture with Photoshop or Illustrator, and then easily print it on a series of 8.5x11" sheets of paper, which I can then tape together to make the one big image. Can I do this? How?
posted by xo at 5:47 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by xo at 5:47 PM PST - 9 comments
I apologise for my president in English and French
I want to make buttons that says "I apologise for my president" or something to that effect (along with a US flag, so it's clear which one I'm talking about), one in English and one in French. Do you have a snappier way of saying this? What's the best way to say this in French? [more inside]
posted by Margalo Epps at 5:37 PM PST - 18 comments
posted by Margalo Epps at 5:37 PM PST - 18 comments
Recording noisy neighbour for complaints
My apartment is big and cheap and I've been here forever. However, my next door neighbour has started screaming at the top of her lungs at various points of the day and night. My landlady and I have talked about this and she's been understanding, reassuring me that the neighbour will not be renewing her lease (ends May 31) and my rent won't go up this year. The written report of the neighbour's most recent outbursts have prompted her to ask me to try to record things. How best to do this? [more inside]
posted by juliebug at 4:17 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by juliebug at 4:17 PM PST - 14 comments
Need help with understanding English sometimes, native speaker.
I came across the phrase "...without regard to..." in a sentence used by the IRS. My problem is that reading it I feel uncertain of the meaning of the sentence. Can anyone explain this to me or point me to some books/resources that would help me have a less ambiguous understanding? more below [more inside]
posted by Pembquist at 4:06 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by Pembquist at 4:06 PM PST - 10 comments
Techies and activists: Help me plan a security class
I'm organising a short (about 2 hours) hands-on class about security and privacy for folks involved in civic engagement. What should this include? [more inside]
posted by Bella Donna at 3:58 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by Bella Donna at 3:58 PM PST - 8 comments
A word problem based on yogurt
I am making yogurt in an Instant Pot. The entire cycle is 8 hours for a half-gallon of milk plus starter, which is held at 115F the whole time. Presumably the yogurt will continue culturing but very slowly in the fridge? I don't plan to eat this yogurt for several days. Can I shorten the yogurt cycle by an hour?
posted by blnkfrnk at 2:58 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by blnkfrnk at 2:58 PM PST - 10 comments
Be my tiebreaker: Do I need a car?
I recently moved from DC to Cambridge, MA. I own a car but it is currently at my parents' house in Virginia because I couldn't decide if I needed/wanted it up here. I've been in Cambridge for a month (loving it) and need to decide soon because I'm tired of paying for a car I'm not actually using. Help! [more inside]
posted by schroedingersgirl at 1:35 PM PST - 30 comments
posted by schroedingersgirl at 1:35 PM PST - 30 comments
Could a Trump administration strip a naturalized citizenship?
I saw this question about birthright citizenship. My question is a little bit different. What changes to current law and policy could allow an administration to strip someone of her naturalized citizenship?
Do you have a no-fail cookie frosting recipe?
I want to make frosted decorated cookies as favors for my baby's first birthday. I need a frosting recipe that will dry on the cookies so that I can package them in cellophane favor bags and the frosting won't smear. My dream cookie is a cut-out number one with a smooth frosting in one color and a piped border in another color. I don't have time to experiment (it's not like I knew he'd be turning one next month) so I'm hoping someone here has a no-fail, foolproof go-to recipe.
My little Gandhi's hunger strike.
My soon-to-be one-year-old woke up one morning and went from bottomless pit to refusing anything more than two bites of food. We are stressed out. How to handle this? [more inside]
posted by Everydayville at 12:12 PM PST - 33 comments
posted by Everydayville at 12:12 PM PST - 33 comments
First time RVing - totally awesome or terrible idea?
I've become obsessed with the idea of taking an RV trip around the Grand Canyon/American southwest. I'm pretty good on the itinerary part of the equation (LOTS of previous questions to refer to on that one) but for the life of me I can't find a single ask.me question about what an RV vacation is really like and whether it's a good idea. [more inside]
Why is picture quality poor when old movies are shown in a theater?
Why don't they project Blu-ray or 4K versions of old films in theaters? [more inside]
posted by the matching mole at 11:23 AM PST - 18 comments
posted by the matching mole at 11:23 AM PST - 18 comments
credit where credit is due, photography edition
I've found a photograph dated 1954 that would work nicely for a book I'm writing. On the back is the photographer's name and a notice asking for credit to be given to (the now defunct) United Press Association. It does not specifically claim copyright for UPA, and I have not been able yet to discover when or if the photographer died.
YANML, but any thoughts or advice on its copyright status and if there still is ownership, who has it, would be welcome.
Buying new house from NV Homes
We are considering buying a new house from NV Homes in Northern Virginia. We aren't working through a realtor. We've seen that basically all the big home builders, NV included, have a bunch of terrible reviews online. Are these reviews an accurate reflection of the average quality? What are some contract items (besides price) that we should negotiate over? Strengthening the warranty? Getting them to cover closing costs?
Is there a Snopes for the resistance?
As more and more people get mobilized and look for ways to resist the Trump Administration, it seems inevitable that "bad dudes" will take advantage of the situation. Do you know of something like Snopes to quickly check on whether a site, organization, number, etc., that claims to help the resistance is actually legit? [more inside]
What is this itchy, hard spot inside my nostril?
I have a tiny bump inside my right nostril, on the side where it meets in the middle of the nose. It sometimes appears when the weather is very dry like right now. What is it? [more inside]
What is the process for getting a green card or entry as a refugee?
Conservatives make it sound like anybody can stroll into the US whenever they feel like it. Obviously, that isn't true. [more inside]
Where to buy robust men's flat front wool dress slacks?
Wool slacks that won't disintegrate? [more inside]
Uh, is my license suspended? How would I know?
I recently went on a date with a prosecutor for the District Attorney's office. At some point, talking about our wild youth, I mentioned I racked up a bunch of parking tickets in NY in the 90's, moved to a new state (CA) and changed my name. (Not because of the parking tickets btw)
My date said that if I was pulled over in NY State my driving privileges might be suspended. Even thought I don't have a license here anymore. Is this true or was she just trying to intimidate a tinder date?
Can you recommend a carpenter in Toronto for a secret bookshelf door?
I'm hoping to install two secret doors disguised as bookshelves in my house in Toronto, and this seems more complex than my limited Ikea skills. Can you recommend a carpenter or other professional in Toronto (or surrounding) that might be able to help with such a job?
Snow chains for Vancouver, BC this weekend?
We have a new 2016 Camry (which I think is FWD), and we're driving from Seattle to Vancouver, BC this weekend. Weather Underground is forecasting snow Fri-Mon (0-4 celsius, 33-40 fahrenheit, 1-2 inches/day). Will we need chains? [more inside]
posted by Gorgik at 7:07 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by Gorgik at 7:07 AM PST - 13 comments
How do I ask my partner to be more romantic when initiating sex?
Our relationship is only a couple months old and I'm really excited about it. The problem is, as he's gotten more comfortable and familiar with me, it seems that his comfort zone involves a lot of goofy humor when initiating sex. This is a huge turn off for me. How do I communicate this to him effectively? [more inside]
Which coworkers is it appropriate to invite to a wedding?
We're a small org, 15 or so total employees. I work mostly remotely but work out of the office and grab dinner/drinks with coworkers once a week or so (the office is a couple hours from where I live). There are about 4 other people that work remotely from the opposite coast - I see them 1-2 times a year. Is it appropriate to invite just in-office folks, or do I need to include everyone?
Save the Dates will go out in the next few weeks - Thoughts?
Worried about my passport
I'm traveling to Bangkok in a week and a half, and am worried about the trip given the recent craziness around immigrations and customs. [more inside]
What would it take to change the way NSC appointees are made?
What would it take to change the way the NSC (United States) appointees are made or to formalize the rules and processes that the NSC must following? [more inside]
posted by gt2 at 6:39 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by gt2 at 6:39 AM PST - 7 comments
I disagree with their politics, but I love their work...
We routinely donate to a local dog rescue that does really good work (and is also the source of our dog). Unfortunately, the person who runs the rescue is a vocal and vehement Trump supporter, and I'm having difficulty parsing my feelings on whether or not to continue donating. [more inside]
posted by obfuscation at 6:26 AM PST - 44 comments
posted by obfuscation at 6:26 AM PST - 44 comments
Who is providing the best news coverage about the Trump administration?
If I were going to subscribe to one website (newspaper, magazine, blog etc.) to keep as up to date and informed as possible on the Trump administration, where would it be? [more inside]
What to do with our money in this awful time?
We are American expats living in the UK. We have some money in pounds and dollars. We need to figure out what to do in these crushing times. [more inside]
UnAmerica - help me rightsize the checkered past of this country...
I'm trying to help people who don't have a good understanding of US history understand some of the recent (post 9/11) events within the context of prior events.
In a nutshell: kind of a condensed and updated version of A People's History [more inside]
Hey, you guys -- ow, my nose!
The inside of my nose is dry, tight and painful, due to this never ending cold/flu cycle. I've exhausted neti pots, Vaseline and Boroleum. What else can I do? It's not raw or infected, just painful! Home remedies or secret salves?
posted by chesty_a_arthur at 4:15 AM PST - 24 comments
posted by chesty_a_arthur at 4:15 AM PST - 24 comments
Creating super basic games for 4-yo niece
I want to create small and fun little video games for my 4-yo niece. By simple I mean already made games where I for example can paste her adorable little face as the heroine or maybe change the level background with her birthday photo. Have you done something like this? Any tool suggestions?
posted by Foci for Analysis at 3:51 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by Foci for Analysis at 3:51 AM PST - 5 comments
What to read after Frog and Toad?
What to read after Frog and Toad? [more inside]
January 30
La Banda Borracha
Could you help me come up with some workarounds for this computing/statistics/work problem? Not a human relations question, I promise. [more inside]
posted by pH Indicating Socks at 11:40 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by pH Indicating Socks at 11:40 PM PST - 15 comments
Do we need to get married before things get worse?
Is there a compelling reason in these troubling times for a cis hetero (well, I'm bi, but) couple to get married before things get worse? I think some of my worry stems from having been in a longterm lesbian relationship before this one, and knowing the protections of marriage then couldn't apply to me. I am worried that by the time we think, "Oh, shit, we need to get married," it will somehow be too late. Relevant details inside. [more inside]
American Income Tax Question
My husband and I both declare 0 exemptions on our W-2s every year, and every year we owe thousands of dollars when we file our federal income tax return. [more inside]
Expat plotting a return
I'm a multi-decade US expat planning on a return to the US in 5-ish years (maybe even less). Help me with a few financial/planning questions! [more inside]
Life-changing use of gift card?
I have a macy's gift card worth about $100. I could just use it for clothing, but I'd like to put it towards some item that would enhance my quality of living - an extra amazing hair dryer (upgrade from the cheap one I have now), a particularly fantastic set of sheets, etc. The kind of thing that makes an area of your life more enjoyable or easier to manage. Please give me your recommendations!
How to stop Facebook being so creepy
I did some Google searches on a Chrome browser on my phone like "what to know when getting separated" and "separation checklists". (For a family member, not me personally. Thankfully.) The following day, my husband got a sponsored post in his Facebook timeline from a group of family lawyers - "Are you going through a separation? Free first time appointment" etc. [more inside]
posted by fever-trees at 8:09 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by fever-trees at 8:09 PM PST - 16 comments
Is it too late to get my ACLU donation matched by a random celebrity?
It seems that there was a twitter storm this last weekend with various celebrities, tech stars, and so on, offering to match donations to the ACLU. But it seems that most of them have already been fulfilled. [more inside]
How does an American support Angela Merkel?
While I realize that interfering in foreign elections is verboten, generally, I would like to know what an US citizen can do, stateside, to support the re-election of Angela Merkel as German Chancellor. [more inside]
UTI and fatigue
Could a UTI be causing my extreme and debilitating fatigue? [more inside]
posted by sockasm at 6:13 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by sockasm at 6:13 PM PST - 11 comments
Please help grandpa with his iphone
I want to change email settings on my iphone but I'm far too stupid to understand how. [more inside]
posted by popcassady at 2:44 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by popcassady at 2:44 PM PST - 5 comments
Looking for Rehabilitation Center for Pain Management for Fibromyalgia
I participated in the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago's Center for Pain Management for a short while before moving. The center was great for help with posture, knee and back pain and Fibromyalgia.
I am in the Bethesda area, work in Downton DC and I am trying to find a similar center. [more inside]
Volunteer as Arabic translator at Dulles
My father-in-law is a native Arabic speaker and would be willing to volunteer as a translator at Dulles or another DC area location to help refugees. I'm having trouble finding contact information or a group for him to coordinate with. He could 'just show up' at Dulles, but it's a pretty long drive for him, and I wouldn't want him to do it for nothing. Does anyone here have any contacts or groups for him to get in touch with?
posted by oryelle at 1:18 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by oryelle at 1:18 PM PST - 9 comments
International Finance : What currency for large international debts?
For the sake of this question assume that a powerful US businessman with many US and overseas-based commercial interests has accrued large debts to Russian banks, say a few hundred million or so.
I don't know anything about international financing at that scale. Would that hypothetical debt be held and serviced in US dollars or Rubles (or something else)?
posted by AndrewStephens at 1:14 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by AndrewStephens at 1:14 PM PST - 7 comments
Travel time added to contractor’s invoice
I need to understand whether I should contest a portion of an invoice from an arborist. [more inside]
Lots of water under my house
We bought our house during the drought (California) and even then, every contractor who went underneath remarked on our unfinished crawlspace's wetness. Now we've had record rains and the hardwood floors in our living room just started buckling, apparently (to me) from moisture. Who can solve this? [more inside]
Please give recommendations for a slightly less crappy smartphone
I currently use a LG L34C Optimus Fuel. It's $30 at Wal-Mart, and runs about as well as you would expect based on the price point. It has been discontinued and now I'd like to upgrade--but pay less than $100. I am having difficulty finding a phone that fits that price and meets the following criteria: [more inside]
Looking for an Australian Immigration Agent
I need help finding an Australian Immigration Agent or advice on how to find one. [more inside]
Searching for specific heart rate monitor.
I'm in search of a wearable heart rate monitor, with a very specific range of functions. [more inside]
Occasionally hear screenshot sound while browsing - security issue?
Windows 7 machine running Chrome and Firefox - I will occasionally heard the screenshot "click" sound when browsing, with no related utilities open. An unwanted visitor or something more innocuous? Is there any practical way to check?
How do you store emergency water in a small apartment AND avoid leaks?
For a family of four, it is recommended to have 28 gallons of water on hand in case of emergencies. This is...challenging in a small NYC apartment. And the water I was storing leaked and rotted out the bottom of the cabinet. How do I solve these problems? [more inside]
posted by pipti at 8:44 AM PST - 28 comments
posted by pipti at 8:44 AM PST - 28 comments
questions about silver diamine fluoride treatment
I've been hearing about silver diamine fluoride treatment for stopping tooth decay (apparently relatively new in the US). Can anyone who has had this treatment tell me the pluses and minuses from their experience? I'd also be interested in any information on availability/providers (I'm in the US Pacific Northwest).
How to Work with Experts
How do you teach and work with experts who believe they already know more than you do? [more inside]
Teaching in Mexico
I'm a teacher in Massachusetts, thinking of teaching in Mexico or elsewhere in South America. I speak Spanish and am certified to teach elementary, high school English and all levels special education. Can anyone point me to decent programs for this or conversely, steer me away from scams? [more inside]
posted by yes I said yes I will Yes at 7:37 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by yes I said yes I will Yes at 7:37 AM PST - 8 comments
Volume click keeps waking my Mac speakers while it's sleeping?
Every time I have my iMac in sleep mode, it's perpetually roused by an audio jolt which sounds like a soft "click" ( as if the external speakers have just been turned on or plugged in ) which wakes my external hard drive and keeps it running all night.
Ive turned off the external drive so it wouldn't keep going on and off but I still hear this sound every 15 secs or so. Any ideas?
Thanks.
ISO texts re: history of social/political differences between Canada-US
I'm looking for texts providing historical context and impartial analysis on the differences between US and Canadian politics and social values. [more inside]
How should I cut a cutting board?
I'd like to make neat cuts on ~20mm polycarbonate. Is there an easy way? [more inside]
posted by pompomtom at 5:47 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by pompomtom at 5:47 AM PST - 11 comments
Podcasts to love and fall asleep to
I listen to podcasts at night until I get sleepy, turn em off, fall asleep.
Current favorites: No Such Thing as a Fish, Hound Tall with Moshe Kasher, You're the Expert. Other recommendations? [more inside]
Victoria Teacher: can I keep my name but change it?
So yay I'm getting married!
I want to have my cake and eat it too- I want to change my name legally and still teach under my maiden name. How does this work? [more inside]
posted by freethefeet at 3:49 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by freethefeet at 3:49 AM PST - 13 comments
Advice for one reconsidering a US road trip
A close friend and I have been planning an extensive US road trip, to take place this May, for the past year. It's the trip of a lifetime for both of us and we've been looking forward to it greatly. With the advent of the new administration and the horrorshow that's already started after just one week thereof, I'm reconsidering whether I can morally justify going on the trip. How can I best make this decision. [more inside]
TV Recs like Young Justice, Avatar, Voltron: Legendary Defender?
The two shows that have been really comforting since the election are Young Justice and Voltron: Legendary Defender. Looking for similar shows. [more inside]
Windows: how to display webpage or application when machine goes idle?
We have a terminal at work which is used as an ePOS till. It's really important that that function is easily accessible because when it's needed, it's needed. i.e. we have a customer or queue waiting to be dealt with. [more inside]
January 29
Trapped
I went to go check the plumbing at a friends place and have become trapped here with my son. This is a summer house so not much food. Doubt we'll see anyone else up here. What would you do with... [more inside]
posted by Mr. Yuck at 11:04 PM PST - 40 comments
posted by Mr. Yuck at 11:04 PM PST - 40 comments
Literature for a baby lefty?
Books, television, albums, paintings, anything- I have a child somewhat in my life and I want to expose her to deep political thoughts that will not turn her into a nazi. [more inside]
posted by fomhar at 10:36 PM PST - 18 comments
posted by fomhar at 10:36 PM PST - 18 comments
Remodel contractor bills subcategory high. Problem? Options?
YANML. YANMGC. We're near the end of a major remodel on our house. Our general contractor's bid price includes $10K for Management. In his partial payment invoices, he's had subcategories for Management, and as of the current one, those add up to $12K. How does a conflict-averse homeowner approach this and avoid problems? [more inside]
posted by NumberSix at 10:28 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by NumberSix at 10:28 PM PST - 9 comments
Calling urban planners: Explain Frankfurt to me?
I’ve had the opportunity to visit Frankfurt quite frequently lately, and I’m befuddled by its density or lack thereof. [more inside]
posted by Roy Batty at 7:50 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by Roy Batty at 7:50 PM PST - 11 comments
Songs to Listen To, and Listen To, and Listen To...
I've found it really helps me focus to listen to the same song, on repeat, while working. Help me find more songs to listen to ad infinitum! [more inside]
FM station broadcasts dead air and interference - can anything be done?
I'm currently living in an American city on one of the Great Lakes, and there is, or at least, used to be a low-power FM religious radio station notorious for interfering with a popular rock station from across the lake in Canada. I've heard that the FCC couldn't do much about interference complaints since it doesn't have jurisdiction over Canadian radio stations. Now, for at least a month, the religious station has been broadcasting nothing but silence - "dead air". Can anything be done about this seemingly abandoned transmitter so that we can at least listen to the Canadian rock station?
Hope me: Love after marriage
This was me.
I'd love to hear your stories of love and marriage/long-term partnership after divorce, with some specifiers: How did you know when you were ready? How did you manage issues around trust/vulnerability? Any unexpected feelings/barriers you had to navigate? Were you reluctant to marry again?
Snowflakey details... [more inside]
posted by blackcatcuriouser at 4:39 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by blackcatcuriouser at 4:39 PM PST - 14 comments
Where to find inexpensive non-toxic Yoga Mat for Stretching
Hi Hivemind-
I am starting PT again for issues with my back. I can help myself now by starting my stretching regime. I had a great yoga mat before we moved that I no longer have. We have hard floors and I am looking for a thick yoga mat (lots of cushion).
I have read that there are toxic chemicals in yoga mats (PVC, among others). I am looking for a non-toxic yoga mat that is reasonable it price. I would love any personal experience as well.
Thank you~
Ways I can legitimately promote blog entries regarding divorce in CA?
I am writing decent articles for a lawyer's web site blog regarding all topics surrounding divorce, family law, child custody, parenting during divorce, and all sorts of related topics. I post these articles on his facebook page and boost them, but that has not generated much interaction. How can I legitimately promote (not spam!) these articles? If you know of any places, specific subreddits, or facebook groups where these links would be welcome, please share!
Ties - where can I find great tie online?
I'm looking online for nice ties for work that fit some specific parameters. [more inside]
Chicago immigration lawyer recommendations?
Can you recommend an immigration lawyer in Chicago who could give advice to an American looking to bring her Canadian same-sex partner to the USA? [more inside]
posted by snorkmaiden at 12:32 PM PST - 1 comment
posted by snorkmaiden at 12:32 PM PST - 1 comment
1932 cloud chamber: how are the elements physically introduced?
I am working on a project for which I need to understand how a cloud chamber works. Specifically, I am trying to understand how real physicists working in Berlin in 1932 used a Wilson cloud chamber to measure "the range of protons after collisions with neutrons", right after the discovery of the neutron. [more inside]
posted by tessmartin at 10:10 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by tessmartin at 10:10 AM PST - 9 comments
why is it (seemingly) so difficult to just return-to-sender spam email?
Email tech geeks: Why is it *not* a common practice to let users reject spam email and return-to-sender - instead of just filtering it to one's trash bin? Because it seems 99% of the time I use an email client, 'block spam' isn't really blocking. [more inside]
posted by bitterkitten at 10:01 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by bitterkitten at 10:01 AM PST - 14 comments
Mussels without the... mussels?
I love the sauce that mussels are cooked in, but really don't like the mussels themselves. Recipes/substitutions that also have that buttery, herby, white wine-y juice, for baguette dipping heaven? [more inside]
posted by functionequalsform at 8:54 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by functionequalsform at 8:54 AM PST - 19 comments
How do I qualify my customers without coming across as unlikable?
Every week I field telephone enquiries from new customers to see if they make a good fit for my business but my qualifying process might be a little too efficient at the cost of effectiveness. [more inside]
posted by jacobean at 8:39 AM PST - 20 comments
posted by jacobean at 8:39 AM PST - 20 comments
ACLU vs ACLU Foundation: which is more efficacious?
As I understand it, the ACLU Foundation is what pays for litigation and the ACLU's monies go towards advocacy. My instinct would be to donate to the foundation, but it occurs to me that it may be more effective for my modest donation to go to advocacy and trust that the foundation is sustained by large donations. Does anyone know how to determine the most efficient way to direct small donations in this case? [more inside]
posted by hoyland at 8:03 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by hoyland at 8:03 AM PST - 8 comments
Year End Top 30 lists for XM Pulse & XM Spectrum
I was able to find the year end countdown charts for most of the XM channels I listen to, but I couldn't find them for XM Pulse Top 30 countdown 2015 & 2016 year end. I also seem to be missing the XM Spectrum 2015 Top 20 year end countdown list. [more inside]
posted by inthe80s at 7:25 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by inthe80s at 7:25 AM PST - 3 comments
I'm worried about my brother's drinking
I think my brother has a drinking problem and I need help figuring out if I should talk to him and/or my parents about it, and if so, how. [more inside]
Where to find well-balanced rationals behind Trump policies?
Where can I find non-confrontational sources that discuss the reasons behind Trump's policies, particularly ones that present well-argued, rational arguments in support of the policies? [more inside]
January 28
Is it too late to start a relationship at 30, having never dated?
Hello, I'm a 30-year old guy with a question that's been plaguing my mind recently. I can't help but wonder if it's too late at my age to date or have a relationship if I've never done either before. [more inside]
How to stop a poop smearer at work?
There is an ongoing problem with someone smearing poop on the walls in at least one bathroom at my office. This need to stop, but I disagree with HR's plan, which is to put cameras outside the bathrooms to monitor people's comings and goings. What can I propose instead? [more inside]
Balancing support/help within the relationship.
I'm in a wonderful, co-supportive, loving relationship. (It's a cis-gender heterosexual relationship).
However, due to several factors, I'm feel like I'm always in the position of being supportive / helping / giving, in a few different ways. I'm happy to do so but sometimes I feel like I'm not receiving much in return.
How do I / we feel balanced? [more inside]
Trivia categories for a 40th birthday party?
I'm throwing myself a 40th birthday party, and as part of the schedule of events, I'd like to conduct a pub quiz. I'm not planning to do trivia *about* me, because that would be boring. Instead, I'm trying to come up with some categories of questions that would be connected with my 40-ness. I'd need to be able to come up with about 10 questions for each category. [more inside]
Unstable subletter texting me inflammatory texts
Hi all, my subletter keeps sending me inflammatory texts, and I have no idea how to phrase it so she will stop. I'm not willing to speak to her in person because she makes my adrenaline/cortisol skyrocket; I can't stand her. She has below-average IQ and has untreated BPD. She does not grasp things that most people get. She is also very erratic. How do I word a text that will get my point across in a way that she will understand? [more inside]
The best of southern Florida ?
I'll be spending the next week in Naples, Florida with access to a car and a lot of down time. I plan on driving to Miami and the Everglades. Does anyone have specific recommendations for places to see within an hour drive of Naples, or en route to Miami or the Everglades? Snowflakes inside. [more inside]
You are a cleaning ninja and your solution for soap scum is...
My shower screen has one panel with the most persistent soap-scum in the known universe. Some of it was there when I moved in 5 years ago, but despite regular cleaning, it have continued to get worse. I have already tried the following without success: [more inside]
Help me find some heeled black ankle boots that fit my (10.5M) feet?
I'm looking for an affordable, somewhat androgynous black ankle/chelsea boot with a 1.5-2inch heel that will fit my 10.5M-sized feet. Help? [more inside]
posted by kylej at 5:09 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by kylej at 5:09 PM PST - 12 comments
Fun online puzzle games?
I recently re-started Planetarium (previously discussed) with my 8-year-old. It's a puzzle game in 12 weekly installments - each week, you solve three smaller puzzles, each of which builds towards an overarching puzzle. (Play it if you haven't - it's fantastic!) Can anyone recommend any other online puzzle games with a similar vibe?
If Trump ends NAFTA will I lose my work status?
What should I do to prepare for the renegotiation of NAFTA as a TN-1 holding Canadian living in the US?
Name of War Film
I have very hazy memories of watching a war film (I think) when I was young, in the mid 70's. All I can recal is a scene where people - Possibly enemy soldiers are crucified, or hung off of poles beside a road.
Any one have any idea what the film is?
Like I need this at this point in time.
I was just diagnosed with INVASIVE DUCTAL CARCINOMA, GRADE 1, (strait copy/paste from the report. [more inside]
How to meet new people ... instagram edition
Right now I have maybe 25 friends on instagram - that is, people who are interested in the stuff I post, and I'm interested in the stuff they post. I want to make more friends, so I'm hoping for suggestions on what I can do different, to make my account stand out as interesting or compelling. [more inside]
posted by rebent at 1:39 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by rebent at 1:39 PM PST - 11 comments
Should I sign up for Obamacare given the uncertainty of repeal?
I have been living abroad for over a year and plan on returning to the United States to work in a few months. I'm aware of the not quite ideal timing. I am a US citizen and have been considering applying for health insurance. January 31st is the last date to apply for coverage beginning in March. [more inside]
What are my options for getting a varicocelectomy?
A urologist has recommended a varicocelectomy. He's a specialist who has made a career performing these procedures and as such he does not take insurance. I can't really pay out of pocket. I have insurance and my understanding is that the procedure is covered but my out-of-network coverage is terrible. How do I go about getting this done in network? Can I ask my urologist for a referral/prescription? Will a different provider still have to make an assessment/recommend the procedure before performing it? How does this work?
Desktop and Taskbar Missing. Settings gone. Windows 10.
My parents computer has Windows 10. It used to start with a desktop display and regular old taskbar and start menu just like old versions of windows. I'm pretty sure I had ClassicShell on there for them to at least make the start menu show up. Now it opens onto those stupid tiles. There's no task bar with their pinned programs. There's no desktop with shortcuts to their favourite files or web sites. And there's no way of making those things appear (i.e. windows-key D) doesn't work. [more inside]
posted by If only I had a penguin... at 12:43 PM PST - 17 comments
posted by If only I had a penguin... at 12:43 PM PST - 17 comments
Japanese TV In New York?
I'd like to be able to get Japanese-language television channels (so not the English NHK World, for example, but their NHK Premium Japanese channel) in the US. I live in New York City and was wondering what the options are. The aforementioned NHK, Fuji TV, TBS, etc., any help would be appreciated.
Short American horror fiction by authors who aren't white men?
I'm teaching a unit on American horror fiction to 11th graders, and the curriculum I inherited is made up of 100% white, 100% male authors. I would like to to supplement that with other voices. I'm looking specifically for contemporary short horror fiction by American authors who are not dudes and / or not white. Again, we're talking high school kids, so nothing too graphic / inappropriate, but I am also willing to consider at least rubbing up against the boundaries of propriety. This is not an area in which I am at all well-read, so no suggestion should be considered too "obvious."
posted by dersins at 11:21 AM PST - 28 comments
posted by dersins at 11:21 AM PST - 28 comments
Recent video game set in Tokyo about mafia and a pop star?
Can you help me find this video game set in Tokyo, about mafia and a popo star? I read about it on some top-20-games-of-2016 list recently.
It's... [more inside]
posted by mark7570 at 10:46 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by mark7570 at 10:46 AM PST - 6 comments
Escrow Company Disappeared with Earnest Money
I friend of mine thinks she may have been defrauded on a house she was trying to buy. The "seller's" real estate broker went radio silent. Her agent went to check and it seems they closed up shop. Escrow company seems to be in the wind too and many other people online are complaining of the same behavior. [more inside]
Musty and funky in the Florida sun: guide to washing your naughty bits
Dear females in America, how do you wash your private parts in these conditions? Sincerely, Scandinavia. [more inside]
posted by honeyacid at 10:39 AM PST - 35 comments
posted by honeyacid at 10:39 AM PST - 35 comments
how can I trick myself into having better habits?
For example, I read something about how people trying to eat healthier could modify their homes...fruit in more visible places, dark plates (which for some reason tend to lead to smaller portions), etc, and how the impact of this stuff is often much more than the conscious intention to make better choices. I love this idea, and not just for food things. What structures (physical or in terms of habits) have you set up in your life that help you make the decisions you want to make? Especially less obvious things like the dark plates.
Networking/Building Professional Relationships 101?
Putting myself out there in social settings is HARD, but doing it in the context of a professional setting is even harder. [more inside]
Help me curb online spending
I need some strategies. As soon as I think of something I "need," there I am online buying it. What would you do (or do you do) to temper this impulse? [more inside]
posted by Clotilde at 8:37 AM PST - 25 comments
posted by Clotilde at 8:37 AM PST - 25 comments
How were German minds changed after the Nazis were driven from power?
What was done to change the minds of German supporters of the Nazis after World War II? If Hitler rose to power with democratic support, it seems inconceivable that just losing the war would turn Germany into the open, tolerant society it has been for the last 70 years. So why did so many Germans seemingly abandon Nazi ideas to embrace multiculturalism and respect for minorities (obviously I'm generalising)?
What articles or books can I read to better understand the change in the German psyche after the war?
Should I take a new role, after committing to staying at my current?
For 1.5 years, I've been in an unpleasant situation with my boss, which has recently been acknowledged by senior leadership, who asked me to be patient and stay for a few months. Out of the blue, a great new opportunity came up, and I have to decide whether to stay or go. [more inside]
DIY difficulty level for home renovations
My family is looking at purchasing a home, and we're trying to scope out what kinds of projects are within our skill set vs. what would need a professional. What home renovations are feasible for someone that isn't afraid of power tools but is not very experienced? [more inside]
Make me the princess half marathon runner of my dreams
I'm dreaming about running the Disney Princess Half Marathon in February 2018. Help me to worry less about winter training, traveling to a marathon, and being a first time half marathon runner in general! [more inside]
When can I expect to hear back from the IRS for a CP2000 letter?
I forgot 1099-DIV information on my 2015 tax return and received a CP2000 letter from the IRS. When can I expect to hear back from them? [more inside]
Where to find a new wire that connects speakers/subwoofer/volume control
I have a home sound system setup that I don't reallly want to replace entirely, but the wire seems messed up. What should I look/google for to find a new one? [more inside]
January 27
No Name Kitten is no name for a kitten.
Cuddly puff ball needs a name. Help! [more inside]
posted by exoticlikeomaha at 8:27 PM PST - 70 comments
posted by exoticlikeomaha at 8:27 PM PST - 70 comments
Trying to find a tire traction device for a Crosstrek
I'm planning a journey in California, in an area where chain controls might be in place due to snow. So I need to purchase some kind of traction device, but I have never purchased (or needed) tire chains before, and I'm having trouble understanding what to look for. [more inside]
posted by gin and biscuits at 6:56 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by gin and biscuits at 6:56 PM PST - 12 comments
Showing up to an interview for a job I do not feel qualified for?
Got a surprise interview. References and experience are extremely lacking. Should I go to it? [more inside]
Which anime do I only vaguely remember?
I remember only a sliver. If I recall correctly, a ship traveled the galaxy kidnapping life forms and transforming them into spart parts for the ship. Is this enough information to identify it?
What could be wrong with my cat?
I have an appointment with the vet for first thing in the morning, but I just want to get a sense of what possible things might be wrong with my cat, Sweetpea. [more inside]
Artist friend wants to know how to find an agent
I have a friend who is a laser show artist. He's won multiple international laser show awards, and he does really good work. He wants to take his art to the next level, start doing big projects and getting paid real money for his work. He'd like to find an agent. I joked with him and suggested he contact CAA, and that led him to ask me to ask the hive mind: What are strategies and tips he could use to find an agent for his art to help him forward his artistic career?
posted by hippybear at 5:31 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by hippybear at 5:31 PM PST - 7 comments
Extremely valuable face-time with one's elected officials!
Asking for a friend: say YOU were hosting a televised round-table event *this weekend* featuring PA Senators Bob Casey and Cory Booker, what issues would you want to discuss with them? [more inside]
Health insurance as a US resident doing lots of international travel?
I am a US resident planning some extensive international travel ; let's say 6-8 months of the year in Europe and/or Asia. What kind of health insurance should I be looking for, and what are the kinds of questions I should be asking of my potential policy? [more inside]
Let's go all the way why not CT edition
Had my first CT scan today... wondering why I can't just get a full body... does it increase the 'cost' that much? [more inside]
How much of a down payment should I save before speaking with a bank?
I am generally stressed out around banks and people trying to sell me things, and I have always rented. But, my partner and I are now at a point where it seems to make sense to purchase a home (higher incomes, more stable jobs, living in a city where we think we will stay put, etc.) I am wondering what's a "reasonable" down payment to save for before we go and talk to someone at a bank. [more inside]
Do I reach out or not?
I had an argument with an extremely close friend. I want to know if I should reach out, or if this is over and I should let it go. [more inside]
Is it reasonable for me to be frustrated with my psychiatrist?
I take stimulant medication for ADD. My psychiatrist will only prescribe Vyvanse. It is expensive and my insurance company will not cover it. Is it reasonable for me to be frustrated here? [more inside]
Teach me how to shave my face?
I need to understand how to shave my fave. Bonus difficulty: I'm female. [more inside]
Considering a move to Philadelphia from small town on the Left Coast
The job will be located in the 19147 zip code. I'm originally from South Jersey and previously worked in Philly, but it's been nearly 20 years since I lived in the area. Lots of questions abound. [more inside]
Suggestions on books for single mother (father is absent) with twins?
My adult daughter's friend has no mother (she died) and her father's wife does not want her raising twin babies in their house. The father of the twins wants nothing to do with them and I've been sort of her benefactor, but is there some sort of book that will help her? Specifically with twins. [more inside]
Cheongsam inspired fashion
I would like to wear more cheongsam inspired modern tops and embrace that part of my heritage. Where can I source them in Germany?
Will my book club turn into a job interview?
I've applied for a job I really want in a policy field that is not related to my current job. Now I've been invited by a casual friend to a book-club type event in which we will be discussing this policy field! Normally this would just be an extra fun discussion for me, but my friend also invited the executive director of the organization where I've applied. How do I behave? [more inside]
posted by alligatorpear at 12:35 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by alligatorpear at 12:35 PM PST - 7 comments
Political poster slogans please
I'm going to a protest tomorrow where the organizers want us to piggyback off of Greenpeace's usage of following Marco Rubio around with a spine. Any spinal-related or back-bone related puns/slogans welcome.
posted by roomthreeseventeen at 11:40 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by roomthreeseventeen at 11:40 AM PST - 5 comments
Stressed out, overworked parents need a place to stay in Puerto Rico
Mid-March my husband and I are going on our first real vacation - no kids, no sleeping on friends/relatives pullout couches, no driving 12 hours, no camping in a hay field watching music for days...We need some R&R that involves warm pools, nice beaches, and a cozy place to read a good book. [more inside]
posted by a22lamia at 11:32 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by a22lamia at 11:32 AM PST - 9 comments
Need help optimizing my internet router(s) to favor VOIP devices
My main question is how to configure my TP link router(s?) to favor the VOIP devices when I am on a call. I am having major issues on most calls.
Does anyone here have experience with TP routers? Instead of QoS they have what's called "bandwidth control," where you input IP addresses and assign min/max ingress and egress values. I'm obviously not too sure how to get the most of this feature. Thanks for the help again Metafilter! [more inside]
Did you see a photo from the Women's March of an America-shaped mirror?
I'm looking for a photo of the Women's March last week that I saw, probably on Twitter. It was a marcher who had made a sign that was a mirror shaped like the United States, and he was walking backward to reflect the crowd. (Clever, no?) Have you seen it, and can you point me toward it?
posted by hwickline at 10:25 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by hwickline at 10:25 AM PST - 2 comments
I need a car!
Our beloved 2002 Jetta died on the road yesterday, and we need a replacement. And of course, since I'm a snowflake, details inside. [more inside]
What companies make good quality stuff without exploiting people?
I love my Darn Tough socks, what else is out there that is made by happy workers and is of excellent quality? (not just clothes) [more inside]
Data Entry is The Worst. Help?
I manage a not-for-profit mobile outreach program that sees a large number of people in a short period of time (about 150+ in a 3 hour time period) twice per week. Currently, our stats are paper-based, followed by data entry into a Google Docs spreadsheet. This is time consuming and doesn't always lead to the most accurate end results. We want to improve this process but we're not sure how best to do it. [more inside]
posted by VioletU at 8:38 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by VioletU at 8:38 AM PST - 19 comments
Long distance second opinions
I was diagnosed with an incurable cancer, in September. I like my oncologist, but I want to get second opinions on treatment. However, the doctors I want to talk to are far away, and I cannot switch my overall care to them. Any tips for managing this? [more inside]
posted by FencingGal at 8:35 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by FencingGal at 8:35 AM PST - 8 comments
Help me find this amazing street food I had in Shanghai!
It was rolled out dough, fried on a flat-top with a cracked egg, shredded potato, cabbage and some pickled peppers. [more inside]
posted by AutoPilot83 at 8:33 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by AutoPilot83 at 8:33 AM PST - 2 comments
Diary app for boring details of daily life
Looking for a diary app to record life's mundane details, like when someone came to fix my house. [more inside]
Pros and Cons of Ductless Mini-Splits VS Direct Vent Gas Wall Heaters?
Due to a crack in my steam boiler, I now urgently have to revamp the heating system in my new-to-me 19th-century rowhouse. I have been researching for the past couple months in order to optimize the heating in my house. I am not interested in salvaging the steam heating system. I have basically narrowed down my options to: [more inside]
posted by ClaireBear at 7:50 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by ClaireBear at 7:50 AM PST - 7 comments
Need help comparing/contrasting high end CPUs
Building a high end desktop, starting with CPUs in the $1000 range. Here's three that several tech websites rate highly and thoroughly review, albeit in a language of (to me) inscrutable abbreviations, acronyms, and statistics. [more inside]
posted by BadgerDoctor at 7:46 AM PST - 27 comments
posted by BadgerDoctor at 7:46 AM PST - 27 comments
I know I'm dependent...should we make it IRS official?
I live with friends because my health persists in being absolutely fascinating. They provide approximately 99.8% of my support. (I buy fruit once in a blue moon.) My income for 2016 was under $500, from direct sales, and I expect to have no state or federal tax liability. I know I don't have to file a return. Can my friend claim me as a dependent? Should he? Would it cause problems for either of us in the future? (YANACPA, etc.)
It's not a midlife crisis if I learn valuable skills
I do not know how to drive with a stick shift, nor do I know how cars work. Nonetheless, I would like to get an older manual sporty car (e.g. MG B) to toodle about in and wrench. Hope me. [more inside]
Tell me your cheesecake secrets
How do you get the perfect cheesecake base? Mine are distinctly lacking! [more inside]
Costume ideas featuring Roller Shoes (or at least including them)
I will be attending something like a costume party, though it will have long, flat concourses which would be great for gliding. I'd like to take advantage of my roller shoes under these conditions. What should I wear? [more inside]
January 26
San Francisco Recommendations: comics, fashion, food, and more
My Girlfriend is visiting San Francisco next week and has some questions that could do with some local knowledge about social enterprises, ethical fashion, comics and eating. [more inside]
posted by MT at 11:43 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by MT at 11:43 PM PST - 13 comments
Got an idea for a webcomic. Where do I publish it?
I have an idea for a web comic, but I'm not a regular reader of them (apart from the odd XKCD, SMBC etc that gets shared with me). Which platform should I publish it on? I've got a Wordpress.com site already, would that work? Is there a particular template people use? Or a webcomic-specific platform? Medium? Blogger? Any free-but-not-terrible-looking options? And do I need my own URL? [more inside]
posted by dontjumplarry at 11:14 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by dontjumplarry at 11:14 PM PST - 12 comments
Advice for procrastination/anxiety issues
I've struggled with avoidance and procrastination connected to anxiety/insecurity throughout most of my time in high school and college. I'm often aware of when the cycle is happening and I try to mentally talk myself out of it, but I almost never succeed in a meaningful way--even if the task does get done at the last minute. What are some strategies I could try that would help me with this issue?
Snowflakes inside. [more inside]
posted by Lurch at 9:33 PM PST - 21 comments
posted by Lurch at 9:33 PM PST - 21 comments
Help me surprise my honey with a (funny) first look!
My fiancé and I are getting married on April 1st of this year. During the traditional "first look" (the first time that he'll see me in my wedding dress), I'd like to surprise him in some way. [more inside]
posted by WaspEnterprises at 8:24 PM PST - 24 comments
posted by WaspEnterprises at 8:24 PM PST - 24 comments
What happened to strikes and civil disobedience?
The default paradigm for political activism in the US today, especially on the left, is centered on protests, petitions, and contacting elected officials. But thinking about left-wing activism in the past, other tactics come to mind, such as strikes and various forms of civil disobedience. These seem to have largely fallen out of favor. Is this impression true and if so, what accounts for this? [more inside]
Those qualified should seek public service: Chinese version
The recent question Plato on the virtuous citizen, received a quote from J Livengood,
posted by gregoreo at 4:56 PM PST - 1 comment
he who refuses to rule is liable to be ruled by one who is worse than himself.I vaguely recall similar sage urging to civic responsibility in a Chinese context, to the effect, a good man should not hide but rather should involve himself in public service. Confucious? Outlaws of the Marsh? 请 帮 忙 。
posted by gregoreo at 4:56 PM PST - 1 comment
New glasses wearer with questions about second prescription
I started wearing glasses a year ago. I just got an updated prescription, and the glasses filled from them, and the change isn't going as smoothly as expected. I have questions if this is a transition thing, or a problem with the glasses, or what. [more inside]
How do you handle discussing relationship concerns compassionately?
I already messed up. My boyfriend at the time confided in me that he had a porn addiction. When I initiated a conversation later to express my concerns, I really screwed it up. The relationship lasted about 4 more months but is now over and we are not getting back together. I'm not looking for advice regarding porn addiction specifically, but more how to handle expressing concerns about relationship issues in a compassionate, sympathetic way. I think I'm processing the breakup ok except that I still feel terrible about this incident. Possibly irrelevant snowflake details below. [more inside]
I'd like to find some truly useful Spanish lessons in my part of NYC!
I want to take serious steps to improve my Spanish, slow and steady, over the coming year. For me, I think this will look like a late-night weekly lesson on the upper east side. Can you help me find such a thing (or suggest a better option)? [more inside]
How to stop people interfering at tennis
Although I'm not very good at it, I like to play social tennis. My aim is just to keep fit and have fun. Last time I played with a club I dropped out because people kept interfering- telling me how to play, what I could do better etc. This is a dealbreaker for me - I just want peace to play at my very low level. If I never improve that's ok. (Basically I know the theory already, just need some practice) How do I stop people from interfering?
posted by EatMyHat at 2:38 PM PST - 23 comments
posted by EatMyHat at 2:38 PM PST - 23 comments
Where is this image from?
I love this image of the stars in the northern and southern hemispheres. Apparently it's French and from a 1922 antique book. That's all I know. I'm guessing it's available somewhere on many of the free image repositories on the Internet, but I have been unable to find it. [more inside]
Tell me about New England
Rather unexpectedly, I've been confronted with the possibility of moving to New England. I'm not entirely thrilled about this, but I guess I need some more information to properly make a decision. The thing is, we don't really know where to go, so suggest some places for me. Backstory and criteria inside. [more inside]
posted by kevinbelt at 2:09 PM PST - 36 comments
posted by kevinbelt at 2:09 PM PST - 36 comments
Am I being defrauded by my insurance company?
Got some strange emails from my insurance agent alleging I filed a claim for theft. I filed no such claim. [more inside]
posted by Cwell at 2:06 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by Cwell at 2:06 PM PST - 5 comments
New suit, tailored, fast, in SF
I want a great, fashionable suit for an LA premiere and afterparty in four weeks (non-black-tie).
What business will take my money and make me look great in this time frame? [more inside]
posted by zippy at 2:05 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by zippy at 2:05 PM PST - 10 comments
Help me find an organization interested in boring land conservation
For a number of reasons, I need to find the most environmentally-protecting way to interpret laws and norms around the protection of a specific vulnerable (but not high profile) area. Help me find local law-savvy environmentalists! [more inside]
posted by corb at 1:11 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by corb at 1:11 PM PST - 10 comments
Help with an old poem
There is a poem about a Spanish gentleman that contains the line,
It always makes the devil laugh to see the biter bit.
Can anyone identify it?
posted by Kahomono at 12:48 PM PST - 1 comment
posted by Kahomono at 12:48 PM PST - 1 comment
Do I need a tile person to install wall bathroom tile?
I'm replacing the tile around a bathtub (tile going from the tub to the ceiling on three sides). It has to be 'floated' on concrete to make it come out to the edge of the tub. Do I need a specialized tile person to install it, or can a handyman install the tile? If it matters it is demoing 4x4 and installing 12x24 wall tile, they will have to work around an existing faucet and showerhead.
Main dishes for small gatherings (6 - 8 people)
Having become parents just over a year ago, we have turned into hermits. I want to start inviting friends and acquaintances that I want to turn into friends over for dinner once a month or so. What are some dishes that we could put together that would work well for a small group of adults? [more inside]
visual representation of subsets that comprise the entire set
How would you visually represent (say, with a venn diagram) two subsets of something that 1) comprise the entire set, but also 2) may have some overlap between the two subsets? [more inside]
posted by SpacemanStix at 11:46 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by SpacemanStix at 11:46 AM PST - 8 comments
I'm gonna move that rock
I am doing my backyard in rocks. One of them is a monster! [more inside]
I got the Jimmy Legs
Is fidgeting detrimental to meditation practice? [more inside]
posted by Dressed to Kill at 11:13 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by Dressed to Kill at 11:13 AM PST - 14 comments
I bought a domain. Now I'm getting scam phone calls. How do I stop them?
I signed up for a domain name and Web hosting for the first time ever. I haven't set up the Web site yet, but my name, e-mail and phone number must have been added to some database that scammers scrape. Almost every day I get a new robocall from a new number based in a different state. Also shortly after signing up I got some e-mails from strangers offering help with setting up my new Web site. I don't care about the e-mails, but how can I stop the robocalls? [more inside]
How to give food to neighbours who could use it but haven't asked for it
I have neighbours who could use help that I could easily give them, but we don't know each other and they haven't asked for it. How should I go about doing this? Should I? [more inside]
Generic image ideas for postcards I plan to send to elected officials
I want to print up a BIG batch of blank postcards to fill out and send to elected officials over the next year (and beyond, of course). Any ideas for a cover image/text that would apply in all sorts of scenarios? [more inside]
posted by knownassociate at 10:07 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by knownassociate at 10:07 AM PST - 12 comments
What is the name for this house style?
What is the name for this style of house? This is the predominant style of new single-family residential construction in my area, but I don't know what to call this type of house. [more inside]
posted by aabbbiee at 8:56 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by aabbbiee at 8:56 AM PST - 15 comments
Is the internet wrong about dryer outlets?
Our (new to us) dryer has no heat. The (newly installed) 4-prong dryer outlet in our rental is measuring ~0VAC across the two hot lines, but 120V between each of the hots and the ground/neutral. The contractor/electrician has insisted this is normal, but everything I'm seeing online says the voltage between the 2 hot lines should measure 240VAC. Background and what-now questions follow. [more inside]
posted by enigmango at 7:57 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by enigmango at 7:57 AM PST - 14 comments
Give me your lady knights saving princess magi from dragons!
Looking for books in the fantasy genre with queer characters! [more inside]
Email address on my own domain - good idea or not?
I've had a Yahoo email address for umpteen years and am thinking of changing given how down-the-tubes Yahoo is going. I do have a Gmail address, but the Yahoo is monoblanco@ whereas the Gmail is a hard-to-remember monoblanco304567@ because some other monoblanco got there first.
I also own the domain monoblanco.com so I could be monoblanco@monoblanco.com. That'd be neat! But what about spam filters and is Gmail so much superior that I should just suck it up and accept that I can't be plain-vanilla monoblanco any more?
posted by mono blanco at 7:25 AM PST - 24 comments
posted by mono blanco at 7:25 AM PST - 24 comments
January 25
Quick skill acquisition
I am 60 years old, a retired teacher, working at a pretty good job as an assistant in a program for emotionally disturbed 8th graders.
But I would like to get a quick certification in something, maybe in a medical or IT area, that would get me another, better paying job. I could study in the summer, weekends or evenings.
Any ideas? Thanks!
Emergency gifting help!
I need to send a gift to a friend who's experiencing a hard time with a flare-up of chronic illness and anxiety about health coverage. They love cats, crafts, and caramel. What can I order on Amazon (for example) that they dwould love? My price range is around $15-40. [more inside]
Want. Earrings.
I have a big soft spot for The Blacklist, though it has been especially weakly plotted lately. I was recently mesmerized by an episode titled "The Harem," because I fell for the earrings worn by "Emma Knightly," played by Anastasia Griffith, in a scene in the front seat of a car when Emma reveals she really works for Raymond Reddington. [more inside]
posted by bearwife at 8:25 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by bearwife at 8:25 PM PST - 9 comments
the laws and risks of sharing immigration documents
Just how punishable and risky is it to post photographs of US naturalization certificates? Does it matter if the people are deceased? [more inside]
Can you identify this jacket from 'Sneaky Pete'?
Love this jacket Giovanni Ribisi is wearing (in "Sneaky Pete"). I can't tell what the material is - it looks textured like hide but that doesn't seem right, nor suede. And I'm pretty sure that's not a Levi's tag on it. Can you ID the material, or even the maker?
Do l have a malpractice complaint? Or do I just silently accept this?
My mother is dying of brain cancer. Back in September, after a series of tests for long standing back problems, xRays revealed lung lesions which of course were biopsied twice. Both biopsies were negative and the second tests said the lesions were smaller. So happy Thanksgiving and Christmas. [more inside]
posted by BarcelonaRed at 6:52 PM PST - 17 comments
posted by BarcelonaRed at 6:52 PM PST - 17 comments
History of Affordable Housing in US States
The state of New Jersey is dealing with an ongoing battle to determine its affordable housing obligations- who has to act, when, and how. I would like to read more about how the federal government and/or other US states require (if they do), create and maintain affordable housing. Peer-reviewed academic sources and books preferred.
posted by ThePinkSuperhero at 5:59 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by ThePinkSuperhero at 5:59 PM PST - 4 comments
alternate histories pls
pls help me find more great fiction books on alternate earth history [more inside]
posted by poffin boffin at 5:21 PM PST - 25 comments
posted by poffin boffin at 5:21 PM PST - 25 comments
Reverse Mortgage question(s)
My son and his family live next door to an older woman, and over the years they have become quite close. He mows her yard, repairs things for her, and has taken her to the emergency room more than once, often taking her meals and having her over for dinner when she was able to walk over. She is now in a nursing home after injuring herself repeatedly from falls, and no one is quite sure if she will be returning home. The real question follows on how to deal with a reverse mortgage in a beneficiary situation. [more inside]
Not porn in the woods
Is monthly therapy worth doing?
If you can only afford one therapy session a month, is it worth bothering? It seems too long in between sessions. Has anyone had success with a similar schedule?
posted by KateViolet at 3:00 PM PST - 17 comments
posted by KateViolet at 3:00 PM PST - 17 comments
What can we not miss in the Azores?
Mrs J0 and I will be on Sao Miguel in the Azores for 6 days in late March. We are staying at Hotel Azor. What *must* we do? [more inside]
posted by J0 at 2:23 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by J0 at 2:23 PM PST - 6 comments
Silent alarm
I currently have a Xiaomi Miband, but it kind of sucks. The alarm function is inconsistent and the vibration is not strong enough to wake me up. I also hate that I have to pair it every night. I'm reluctant to spend money on a smartwatch but I really need something better. My mornings at the gym are suffering and that's my sanity. What are my options under $200? I don't give a hoot about fancy bells and whistles. I just want something to wake me up. If I *do* need to spend money, then my first priority is good sleep tracking. Any recommendations?
posted by onecircleaday at 2:14 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by onecircleaday at 2:14 PM PST - 15 comments
Is it safe to take hydrocodone/acetimophen and ibuprofen?
Had an inguinal hernia surgery this morning. The doctor prescribed hydrocodone/acetimophen combo as well as ibuprofen 600mg. Well long story short ibuprofen sucks so bad for me that I usually just don't even bother taking it for muscle strains let alone surgery. My dad meaning well just gave me one though. My first dose of the hydrocodone is about 5 hours in and fading. My balls hurt and quite frankly i wish I had a time machine and never had the surgery. Is it safe to take both? [more inside]
Lot of mixed signals from a girl. What is the meaning of it?
I met this girl in my philosophy class and I like her ways but don’t know how she feels about me. So far the mixed signals have been getting as tight as it gets: 50% positive, 50% ignoring me. Is she just being polite (then I will stop approaching her) or is she interested but shy/playing hard to get/busy (then I will chase)? [more inside]
posted by iliketothinknu at 12:56 PM PST - 42 comments
posted by iliketothinknu at 12:56 PM PST - 42 comments
How to address cracked foundation walls? (And does carbon fiber work?)
There are a lot of companies that sell or install carbon fiber straps to repair or reinforce failing foundation walls. Those companies say this new way of reinforcing walls is basically the best thing since sliced bread (a few examples: 1, 2, 3). On the other hand, googling around, there's a persistent minority counter-opinion that these are ineffective, and little better than snake oil (examples: 1, 2). I'm curious what you think. [more inside]
posted by orthicon halo at 12:42 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by orthicon halo at 12:42 PM PST - 9 comments
Resources to explain why we are protesting this administration
A friend of mine has asked on Facebook what the marches on Saturday were all about. He states that he agrees with what most of the protest signs said, but he doesn't understand the point of "standing around with a sign." Are there any simple articles that explain what protests have accomplished through history or specifically what "the point" of the Women's March was? [more inside]
Vision care, 2017 edition
Bespectacled MeFites, what are your recommendations for vision care in 2017? We are an average family of 3 in the U.S., which is to say we have two adults with moderate age-related vision changes, a kid with moderate vision issues, and no vision insurance coverage. More specific questions below but all suggestions/tips are welcome. [more inside]
posted by rada at 11:15 AM PST - 17 comments
posted by rada at 11:15 AM PST - 17 comments
A guide to the guides to Paris
Heading to Paris in mid-March and super excited! Of course, there's so much information out there, so please tell me: What are your favorite guides to Paris? Websites, articles, lists, books, apps; restaurants, bars, museums, shopping, etiquette—any medium, any topic. [more inside]
Reading iPad apps for a 5 year old boy
I would like my 5 year old son to start learning to read. Overwhelmed by the number of options. Gamification seems like a perfect approach, so any suggestions for iPad apps?
posted by aeighty at 11:09 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by aeighty at 11:09 AM PST - 8 comments
Short books about making conversation
When I was younger, I read a couple of books about making conversation. I learned about common conversational patterns like, "Say something related to what the other person said, then ask a question." They were helpful. Now my nephew is going through the same stage in life - the other day, he said, "People expect you to think of things to say so fast" - and I can't remember what those books were. Does the hive mind have any recommendations? Short and basic is best. Conversational topics, techniques and transitions are all good.
Resisting Trump without Representation
I live in Washington DC so I don't have voting representation in Congress. Most of the non-donation suggestions I've seen for resisting the Trump administration focus on contacting the representatives that I don't have. What other actions can I take? [more inside]
posted by Mrs. Pterodactyl at 9:45 AM PST - 17 comments
posted by Mrs. Pterodactyl at 9:45 AM PST - 17 comments
Closet Cat
Will my cat be able to figure out how to get into the closet to his favorite napping spot if I replace the closet door with a curtain or is this a terrible idea? [more inside]
posted by ilovewinter at 9:10 AM PST - 26 comments
posted by ilovewinter at 9:10 AM PST - 26 comments
Which (UK) union should I join?
As a semi-technical programme/product manager (I manage the database) at a large UK charity, which trade union should I join to best represent my interests?
Why do these boxes keep popping up on my Windows screen?
Driving me crazy! This and this keep popping up on my screen when I do anything! New Thinkpad. Windows 8.1Pro.
posted by DMelanogaster at 8:16 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by DMelanogaster at 8:16 AM PST - 15 comments
How to pick a primary care physician when there's lots of options?
Time to find a new primary care physician. I have good insurance, but that means I have a lot of options. How do I choose? [more inside]
Most Convenient Hotel to Heathrow, Terninal 2?
I have an upcoming 9am Lufthansa flight out of Heathrow. What is the easiest, most convenient, walkable(?) hotel to stay at the night before? [more inside]
posted by sandra_s at 7:06 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by sandra_s at 7:06 AM PST - 2 comments
Climate Justice In the Age of Trump
How can I help defend scientists and promote climate justice under Drumpf? [more inside]
posted by thedarksideofprocyon at 6:47 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by thedarksideofprocyon at 6:47 AM PST - 10 comments
How Can I Offset My Contribution To Specific Federal Expenditures?
How can a person accurately calculate the amount of money they personally contributed via taxes to some specific US Federal expenditure ? [more inside]
A couple of great dates but this guy's behaviour seems off.
Matched with the same guy on both OkCupid and tinder and had a couple of great dates: lots to talk about, much in common. At the end of 2nd he gave me a peck on the lips and said we should do this again. I just smiled and agreed. He hasn't got in touch since. I initiated 2nd date. Do I write casually to ask how he is doing, or just leave it? [more inside]
posted by muppets at 6:09 AM PST - 29 comments
posted by muppets at 6:09 AM PST - 29 comments
Online multiuser forum platform for a 9yo?
My 9-yo son wants a forum-like site where he and his friends can post text and images and videos. I'm a web developer, so I could build it from scratch, but I don't really feel like putting in the hours.
I'm looking for recommendations for a) easy to set up b) easy to use (by 9 year olds) c) secure and stable d) modern, forum-like platforms. [more inside]
Can you read this handwritten name?
I'm afraid friendships will end once friends find partners
I'm turning to the hivemind for advice about dealing with the disconnect between the friendship that seems available to me - going to Meetup events and chatting with whoever turns up that afternoon/ evening - and the one I want, where people get to know each other more and invest something in the friendship. At the moment I've had some social life which is showing me that I want more than the online friendships I previously had. But at the same time it seems other people have friendships as something to pass the time in between partners, or that as soon as they are partnered up, the need for the previous friendship disappears. I am a middle-aged man so am not expecting besties or BFF's but what do other people who are "single and staying that way" do in the face of losing friends as they find partners? If anyone has found ways to pass the time at home alone which keep the loneliness dragon at bay that might be a way to minimise the issue too from another angle. [more inside]
posted by AuroraSky at 12:54 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by AuroraSky at 12:54 AM PST - 13 comments
January 24
Detailfilter: early 90s London and Paris
I'm writing a story with scenes set in London and Paris in 1993-ish and would like some help with what it was like back then. Snowflakes inside. [more inside]
posted by Tamanna at 11:34 PM PST - 18 comments
posted by Tamanna at 11:34 PM PST - 18 comments
Plato on the virtuous citizen
In Gibbon's Decline and Fall, chapter 49, he mentions:
And some credit may be due to the asseveration of Boethius, that he had reluctantly obeyed the divine Plato, who enjoins every virtuous citizen to rescue the state from the usurpation of vice and ignorance.
Is there a specific quote from Plato on this topic, or is there just more of a broader discussion, with no particular reference Gibbon was thinking of?
Help me to be a cool auntie!
Looking for a gift that both a 5-year-old boy and a 9-year-old boy can enjoy and play together. Or, is there some kind of recommendation/gift guide/review site for kids? [more inside]
posted by Sparkling Natural Mineral Water at 9:57 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by Sparkling Natural Mineral Water at 9:57 PM PST - 14 comments
This Road May Not Be Paved With Good Intensions
You are not my lawyer, but can anyone tell me if this situation is as potentially fraught with problems as I think it is? [more inside]
Name this 80s/90s Hong Kong rom-com ghost film!
One of my fave rom-coms of all time, and I can't remember the title or find it! Set in the 1920s just as electricity is beginning to take hold in China. She works at a theater, he's a ghost. Ghosts can travel via electric wire (and get sucked into them against their will, I think), but if they go into a light bulb and the bulb is turned off, they cease to exist. Ring any bells? Potential dimly-remembered spoiler inside. [more inside]
posted by rednikki at 9:26 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by rednikki at 9:26 PM PST - 2 comments
Organizational tools for a rapidly growing group
I am a member of an Indivisible group that has more than 250 members in our Facebook group. We have a Twitter account and a small website using Wordpress on outside hosting. I am familiar with Google Docs, but I think few other people are.
I am interested in thoughts about good organizational tools. Hopefully, they are easy to learn and free or low cost. [more inside]
posted by maurreen at 9:17 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by maurreen at 9:17 PM PST - 11 comments
Frustrated amateur writer seeks supportive group/space.
I'm a creatively frustrated, uneducated amateur writer/enthusiastic reader and I have no clue what groups/spaces would be suitable for sharing work/discussing other's work. I am concerned about joining something that is beyond my capability and I ideally want somewhere friendly and constructive. Does anyone have any suggestions? [more inside]
posted by TheGarden at 9:05 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by TheGarden at 9:05 PM PST - 12 comments
How do I draw professional quality floorplans of houses?
I'd like to learn how to draw professional quality scale floorplans of existing buildings. For example, the previous owners of our house had an addition made, and as part of that they had drawings of the entire house (not just the addition) done. I would like to learn how to do that myself. [more inside]
posted by primethyme at 8:07 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by primethyme at 8:07 PM PST - 15 comments
Exterior wall with no insulation (& a missing window). How to do vapor?
Older house in Portland OR- no insulation at all in two particular exterior walls (just siding, 2 by 4 joists, solid wood wall). Trying to think through vapor -- was planning on 2" polyiso, foil on one side. I should put the foil facing inside rather than out, right? And should the poly go between the joists (between siding and solid wall), or inside the wall with furring to attach sheetrock to? Or should I do the latter plus put unfaced pink fiberglass between joistsl? [more inside]
posted by msalt at 7:48 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by msalt at 7:48 PM PST - 8 comments
small honeymoon gifts
Anyone have suggestions for the kinds of small gifts you (f) might give your SO (m) as small honeymoon surprises? [more inside]
posted by city_park at 7:37 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by city_park at 7:37 PM PST - 6 comments
Name my birb
I have a brand new parrotlet borb. He is very sweet, also very bitey, although he's gotten less bitey over the past few days.
Obligatory pics here and here.
So far I have just been calling him 'birb' or 'borb'. But he needs a name. Probably a human name.
posted by a strong female character at 7:11 PM PST - 41 comments
posted by a strong female character at 7:11 PM PST - 41 comments
Big Smoker Rental in Hattiesburg, Mississippi
In the middle of March, I will need to rent/borrow/otherwise acquire a large smoker/grill for roasting about 60 to 70 pounds of porchetta. [more inside]
Girl's trip to St. Thomas
I'm sending my daughter (16), my niece (15), and their moms on a vacation, and they picked St. Thomas in early June. I'm looking for travel deals, excursions, good places to stay/eat, bad places to avoid, and any other general tips I can get. [more inside]
Help me help my cat.
Do you brush your cat's teeth? Can you teach me how? [more inside]
posted by janepanic at 3:19 PM PST - 21 comments
posted by janepanic at 3:19 PM PST - 21 comments
How do oil pipelines work?
The Keystone XL and DAPL are back (like a bad comic book villain). And I'm curious about how they are actually constructed. Where is a good place to look? [more inside]
posted by Hactar at 2:54 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by Hactar at 2:54 PM PST - 6 comments
How to stay informed without losing my mind or my day? Trump filter
It seems obvious that the need to be well-informed about current events is crucial right now. But how do I do this productively? [more inside]
"We don’t disclose that."
ISO low stakes, high detail, popcorn fodder investigative journalism. [more inside]
posted by phunniemee at 2:20 PM PST - 22 comments
posted by phunniemee at 2:20 PM PST - 22 comments
Telescope tips for an "intermediate" astronomy buff
Looking for advice and references on how to get the most out of my refracting telescope. [more inside]
posted by mysticreferee at 1:26 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by mysticreferee at 1:26 PM PST - 4 comments
Form of Address: Mother and Son Edition.
A while back, I was dining out with my mother. She is a widow, I am her unmarried son. Our server (who spoke English as a second language), addressed us as "Mr. & Mrs. Renault". I was squicked out. An address of 'Mr. & Mrs.', while perhaps technically correct, has a suggestion that we are a Mr. and Mrs. of each other, which we are most definitely not. So how should he have addressed us? [more inside]
posted by Capt. Renault at 1:23 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by Capt. Renault at 1:23 PM PST - 14 comments
She's allergic to my cologne. Oh no!
Tuscany smells good on me. Sadly, she's allergic. How do we find a perfume / cologne that doesn't bother her? [more inside]
BonanzaFilter (With a side of minor prophets)
This is a long shot, but I have seen miracles here before. There was an episode of Bonanza, where Ben and some other people are doing something difficult (maybe travelling, or hauling logs, or shooting guns). One of the people doing this with him is named [minor prophet]. Ben turns to him in exasperation and says: "Why did your parents name you [minor prophet]? They should have named you Jeremiah!" Can anyone identify the prophet referenced, and what does Ben mean by this?
posted by bluejayway at 12:10 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by bluejayway at 12:10 PM PST - 9 comments
Home inventory app recommendations?
I'm looking for a home inventory app (android if possible) that will let me take a picture of something and add a description/cost and other minor details. There's [morbid inside]. [more inside]
Galicia & Northern Portgual
This year's summer hols have been picked and we fancy visiting Galicia in NW Spain and also spending some time in Northern Portugal, what should we not miss in either region re accommodation, food, sites? [more inside]
posted by biffa at 11:28 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by biffa at 11:28 AM PST - 6 comments
Help me see stars!
My birthday is coming up and I want to take a trip to see some night sky dusty with stars. I waited too long to make a plan and need help figuring out if what I want to do is even possible. Details within. [more inside]
posted by hapax_legomenon at 10:54 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by hapax_legomenon at 10:54 AM PST - 14 comments
How to maximize the effectiveness of political contributions?
I want to start giving political contributions to progressive candidates, either locally or nation-wide, focusing on those in winnable swing states (House and Senate) and tipping-point races for state legislatures or governorships to try to run the same playbook that the Tea Party did in 2009-2010 and regain Democratic control some state legislatures. What is the best way to maximize the strategic impact of maybe $5,000 in annual political contributions - huge for me, but small in the age of megadonors and super PACs? [more inside]
Help! Head lice...entire family :-(
Our family has been passing around headlice, and I am truly so grossed out. My daughter brought it back from school and we are passing it around, it seems. I want this to stop! [more inside]
posted by tangomija at 10:11 AM PST - 37 comments
posted by tangomija at 10:11 AM PST - 37 comments
Building a new Rural Library
I'm on the board of our local rural library and we're in the very beginning stages of planning to build a new library. Our current lease runs out in March 2021. [more inside]
Selling an un-certified car, on short notice
I’ve learned that my 13 year old car, with 160,000km on it requires roughly $1,500 in repairs to fix a variety of mechanical things including new brakes as well as major problems with the ECM. [more inside]
Got a call for a prescription... across the country. Suspicious?
I got a call to pick up a prescription... that I didn't ask for, and it's all the way across the country. The details got weird though. Should I be concerned? [more inside]
posted by curagea at 9:30 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by curagea at 9:30 AM PST - 12 comments
Help finding this Polish pop song
So very little to go on. I recently spent a week camping with a group of Polish guys. Every few nights, another group of Polish folks would join us, and play music off their phone. There was one song that they played on repeat, and it's stuck in my head. It's upbeat dancy pop, and has a part that sounded something like, "bones, bones, bones." [more inside]
IUD and Oral?
I'm considering an IUD again due to the very real possibility that it may be making my existing depression/anxiety worse. However, when I talked to my OBGYN a few months ago she had mentioned the IUD could cause smelly discharge. This is not very appealing for my sex life. My question is whether it would still be worth it and if there's anything I could do to minimize it. [more inside]
posted by driedmango at 8:06 AM PST - 42 comments
posted by driedmango at 8:06 AM PST - 42 comments
I need a python script that will run a script
I have 2 Raspberry Pi's. I want to execute a python script on Pi_1 that will execute a python script on Pi_2. I want Pi_1 to send script parameters to Pi_2 and I want Pi_1 to retrieve the output of the Pi_2 script.
I'm new to python and Linux. I'm learning a lot from Stack Exchange but I haven't been able to find anything related to the above.
Anything that will get me on the right track would be appreciated.
posted by night_train at 8:00 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by night_train at 8:00 AM PST - 10 comments
Litter Box Training the Elderly Cat
Charles the shaggy and elderly (12 Yrs++) cat cannot go outside any more.
The tick population in our central New England location is growing.
Charles brings them into the house. He will not wear tick collars and other tick fighting methods do not work. [more inside]
Calling Senators but can't get through
I've started calling my Senators daily to tell them about the issues that matter to me. However, I cannot get through to a person and cannot leave a message as the mailbox is full. I have a few questions about how to proceed: [more inside]
posted by newsomz at 7:04 AM PST - 16 comments
posted by newsomz at 7:04 AM PST - 16 comments
Divorce on the Table, Disabled Child, Many Questions
I love my husband. We have a child with multiple disabilities. This was a struggle for my husband to accept when he was young (insisting the diagnosis was wrong), but he eventually did. It was fine when child was small, but now that child is getting older, husband is increasingly frustrated with his abnormal development and behavior. I think I may need to divorce him for the sake of my child. Specific questions, etc. [more inside]
They make it sound so easy
YANM(Immigration)L: How hard is it, really, to get a UK Ancestry visa? [more inside]
How to Pseudonym in Non-Fiction Book Publishing, by A. N. Onymous
I've had an idea for a zeitgeist-y non-fiction/popular-science book. Well, it could be considered a polemic in addition to a fact-based piece of writing. Think something in the realm of politics. In light of the current political (read: troll-infested) environment, however, I have GRAVE concerns about using my real name. BAD PEOPLE will NOT like the book or me one bit. [more inside]
CrossFire Support with Adobe Products
I'm in need of a new photo and video editing machine. Does anyone know if applications such as Lightroom, Photoshop Elements and Premiere Elements support and take advantage of CrossFireX graphics cards. The new machine I'm looking at has the following specs: [more inside]
Voting with your feet (and by feet, we really mean money)
In terms of social responsibility - what criteria do you use to determine who deserves your business? More importantly, what sources do you use? [more inside]
Doggie germs
Humans are innately repelled by things like rotten food and bodily fluids - partly because of social taboo, but also as a way of stopping us eating/handling things likely to make us very sick. Why aren't dogs repelled by 'harmful' things in the same way?
Continuing to try to figure out my aphthous ulcers
Previously I asked for help breaking a nasty streak of canker sores.
The twist: They went away. On their own. For nine months. [more inside]
January 23
What is this (British?) alternative pop song I keep hearing?
I have heard this song twice and haven't been able to find it by Googling lyrics. The chorus is one line repeated over and over again (something like "I shall not be hearing no" or "I should not be here at all"). [more inside]
posted by foid at 11:51 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by foid at 11:51 PM PST - 4 comments
I heard that you like the bad boys honey, is that true?
This is probably a common trope, but when I look back over guys that I've dated, the meanest/unkindest ones have been the hardest to get over. [more inside]
I'm a direct communicator, my girlfriend isn't, how do we bridge this?
Open, honest, compassionate, and direct communication is something I value and something I've cultivated. My new-ish partner, by her own admission, is not great at this. Help me muddle through. [more inside]
Opinions of Bastyr University? (I am averse to woo)
I'm trying to figure out how to evaluate people who reference Bastyr University. Please share experiences with this institution. [more inside]
When did the fictional King Godred in Thomas the Tank Engine live?
Based on the costumes, armour and architecture in the animation between 4:30 and 5:30 in this video, roughly when did the fictional King Godred depicted in the Thomas and Friends movie "King of the Railway" live?
posted by TheophileEscargot at 9:56 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by TheophileEscargot at 9:56 PM PST - 4 comments
Interview Terror
I have two interviews on Thursday for Customer Service Manager positions, and I'm terrified. I don't use that word lightly. Terror, dear readers. [more inside]
posted by soakimbo at 9:09 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by soakimbo at 9:09 PM PST - 13 comments
Setting up and enclosing raised beds for a first-time gardener?
I recently moved to the suburbs (zone 7A) and am looking to start gardening in raised beds. How tall should they be? Also, we have a bunch of fauna in the yard, so I'm thinking we need to enclose the beds. What's the best way to do that? [more inside]
How Does Spaghetti Squash Do The Thing?
Spaghetti squash looks like any other squash when raw, but when cooked the flesh turns into a whole pile of squiggly bits that appear and behave remarkably like noodles. How? What's the science behind this? My Google skills are only getting me an infinite number of recipes and the history of the squash's development, which, while interesting, are not answering the basic question of HOW?
posted by Rush-That-Speaks at 7:28 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by Rush-That-Speaks at 7:28 PM PST - 8 comments
The Triby
How to support a friend who wont take your advice
Friend is not in a good relationship. It hasn't been good for a long time. Every crisis I try to be there for him but after multiple infidelities and a downward spiral and no sign of leaving her, I'm exhausted by this situation. How do I remain a supportive friend? [more inside]
when your pain is de-legitimised
Growing up my parents had a strange relationship to sympathy. I think in retrospect they were trying to make me a tough little girl, but whenever I expressed pain to them they would tell me not to complain or de-legitimize or downplay the issue. I have definitely internalised this over time. [more inside]
Feeling Like A Failure At Work
Are the amount of mistakes at work I'm making normal? [more inside]
New (and amazing!) job. First paycheck was a bit short.
I recently accepted and started an amazing job that required me to move about 500 miles. I absolutely love the job and am so happy here. But I just got my first paycheck and it's 10% short. Should I say something? [more inside]
posted by schroedingersgirl at 3:40 PM PST - 18 comments
posted by schroedingersgirl at 3:40 PM PST - 18 comments
logistics of breaking up with emotionally unstable live-in SO
I have reached a point in my relationship where I believe it is in my best interests to break it off. I love my girlfriend and there are many ways in which this relationship has been good for me, but there are patterns in how we interact that indicate this is not sustainable as a long-term partnership. There are some ethical and logistical considerations that I am not sure how to handle and I would appreciate some outside perspectives and advice. [more inside]
Can we negotiate this vet bill?
Our cat Winston is undergoing dental surgery. One vet first saw the dental problem over a year ago and described it as a minor issue. At this year's annual exam, another vet at the same clinic said that Winston now requires expensive surgery that could have been avoided had he been treated a year ago. How do we approach negotiating the bill? [more inside]
posted by vathek at 2:50 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by vathek at 2:50 PM PST - 2 comments
How does an unsporty adult sport?
I am not sporty and never have been. I'm interested in playing a team sport. Can a non-sporty, out of shape person join a sports team? How? Location: Oakland or Berkeley, CA. [more inside]
Being a source of alternative facts from the cheeto bag...
I want to help keep people/journalists informed in these weird times. If the answer is get thee to a lawyer, kindly let me know what sort. Googling hasn't been fruitful. [more inside]
What questions should I be asking about infertility treatments?
My husband and I have been trying conceive since we got married 18 months ago. Unfortunately I have two big factors working against me - my age (40) and my PCOS, which I was diagnosed with when I was in my 20s. I was prescribed Clomid to make me ovulate, but after the first two cycles it stopped working. We're going back to the specialist this week: What are the options now and what should I be asking my doctor? [more inside]
posted by meronym at 1:23 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by meronym at 1:23 PM PST - 14 comments
How do I take calls anonymously?
I need to take calls on a landline, without giving out my phone number. How do I do that? [more inside]
NYC housing lottery
Need specifics about the NYC housing lottery after the interview process. Have you successfully gotten an apartment through the lottery? HALP [more inside]
Adding a commerce page to a Hubspot website
Has anyone integrated an eCommerce platform into your Hubspot powered website? What platform do you recommend? Or what questions should I be asking as I research this? [more inside]
Home Organizing YouTube Channels for a Childless Liberal Athiest
I love Home Organizing, House Keeping and Home decorating videos and blogs. I also like, food storage, prepping, growing your own food & homesteading blogs. Having them running really motivates me to get off the computer & get things done, unfortunately they seem to be predominately very Christian based, often have political leanings I don't agree with and seem to be more about organizing your life around your children and/or church. I need suggestions for YouTube channels & blogs on these subjects for the childless heathen. [more inside]
posted by wwax at 11:24 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by wwax at 11:24 AM PST - 10 comments
Comcast to CenturyLink network fails
We switched from Comcast business Internet to CenturyLink IQ Networking and now our Internet sessions are terminating unexpectedly. [more inside]
which forms of weed are useful for sex?
I live in California and I want to improve my sex life. Could weed help? [more inside]
Family activities in Barcelona
We're off to Barcelona for 5 days in August. What are some family-friendly (2 adults, a 5y/o, and a 1y/o) activities to do or places to visit? [more inside]
posted by EndsOfInvention at 9:55 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by EndsOfInvention at 9:55 AM PST - 11 comments
Words Inspire
I'm looking for suggestions for speakers for a progressive event. Who can you think of who might be well known enough to be a draw in a rural, 98% white area and who would speak well and passionately about progressive issues that are likely to be most relevant to lower income, rural voters. Issues might include healthcare, preservation of public lands, rights of indigenous people, womens rights, and economic justice. Budget would be under $5K, so really looking for someone who has some name recognition but is not extremely famous.
Technology options for recording webinars for on-demand use?
What are my technology options for recording webinars and making them available on-demand? [more inside]
posted by John Borrowman at 9:39 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by John Borrowman at 9:39 AM PST - 3 comments
O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree, How Do I Store Your Sparklies?
We can't take down our christmas tree until we figure out a new scheme for ornament storage. Halp! [more inside]
posted by bookdragoness at 9:20 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by bookdragoness at 9:20 AM PST - 14 comments
Do you take corrections well?
What's this thing called where if you correct someone and they turn it around on you. Spelling, grammar, specific details and the like. The response goes something like: "Yeah, I made a minor mistake, you don't have to be such an arsehole about it." The mistake still stands and then the corrector sits unable to really respond to the charges being brought against him.
Thanks.
Yet another relationships question
We met 2 1/2 years ago when she started working here. Our work is tangentially related. For the most part we can see each other or not at work as we prefer. Since we met, I've casually flirted with her (nothing untoward). She is very professional and reserved in her conduct at work. For the first 2 years of that, I was seeing somebody so I wasn't too concerned about it, but then ... [more inside]
What are some great political activism tools for a public flyer?
Hi hi,
Much inspired by the Women's March in DC that my sister and I attended, I have decided to remain actively engaged in the political process within our small town. I want to formulate flyers with several good political/ activism App suggestions, websites, and issue points to distribute locally, to encourage participation in our area. [more inside]
Attention VMware experts: Seeking quick way to back up a 2TB VM
It currently takes about 3½ days to back up my 2TB virtual file server. I need to find a faster way to do this. [more inside]
posted by alex1965 at 8:19 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by alex1965 at 8:19 AM PST - 14 comments
Need help with rejecting helpful offers of enrichment
So I know this is beyond silly but does anyone have a way to deal with or decline forced-upon lent items? Other than, you know, just saying "no thanks." [more inside]
Octopus parents that continue living?
Are there any species of octopus where the mother and/or father remain alive after the birth of the offspring, and do they transfer their knowledge to the offspring? If no, have their ever been observed abnormalities where this happened?
posted by bergnotburg at 7:45 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by bergnotburg at 7:45 AM PST - 2 comments
Purposeful dark root on hair not looking great
At-home hair dyers: I went to my stylist and asked for white blonde hair with a root. After two sessions with her, I still do not like the root she gave me and I'd like to go all white blonde myself. Walk me through it? [more inside]
Please tell me good things about Baltimore
Ok, well, you can tell me the not so good things too. Wanted to get more perspectives there before a probable move. Also how does one make the best out of a new, unknown city? [more inside]
Beyond Indivisible: Moral Mondays 101
NCFilter: I'm looking for readings and resources to share with others on the organization, tactics, and effectiveness of the Moral Monday movement in North Carolina. Especially helpful would be any kind of guide to how to replicate this effort in other localities, similar to the breakdown of the Tea Party tactics in the much-circulated Indivisible Guide. Also of interest: how Moral Mondays organized any second and third tiers of supporters who could not make it in person, but wanted to actively (not just financially) contribute to their efforts.
posted by deludingmyself at 7:22 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by deludingmyself at 7:22 AM PST - 5 comments
Looking for NYC Street Medic Training
Does anyone know how I might go about finding a street medic training in NYC? I've tried googling, but all the links that pop up are either years old or in other (far away) cities. I am specifically looking for a training for street medics that would be able to assist protesters, not a general first aid training.
posted by dysh at 7:15 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by dysh at 7:15 AM PST - 6 comments
coping with anxiety before operation
I have an operation under general anaesthetic due on Thursday, even though I've sorted out my head about it, it feels like the fear and anxiety has just moved into my body and that I'm constantly in fear (anxiety feelings in chest) even though I think it should all be OK - what will help? [more inside]
Help me make the most of a work week in the bay area
I'm going to a conference in Stanford at the end of march. I will be presenting some work stuff for a day, but I'm also planning on spending the week in the area, because hey, why not. Help me make the most of it [more inside]
posted by motdiem2 at 6:50 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by motdiem2 at 6:50 AM PST - 9 comments
3-yo Suddenly Hates Going to Daycare
Our happy 3-yo daughter has, in the last month, gone from being excited to go to daycare in the morning to having a full-blown meltdown pretty much every morning when we say it's time to go and acting like we're throwing her to the wolves when we drop her off there. There are no new staff at the daycare and there has been no other substantial change that we're aware of, but when we ask her what's wrong all she'll say is "I don't want to go!" [more inside]
Matching Callers with Constituents?
I have a political action idea, and I'd like to know whether it has fatal flaws, or if it already exists. It involves matching up people in these two groups: "Callers" -- Democrats who are willing to call their representatives about political issues, but who live in such solidly blue or red districts that it hardly seems worthwhile. "Constituents" -- Democrats who have more influenceable representatives, but who can't or don't call them. [more inside]
Reading the Resistance
In the face of the global rightward populist turn, I have found myself thinking quite a bit about the concept of "the Resistance" that I have found in scraps of history and pop culture, such as the French resistance to the Vichy government. I would like to know more about the history of organized resistance efforts across the globe, particularly their structures and tactics, and their impact on large-scale events such as elections and war outcomes. Most interested in nonfiction accounts, but open to good fiction, films, other genres. Thanks! Vive la résistance!
Going 2017 on My Website - But Overwhelmed
My website needs a revamp. Things have changed since I last did an overhaul and I feel overwhelmed by choices. Trying to figure out the best way to approach the overhaul but I need help phrasing/explaining what I need done. I also need to figure out HOW to get it done. [more inside]
Southern European holiday in small towns — where to find accommodations?
My partner and I have twice had a great vacation in a town in southern Portugal. We've stayed two to three weeks and it's been a nice, low-key working holiday.
Where might we look for accommodations for a similar holiday next time? [more inside]
Canada by Rail
My partner and I are visiting Canada for 11 days in late April. Our plan is to stay in Toronto for several days, then take the trans Canadian train that arrives in Vancouver 4 days later, and stay in Vancouver for several days. Is the train the best fit for us? [more inside]
Google Pixel Phone -- is it as good as the reviews?
I took a look at the smaller size Pixel at the Verizon store and it looks pretty simple,
it's an Android, it's sleek and fits in my hand. It's also expensive.
Can you comment/give me some tips about purchase and ease
of use based on first-hand knowledge or cutting edge reviews? [more inside]
posted by alwayson_slightlyoff at 2:19 AM PST - 17 comments
posted by alwayson_slightlyoff at 2:19 AM PST - 17 comments
Lemon Tree Pt 2 - Dropping leaves, breaking hearts
My lemon tree has been dropping leaves after coming indoors for the winter. Not unusual — but now the remaining few look like they've been burnt. [more inside]
posted by smasuch at 12:36 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by smasuch at 12:36 AM PST - 3 comments
January 22
Best website for news from Ivory Coast
I'm looking for a good source for English or French language news from Ivory Coast. [more inside]
posted by ellieBOA at 10:41 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by ellieBOA at 10:41 PM PST - 9 comments
Dog-friendly winter day-hiking/snowshoeing in the Olympic Peninsula
Planning a trip to to the Olympic Peninsula in a couple of weeks. I stumbled across this site that outlines dog-friendly destinations there. I was hoping to get some ideas on which of these destinations (or others) to choose from. Looking for dog-friendly day hikes offering great views/scenery that are doable in the wintertime (hiking/snowshoeing). [more inside]
posted by ageispolis at 9:05 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by ageispolis at 9:05 PM PST - 4 comments
Car Emergency Kit 2.0
Today I stopped to help a family who had suffered a really scary car accident due to a flash flood. My emergency car kit, which I'd been obsessing over for weeks just a few months ago, was woefully insufficient when it came to comforting the very cold, wet, and frightened children who thankfully survived the crash with no visible injuries. For my own peace of mind, can you help me assemble a better car kit that would help me help others more effectively while waiting for CHP/EMTs/etc? [more inside]
An Antidote to Fightin' Words
Like many people lately, I'm feeling low about the state of things--specifically, language. My recent reading consists solely of political news and analysis as well as, for relaxation, hard-boiled detective novels. I've lost, over the past few months, all sense of language as exuberant, playful, abundant, dazzling, rich with pleasure. Can you help pull me out of my language funk with suggestions of novels, short stories, poems, essays that will delight and surprise me, that I can sink into like a warm luxurious bath? [more inside]
posted by fiery.hogue at 8:31 PM PST - 31 comments
posted by fiery.hogue at 8:31 PM PST - 31 comments
Chicago Trip + HAMILTON
Help me plan a quick Chicago getaway! [more inside]
Where can I camp around this time of the year?
I live in the bay area. Help me find camping spots nearby. [more inside]
What should I pay (if anything)
I live in a shared place where we are equally responsible for the rent.
In the next month or two I am looking to move out and from previous conversations the person I share with indicated that they will stay but find someone else to share with. - so lets just assume this. [more inside]
Would it be worth it to get another lens?
I'm currently shooting with a Nikon D7200 paired with a Nikon 35mm 1:1.8. It's a miracle worker. You can see what I'm doing with it here. (Scroll down to the still shots.) I'm shooting in manual so 70% of the shots are tossed, but I'm getting a feel for it. (More inside.) [more inside]
posted by snsranch at 5:02 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by snsranch at 5:02 PM PST - 13 comments
Breakfast at Tiffany's - for the older set
I'd like to get my mom a really nice/fancy/pricey piece of jewelry for her 70th birthday. The only high-end jeweler I know is Tiffany's and their stuff seems quite young to me. Where does one go for something high-end for a more mature woman with a slightly artsy/eccentric taste? [more inside]
posted by Toddles at 5:01 PM PST - 21 comments
posted by Toddles at 5:01 PM PST - 21 comments
Overthinking this plate of kitten - can I untrain it?
Short story: Abandoned kitten was not properly litter trained and imprinted on carpet. Has anyone successfully retrained a cat to NOT pee on carpet? [more inside]
Why is long ziti?
My housemate, inspired by this tumblr post, bought 12 pounds of long ziti. What do we cook with this? Why does it exist? [more inside]
posted by you could feel the sky at 4:12 PM PST - 31 comments
posted by you could feel the sky at 4:12 PM PST - 31 comments
Looking for books/resources on Breathe Work
My massage therapist and trying to help me work on my breathing for anxiety and I guess overall well-being. When I took Pilates the trainer gave me a lot of titles, of course I don't have access to the trainer or the books.
Where should I start?
Amazon was a little overwhelming, I would love some personal recommendations.
Thanks!
I'm trying to find gold bar and agate/geo earrings for sensitive ears
Hi Folks!
I have seen cute gold bar earrings, similar to this image, on a lot of folks. I FINALLY found them. However, I bought the earrings at DSW and they caused my ears to become red- I have very sensitive ears.
I love all the earring is this image in particular the crystal ones and the agate/geo looking ones- of course in addition to the gold bars.
Any ideas on where to find for sensitive ears? I thought perhaps Etsy but I have no clue how to begin looking.
thanks!
How do I work out the best use of my activist time?
I'm involved with a smallish political organisation which has recently expanded somewhat. In the year I've been involved with it in a coordinating role, objectively speaking, I've spent most of my time settling disputes originating from personality clashes and attempting to develop internal structures in order for things to work properly with the new larger numbers. In terms of tangible action I feel like I've done nothing. How do I work out if this is the best use of my time? [more inside]
posted by Lluvia at 3:20 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by Lluvia at 3:20 PM PST - 4 comments
Gathering Canadian resources for action to counter the Alt Right
I'd like to collect a list of Canadian-specific suggestions and resources (organisations, websites, etc) that could be useful for creating something like these guides: 1, 2, 3. [more inside]
Ice Cream Cone-undrum
This is an entirely different kind of "should I eat it?" question. Two pints of gourmet ice cream were delivered to my house on Wednesday evening, packed in dry ice. But! They are not for me, but the previous resident. Sno-coneflake inside. [more inside]
posted by pazazygeek at 2:44 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by pazazygeek at 2:44 PM PST - 11 comments
Raised on Tinder, but looking to grow up...
Extensive use of online dating apps in NYC has led to a warped sense of what it means to "date". I'd like to break the cycle but it seems to be all I know. [more inside]
posted by Funky Claude at 2:34 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by Funky Claude at 2:34 PM PST - 3 comments
How to get a piece of unpainted furniture painted/stained in Brooklyn?
Who can I pay to paint or stain a small piece of unpainted furniture for me? I'm in Bushwick, in Brooklyn, but the piece is a relatively small shelf that is in pieces, so I could easily bring it wherever it needs to go. [more inside]
Where Do I, Where Do I Go?
In a recent conversation, it has occurred to me that I have never had a real, actual vacation. So, I am planning a Spring solo getaway. Complications: anxiety, and I have no idea where I want to go. Melting snowflakes within. [more inside]
Found very overdue library items. How to get clemency?
While tidying up my home office today I was going through my "take this to the (university) office" pile, and found 4 government reports with barcodes and call numbers. ACK! This will surely be hundreds of dollars in fines by now (possibly even into 4 digits) which I can't afford to pay. I know I'm a bad person. I feel terrible. But how do I get out of this? [more inside]
Where to stay on Isla Mujeres?
My dude and I are planning a trip to Isla Mujeres and are looking for an awesome place to stay. [more inside]
Tips for buying a cheaper iPhone
I lost my iPhone while traveling recently (tragedy!) and will want to replace it when I am back home in a month or so. So, I have some time to look for a deal. Any advice here? [more inside]
What should I name all my lamps?
I hate overhead lights, I love lamps, and I've got home automation. Please help me figure out a naming hierarchy? [more inside]
Dress form recommendations
Purchasing a sewing dress form, looking to the hive mind sewists for advice. Specs inside [more inside]
Hospital-appropriate classical?
Looking for suggestions for pleasant, soothing classical music I can play at a hospital. [more inside]
posted by fishhouses at 10:24 AM PST - 24 comments
posted by fishhouses at 10:24 AM PST - 24 comments
Best prepared meal delivery service?
Looking for a good service that will deliver delicious, already-prepared, single meals that can be kept in the fridge or freezer for a few days and just need to be heated in the oven or microwave. [more inside]
posted by erst at 10:13 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by erst at 10:13 AM PST - 12 comments
Help me choose the most lucky (in Chinese numerology) house number
I'm trying to help a friend select the best house number. He can choose any odd number between 1801 and 1831. Difficulty level: needs to be considered lucky (or at least not unlucky) in Chinese numerology. I suggested 1831 (year when Faraday demonstrates the first electric transformer and Darwin sailed on the Beagle and Mendelssohn's 1st Piano concert in G premiers) but my friend is concerned that his parents might not consider the number lucky because 1+8+3+1=13, 1+3=4, 4 is considered unlucky in Chinese numerology. Help? [more inside]
Just starting college/uni search. Give me your wisdom....
Just starting the college search process. Want all the advice... [more inside]
posted by pearlybob at 8:07 AM PST - 25 comments
posted by pearlybob at 8:07 AM PST - 25 comments
Ok, going to Kolkata (Calcutta) alone as a woman -- advice?
After posting this question, I've decided to go on this trip to Calcutta! India advice needed. [more inside]
What lies beneath (laminate flooring)
So, we've been in our house for a year, and we're tired of the cat using the basement rec room as a personal vomitorium. Said room is carpeted; said carpet is now disgusting. We want to rip it up and replace with laminate. The question is, how to deal with the subfloor. [more inside]
January 21
Are there any newsletters for dance performance in L.A.?
I know such things exist for classical music concerts, so: I'm looking for an email newsletter I could subscribe to which would regularly send me a complete list of upcoming dance performances -- ballet, modern dance, etc. -- in the Los Angeles area. Anyone know of something like that?
Does this thing exist?
A key rack that can be mounted on the wall that will beep when the set of keys is in close range (say, 10 feet) and then stop beeping when they keys are hung on the rack? I need something to remind someone to hang up their keys each time they walk in the door. I have seen Trackr, etc. and that is not what I am looking for; I don't want the keys to get lost in the first place.
Thanks.
posted by tippy at 10:36 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by tippy at 10:36 PM PST - 13 comments
Italian last names, poop related, started as a joke?
I have a half-remembered anecdote from a Latin lecture about a number of (I beleive middle age or earlier) peasants being asked/made to have last names where they had not previously been allowed to/bothered with, and a lot of them chose really sophomoric names that mean "Poop-lover" or things of this nature. I recall it being regional, and I think I might be conflating multiple events. Details inside. [more inside]
Feasablility of getting these boot heels LOWERED.
These are the boots in question.
They look fierce on, and they're very comfortable in the foot, but the heels are a bit high for extended wearing. I prefer a heel about an inch high. These are about 1.5 inches high.
Of course I'll be taking them in to my trusty cobbler for consultation, but I would like the opinion of you all beforehand, to steel me for bad news if it can't be done.
Synchronous group annotations of a text.
I would like my students to add annotations to select online chapters of public domain texts we are reading. Google Docs would work, but I would prefer that the end product be accessible to the world at large, so I don't have to export their work and publish it anew.
There are 20 students in the class, and so I'm worried about students overwriting each other's work. Is there a cheap, free wiki installation that can handle multiple, simultaneous edits? [more inside]
posted by craniac at 3:13 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by craniac at 3:13 PM PST - 9 comments
This time, it's (a) personal (website)
In-house-communications-guy-slash-occasional-freelance-writer looking to build a personal website to showcase resume/work history, portfolio/clips, etc. It would be great for the site to have blogging capability as well so that I can consolidate all of my work in one place. Any suggested platforms?
Experience with a Foley Catheter?
I acrobatically managed to break three ribs, puncture a lung and spent a week in hospital. There they inserted a Foley catheter. They pulled it the day I was to leave, but normal urinary function did not return, so they inserted a new one and sent me home. I've been out a week now and have some questions... [more inside]
Easiest way to spoof a wedding invitation?
Long story short, I just received an invitation to a friend's wedding that is addressed to myself "and guest" and was sent to my work address. This is because at the time this couple was putting together their mailing list, my fiancee and I were going through a rough time and I thought we were on the verge of separating. Now we are reconciled and I would really like this invitation to be addressed to both of us at our home address. It is too late for the couple to do anything about it; what is the easiest way for me to get a new envelope, professionally addressed, without ordering 150 envelopes online? Are there any stores (like a Hallmark) with machines that address individual envelopes?
What tools will help me call my representatives?
Is there an app / tool that will give me a script to call my reps, as well as mechanisms to remind / re-enforce my engagement? [more inside]
posted by justalisteningman at 2:43 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by justalisteningman at 2:43 PM PST - 12 comments
The heat is on...
Most efficient way to handle thermostat for cabin with electric baseboard heat? [more inside]
posted by ian1977 at 1:51 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by ian1977 at 1:51 PM PST - 13 comments
Washington Mall Photos
I saw the aerial photo taken by the U.S. Park Service which showed the difference in the number of attendees of the 2009 Obama inauguration and the 2017 Trump inauguration. President Trump was enthusiastically supported, as was President Obama. Why the stark difference? [more inside]
Best language learning program for my car
My daily drive time is now up to three hours, I want to learn Spanish, can you recommend a system that will work? [more inside]
posted by cgk at 12:11 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by cgk at 12:11 PM PST - 10 comments
Make ahead food for surgery recovery
I'm having surgery next week and I want to make some food I can take out of the freezer/fridge and microwave while I'm recovering. Must be easy to make and easy to reheat, and not spicy. I have normal kitchen appliances, including a crockpot. Things I don't own and am not going to buy: dutch oven, rice cooker, instant pot, blender (I do have a stick blender). NO SOUP or soup like things. [more inside]
DIY Photobooths and other sorts of affordable wedding entertainment?
What are some good options for DIY photo booths for a wedding? Anything you've seen or tried that worked well? (Or stuff that didn't really work?) While we're at it, any other types of wedding reception entertainment that was fun and likely not over, say, $700 to pull off?
Is anyone around South Lake Tahoe right now who can tell me the weather?
My family is supposed to drive up to Heavenly from SF tomorrow morning. Anyone in that area right now who can tell me how bad it's going to be? [more inside]
I crave knowledge in deepspace
I have always loved the question "If you were stuck on a Desert Island what 10 books would you like to have with you?". So I wanted to get a list of human knowledge survival pack with modern equipment, hence the title of my question.
"What offline human knowledge software/data would be essential to have on an offline modern computer if you were stuck on a deepspace multi decade, or even lifetime, journey?" [more inside]
Are these fridge magnets dangerous to have in the house with an infant?
We use these as fridge magnets: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B019CQN798/
I've been reading about the dangers of rare earth magnets, but I can't figure out if these (relatively larger and weaker) magnets are also too dangerous to risk having around our small baby. Thanks for any help!
Cheap poster frame material without buying a frame?
Where can I get the kind of clear, bendable plastic that comes in cheap poster frames? [more inside]
posted by cellura p at 6:50 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by cellura p at 6:50 AM PST - 8 comments
Starting Pokemon trading cards
Kiddo has discovered Pokemon trading cards. What's a cheap and useful strategy in terms of a starter pack or two that will enable him to get going with his friends? I know nothing about this and am overwhelmed by the choices and 'systems' ... Thank you!
How to turn single pictures and an audio recording into a video
Inspired by this post, I've decided to ask how to turn such images into a vid. If you were to transform the page into a video, wherein a single image would appear for quite a while, matching the lyrics as the song is progressing, what software would you use ? [more inside]
Streaming (or broadcast) coverage of the Womxn's March(es)?
So my wife has decided we're staying home Saturday, which is disappointing to me, but our household agreement was unambiguous with regard to leadership on this issue.
I would like every TV in the house showing hundreds of thousands of marchers all day tomorrow, just as every TV in this house Friday was cold and black.
We live in Seattle, so I would prefer all-day local on-air coverage of our local march intercut with DC, but obviously I do not expect broadcast outlets to do that. So, can streamers?
I expect locals elsewhere will also want to find streamers over the course of the day, so if you have a decent URL of streaming coverage for any march anywhere in the country, please drop it here! Thanks!
January 20
sneakers for gym and street!
Please recommend shoes that I can wear from street to the gym and back! [more inside]
posted by redwaterman at 10:23 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by redwaterman at 10:23 PM PST - 9 comments
Catfished by Faux McCartney?
In ~1996 I briefly corresponded with someone who may or may not have been Paul McCartney. Is there any way to find out if it was really him? [more inside]
Apparently we're now a Sunday Dinner family
I need MENU ideas. Over the holidays we had big holiday dinners with a main meat and several side dishes, at the dining room table on the fancy china, and my kids are SUPER INTO IT, even though they have to use extra-good table manners. Every day they don't have school they keep asking, "Is it Sunday? Can we have a feast?" They are even setting the table and have learned the proper placement of the utensils! They are strict about salad forks! Okay! So now we're doing Sunday dinners! Unfortunately, I've about used up my repertoire already. Halp. [more inside]
posted by Eyebrows McGee at 7:07 PM PST - 72 comments
posted by Eyebrows McGee at 7:07 PM PST - 72 comments
Can You Identify These Boots
I saw this photo online and did a Google image search to no avail.
posted by alice_curiouse at 6:09 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by alice_curiouse at 6:09 PM PST - 3 comments
Help my young students be activists
I am an elementary school teacher. My students have studied several heroes, rights activists, and world changers lately. I want them to feel the power they have as people. [more inside]
Help my dain bramaged cat. (kitten development issues.)
My juvenile cat is suckling and I'm looking for ideas on how to transition her away from her current target (my fingers and/or her sister's ear) onto anything else. [more inside]
Holly Near fans, I need your help.
My google fu has failed me. I trying to find a online video or recording or a specific Holly Near story and/or song about protesting [more inside]
Is there way to "mirror" an RSS feed?
Is there way to "mirror" an RSS feed? That is, duplicate an RSS feed so the same content is reproduced in two different RSS feeds? [more inside]
posted by My Dad at 2:58 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by My Dad at 2:58 PM PST - 4 comments
What's the name for the kind of song when a LOT of people sing one word?
So is there a name for the type of song that We Are The World is? Something where a big group of people get together and each sing a little part of it? I need to find examples of songs like that - really with pop music - and I'm not sure what I'm searching for.
posted by rileyray3000 at 1:35 PM PST - 19 comments
posted by rileyray3000 at 1:35 PM PST - 19 comments
Screen and streaming video/headphones setup for rowing machine?
I will soon be the proud renter of a water-rower machine. I would like to have a large-ish video screen nearby to watch while exercising. Because it is also very close to our bedroom, I also want to have the system set up for headphones, so that the noise won't bother my wife. Looking for advice on how to put all the pieces together to make this happen. [more inside]
Help me learn more about protests
Looking for resources about a particular aspect of the effects of protesting. [more inside]
posted by smeater44 at 1:03 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by smeater44 at 1:03 PM PST - 5 comments
Philly Peeps! What's up?
Philly people: what is good this weekend? [more inside]
posted by Medieval Maven at 12:39 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by Medieval Maven at 12:39 PM PST - 6 comments
Google results and YouTube video order
When you search my name on google the whole first page is results surrounding my music. Google pops up its usual "musical artist" and listing all my songs that have been released etc.
In the YouTube results section that's about a third of the way down the page, it displays relevant YouTube results - all of the first several are my YouTube videos. However, I need to change the seemingly random order of these videos. [more inside]
posted by jitterbug perfume at 12:27 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by jitterbug perfume at 12:27 PM PST - 6 comments
How anomalous is this income increase?
In 2001, a white, age 35 woman worked as a corporate admin assistant at a salary of $25K in a large US Midwestern city.
The same woman kept learning and developed her skills. Over the next 15 years she changed jobs just 3 times, trying to make strategic decisions and maximize her earning power. She just got her W-2 from her current employer- the IT department of a large manufacturing company in the same town. She grossed over $100K in 2016. Is this an exceptional growth rate? Or is this trajectory more common than not for women in this cohort?
Practical Preparation for Breaking Up
This might sound heartless, but here goes: I'm at a crossroads with my boyfriend, and I think there's a very good chance we're going to break up. I know my heart will take a while to heal; what else do I need to be thinking about before hand? [more inside]
Twitter Rules.
Asking for a friend: knowing the POTUS historically has been a fan of Twitter, what types of things could a person Tweet to him that would conceivably get them into some type of trouble? To be more explicit, say a person wants to express their feelings about the president's actions or tweets. Legally, what types of thing can one NOT tweet to POTUS? My friend assumes one cannot threaten him in any way, right? But how far could a person express their feelings? What would happen to a person who overstepped that line (whatever that line may be)?
Yet another 'name that tune' ask...
This morning when I turned on my car, a song started playing... it said from my phone's bluetooth, but when I looked at my various apps nothing was playing the song (or any song). Usually my phone starts up the podcast I last listened to, but nothing was playing there either. I stopped the song, and then regretted it, because I can't figure out what song it was... [more inside]
Women's Preventative Health Charity
A group wants to donate to a breast cancer charity. I would feel personally better about sending funds to a charitable group that focuses on forming good preventative health habits/increasing health care access/improving health practices for women. [more inside]
Managing Members?
I'm working with a nonprofit organization on their website and am looking for a clean, easy way to manage members. All the options I've tried so far are awful. I just want a membership listing on a Squarespace page that members can edit but I can't find any easy way to do this. [more inside]
Why is my uterus trying to kill me?
Apologies in advance for TMI. [more inside]
Who introduces the Band in The Last Waltz?
I love the performance of "The Weight" in the Band's concert film, "The Last Waltz". But this is driving me crazy... who is the bearded man saying "The Band!" at the very beginning of the video (YouTube video link)? I've never seen the full film, just this video clip, so I'm prepared for the answer to be something completely obvious like a band member.
posted by saturngirl at 10:01 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by saturngirl at 10:01 AM PST - 2 comments
What powered old player pianos?
In westerns, you always see player pianos at saloons and stuff. It seems they were around in the early 1900s, such that by 1908, an industry standard had developed (according to wikipedia). Not a lot of places had electricity back then. What was powering these player pianos? Did you wind them up? Pump a bellows full of air? How much playing time do you get per how much winding/pumping you do?
posted by Galaxor Nebulon at 9:41 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by Galaxor Nebulon at 9:41 AM PST - 7 comments
How do you do fiber arts, fellow kids?
What's a good source for knitting patterns for hats for teens? [more inside]
How do I Convince Landlord to Remove Mothballs ... ?
How do I Convince the Landlord to Remove the Mothballs he Put in the Basement/Garage to Get Rid of The Mice I Complained About? [more inside]
posted by pjsky at 8:51 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by pjsky at 8:51 AM PST - 6 comments
Help me get the most out of my vacation
Hello! I'll be traveling to Croatia-Bosnia/Herzegovina-Montenegro with a small tour group in June of this year. I've not traveled to Europe since the late 1990s, and never to any points further East than Berlin. I'd like some tips/advice for getting the most out of my vacation.
Details inside. [more inside]
posted by sandraregina at 8:00 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by sandraregina at 8:00 AM PST - 13 comments
Can I go straight from flight to flight at JFK?
I have a pretty straightforward question about switching flights at JFK, but googling has proven fruitless so far: I'm taking an international flight in to JFK on Tuesday, and then a domestic flight from JFK a few hours after I arrive. If they're in the same terminal can I go straight from one to the other? [more inside]
posted by Itaxpica at 8:00 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by Itaxpica at 8:00 AM PST - 5 comments
What jobs consist primarily of research and writing?
I am currently employed, but need a new job. The two things that I'm good at and get lost in are research and writing. Is your job comprised mainly of these two elements? What do you do? [more inside]
Is DC to be avoided on Memorial Day Weekend?
Weird to be asking this today of all days, but: my wife and I want to travel to DC to do general tourist stuff in late May/early June. For a bunch of reasons, a stretch of time that includes Memorial Day Weekend looks best for us. But we're worried about the city being unusually crowded/gridlocked/hectic with Memorial Day stuff. Is that a legit worry? Would we be better off being in town a week earlier or later?
Austin bike route advice
I'm going to the Austin Women's march on Saturday and will be coming into town from San Antonio. There's a good possibility that my original plan for getting there (ride with a friend, park at a park and ride south of the city, and take the bus to the capitol) is going to fall through due to a friend's illness. I'm now thinking of a different plan that would involve bringing my bike, but need some help with a potential bike route. [more inside]
Can you id this wrapper/packaging?
Can you tell what this wrapper thingy is? It's plastic on the top and papper on the bottom side. It cannot be opened or used to store anything. Looks like a lid to me but hard to tell.
Hawaii With Limits
On Monday, my partner and I leave for a 12-day trip to Hawaii (the Big Island and Maui) with his mother, who is in remission from leukemia and who can't do more than an (easy) mile hike here and there. I'm looking for suggestions on ways for us all to make the most of this trip, despite these limits. [more inside]
posted by carrienation at 5:37 AM PST - 21 comments
posted by carrienation at 5:37 AM PST - 21 comments
Mouse Back & Foward Buttons Don't Work in Virtual Machines
Is it a known thing that the back and forward buttons on mice do not work in virtual machines? [more inside]
How to trial medical cannabis
I’m considering trying marijana to help with pain management from a chronic illness, specifically Ankylosing Spondylitis. [more inside]
Using Xanax to deal with anxiety and replace drinking?
More details within, but my drinking got out of control due to anxiety and joblessness. My good friend noticed and suggested that I take Xanax. Great, I no longer drink, or if I do it is simply a beer. I take a very low dosage a day (.25mg or .5mg if I'm very stressed), and I do not get a "high" or anything from it. It makes me feel normal and I've been functioning great. I mentioned to my doctor about as to get my own prescription and he went into full on panic mode, further stating that he would not prescribe it to me and suggested I go to rehab. I am not abusing this, going to another doctor feels like doctor shopping, should I simply mention I have anxiety and would like to try some medications? I do not like lying to doctors, but I feel as if I actually figured this out on my own. [more inside]
Professional Conference While Very Pregnant?
There's a professional conference I attended most years, but wasn't planning on going to this summer because I'll be 35, almost 36 weeks pregnant at the time. Now there's a chance for me to present at the conference, which would be great professionally, and I just want to be sure I'm thinking this through before turning it down. This is my first pregnancy so I don't have anything to compare it to. [more inside]
January 19
Electric toothbrush and receding gum - Correlation?
I'm a new user of an electric toothbrush and starting experience a localized spot of gum tenderness/sensitivity. As of two days ago, I have been informed that I have a receding gumline and exposed root on one tooth. This hasn't been a problem before. Could my use of an electric toothbrush be to blame? [more inside]
posted by Thirty7Degrees at 11:51 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by Thirty7Degrees at 11:51 PM PST - 11 comments
Flavours of Licensing Models for Open Development + Scale Monetisation
What are the best examples of successful products / companies with a licensing model that releases code to the dev community allowing them to operate a small instance for $0, however, if an instance scales over a threshold, then the licensing model introduces charging on a per instance / per size / per traffic basis?
NYC real estate advice - when to move?
i've been approved for a good-sized, mostly affordable apartment in a neighborhood that i love. moving in will conflict with an especially busy time at work and will entail breaking my current lease (and some attendant expense). but it's a neighborhood that i've lived in before and love. should i take it? [more inside]
Is he JUST interested in my body, and is that so wrong?
I'm a straight female, early 30s. I've dated plenty of guys, nearly all of them smarter and more accomplished than myself. I have never - not for one moment - felt that any of them was just interested in my body... until now. [more inside]
posted by Guinevere at 9:33 PM PST - 44 comments
posted by Guinevere at 9:33 PM PST - 44 comments
Safety of using an aquarium pump as a toy
My two-year-old loves to play in running faucets for long periods of time (usually "washing" things like plastic plates or his hands), but I don't like to let the water run indefinitely for cost and conservation reasons.
I got this little aquarium pump and it has nicely solved this problem. I fill the sink, stick the pump in and attach aquarium tubing to it, and he uses the tubing like a hose to do his "washing". [more inside]
Any advice for training a deaf puppy?
Starting tomorrow, I will be fostering this little guy, a 12-week old dalmatian mix. He's deaf, and I have zero experience working with deaf dogs. As per the rescue group's requirements, I'll be taking him to puppy socialization classes (yay!) but I think the training is going to be up to me. Can anyone offer any advice or suggest resources that might be helpful? Also, I'd love to hear some name suggestions.
Name That Cartoon: "We Fight"
This is like name that tune with barely any lyrics, but instead it's a cartoon from the 80's or 90's that I remember only one scene of. [more inside]
How can I better enjoy film festival screenings as a restless person?
I'll be attending multiple Sundance Film Festival screenings, but I get pretty fidgity throughout movies. Any ideas for enjoying the experience more? [more inside]
I'm, still annoyed, but don't want to be
Prior to our summer holiday recently (here in Australia), I had suggested, well really on the suggestion of my partner, that we (me, my partner and her two boys 12 & 15 yo) meet my sister and her son (13 yo) somewhere on the coast between our respective cities. We met them for a few days last year and everyone had fun, especially the kids. [more inside]
Would you eat it? Plated edition.
I ordered a Plated delivery that was supposed to arrive on Wednesday and they say the food is good in its box until midnight on the delivery date. Well, my package got delayed and arrived at 6pm on Thursday. [more inside]
Flaky pressure cooker
I've got an electric pressure cooker (Instant Pot knockoff; I think it's this one) that came with a non-stick coating on the inner pot, which is now starting to flake off. Can I just pop in one of Instant pot's replacement inner pots? How forgiving of slight differences in dimension are these things? [more inside]
I need to ditch WordPress, but for what?
I've been running WordPress on my personal domain for about a decade, if not more, and lately it's been getting worse. I want to replace it with something, but I don't know what, since I haven't been keeping up with what the cool kids are using to blog these days. (Something about static blog generators?) Special Snowflake Stuff inside. [more inside]
should this special snowflake break up with her therapist?
I switched therapists about four months ago when I moved. I was with Pete for just under a year and *loved* him. New lady is very different, but I wanted to give her a fair chance. However I find now that I often leave therapy angrier than when I went in. Is this normal? Is there something up with me, that it might actually be beneficial for me to stick this out? If not- how do I leave? [more inside]
posted by ista at 4:37 PM PST - 17 comments
posted by ista at 4:37 PM PST - 17 comments
Am I too selfish? Help me be more altruistic.
Recent situations have shown me that I am not helpful enough and that I'm being selfish. [more inside]
posted by sheepishchiffon at 4:36 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by sheepishchiffon at 4:36 PM PST - 13 comments
Childlike voice, animated cat interviewing academic scholars?
Asking for a friend: he remembers watching a animated series online a long time ago where there was a cat who had a feminine yet very childlike voice but did these amazing insightful interviews with scholars and scientists. He remembers nothing else but is dying to see these again. My googling keeps pulling up critiques on vocal fry or "how to be a female in animation" stuff. Anyone else remember this series? (We were talking about Maria Branford to give an example of the vocal type)
posted by yodelingisfun at 3:33 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by yodelingisfun at 3:33 PM PST - 4 comments
How to best communicate a side business to potential clients?
I recently started a side business. I already own another relatively successful business, and I want to operate this second one as kind of an occasional thing, just to explore for now and maybe grow down the road. Both businesses are consultancies. How do I communicate this dual-operation situation without scaring people off or sounding like a jack of all trades? [more inside]
What's it like to live in Colorado Springs?
What is it like to live in Colorado Springs, CO? [more inside]
New Orleans & Mardi Gras - weekend before vs. two weekends before?
Very quick (& time sensitive) question: my 40th is February 23rd. The weekend before that is radically cheaper to fly & stay in New Orleans than the weekend after. Much of what we like is the parades & atmosphere on St. Charles. I see there are many parades on the 18th & 19th; is this a similar atmosphere to the weekend just prior to Mardi Gras, or is it muted/different? [more inside]
posted by ftm at 11:42 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by ftm at 11:42 AM PST - 10 comments
Top 5 romantic things to do in Stockholm and Prague
I'm supposed to write a listicle on romantic things to do in different cities, but Stockholm and Prague have me stumped. Does anyone have ideas of romantic things that are not "take a walk through the Old Town"? [more inside]
What to do with really old software and stuff?
I have a ton of old classic Mac software and bits of hardware that I need to clear out of here. But, is tossing it into a landfill really the only way? [more inside]
posted by Thorzdad at 10:19 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by Thorzdad at 10:19 AM PST - 14 comments
Trying to find a movie
I've been looking for a scary movie that I saw brief moments of when I was a kid. All I remember is this little catapult throwing ice and a barrier between the desert and what looked to be a little farm that had a family out having a picnic in the 1800's. I think it might have had Ethan hawk in it but I can't be sure . Long story short the barrier brakes and the protagonist runs through it and is instantly attracted this family who are really like vampires. Anyone know what movie that is ? I figured this would be a good page to find out .
So Just Got Back From Hospital After Ingestion of Psychoactive Plant-ID
For the record, it was NOT on purpose, but a mistake in ID-ing the plant. Had thought it was a type of cabbage growing wild. Usually I do my homework on these things and do post photos to a certain group online to help with the ID-ing this time I just went with my gut.
I [more inside]
posted by watercarrier at 9:08 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by watercarrier at 9:08 AM PST - 15 comments
Customize Google Maps to avoid certain stretches of road when routing?
And then be able to share that customized map with other users, to use on their phones when navigating. Also open to other mapping software with decent navigation capabilities.
Unlock a Sprint iPhone 4?
I searched the previous topics and didn't see this one specifically: I have an old Sprint iPhone 4 that I want to give to someone to use with a Tmobile plan. Sprint says they can't unlock it, Apple says the same- that it's Sprint's job, and the local cell places Ive trued also refuse. Does anyone have any advice? Is Sprint lying when they say they can't?
Thanks in advance.
Misplaced Patriots fan needs help!
I am a New England Patriots fan who works with a Steelers fan. In anticipation of the game this weekend, I would like very much to wear some sort of Patriots shirt tomorrow. What brick-and-mortar store would I go to in order to find a Patriots shirt/hoodie/whatever? Difficulty level: NW Chicago suburbs. [more inside]
Can I buy BC pills while on vacation in Mexico?
Will I get in trouble bringing them back over the border? [more inside]
Crash Course in All Things China
Current events has made me realize that I need to learn more about China, it's history, it's politics and particularly what it's doing in the world right now. [more inside]
posted by Jalliah at 8:58 AM PST - 27 comments
posted by Jalliah at 8:58 AM PST - 27 comments
Going south, what should I not miss?
In a couple months I am planning to fly to Dallas, rent a van, drive and drive and drive, sleep in van and basically spend 6-8 weeks exploring the South with a strong emphasis on music. What should I not miss? [more inside]
ID: scene from a movie where a man hails a cab
Does anyone know the title of the movie, that this scene of a man hailing a cab is from?
Here is the man's voice hailing the cab - but there is also some music mixed in that was not from the original film.
Thanks in advance!!
posted by stanleyhuff at 8:44 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by stanleyhuff at 8:44 AM PST - 5 comments
Taxes: married but living in different states
It's tax time and I'm trying to figure out how to handle our weird life situation. [more inside]
PHO Disaster
Hi Metafilter Cooks- I need your advice. I was making a delicious looking Chicken Pho recipe from Smitten Kitchen, but adapting it to my instant pot. I put together the ingredients for the broth and set the pressure cooker and walked away...and afterwards produced a divine smelling stock that I really want to use. But [more inside]
Should I return my new printer?
I set up a new laser printer last night that had just been delivered. It is a Dell e525w that can print, scan, fax, and copy. After going through the set-up process, I printed some test pages. They came out mottled, with very uneven print. See image here (let me know if the image is not public, as I've never used Google Photos before, thanks). I was using plain laser printer paper and the correct printer setting for it. More info below. [more inside]
I want a super fast printer for Mac, text only, and wireless
I’m printing tons of text and I need something that’s mac compatible, wireless, and prints like the wind. It would be great if it didn't print to the same tray that feeds it.
Need Music to Work By (chill out edition)
Basically my favorite song to work to is "You Wish" by Nightmares on Wax. Largely instrumental, upbeat, melodic, a bit of funk, and just interesting enough that I can hear it but not listen to it, if you know what I mean. If you like this song, what else do you like? [more inside]
posted by nkknkk at 7:29 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by nkknkk at 7:29 AM PST - 14 comments
family involvement in school community outreach program
I'm working with the social worker at my kids' school to get families more involved in the students' annual community outreach program. Looking for more ideas of how to do that. [more inside]
What is this baby beast in my ceiling?
Grumpybearbride and I have been plagued by beasts in our ceiling, scritch-a-scratching and tumbling about in the night, causing a ruckus and keeping us from getting a good night's rest. This morning it sounds like they added a new member to their family. I recorded and enhanced the sound of said wee beastie in hopes that someone with more knowledge than I could potentially identify it. This is the recording. Help!
posted by grumpybear69 at 6:31 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by grumpybear69 at 6:31 AM PST - 12 comments
Baking up a storm
The weather forecast for the weekend includes a blizzard starting Friday afternoon and dying down sometime on Sunday. I'm a reasonably competent baker looking for suggestions to distract me from cabin fever and the inauguration. Suggestions? [more inside]
posted by peppermind at 5:28 AM PST - 24 comments
posted by peppermind at 5:28 AM PST - 24 comments
Busywork With Benefits
For reasons I have a number of 16-30 year olds who are required to spend an hour at a time (1-5 d/w) in the computer lab with me. They are excused from the usually assigned task, but their presence is sill required. Again, reasons. They rotate in and out so I can't do so much team-based or curriculum based stuff, but I would like them to spend this time on an enriching manner. I have some ideas (inside) but want more. Ideally quantifiable/defensible activities that could go on a resume somehow. [more inside]
posted by Iteki at 2:19 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by Iteki at 2:19 AM PST - 19 comments
Navigating Apple's encryption red tape in 2017
Question for developers about your experiences submitting apps to the App Store with encryption without having Apple make a big deal of it... [more inside]
posted by johngoren at 1:58 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by johngoren at 1:58 AM PST - 2 comments
January 18
Leveling Up (Hiking)
I'm looking for tips and stories from regular hikers about how you got "better". What helped early on, what gear made your life better and you wish you had had it much earlier, judging trail difficulties, etc. [more inside]
Negotiating a part-time, already low-pay job
Looking for some advice and/or a reality check on my plans to negotiate this offer I've received. [more inside]
C is for cookie question
I made an uh-oh and added an extra two ounces of butter to a batch of ginger snaps. Help? [more inside]
posted by Champagne Supernova at 8:39 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by Champagne Supernova at 8:39 PM PST - 9 comments
solo business trip to NYC - help!
The good news is that I've successfully talked my work into sending me to New York City for a couple work-related seminars in less than two weeks. The terrifying news is that now I actually have to do this thing. I have never been to New York City (I've never spent any significant time in a city larger than Seattle), can get anxious riding public transit in unfamiliar places, and am looking for help/recommendations. [more inside]
posted by skycrashesdown at 8:21 PM PST - 40 comments
posted by skycrashesdown at 8:21 PM PST - 40 comments
Can I use a Seagate Expansion Drive with my Mac?
I have a Mac Mini running OSX version 10.11.6. (El Capitan). With a view to eventually replacing its original 1TB internal disk with a smaller-capacity SSD, I bought a 4TB Seagate Expansion Drive. [more inside]
Non-Amazon picks for model rocketry supplies?
Making good on my new year's resolution to do less business with Amazon and more with small businesses that treat their employees well - hivemind, who are your picks for hobby supplies in general, and model rocketry supplies in particular?
posted by ryanshepard at 7:16 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by ryanshepard at 7:16 PM PST - 5 comments
Futher reading/thoughts on gross inequality needed
The recent Oxfam report on the 8 richest men holding as much wealth as the poorest 50% of the world has led to me hearing arguments about how these people deserve their money and they give to charity so it's all OK, which I find kind of awful. Does anyone have thoughts/ websites/discussions/books to recommend that examine this in a more sophisticated way? [more inside]
posted by everydayanewday at 6:56 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by everydayanewday at 6:56 PM PST - 14 comments
TV recommendations for the hard to please
AI have super picky, specific tastes in TV. Help me find more shows that meet my criteria. Exact preferences and shows I already enjoy or dislike under the fold. [more inside]
The case of the missing clouds
So I have been blessed with proximity to a large window at work, and given that the days have gotten short enough that the sun sets during the work day, I thought that a nice silver lining (or red-orange lining) to the short, cold days would be watching the sunset right before the workday ends.
The DC area is not exactly known for its spectacular sunsets, but I have been noticing the strangest recurring sunset fizzle. [more inside]
posted by space snail at 6:00 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by space snail at 6:00 PM PST - 3 comments
Spoken word section from a song in my head - what's it from?
There's a spoken word section in a song that drifted into my head and I'm trying to remember what that song is. Here's what I recall - it's brief, a fairly deep and scholarly man's voice giving spiritual type advice with some swirly, electronic/ambient/tinkling music underneath. [more inside]
posted by davebush at 6:00 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by davebush at 6:00 PM PST - 12 comments
Unusual for students to have trouble switching between math and verbal?
I've been working with middle-school students and many of them have had trouble putting in good performances on both math and verbal sections of a standardized test in one sitting. And a single student can switch between a high verbal score one sitting and then a high math score in another sitting.
Curious if this is a known phenomenon with younger kids--that maybe they get stuck in a certain gear and can't modulate their efforts between very different skills and mindset needed for mathematical and verbal reasoning?
Philadelphia by Train
Help two ladies plan a fun filled day in the city of Brotherly Love [more inside]
posted by FakePalindrome at 4:57 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by FakePalindrome at 4:57 PM PST - 13 comments
Peer to Peer Social Media Clients
Are there any social media applications that are peer-to-peer in the sense that they don't require a central server and effectively can't be shut down? [more inside]
Help me with my noodles please
I am in love with the high protein bean pastas. Currently I pair them with marinara and feta. I'm looking for alternatives. Quick, veg'n-friendly, and both exotic as well as bland/basic additions are appreciated! [more inside]
Hike Around the World
I'm looking for recommendations of multi-day hikes, ideally with places to sleep each night. [more inside]
Why am I getting Google alerts on old content?
I have a blog that has not been updated in three years. Back then, I set up a Google alert for the blog title, in case, you know, I made it big and didn't notice. I have not received any Google alerts since I stopped posting, until this week. [more inside]
Need to move my cats permanently from main house to different area
My cats have already claimed the main house and the surrounding area as their territory over the past 8 months. However, I need to move them away to my separate house - about 1200 meters away (see below for reasons). What is the best method for moving all of them and insuring they won't return to the main house/stay at my house?
Thanks so much again Metafilter!!! [more inside]
Help finding video from art installation
My boss heard about an artist/videographer who displayed a clip of a woman kissing her child in extreme slow motion; as the video was slowed down, the mother appeared to turn grotesque/monster-like. We think this was on display in an art installation somewhere, but we can't find anything about it. Does this sound familiar to anyone?
TIL I need to read the manual on a piano.
I'm a new Nord keyboard owner, and as excited as I am to own what all my musician friends (and pros I admire) say is the best, I'm having a hard time understanding how to use this thing. Help! [more inside]
Help me identify this folk tale (or tales)
Is there a folk tale about a parade that you're not supposed to look at that comes through town every seven years (maybe some kind of hunting party?), and one guy looks at it, so a duck sneaks into his house and puts a fish hook in his leg and doesn't take it out until the parade comes through town seven years later? [more inside]
What magazine subscriptions are worthwhile in the digital age?
I spend too much time looking at my phone when I'm home. I would like to pick up a magazine instead. I recently continued a Bon Appetit subscription after a trial period and was surprised by how cheap it was. I'd like to have a few more magazines coming to the door every month. Do you still have any magazine subscriptions that you enjoy? Any special interest, news, hobby, or lifestyle magazine you think is worth receiving in the digital age?
Were all civilians protected by the original Geneva Convention 1949?
BEFORE the First Protocol was added? In the original Geneva Convention of 1949, the definition of a 'Protected Person' seems limited in its application, depending on a civilian's nationality, if their country of origin maintains diplomatic relations with the country they are in, and a labyrinthine of other factors.
Looking for books on how morality can lead to bad decisions
I am looking for a book that covers how making the moral choice in a given situation could lead to worse outcomes. I am probably not explaining this well. [more inside]
Why aren't my contacts available for daily wear?
I wear contact lenses only occasionally, so I wanted to switch from monthlies to dailies. But it turns out they don't make a daily lens with my prescription (for astigmatism). Is there some specific reason they do not do this -- I was told they only do a 180 +/- 20, and my astigmatism is 30. But why do they stop at 20?
UK Mortgage question...
I'm trying to figure out in my head how best to go about obtaining a mortgage in the UK whilst also satisfying certain criteria. I'm not sure if Metafilter is the place for this. Sorry if not! [more inside]
Car rolls into car behind it on a steep hill. Help me write this scene.
I'm writing a fictional scene in which a car with a stick shift rolls backward on a steep hill (light changes from red to green) and hits the car behind it. What kind of damage would there be to both cars involved? Assuming it's a steep San Francisco hill. Would the police be called to fill out an accident report? Or would the two parties just exchange info and be on their way? I'm looking for the most dramatic outcome while still being plausible. Thanks for any input.
Where to go? Immigration to Europe.
My boyfriend and I would like to move with our infant son to Europe for at least ten years if not forever. Which (preferentially Western European) countries are considered relatively simple to migrate to? Details inside the fold. TIA! [more inside]
posted by Everydayville at 12:30 PM PST - 25 comments
posted by Everydayville at 12:30 PM PST - 25 comments
Favorite editions/versions of fairy tales
What are some of your favorite editions, versions, or retellings of fairy tales or folk tales or other stories in adjacent genres? I'm interested in beautiful illustrations, or well-written prose, or any other reasons that you love that specific version. If you have one preference for younger kids and a different for older kids, tell me that too! [more inside]
How can I create a parody Wikipedia page?
How can I create a parody Wikipedia page? I want it to look like an authentic page - something that I can share privately with friends or post on my own website. [more inside]
posted by sixpack at 12:04 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by sixpack at 12:04 PM PST - 6 comments
Umbrella for Women's March
Does anyone know of a source for an umbrella with a progressive slogan or image on it? I planned to carry a sign in the Women's March on Saturday but the forecast is for rain. It would need to get shipped to California by end of day this Friday. Thanks!
Awkward URL rewrite question
Can anyone help me set up a redirect so that people using old links to my site can get to my new ones? [more inside]
posted by macdara at 11:30 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by macdara at 11:30 AM PST - 5 comments
Suddenly dumped by a friend--how to move on
Yesterday, a friend explicitly dumped me. It was completely out of the blue, and not over something I'd ever expect to end a friendship. While I can accept losing her, the hard thing is worrying that all of my other friendships are constantly at risk. What's helped you in situations like this? [more inside]
posted by mermaidcafe at 11:18 AM PST - 25 comments
posted by mermaidcafe at 11:18 AM PST - 25 comments
Pool Drainage Question
We have to drain our pool. We moved into a new place, and apparently the water is pretty old. I have a few unresolved issues about this, as I'm not especially handy when it comes to these kinds of things. [more inside]
posted by SpacemanStix at 11:15 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by SpacemanStix at 11:15 AM PST - 6 comments
New Bike! Linus Dutchi vs. Electra Loft
I'm looking for a new bicycle and am drawn towards the upright styling of the Linus Dutchi and the Electra Loft. I am 5'10" and live in a flat-ish, midsized city. I will not be riding in winter. [more inside]
Does it make sense to pay off a 30 year mortgage in 6-9 years?
If we were to get a 30 year fixed rate mortgage at around 4.1%, and could afford to pay off the note within 6-9 years, would that be a smart financial decision? The alternative, I suppose, would be to instead invest that extra money? [more inside]
posted by czytm at 11:09 AM PST - 20 comments
posted by czytm at 11:09 AM PST - 20 comments
Help me be Wandering Aengus!
I'll be in Galway for a conference in late May. I'd like to tack on a week of long walks/day hikes in Ireland. Suggest itineraries? (Difficulty level: no car.) [more inside]
posted by Owl of Athena at 10:57 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by Owl of Athena at 10:57 AM PST - 5 comments
How to take a baby to a professional meeting without it ending in tears?
Tomorrow night I need to go to a professional association meeting and I have to bring my 2.5 month old. The meeting is 2 hours long. Any tips for making this go as smooth as possible? [more inside]
Origins of "rape van"?
I'm a woman in my late 40s, and the first thing I think when I see an older van without windows is that it's a "rape van." My immediate first thought is that it's a dangerous thing. Literally all of the (female) friends I ask about this agree with me: these vans are used for crimes. And yet none of us really know why that's our visceral reaction. What's the origin? [more inside]
posted by BlahLaLa at 10:42 AM PST - 57 comments
posted by BlahLaLa at 10:42 AM PST - 57 comments
High Velocity AC Tips?
We intend to have high velocity air conditioning installed in our small (ca. 1900sqft) house. If you've had such a system installed, can you share any tips/perspectives? [more inside]
What are best practices for sending a lot of media mail rate packages?
What are best practices for sending a lot of media mail rate packages via USPS? [more inside]
posted by otherwordlyglow at 10:12 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by otherwordlyglow at 10:12 AM PST - 15 comments
Gobsmacking online nonfiction + journalism classes
I'm looking for top-notch online classes for nonfiction, journalism, and nonfiction book writing, along the lines of Susan Orlean's Skillshare class. What others am I missing? [more inside]
Advice on dealing with horrible, horrible warranty Service from Lenovo
I paid for a three-year next-business day on-site warranty for my computer. It has taken over a month for my computer to be fixed. It has been esclated to executive support. What should I do, and what should I ask for? [more inside]
Should I buy the S7 edge phone with "free" smartwatch and VR headset?
At the moment the Galaxy S7 edge is being advertised heavily in the UK and if you buy one you get a free Gear Fit 2 smartwatch. I can also get a free Samsung VR headset. Do I want this stuff? [more inside]
posted by hazyjane at 4:46 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by hazyjane at 4:46 AM PST - 13 comments
How do I recover from being micromanaged and avoid getting fired?
I have recently begun a new position. It is not going well so far and reminds me very much of my most recent position, in which I was fired after only 4 weeks. I am terrified of being fired again and need pointers for how to best prove myself in my first weeks. [more inside]
How do I deal with applying for the job after the deadline?
I found a government job I'd like to apply for. Only trouble is, the deadline for applying was January 17, which is the day I'm typing this question. I'd still like to apply. How do I deal with the fact that I'll be a day late? [more inside]
Should I stay or should I go?
I am at a crossroad in my life, and don't know what to do. Ive been thinking about moving, but depression has been making me second guess myself. Details inside. [more inside]
January 17
How to reject a gift (bribe?)?
I just got a very personal gift(TM) from someone in my company. This kinda feels like a bribe, because she's always asking for work favours. I want to not accept it, but nicely. [more inside]
posted by milque at 8:49 PM PST - 22 comments
posted by milque at 8:49 PM PST - 22 comments
Looking for a specific “call to action”
A number of digital “calls to action” have arisen since the election. I thought I had run across one that I can’t find again. [more inside]
posted by maurreen at 8:49 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by maurreen at 8:49 PM PST - 3 comments
Have dabba/tiffin carrier, trying to bring lunch to work more
As part of a general "Trying to change things up" (with bonus potential savings) push, I'm trying to bring lunch into work more. From a wedding gift, I am also now in possession of a dabba/tiffin-carrier. (Apologies if one term is preferred over the other, Google suggested they're interchangeable) One seems like a solution for another, so any suggested recipes/categories of food (or things to know/avoid in my use & care of this) would be appreciated. [more inside]
Convert PPT to Website?
Trying to copy and paste pages only gets me the wording, none of the graphics or formatting. What to do? [more inside]
posted by Michele in California at 6:40 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by Michele in California at 6:40 PM PST - 9 comments
Wanted: suggestions for power-bank with pass-through charging
I've done many searches on google and amazon with little luck, so I'm hoping somebody here will have some real-world experience with a power-bank for USB charging supports "pass through charging" (allows for multiple devices to be able to plugged into the device and charging at the same time the power-brick itself is being charged. The benefit, of course, is that while travelling, one can simultaneously charge both devices and the power-bank *at the same time*. [more inside]
Semi-homemade healthy
I really don't like to cook. My ideal meal involves pulling bags out of the freezer and pantry, dumping a scoop from each into a bowl, and nuking. For example, microwaved frozen wild rice + Indian Fare eggplant sauce + precut kale + local frozen meatballs is a tasty dish that takes less than 20 seconds to prep. Can you help me brainstorm some meals that are HEALTHY and made up basically entirely of frozen/packaged meats, carbs, veg and sauces? I have access to a Trader Joe's, Whole Foods, and regular grocery store.
Do I pull up last year's veggies in the garden if they're still growing?
Help a newbie out. I had kale growing last year over the summer, and they're still going strong. They're taking up half of the raised bed, and as I'm planting new baby vegetables (shoots?), I'm wondering if I'm supposed to take the old kale out. [more inside]
Lampshades can't be this expensive, can they?
Hola mefi!,
The ladybro and I signed a lease on the apartment of our dreams. Then we went back at night to get the keys and... Oh no. The lighting is, shall we say, juvenile penitentiary chic. Thankfully, it seems fixable with some LED bulbs and some new shades for the flush mounts. So, I hop online and lamp shades are apparently the hot new investment commodity because the market is on fire- I can barely find something below $100. [more inside]
Comprehensive list of books recommended by Obama over last 8 years?
I'm looking for a compilation of all of the book recommendations Obama has made over the last 8 years. There are lists that have come out with a few at a a time, but has anyone see a comprehensive list?
Thanks!
posted by KleenexMakesaVeryGoodHat at 3:06 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by KleenexMakesaVeryGoodHat at 3:06 PM PST - 11 comments
help me make my blind dog's life as good as it can be
My darling dog Jack has gone blind, I'm looking for real-world suggestions for making his sightless-life better. [more inside]
municipal websites: what's the landscape?
My small town has the world's worst website - it was basically abandoned by its vendor sometime last year, and the city manager is in no hurry to remedy that. The former contractor was CivicPlus, and the new contractor/vendor is a group called Civica, which has recently been bought by another group called Granicus. [more inside]
What TV Shows Are Like Burn Notice and White Collar?
White Collar is my all-time favorite TV show. Recently I've speed-binged Burn Notice on Netflix, and I'm almost done. I'm looking for my next fix. [more inside]
Suggestions for all-inclusive outdoorsy family resorts near D/FW?
We (me, my wife, our 12-year-old daughter and 9-year-old son) recently spent a weekend at Rough Creek Lodge and Resort on the edge of the Texas Hill Country. We had a great time and would like to do something similar this Spring. We want to try something with more hills, trees, and creeks this time around. I'm thinking northern Arkansas (I have visited Lost Valley/Buffalo River and loved the area) but that might be a little more drive than we'd like. Ideally, we'd stay within a four-hour drive of Dallas/Fort Worth but might be willing to drive a little more for something exceptional. [more inside]
posted by ElDiabloConQueso at 1:35 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by ElDiabloConQueso at 1:35 PM PST - 4 comments
How to get one audio source for 2 separate screens connected to 1 comp?
I have my computer connected to two separate screens in different parts of one room. Strangely, if I want to play sound from the computer, I have to change source on my AV receiver depending on which screen I'm using: If using the monitor, then I need to use 'Line In 1', if the TV, then 'Optical'. Why is it not just using Line In 1 - which is what connects my computer to the Yamaha receiver? What do I need to do to only use 1 source with both screens? Thanks :) [more inside]
soulful electronic music
Looking for "soulful" electronic music recommendations [more inside]
posted by bearette at 12:29 PM PST - 38 comments
posted by bearette at 12:29 PM PST - 38 comments
Rodney Dangerfield in Back to School 2
At almost 36 years old, I finally know what I want to do -- I want to work in historical media conservation/preservation. Preferably this would be film preservation, but I'm also very open to audio preservation and paper (and other media) archives. What is the fastest, most efficient, most direct way to get the practical skills to get my foot in the door? [more inside]
How many MeFites does it take to change this light bulb?
The bulb in an overhead light fixture in my house has burned out. I cannot get the fixture open so I can change the bulb. Help me before I decide to just smash the damn thing. [more inside]
posted by Kat Allison at 12:07 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by Kat Allison at 12:07 PM PST - 16 comments
light gray fonts on web pages
what options do I have to make fonts a bit darker? [more inside]
posted by egk at 12:00 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by egk at 12:00 PM PST - 12 comments
Where's the hot place in 2017 to find PHP freelancers?
It's been several years since I've been involved publicly in the freelance game, and I have a client on whose behalf I'm looking to hire a subcontractor who does good PHP work. In the past I would have gone to vWorker or freelance.com, but like I said, it's been a while and I'm not sure where all the cool PHP freelancers hang out these days. [more inside]
Fool me once shame on you, fool me twice shame on me (Car Edition)
I'm a first time car owner and I do not understand cars at all. How can I learn about cars, or enough about my car, that I'm not taken advantage of by mechanics/dealers when I repair/buy cars? [more inside]
Data Munge: Uknown combination of 7 numbers produces a given number.
Data Munging Pros: In a spreadsheet with ten data columns, Column "A" is related to columns "B" through "J" in that some unknown combination or interaction of some or all of them will produce the data in Column "A". How do we determine what that combination is? (I can't even find what this type of problem is called, and I've not been able to find any productive Google search terms.) A more thorough explanation/example is provided in-thread. [more inside]
Working with the elderly. A life for me?
I am interested in becoming a Certified Fiduciary. Can I make a decent living doing this? [more inside]
posted by nubianinthedesert at 10:17 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by nubianinthedesert at 10:17 AM PST - 4 comments
Did I make the right decision to breakup?
Ended things with someone. Wondering if I made the right choice. [more inside]
Video of my grandfather's birthday announcement on the morning news
My grandfather's 100th birthday was announced on KTLA morning news this morning sometime before 7am. Is there a way to get a free copy of the tape or digital video file? Any chance someone in the MetaFilter community has it on their DVR? [more inside]
Need a video editor for 10 hours of raw wedding footage
When we signed the contract for the videography of our wedding, we misunderstood how raw the raw footage would be. We need to find someone who can edit about 10 hours of footage from three cameras down to about two hours. We don't want to work with our videographer because we are unhappy with his turn-around times and price. Does anybody have personal experience with an editor for such a job?
Son's teeth are braces-free, hurrah! How to celebrate/cheer him up?
My 15-year-old son is getting his braces off. This means he can again indulge in some of his favourite snacks, especially popcorn and chewing gum. I want to celebrate and also cheer him up (he's been a bit glum lately)--already thinking of taking him to the cinema *just* for a big bag of MOVIE THEATRE popcorn, and putting together a care package of various brands of gum for his school locker, but other than that, I got nothing.
Any ideas, mefites, for braces-themed jokes or treats, etc., that I can surprise him with for, say, a week? Even mild pranks might work (the equivalent of putting googly eyes on stuff, but braces/teeth themed)? He has a silly sense of humour.
Thanks :)
Looking for a good how to cook and food magazine
I don't know how to cook very well. Cookbooks, even ones that claim to be quick and minimal bore me. Motivator? Maybe a magazine with recipes, credible interesting articles on food and nutrition (even a lttle wine) I read Eating Well magazine and it seems pretty good. Any other suggestions?
Free yourself from the grind
Who are the best gurus and best resources for "freeing yourself from the 9 to 5 grind"? Everybody and his brother has a book on how to set up an online business and/or multiple streams of income that will allow you to work from anywhere on your own schedule. Who are the best? [more inside]
posted by Serene Empress Dork at 8:29 AM PST - 18 comments
posted by Serene Empress Dork at 8:29 AM PST - 18 comments
Vegetarian cooking projects
My wife and I like to take weekends to engage in more complicated (or just time intensive) cooking projects. The problem is that most of my ideas are very meat heavy. I'd like some ideas for vegetarian or just vegetable focused, cooking projects. [more inside]
posted by Bulgaroktonos at 8:20 AM PST - 27 comments
posted by Bulgaroktonos at 8:20 AM PST - 27 comments
Should I try online dating because I have not met any men being social?
I am 21 and I am going to graduate college soon. I have never had a boyfriend or been asked out before. I am in shape (5'5 and weigh 125 pounds). I feel like guys are not interested in me even when I do try to be social. Should I actually try online dating because I have not met any men being social? [more inside]
Can I run an extension cord behind drywall?
My wife and I finally broke down and bought a modern, flat-screen TV. I would like to hang it and hide the wires behind the wall. I know that I can do this with the low-voltage, HDMI cables, but I am wondering if I can run a good commercial-grade extension cord behind the wall as well so that I can hide the TV's power cord. Is this a dangerous/terrible idea? [more inside]
posted by 4ster at 6:01 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by 4ster at 6:01 AM PST - 7 comments
Could Brexit be prevented altogether?
British Prime Minister Theresa May confirmed that leaving the EU would mean leaving the single market, and that both Houses of Parliament would get to vote on the deal. If the House of Lords believes it would be bad for Britain to leave the single market, could they prevent Brexit? How likely is this to occur? Could the Commons overrule them in this instance?
Heading to New York
I've been offered a job at 70k per year (pre tax) located in Manhattan to start in September of this year. I'd like to live as close to midtown as possible, but I'm also aware that rent is very expensive. What are my options for: 1 to 2 roomies, or a studio apartment around 1,200 per month. I'd be fine with up to a 45 minute commute. [more inside]
How do I move past being an unsuspecting & unwilling wing woman?
I just learned that some people I consider friends only befriended me in order to pursue my best friend romantically. Where do I go from here? A veritable flurry inside. [more inside]
He seems very attracted to me but is unable to maintain his erection
I have been dating my boyfriend for a few months now. Since the first time we had sex, he kept losing his erection. I thought it was just nerves but things never got better. [more inside]
January 16
Urgent: Need lawyer for Seattle area for arrest at airport
Asking for a friend:
"my friend's aunt has been arrested at the Seattle airport FOR NO REASON while on vacation in the US and we are trying to help her. Does anyone know any immigration lawyers in the Seattle area/hotlines to call for advice/other relevant resources..."
Any help I could relay would be great. Thanks!
Still tasty?
Is there any particular reason why I should upgrade to Delicious Library 3 instead of retaining Delicious Library 2 on my Macbook? [more inside]
posted by FarOutFreak at 11:05 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by FarOutFreak at 11:05 PM PST - 6 comments
Please help us name our new puppy!
We are adopting a shih tzu puppy, yaaay! We would love some help picking a name for him! [more inside]
Becoming a teacher in the Clark Country School District
My mother is currently considering becoming a teacher in the Clark Country School District under this Nevada Teachers program, is this program a workable career launcher for an older woman? [more inside]
posted by foxfirefey at 8:47 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by foxfirefey at 8:47 PM PST - 10 comments
Welsh translation help: "y barnydd"?
In the context of a piece in the newspaper, specifically Y Drych from the 1880's-1900's, what does "Y Barnydd" mean? It's always followed by a person's name, for example, "Y Barnydd H. M. Edwards." Bonus question: where do I seek Welsh translation help that is not Google translate or helpful people on Metafilter?
posted by blnkfrnk at 8:01 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by blnkfrnk at 8:01 PM PST - 9 comments
Neat places to crash in Tokyo and Kyoto?
Looking for nicely situated botique hotels in Kyoto and Tokyo-- can anyone recommend something that would be memorable w/o breaking the bank?
Renting family cabins in the Poconos this summer
Where is a good place in the Poconos to rent 2-3 adjacent cabins near a lake in the Poconos? Needs to be kid/family friendly with full amenities including AC and kitchens. [more inside]
posted by Deathalicious at 6:06 PM PST - 1 comment
posted by Deathalicious at 6:06 PM PST - 1 comment
Toddler-sized feminist shirts in NYC by Saturday?
Taking toddlers and kids to NYC march, decided we should all wear shirts there, instead of counting on finding some on site. Seen any cool shirts in this size? That I could obtain on such short notice?
Inauguration & Women's March activities in DC?
Heading to DC this weekend with some friends for the inauguration and the Women's March. We're lefties and would love to plug into activities either on Friday or Saturday night. [more inside]
Informing my plot: in case of disaster, what would YOU do?
This year, I'm turning 50 and my goal is to finish one post-apocalypse novel before my birthday (given that I started writing in that genre age 12). So, without telling my story here, and thus rendering it unnecessary to write, please tell me... [more inside]
Trades for a Young Man in the Midwest?
My son is currently working retail, stocking overnights, and he hates it, and wants to get into something else. [more inside]
posted by Marie Mon Dieu at 3:19 PM PST - 24 comments
posted by Marie Mon Dieu at 3:19 PM PST - 24 comments
How can I paint a large steel planter if I live in a small NYCapartment?
I really like the shape & size of this big steel planter, but not the color, which will look mad cheeks with the rest of my stuff. I'm comfortable with the idea of painting it myself, but I don't know what kind of paint to use, how to prepare the surface, or even where I can do it, since I live in a New York apartment without a garage or tenant-accessible basement. Got any advice for me? [more inside]
posted by paul_smatatoes at 3:04 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by paul_smatatoes at 3:04 PM PST - 14 comments
Who should we donate this car to?
We've been charged with donating a family member's 24 year old Toyota Corolla which has reached the point of needing a new transmission. To whom should we donate the car? [more inside]
Easing a difficult childcare transition: help!
My family has been using the au pair program with great success for three years, since a little after my son Adam was born. We are currently in the midst of the transition to our third au pair, and Adam is not having it.
Do you have any strategies to help with this? [more inside]
posted by emkelley at 2:17 PM PST - 19 comments
posted by emkelley at 2:17 PM PST - 19 comments
Identify a thing
A friend is trying to give away this thing, but doesn't know what the thing is so she doesn't know if anyone would want it.
Any ideas?
posted by Naib at 2:12 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by Naib at 2:12 PM PST - 3 comments
Newspaper article clippings
Pure vanity question - if my work was covered in print by the major US newspapers in the last couple of weeks, and I wanted to get my hands on actual newsprint versions of the stories (not print versions from the web), what are some easy and/or creative ways to go about it? Preferably with no more than a postage stamp budget?
Dick Whitman became Don Draper. I'm looking for more examples.
Literature, TV, movies. One more example with possible spoilers inside. [more inside]
Diagnosed with heart failure on 12/14/16. What can I expect now?
I am a 36 yo female. Was diagnosed with atypical severe congestive heart failure one month ago. My question is: what now? [more inside]
Help me find the cool podcasters' table
How do I find podcast producers that need music? [more inside]
posted by Gygesringtone at 11:59 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by Gygesringtone at 11:59 AM PST - 4 comments
10 PRINT 'Om Mani Padme Hum'; 20 GOTO 10
Are there any cases of the use of electronic/computational prayer wheels, by way of computation? (In real life and/or in literature) [more inside]
posted by scodger at 11:52 AM PST - 16 comments
posted by scodger at 11:52 AM PST - 16 comments
gross
A dozen is 12. A "baker's dozen" is 13. In The Fatal Shore, a "dozen" of 40 lashes is mentioned. What other kinds of dozens are there?
posted by the man of twists and turns at 11:28 AM PST - 18 comments
posted by the man of twists and turns at 11:28 AM PST - 18 comments
Stand for weighted keyboard?
I am looking for a solid stand that will fit my CDP-120 Casio weighted keyboard. [more inside]
South UK / London area with kids in June -- farmstay?
Hi all -- Looking for recommendations as we put together a trip for 10-12 days, starting and departing London. Our party is 2 adults and 2 kids (3.5 years and 1.5 years). We've had great success with farmstays in the past. Train rides are also fun.
Any thoughts on places to visit or farmstays? We'll want to do a few days in London but also get out -- seaside or country or both in the time we have.
Ideally we'll travel by rail (trains are fun!) but we could drive.
Looking for less-touristy, more funky or strange kind of stuff. Walking treks, or renting bikes, etc.
Thanks!
We Are All Going To Die: 2017 Inauguration Playlist
I'm putting together a playlist to get me through this weekend. The theme is: we are all going to die/everything is terrible/this is a disaster/the end of civilization as we know it. Connections can be tenuous, lyrical/topical fit less important than the one moment of "HA! This song! Perfect!" Songs so far include REM's "It's the End of the World As We Know It," The Homeless Gospel Choir's "Armageddon," Def Leppard's "Armageddon It." Not interested in generic depressing/downbeat songs or overly sincere songs or even hopeful ones. Bitter laughs preferred.
posted by DirtyOldTown at 10:21 AM PST - 98 comments
posted by DirtyOldTown at 10:21 AM PST - 98 comments
how to leave job without screwing anyone over?
I've recently realised that it would be in my best interest to leave my current job. I actually feel quite passionate about the projects I'm working on, and I am aware leaving now would put a lot of people in terrible positions. Is there any way to minimize the damage if I leave this post? [more inside]
posted by quadrant seasons at 9:52 AM PST - 26 comments
posted by quadrant seasons at 9:52 AM PST - 26 comments
Antique Sewn Toy Restoration in Pacific Northwest USA
Looking for recommendations for a place (preferably near Seattle) that can do some cleaning/restoration on antique sewn toys (cloth dolls and a teddy bear). The items in question are at least 70-90 years old, and have been stored reasonably well, but could use some love to make them shine. Any experience with antique toy/doll consignment or sales would be useful too.
Which sci-fi authors best predicted the present?
As we now seem to be living in a dystopian science-fiction movie, I am wondering if there are books or movies that were particularly close in their predictions of what life would be live coming up to 2020. A lot of cyberpunk seems to have been short of the mark, but my vague memories of their precursors (like John Brunner) lead me to think that there were creators in the 1960s and 1970s who were better at looking forward.
Help me remember an early 90s computer game!
I have a very VERY hazy recollection of a children's computer game involving currency that I'd like to know more about. [more inside]
posted by phunniemee at 9:43 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by phunniemee at 9:43 AM PST - 7 comments
Help me remember a half-forgotten quote about crickets and silence
I've been trying to remember both the wording and the source of a quote I once heard to the effect of "If you want to make a loud noise, be so quiet you can hear the crickets, then take away the crickets." I heard (or read?) this in the context of writing poetry, and I feel like it may have been connected to Basho in some way--but I might be thinking that just because he wrote about crickets a lot. I have googled to no avail, but I may just suck at googling.
Ethics of workplace disclosure of medical condition
My sister was recently diagnosed with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), with several open lesions. She is NOT planning to disclose this at work, but the nature of her job requires frequent contact with a vulnerable population. Is there something I need to do? [more inside]
Help me to Disneyland, please
Tomorrow I'm planning to go to Disneyland along with five adults and three kids, ages 1 through 5. I haven't been there before. Ideas of how to optimise the experience? [more inside]
Ceiling mounted sliding door lemma
I have recently moved into a studio apartment and would like to install a ceiling mounted sliding doors to separate the "bedroom" from the "living room". Snowflakes below the fold. [more inside]
I need to make a PDF directory of magazines.
I have been given a long run of magazines to put online as PDFs. I'm currently scanning them and want to create a clean directory structure where I have the covers of the magazines as nice thumbnails, clicking on them gives you a modal with the cover and the table of contents and a download pdf button, and then you can download the individual issue if you click. Is there a free solution to this that doesn't require a larger brain than I possess? [more inside]
How can I be a better, more productive advocate for my mom?
My mother is 74 years old, and last June she unexpectedly needed open-heart, single-bypass surgery after a routine heart catheterization found a significant blockage. See inside for more details, but basically more than seven months later she is in continual debilitating pain and we are getting nowhere with doctors in terms of finding out why and doing anything to address or resolve it. I need advice on how to proceed, because I am at my wits end. [more inside]
Please help me not be sick all the time
I have a clusterfuck of ENT/asthma-type issues and I'm wondering if getting my tonsils removed would help. Please help. [more inside]
Retail management boot camp?
I'm in the odd position of needing to run and grow a year-old and still-struggling retail store...without any real retail experience to speak of. SO much more inside? [more inside]
Explain like I’m 5: Etsy Utah sales tax & business registration
I sell on Etsy and will be switching my inventory and hopefully making more money. I want to do it all right as I expand. But all of this is making my head spin! Do I need to register as a business too? A DBA? How? [more inside]
January 15
What should we write on our signs?
I'm attending the women's march in LA with my four year old daughter and a number of other family members. The problem I'm having is that there is so much WTF and everything is infuriating at this point I don't have the mental energy left to condense it all into something short and pithy.
I think I'm stumped because I'm naturally an optimist but I can't find that part of me right now.
Any advice? What will your signs say?
Trying to help a Japanese student apply for American colleges
A student of mine just asked me to help her with applying to American colleges and universities. I'm essentially looking for recommendations for, schools with good musical theater programs, advice and best practices for applying to universities from overseas, and applying for financial aid for non-US students. [more inside]
Grad school - advice for when the program is cancelled after acceptance
Asking for your ideas about what it'd be smart and reasonable to ask for from the program director if your chosen graduate school cancelled a program after sending out acceptances. I got word less than a month from when the program would have begun. There is the potential that this program would start two semesters from now. A phone conversation with their team confirmed that my acceptance would carry over, but I am not confident that this program will start on that timeline, and am applying to other programs, mostly for a fall start. [more inside]
Prevent a Burn From Scarring
Long story short, I set my hand on a metal fire ring, and got a pretty nasty burn. I think it's past the point of infection, but I'd love to not have another scar on my hand (I am kind of a serial klutz). Thoughts? [more inside]
posted by Wanderwhale at 8:38 PM PST - 19 comments
posted by Wanderwhale at 8:38 PM PST - 19 comments
Dancing in the Dark
I would love some advice on adding light to a challenging corner of our living room (photos after the jump). [more inside]
How can I make YouTube constantly display in-video time during playback?
I'm going to show a YouTube video to a bunch of people in a context (DIY MST3K) where we need to have constant access to the accurate playback clock for the movie. I.e., I want to show the timeline bar that appears at the bottom of the screen when you wiggle your mouse, constantly, but without constantly having to wiggle the mouse. Is there a way to do this?
Bonus if it can work with Chromecast.
posted by gurple at 8:03 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by gurple at 8:03 PM PST - 5 comments
Returned to my old team in a new role but it's going badly. What's next?
I joined a temp agency in January 2016 and was given a six week-long assignment at a foreign consulate. Six weeks turned into six months following several extensions. I left in July on great terms and in October, my former manager offered me a new assignment from November to April, covering some of a departing colleague's responsibilities. Unfortunately, things just aren't going as well as they did the first time. How should I discuss my concerns? I'm not even sure if I should stick it out until April... [more inside]
Guest with bedbugs.
A friend stayed overnight, went home and then found out they had bedbugs at their place. Should we be worried, and what should we be doing? [more inside]
Accounting help needed - Accounting Software Categories
I'm currently purchasing parts and packaging materials for a product I'm producting and I have a few questions about categorizing expenses. All of the items below are being purchased from different vendors and I'm packaging everything together. I'll give you a few examples and if you could, please recommend a proper way to categorize the expense.
1) The product itself
2) Screws
3) Zippered poly bags to contain the screws
4) A printed insert with instructions
5) Poly bag to contain everything
6) A printed cardboard bag topper stapled to the poly bag packaging.
That's really about it. I'd like to start entering in my invoices into my accounting program, but I really don't know the best way to organize these expenses.
Thanks for your assistance. I really appreciate it.
What to wear in NOLA in winter?
Hello! I will be visiting New Orleans in a week, and have never been. What should I plan to wear, both from a climate and a culture perspective? [more inside]
How do you tell the difference between diamonds, cubic zirconia, etc.?
How can I lean to tell the difference between cubic zirconia, diamond, and other stones? According to my internet research, cubic zirconia has more "dispersiveness" and "fire" than diamond, but diamonds have more "brilliance" than cubic zirconia. Can I train my eye to tell the stones apart with those properties? What does the "brilliance" look like, and how does that differ from "dispersiveness" and "fire"? Any other tips for differentiating stones used in jewelry would also be welcome. For example, if you have tips related to rubies, emeralds, or pearls, please share!
posted by mortaddams at 4:57 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by mortaddams at 4:57 PM PST - 6 comments
Having friends is making me anxious
I had social anxiety for a long time which meant I didn't really make any new close friends for the better part of a decade. I started a Master's course last year where I formed some real friendships, pretty much for the first time since secondary school. Now I can't stop convincing myself that my new friends don't like me anymore. [more inside]
posted by Chenko at 4:36 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by Chenko at 4:36 PM PST - 11 comments
The Pain of Using Gmail to Send Email to Myself
I frequently need to send emails to myself. Gmail keeps making it harder and harder. Details below. [more inside]
Please recommend a long handled hand held percussion massager.
This is for sore and tight muscles which I often have. I had never heard of this but my friend lent me hers for a sore neck and the next day I felt so much better. I want to buy one and am looking for feedback on a good product. Thanks in advance
posted by Tziv at 4:03 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by Tziv at 4:03 PM PST - 4 comments
What movers (if any) will get my things cross country without a wait?
I need my things to go cross country at the same time that I do, but don't want to move them myself. [more inside]
Who'll Stop the Mail?
My mortgage company is sending me offers (via snail mail) to refinance my loan once a week. I have repeatedly called, emailed, and written asking them to stop yet they do not. What recourse do I have? [more inside]
posted by majorsteel at 2:34 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by majorsteel at 2:34 PM PST - 10 comments
Unlocking Sony Xperia J & Factory Restore
I have inherited my wife's Sony Xperia J phone which she purchased from and used on our province's service provider's network. I want to wipe her stuff off of it, untether it from the provider, restore the phone to its original settings, and put a 7-11 pay-as-you-go SIM in it. How do I make this happen? There are plenty of Google results to do such things, but I don't know enough about phones/networks/Android to tell credible resources from sketchy. Thanks!
Should I move across the country?
I haven't felt like I fit in the area I grew up in—so I moved an hour away and have been living here for two years. I'm not happy here. Should I make a drastic change and move across the country? [more inside]
posted by AlexandriaParis at 12:58 PM PST - 17 comments
posted by AlexandriaParis at 12:58 PM PST - 17 comments
Is a Skedaddle bus to the Women's March a good idea?
Hi, we're planning to board a bus in Bangor, Maine on Friday night, drive 10 hours to RFK Stadium, get out and march and so forth, then go back to the bus and ride back to Maine. The vehicle is a 12-seater arranged by Skedaddle ... no sanitary facilities. Online reviews are scarce and the company supplies no specifics about the vehicle; we're concerned about reliability, safety, comfort, et cetera. Does anybody have any relevant experience or information? Will this be a good trip? (Sleep will be important because we have responsible work before and after.) Thanks!
Where can I get a print of this picture?
There's a photo montage floating about online depicting an octopus sitting on a barstool, playing an accordion. I would like to get a large (poster sized) print of it for a loved one who's obsessed with octopuses. But I can't find any info about it, whether or not it's available as a print, or if there's a high-res version somewhere I could get printed, myself.
What is this big plastic child-related accessory?
When cleaning out the garage, we found this big plastic thing [photos] and would like help figuring out what it is. My best guess is it attaches to a plastic tricycle (already given away), but why would it have the yellow segment?
posted by espertus at 12:04 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by espertus at 12:04 PM PST - 3 comments
how to train puppy for both outside and pads?
Dakota is 11 weeks old. I have housebreaking questions. [more inside]
posted by ASCII Costanza head at 12:01 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by ASCII Costanza head at 12:01 PM PST - 7 comments
Seeking therapist in the U.S. to treat Boarding School Syndrome
In the UK, a number of therapists recognize and treat Boarding School Syndrome, a cluster of mental health problems associated with having been sent to boarding school. Does anyone know of any therapists on this side of the Atlantic who practice in this area? [more inside]
posted by A. Davey at 11:19 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by A. Davey at 11:19 AM PST - 9 comments
Is it worth it to set up a 401k for a small business LLC partnership?
I'm trying to figure out whether it's worth it to set up a 401K for a small business -- an LLC with four partners and no other employees. It seems like it's not because management fees would be worse than the benefits of a tax deferred account. Did I get my calculations right? [more inside]
posted by studio2054 at 11:13 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by studio2054 at 11:13 AM PST - 8 comments
Good books for a 2 1/2 year old who loves numbers?
Our son is absolutely nuts about numbers (and letters, and other sequences or lists of things). His favorite books are all the kind where the first page has an 1, the second page has a 2, etc. But he needs more than just 10 things to count. Any recommendations? [more inside]
Cheap August stay in Martha's Vineyard?
I'm going out to Martha's Vineyard in early August 2017 to baby sit for a few weeks. I spent a long weekend there in 2016 doing the same. Since my employers made their plans last minutes, I ended up taking an indirect bus to MV and stayed in the hostel. It was a great experience, but I'd like this year's trip to go smoother for me. [more inside]
Thermostat Question
Spousal difference regarding thermostat. I run cold, wife runs hot. Her argument is that you can always layer. Fair enough, but I find myself needing to pile on sweaters in the middle of summer. Our two kids (5 & 8) are also usually cold inside the house. The thermostat is usually set to 65 degrees. Does 65 degrees year round seem unusually cold in the context of human beings living in a climate controlled house? Household thermometer is currently 62.5 (located in a different room that thermostat).
Arranging for a birthday surprise in Vieques?
What are my options for arranging a nice birthday surprise for someone while visiting Vieques at the end of this month? [more inside]
Trans women & fertility
Does anyone have any non-anecdotal information on how long a woman has to be on HRT for, before it becomes vanishingly unlikely that she can get someone pregnant? [more inside]
Would a cat by any other name be so fluffy?
Another name that cat question - I adopted a cat! Her shelter name was Boo, but I'm not feeling it. Can you help me find her name? Pictures. (She's absolutely gorgeous - these pictures aren't the best.) She's an almost six year old girl, at the shelter they said she was a bit of a princess, and so far she's pretty vocal, but she's still getting used to things. She's the only pet in the house. Open to any kind of name, but nerdy or witchy names get bonus points in my heart!
Is my lipstick growing bacteria?
I opened a rarely-used lipstick today and noticed little bumps on the sides - they look like the bacterial colonies we used to grow on plates back in microbiology classes, hence my question. [more inside]
posted by Naanwhal at 2:00 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by Naanwhal at 2:00 AM PST - 11 comments
January 14
Need pragmatic advice for a friend who is suffering spousal abuse
A friend (let's call her Sarah - not her real name) confided in my wife late today that her husband Bob (again not real name) has been physically abusive to both her and her four year child multiple times. Sarah has asked my wife to help - not just to be a friend to talk to - but basically a lot of pragmatic - "so what do I do now, how do I change my phone password, should I leave?" type questions. Wanted to check if any of the below is bad advice or should be added to (lots more inside...) [more inside]
posted by inflatablekiwi at 10:48 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by inflatablekiwi at 10:48 PM PST - 14 comments
What should I read to my baby, and when?
My wife is just beginning her second trimester, so it looks as though I'll be a dad in July. I'm pretty excited about this. I'd really love to instill an appreciation for canonical literature at an early age since it was so important to me as a kid and now as an adult. [more inside]
posted by jwhite1979 at 8:42 PM PST - 62 comments
posted by jwhite1979 at 8:42 PM PST - 62 comments
Is it better to move up in a role (promotion) or specialize in a skill?
Is it better to move up in a role (promotion) or specialize in a skill? [more inside]
Podcasts about towns & cities & other places
I’m looking for some good, hyper-local podcasts about towns and cities and suburbs and places. Some examples are: Curious City, which answers questions from listeners about Chicago; The Intersection, which looked at one intersection in San Francisco’s Tenderloin; and TriPod: New Orleans at 300 about New Orleans. I suppose that things like Off Shore -which is looking at different aspects of Hawaii one season at a time- would technically qualify, but they aren’t the point. Thanks!
posted by Going To Maine at 8:00 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by Going To Maine at 8:00 PM PST - 4 comments
Please help me identify this song!
My partner and I are trying to identify a particular song that seems to be a staple of bar soundtracks, at least in Brooklyn. [more inside]
posted by Transmissions From Vrillon at 6:26 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by Transmissions From Vrillon at 6:26 PM PST - 5 comments
Songs with the same feel as Natural Woman and If I Ain't Got You?
Natural Woman and If I Ain't Got You have a specific rhythmic feel that I really like and am having trouble finding more examples of. [more inside]
posted by STFUDonnie at 5:57 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by STFUDonnie at 5:57 PM PST - 8 comments
Love Triangle! Hacking! Deceit! WTF?
Did my ex-girlfriend hack into my Facebook Messenger account to get details about my current budding-relationship to try to fabricate an email to try to derail it? Help me analyze the IP/login evidence as well as real-world considerations as I figure out who the liar is, please! [more inside]
posted by fenwaydirtdog at 5:17 PM PST - 42 comments
posted by fenwaydirtdog at 5:17 PM PST - 42 comments
Food delivery / Senior services for rural parents?
My parents live across Lake Pontchartrain from New Orleans, in the St. Tammany parish. Lately, neither of them has been able to get around much at all.
Do any grocery stores down there deliver? Are there any Meals on Wheels type services? Any sort of senior services? [more inside]
posted by HighLowKitty at 5:02 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by HighLowKitty at 5:02 PM PST - 3 comments
Make Apple Music play the right version of a song!
Apple Music, or iCloud Music Library, or whatever, won't always play or show the correct version of the song or album I want to listen to. How can I get it to play the correct version? [more inside]
Videos played on my new mac have audio stutter, online or offline.
My nearly-brand-new, fully loaded iMac has a problem playing videos. The audio skips, as if tiny pieces of it have been taken out, or as if someone is sporadically unplugging the speakers for a fraction of a second. This happens even if the video is on my hard drive, and I'm playing it offline. [more inside]
posted by bingo at 3:24 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by bingo at 3:24 PM PST - 6 comments
Should I stay or should I leave (my veterinarian)?
My 15-year old Westie Monty has had GI issues for many years. Our vet has been rotating through a small repertoire of remedies with varying results and we're starting to wonder if a change of vet is in order. [more inside]
where to travel in Japan
If you had 12is days in Japan this spring, as a first-time traveler there, where would you go? What would be the must sees on the first time? Other than seeing some of Tokyo, of course, I do want to see Hiroshima. Other than that, what should I see and do? Just me and a guidebook.
Starbucks...sans coffee?
So now that cannabis is legal in several states in the US, is there a place anywhere in the continental US where one can find an Amsterdam-style coffeeshop - i.e. coffeeshops where one can buy and smoke cannabis? [more inside]
Smoking my cigarillos, riding on a silver stag
Have you seen Dave Malloy's musical Preludes? What's going on with Chaliapin's songs? [more inside]
Stranded in a prius and need a jump start
I'm stranded in a drained Prius after a night of car camping stupidity and am not sure what step to take next. [more inside]
posted by moonlight on vermont at 7:58 AM PST - 16 comments
posted by moonlight on vermont at 7:58 AM PST - 16 comments
What's it like to live in Roanoke, VA?
After spending a day in Roanoke, VA, and checking out housing prices, we've added it to our list of possible relocation towns. We are a white, middle age couple (no kids), and we both work remotely, so finding we don't need to find jobs there. We are very much attracted to part of the country for the weather and natural beauty. But what is it like to live there? [more inside]
Visiting Portland OR in order to decide whether to move there
My husband and I will have the chance to visit Portland OR in a couple of weeks for about 4 days (Saturday through Tuesday) as part of an in-person interview I have with a company up there. I am fairly confident of getting offered the job, but less confident on whether we want to move from the SF Bay Area to Portland or not. What should we do/see/experience in Portland over these four days to help us make this decision? What should we know about Portland before moving there? [more inside]
Tell me about your life, buskers
I'm working on a creative project (primarily a game) about magical buskers and would love to learn more about the day to day lives of buskers of various kinds. [more inside]
Using a layover as a mini vacation in Bangkok
I have a flight scheduled into Bangkok and a few hour later into Siem Reap Cambodia. I would like to make the flight into Bangkok a few days earlier and explore Bangkok on my extended 'layover.' I have a U.S. passport - would there be any issues with that for Visa on arrival in Bangkok?
Foster Dog with guarding and growling behaviour
I have another foster dog whose circumstances mean I would rather foster her long-term. She's sweet, and generally well-behaved and walks well with my dog. However, she has some pretty extreme guarding behaviour with her bed, bowl and toys. Moreover, she tends to steal my dog's toys and make them hers by dropping them in her dog bed. My dog is calm about it all, but right now I don't dare leave them alone in the same space. Any ideas to work on guarding? [more inside]
posted by frumiousb at 1:24 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by frumiousb at 1:24 AM PST - 10 comments
Smoking on P & O cruises in Australia
Thinking of taking P & O cruise from Australia to Vanuatu/Islands, on Pacific Dawn. I know the website states not rooms and balconies and smoking areas are available but was wondering if anyone had more info? [more inside]
January 13
My life in 12 inches.
I want to make a Web page that's basically just a bunch of evenly-sized square tiles which pulls specific album covers (from Amazon or Discogs or...) using some kind of input, whether it's drag-and-drop or entering a source URL or whatever. Is this a thing? [more inside]
posted by mykescipark at 10:40 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by mykescipark at 10:40 PM PST - 2 comments
How do you say "10-4 Good buddy!" in 21st century America?
I'm going to help a friend who is making a long-distance (~1500 miles) interstate move. I'll be driving his car, and he'll be driving a rental truck. I guess back in the 70's we'd get ourselves CB radios and be a "convoy". But it's now 2017 ... [more inside]
posted by doctor tough love at 10:19 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by doctor tough love at 10:19 PM PST - 14 comments
Chinese translation for chili cookoff
My dad would like a Chinese translation of this phrase, as you might see it on a sign: ALL HAIL THE ORANGE EMPEROR. Mandarin or Cantonese is fine, he just wants it to look cool as a sign and translate accurately if someone can read it. [more inside]
How easy is it to get into renewables with a Civil Engineering Degree?
I'm studying Civil Engineering and Marine Science (Dual Degree) and considering changing to Renewable Energy Engineering as I want to get into renewables, but it requires me changing universities, losing my scholarship and moving interstate. Worth it? [more inside]
posted by johnz at 9:00 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by johnz at 9:00 PM PST - 10 comments
Has this one weird menstrual thing happened to you?
I recently had a massage that caused my menstrual flow to massively increase for the duration of the massage. Is this a thing? [more inside]
Components of Abby's helmet ("Probably the future you're looking at!")
Dear makers, engineers, and hardware Mefites of all stripes: I'm working on an Abby Yates (Ghostbusters 2016) cosplay, and I want to make her helmet. It's a bit more complicated than Rick Moranis's was! Can you identify (and maybe even source) more pieces, particularly the square circuit board and round spool-like pieces? [more inside]
posted by wintersweet at 6:57 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by wintersweet at 6:57 PM PST - 13 comments
NJ to PA travel advice
What is the cheapest (/fastest/most efficient) way of getting from Jersey City (/Newark/Manhattan) to Exton (/Phoenixville/King of Prussia), PA? [more inside]
posted by sexyrobot at 6:31 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by sexyrobot at 6:31 PM PST - 12 comments
Please tell me what a funeral viewing entails and how to do it.
My half sister has just died at the age of 22 and leaves behind a two month old son. Her funeral is on Wednesday and will be a viewing (per her mother's wishes) followed by private memorial service at someone's house. Please tell me what people do at a viewing so that I can plan it. [more inside]
Results of Colorado 2013 Gun Control Laws
I'm looking for information about any results, good or bad, that can be attributed to the gun control laws passed by Colorado in 2013 in the wake of the Aurora movie theater shootings. [more inside]
What should I feed my cat?
What should I be feeding my cat in a reasonable balance of healthy and easy--dry food, canned wet food, raw food? Is portion-controlled free feeding so terrible? Is there peer-reviewed scientific research to back up any claims for or against a particular diet? [more inside]
posted by serelliya at 5:31 PM PST - 27 comments
posted by serelliya at 5:31 PM PST - 27 comments
What was this article (or podcast?) I read (or heard?)
In the last couple of months I read or listened to something. It was the story of a guy, who was essentially a 'good kid', who nonetheless got into burgling. He'd drop through the skylights of local stores at night and steal stuff. By all accounts he was quite good at it (I think he was good at climbing?) and for a time was a bit of a one-man crime wave – though eventually he got caught. (I also think his misdeeds may have been in service of a gambling addiction.) [more inside]
posted by so_necessary at 5:14 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by so_necessary at 5:14 PM PST - 2 comments
"Removed from Command": National Guard Question
So, Major General Errol Schwartz of the DC National Guard will be "removed from command" by order of the president at 12:01 PM on Inauguration Day. The Washington Post says, "As is customary, Schwartz, like other presidential appointees, submitted a letter of resignation to give the new administration a clean start." [more inside]
posted by scratch at 4:41 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by scratch at 4:41 PM PST - 10 comments
Get me out of the Mid-Atlantic
I'm done with where I live. So very done for so very long.
Fingers crossed I'll have the funds to make a real move sometime this spring/summer.
I have a dear friend who is also planning on leaving the area. [more inside]
Are developmental stages for speech & language the same across cultures?
Children who grow up learning English, for example, all learn in the same sequence: "birdie go" (the bird has gone), "doggie jump" (the dog is jumping), then "-ing" around 3 years of age ("doggie jumping"), then irregular past tense ("birdies went") and "is" ("daddy is big"). Then, lastly they learn the regular past tense verbs ("doggie jumped") and present tense verbs in the third person ("Daddy eats"). This is the order for the vast majority of English speaking children.** Is this developmental process the same for most Indo-European languages? [more inside]
posted by onecircleaday at 3:51 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by onecircleaday at 3:51 PM PST - 5 comments
Wanted: Broken Jokes!
In rereading our dearly departed jbickers' obituary from WFPL, I realized we had something in common: a love of broken jokes. Help me find more! [more inside]
What movie about the Manhattan Project did I watch?
I recall a film about nuclear testing. The only detail I can remember of the film is this: when the protagonist arrives in the story, he is told about what levels of radiation the Army has determined are safe for exposure. At the end of the film, the protagonist hears a new group being told a much, much higher number. [more inside]
Is anti-glare coating on glasses worth it?
Hi! I'm buying glasses for the first time in years, and I'm confused by all the options. [more inside]
Solar Eclipse Road Trip to Grand Island, Nebraska - Any tips?
We are considering taking a road trip to Grand Island, Nebraska in August to see the solar eclipse. We need to decide now to schedule work vacations. Can anyone recommend places to stay or eat in the area? Are there any good attractions? What about things to do or see on the drive from the Twin Cities area? We know the Omaha Zoo is one of the best in the country. Is there anywhere else we should plan on stopping?
NPD FIL's birthday dinner - shutting down pessimism
My FIL's birthday is this weekend. He and my MIL are fiercely codependent and they have really isolated themselves. I was really surprised to hear that MIL is hosting a birthday dinner and inviting other people! FIL is a grump and he puts people on edge, but if there is a chance of them opening up their social circle (and consequently putting less pressure on my husband and me), I will move mountains to help them be successful. I'd like to use my powers for good. Help me help them. [more inside]
posted by Bistyfrass at 1:38 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by Bistyfrass at 1:38 PM PST - 10 comments
CH 7 Bankruptcy: How detailed does my list of property have to be?
Filing CH 7 bankruptcy - I have a lot of stuff, mostly worthless IMO - how detailed do I have to be? [more inside]
posted by DandyRandy at 1:28 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by DandyRandy at 1:28 PM PST - 2 comments
how to ask someone if they're expecting to host you
My husband and I are going to see his cousin Karen and her family for a weekend. How do I ask non-awkwardly if Karen is expecting to host us in her house or if we should find our own Airbnb place? Somehow that never got clarified. [more inside]
posted by colfax at 1:21 PM PST - 20 comments
posted by colfax at 1:21 PM PST - 20 comments
OpenOffice text file unreadable
A few years ago, I created an OpenOffice doc that is now unreadable. Is there a way to find out how, or how to read it? [more inside]
Good PS4 games for 4 players?
I'm looking for fun games for the PlayStation 4 that are easy to pick up, fun, not too violent, and well designed... that as many as 4 players can play (i.e., not online but all sitting together on the couch using the PS4 controllers). [more inside]
posted by mark7570 at 12:05 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by mark7570 at 12:05 PM PST - 14 comments
I cannot remember what I bought these food items for.
In a fit of Bulk Barn madness, I purchased the following items a few months ago (they've been living in sealed containers in my fridge) but have no idea why I did or what the hell I would use them for. Any ideas? [more inside]
posted by Kitteh at 11:22 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by Kitteh at 11:22 AM PST - 14 comments
Do Mice Eat Human Semen?
Thanks to some crummy apartments I've lived in over the past few years, I've had some experiences that have led me to believe mice are attracted to/trying to eat my semen, thankfully when I am far away from it and them. Is this remotely plausible or am I galloping headlong into some weird combination of projection, pattern-matching, and narcissism? [more inside]
Help me understand imputed income for a domestic partner's insurance
I think I made a bad decision out of ignorance of the consequences of adding my domestic partner to my health insurance coverage in NYC. I am in potentially big financial trouble because of this, but before I deal with it, I want to make sure I understand what's going on. Can you help me understand how a very low premium has turned into an enormous chunk out of my paycheck--and what happens when I file my tax returns? [more inside]
posted by scarylarry at 11:10 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by scarylarry at 11:10 AM PST - 14 comments
Am I getting the undivided attention of a live-chat rep?
The slower-than-anticipated response time (even for non-technical questions) leads me to conclude that the live-chat rep I am working with is dealing with multiple customers. Is this the case, or are there aspects of a chat rep's job that I am misunderstanding or unfamiliar with. [more inside]
Need to-do app with some specific functionality
I am looking for a to-do list app that omits some common functionality in favour of not-so-common functionality. It can be Android or PC, but I don't have an iWhatever so that's out. Ideally the task list could be shared between phones and/or PCs. I've checked out any.do, habitica, todoist and a few others and they don't do what I want as far as I can tell. [more inside]
posted by Sternmeyer at 9:51 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by Sternmeyer at 9:51 AM PST - 11 comments
Where to kill time today around the Bozeman Montana airport?
I am flying into Bozeman, MT this afternoon and I have 2-3 hours to kill before my friend arrives on another flight. I'll have a rental car. Where should I pass the time? What should I do? I don't want to wander to far afield since I have to come pick up my friend.
posted by mmascolino at 9:41 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by mmascolino at 9:41 AM PST - 4 comments
Best city for a single middle-aged gay man
Single, about to be unemployed, middle-aged gay man with no obligations. I can move anywhere, do anything. I could use a list of great places. [more inside]
Name of zone around bomb during diffusal
I am trying to remember a term for a specific zone designated around a bomb during its diffusal. Something about only certain people being able to pass through, or exchange places during the disposal operation. The term may apply to the rules followed in that zone, rather than the zone itself. [more inside]
What else have you made up?
When I'm stressed I turn to a couple of songs or albums to help me stop spinning my anxiety wheels. Please help me find more songs like these, or help me figure out what kinds of music I should be looking for. [more inside]
Practicing what I preach.
Can a WD My Cloud work with PC and Mac simultaneously? [more inside]
posted by sixfootaxolotl at 9:20 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by sixfootaxolotl at 9:20 AM PST - 3 comments
Dealing with husband's ex wife's request
My husband's ex wife is incredibly high conflict. I do not personally have any interaction with her at all due to her ongoing abuse and stalking behavior. We share children with her so she continues to be in our lives. She just sent me a friendly email asking for the recipe for a food that my stepson likes. Should I ignore or give her what she's asking for? [more inside]
UK citizen changing name abroad
I am a UK citizen living in Switzerland and I want to legally change my name. If I were resident in the UK, I could just make my own deed poll and have it signed by two witnesses. As I live abroad, it has to be notarised.* I have a few questions. [more inside]
Concussion-free play spaces in for babies in Brooklyn
Brooklyn parents: I'm looking for a baby-friendly play space/jungle gym, preferably in central Brooklyn off the B/Q trains. I'm imagining foam objects, a soft floor, a tiny slide, etc. Help! [more inside]
posted by Hwaet at 8:29 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by Hwaet at 8:29 AM PST - 2 comments
it puts the tape measure in it's home...
tell me about this word please: footarackasacky [more inside]
posted by chasles at 7:24 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by chasles at 7:24 AM PST - 6 comments
What can I make with leftover pork shoulder?
I make a pork shoulder in the crock pot about 1-2 times a month. My husband loves it and begs me to make it more often, but he dislikes leftovers and won't eat them unless they are made into something else. Frying the leftover pork and mixing it with veggies won't cut it. I can only eat so much pork by myself -- so what entree can I make with leftover pork shoulder? I can leave it in chunks or shred it. [more inside]
A gift for the person who *really* doesn't want or need anything
A relative is joining the armed forces, and is leaving for training soon. I'd like to get him a parting gift. What, though? [more inside]
posted by cotton dress sock at 5:35 AM PST - 34 comments
posted by cotton dress sock at 5:35 AM PST - 34 comments
How to overcome weakness in non-verbal communication
I’m bad at picking up on non-verbal, non-literal communication, and my own non-verbal expression isn’t accurate either. I’d like to stop causing problems due to these weaknesses, either by improving them or by compensating for my lack of ability. [more inside]
posted by daisyace at 5:21 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by daisyace at 5:21 AM PST - 11 comments
Do I need Norton Internet Security?
Just got notice from Norton about re-up, and it's now up to $110. Is there a cheaper or maybe even free way to protect my computer? [more inside]
posted by james33 at 3:09 AM PST - 18 comments
posted by james33 at 3:09 AM PST - 18 comments
Help me find the best videos of dances in public, no flash mobs
I was mindlessly scrolling through Instagram video-crack and came across a clip of two women who guerrilla-filmed a choreographed hip hop dance next to an airport baggage claim. And I guess I forgot to "like" it, because now it's gone, never to be found again. What I am looking for now is more videos of 2-6 people doing some kind of short choreographed hip hop dance in a well known place like an airport or a big box store aisle, someplace where it wasn't exactly illegal, but they had to do it quickly and move on. [more inside]
posted by oxisos at 12:53 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by oxisos at 12:53 AM PST - 9 comments
January 12
Online tool that creates variations of ONE photo to create animation?
I'm looking for an online tool that I lost track of that does something unique, but, unfortunately, sounds like every gif maker out there. I believe it's a new tool, or at the very least, I saw it on a design blog within the last few months. It takes one photo, does some nifty redrawing voodoo and creates hundreds (thousands?) of subtly illustrated images that vary ever so slightly, and when all put together it turns into a softly animated image. [more inside]
Am I being unreasonable?
There's a recurring theme of frustration between my husband and I and I don't know how to tell if I have unrealistic expectations, if I'm being unfair, or if this is actually OK to be frustrated about. Or how, practically, to start on making any of it better. [more inside]
Failure of the Juvenile Justice System
What are some good resources to see facts about the harms of the juvenile justice system? [more inside]
posted by xarnop at 7:42 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by xarnop at 7:42 PM PST - 9 comments
Alternatives to my Current Lamp/Bulb/Globe
I'm looking for alternatives to this lamp/bulb/globe. Price isn't the most important thing—longevity is actually more important: I'm sick of going up and down the ladder to replace them... [more inside]
Electric heater died. Help me replace it
I can't use my built-in electric heater in the living room because it sounds like a jet taking off. An old, creaky, badly maintained jet that's about to fall out of the sky and kill me. My nervous system just can't handle the sound (and yes, the building manager called someone to try to fix the sound. Didn't work). So I've been using a space heater that just died. [more inside]
posted by Bella Donna at 7:05 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by Bella Donna at 7:05 PM PST - 12 comments
Should I encrypt the drives on my home PC?
I'm worried about the possibility that my tower PC might get stolen during a burglary, and then the bad guys will have access to all my data. I'm thinking of using Windows BitLocker to encrypt all four of my hard drives, but I don't know if it'll work with my backup system. [more inside]
posted by akk2014 at 6:42 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by akk2014 at 6:42 PM PST - 4 comments
Good bar for a meetup in NYC, around 48 and lex, on a friday after work?
I'll be heading for the city in a few weeks, a Friday night to Sunday morning jaunt. Looking for a bar that won't get overcrowded right away with after-work drinkers to call a meetup of old friends, people on a certain webforum I frequent, etc. Nothing fancy but quirky is okay. [more inside]
Reluctant empty nester
My mother seems to be struggling with the idea of an empty nest and gets upset as I spend more time away from the family home? Details under the cut. [more inside]
About Domain Registration
When ICANN Whois says a website has been updated, what does that mean?
I can't play with you right now lil doggo.
I work from home, have a three year old male pembroke corgi who ALWAYS wants to play. I play with him throughout the day when I can, but he is always popping up alongside my chair begging to play and it breaks my heart. When I can play with him I do. What do I do here? I want him to stop begging me all day to play but not necessarily never ask me to play because that seems sad? I don't know, can anyone help with ideas or guidance.
Can I connect wireless headphones to this receiver? If not, then what?
All my music is on CDs. I want to get wireless headphones so I can listen to music while falling asleep. I play CDs on this receiver, which has a headphone jack but doesn't do Bluetooth. Is there any way I could use wireless headphones with it? If not, what's a good alternative solution? Also, gear recs please. [more inside]
Putting a dog to sleep - now or later?
One of my dogs is heading towards needing to be put to sleep if he's not already there - I'm having trouble sorting my feelings and if I'm putting him to sleep for the right reasons. [more inside]
posted by lpcxa0 at 2:12 PM PST - 29 comments
posted by lpcxa0 at 2:12 PM PST - 29 comments
Here's my plan: buy land, build cheap. How do I make it happen?
What's the best resource for learning about buying land and building a tiny prefab house? [more inside]
posted by Calicatt at 1:38 PM PST - 20 comments
posted by Calicatt at 1:38 PM PST - 20 comments
Was my life as a bespectabled person a lie?
I have worn glasses since I was 7 years old (I'm 32). I went for a checkup yesterday, and turns out my eyesight is 20/15 (better than normal)...what happened? [more inside]
posted by Tarumba at 12:56 PM PST - 26 comments
posted by Tarumba at 12:56 PM PST - 26 comments
Can you help me unconfuse Chrome?
Since yesterday afternoon, if I go to amazon.com, I end up at https://valao.de/goto/amazon-deals.php This only happens in Chrome, on both my work and home computer. I've cleared cached, and run malwarebytes, and checked chrome extension. Malwarebytes found nothing. The only thing I've installed yesterday was Citrix Receiver, which I need for work. This doesn't happen in Firefox. What else can I do to solve this?
posted by korej at 12:35 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by korej at 12:35 PM PST - 16 comments
How do I make joint custody work?
I am in the process of getting divorced and I have two sons, ages 4 and 7. How do I make joint custody work most effectively for me and my kids? [more inside]
What am I doing wrong with these Ficcare Maximas clips?
Based on the numerous recommendations that pop up on the green, I purchased two Ficcare maximas clips, small and medium. I'm not sure what I'm doing wrong, but neither of them will stay in my hair (even in a simple half-back or pony style) for longer than three to five minutes, after which they just go sliding off. This is baffling, since I seem to be the only person in the world who has ever had this problem... Any tips? [more inside]
posted by mylittlepoppet at 12:12 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by mylittlepoppet at 12:12 PM PST - 6 comments
How to job search for a job when most jobs bore me?
I don't know how to find a job that doesn't drive me insane with boredom. I also don't have a "passion" that can actually translate into a job... [more inside]
posted by galaxypeachtea at 11:08 AM PST - 21 comments
posted by galaxypeachtea at 11:08 AM PST - 21 comments
What do I tell the (flunkies of) representatives that I call?
I've been calling my state and national representatives to let my stance be known on various bills coming up for votes and such. But what do i say that will be most effective? [more inside]
posted by cmoj at 11:02 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by cmoj at 11:02 AM PST - 9 comments
SciFi Book ID question
I was talking to a friend about "Ready Player One" by Ernest Cline and it reminded me of another book I read around the same time but can't recall the title or author. The plot was as follows ... [more inside]
posted by roue at 10:58 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by roue at 10:58 AM PST - 4 comments
What were you expected to know after kindergarten
The poem says that "All I ever really needed to know I learned in kindergarten" but what about all things you are expected to learn in school? I am trying to generate a list of things students (all ages even grad school) or people in training programs for a profession are expected to learn, but then are never used again. [more inside]
posted by turtlefu at 10:52 AM PST - 48 comments
posted by turtlefu at 10:52 AM PST - 48 comments
Fur Coat Repair in Chicago?
I have a vintage mink that requires extensive repairs, and after watching the Migos T-Shirt video I'm ready to drop maybe $200-$300 on it. What's a good spot in Chicago for affordable fur repair/restoration? [more inside]
Windows 10 best practices for home user?
I'm getting my first Windows machine after 5 years of using MacOS. What are current best practices for software hygiene? How do I neuter Windows 10's spyware? Do I need third party anti-virus software? Is there good maintenance software I should use from the start? [more inside]
Excel fractions filter: add cells, display as fraction, add fractions
I'm converting an old hand-tally chart into Excel, but I'm unsure how to translate a simple portion/total fraction of cells into Excel and then add more fractions in that row. "D / (B+C)," basically. [more inside]
posted by nicebookrack at 10:21 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by nicebookrack at 10:21 AM PST - 9 comments
Oh yes, it's a onesie.
Are there cycling-bib style onesies that are not for cycling? [more inside]
Physical therapy + personal trainer = ??
I'm going to see a physical therapist for a minor injury. I'm also interested in hiring a personal trainer to help me avoid future injury. What's the best way to go about this? [more inside]
posted by Metroid Baby at 9:17 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by Metroid Baby at 9:17 AM PST - 13 comments
How to ask "why wasn't I assigned this project?"
I started a new (web/software development) job in October. Recently a small-ish project was assigned to another employee (with admittedly less experience than I in the chosen framework), on which I would have enjoyed working. Is it possible to constructively ask for an explanation about why I wasn't chosen for this project? [more inside]
Just quit a bad job--should I keep it on my resume?
I left my job after 4 months, unhappy with my work and my boss. I need help deciding whether or not to keep this job on my resume. [more inside]
Tracking activity in an activist group
I seem to be the Person Who Knows Tech Things in a nascent local grassroots making-life-uncomfortable-for-a-Republican-Senator group. I'm brainstorming ways to track participation in regularly occurring actions. [more inside]
posted by soren_lorensen at 9:14 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by soren_lorensen at 9:14 AM PST - 4 comments
How can I repeat or sustain a sample using Garageband's AUSampler?
With Garageband's AUSampler, I want to hold down a key and have the sample sustain or repeat seamlessly, rather than abruptly stop—how do I do that? [more inside]
posted by critzer at 8:37 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by critzer at 8:37 AM PST - 4 comments
Help a kid science the speed of sound
Asking for my kid: My teenager got a science assignment to determine the speed of sound. She is planning to measure the time difference between a visual event and the accompanying sound, observed from a set distance. Can you help her find practical ways to do the experiment? [more inside]
posted by sively at 8:27 AM PST - 22 comments
posted by sively at 8:27 AM PST - 22 comments
1999 Chevy Malibu - locating coolant leak
I know it's leaking, I just don't know from where. [more inside]
It's passive aggressive only if you're in the West
How do you reconcile the fact that core aspects of East Asian interpersonal styles can arguably be interpreted as "abusive" through the Western lens? This is particularly challenging for me in the therapy setting. [more inside]
ID: car chase scene from movie
Does anyone know the name of the movie, that this police car chase scene is from?
Thanks in advance!!
What is this paddle-like silverware utensil for?
A friend of mine posted this on Facebook recently, and despite my usually-excellent Google-fu, I have been unable to figure out what this utensil was for. [more inside]
Cab driver parking, and parking, and parking....
A resident in my apartment complex is a cab driver, and when I was walking my dog once I noticed him slowly driving through the parking lot (slower than one normally would), pulling into a space, waiting 2 to 5 seconds and then pulling out to do the same in a different space. Why? [more inside]
posted by polywomp at 7:32 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by polywomp at 7:32 AM PST - 9 comments
Help me love the Instant Pot
I have a "7-in-1" Instant Pot that I pretty much only use as a bean cooker. Everyone else on the Internet loves this thing so I'm sure I'm missing something. Help me come around to it? Note: vegetarian [more inside]
I know DC is a young city, but how young is it, really?
I'm going to be moving to DC and want to get an insider's view of the demographics of the place- namely, general age groups in certain neighborhoods. [more inside]
Why is my car eating batteries?
I've had to replace the battery in my car twice this year and it looks like I need a third one. Help me figure out what's wrong before an expensive garage trip. [more inside]
Help me/us get more comfortable with discrepancies in backgrounds?
Please help a political artsy girl and a guy from a rich background come to terms with each other's differences? [more inside]
Business Card Scanner Recommendations
Need a physical business card scanner and an app, any you love? [more inside]
Seeking new kicks
I'm looking for new shoes/sneakers. Must have the comfort of a high-end running sneaker, minimal/no branding, and the style flexibility of a boat shoe or loafer. [more inside]
Bologna for Dummies
I'm going to Bologna, Italy, for work in a few months. I don't speak or read any Italian, I will be traveling by myself, and I don't have a lot of time to do research before I need to make arrangements. Help? [more inside]
Mitsuko Uchida performance in Lisbon
We're going to be in Lisbon this weekend and my partner would love to see Mitsuko Uchida perform. The problem: The performance appears to be sold out. Any way to get a single ticket? [more inside]
posted by veggieboy at 4:32 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by veggieboy at 4:32 AM PST - 2 comments
January 11
Non Tech human seeks Roku Projector for Netflix and Amazon adventures
40" Roku- can it be duplicated with a projector? [more inside]
posted by metasav at 7:35 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by metasav at 7:35 PM PST - 11 comments
Do I break up with my business-mate, or ask him to clean a fifth time?
My friend and I are both acupuncturists. We have share a private studio in a commercial space. He is extremely pleasant, but has not cleaned once since we moved in 7 months ago. I've cleaned the space multiple times. I have asked him 4 times to take his turn, and together we came up with various systems to make sure it gets done, which he has ignored. [more inside]
I messed up big time in my relationship. Now what?
Long story short, I didn't fulfill a promise to help my fiance while he was under a lot of stress preparing for an extremely important presentation this morning. He is understandably very upset and disappointed in me. I feel terrible and have apologized repeatedly, but that doesn't change the fact that it happened in the first place and that this isn't the first time I've acted thoughtlessly and selfishly around him. How can we move past this? And how can I stop being so self-centered time and again? More inside. [more inside]
posted by st elmo's fire at 7:03 PM PST - 138 comments
posted by st elmo's fire at 7:03 PM PST - 138 comments
Please hope me find my Women's March et al slogan tees
I very much need to wear shirts that say things along the lines of RESIST and FEMINIST and FREEDOM OF THE PRESS, etc. I hope to get one or more before I go a'marching next weekend, and would like the money to go into good hands. [more inside]
posted by Ink-stained wretch at 6:04 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by Ink-stained wretch at 6:04 PM PST - 10 comments
Help me do Cinque Terre right!
What is the best way to see and explore Cinque Terre in July? [more inside]
Does "Encl: resume" belong on cover letters anymore?
When I'm electronically submitting (either through email or an ATS) a cover letter as part of a combined document with a resume, do I really need to add "Encl: resume" or similar at the end of the cover letter? Is this an outdated convention that only makes sense when you're mailing or faxing seperate documents? [more inside]
posted by blerghamot at 5:49 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by blerghamot at 5:49 PM PST - 10 comments
Using a recruiter and running out of references
I am currently undergoing a job search and it's almost been 2 years! I work full-time but I just need a change in scenery. I have 3 references, 2 former managers and 1 coworker, but one of my references has not been responding to my emails. I give email updates on my job search but I don't hear anything back from him. My fear is that if a company calls him and he doesn't pick up. Anyway, that leaves me with only 2 references. So instead of doing the job search myself, I was thinking of using a recruiter from a staffing agency to help me find a job, because I have the notion that recruiters at staffing agencies are not really thorough in checking references and they don't require that many (I think I can get by with 2 references); and since they are a third-party, the company that I am interviewing for will rely on the recruiter for all the screening work. Has this been everyone's experience in dealing with recruiters? Typically, the company using a recruiter will not conduct the background / reference check themselves because the recruiter is doing it for them, is this correct?
What is it like living in Duluth, MN?
I am thinking of moving to Duluth, MN. I've been to the Boundary Waters in the summer, and Superior National Forest and Tettegouche in the winter, but have only spent limited time in Duluth. I love the idea of living in a port city on Lake Superior with such easy access to amazing wilderness.
Is it possible to still get outside and recreate without getting frostbite when it's -20F, or is that the time to hole up indoors and knit in front of the fireplace? Do the building codes allow you to build a backyard sauna? Does Duluth have enough culture and music and community to not feel totally isolating for a single almost-30-something? Snowflakes inside. [more inside]
posted by cnidaria at 3:48 PM PST - 22 comments
posted by cnidaria at 3:48 PM PST - 22 comments
Is there a way to turn my Apple Magic Mouse into a touch pad?
I'd like to control the cursor by moving my finger on the surface of my Magic Mouse, rather than scrolling the screen. Insert long story about shoulder injury. Is this possible?
Please help me uninstall an unwanted program
I was forced to download the latest adobe flash player (yeah, I know) and even though I am scrupulous about opting out of add-ons, they snuck in a thing called Intel True Key. Now I can't make it go away. [more inside]
posted by OHenryPacey at 3:36 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by OHenryPacey at 3:36 PM PST - 5 comments
Front door mat - dog pee habit
Our 7 year old female dog, has fallen into a habit of peeing on the front door mat. This used to happen in times of change – luggage appearing, parties happening, things of that nature, but is now happening with increasing frequency (couple of times a week) and without any major changes to the household that usually set her off. [more inside]
Emotional Conflict Resolution
I need to learn Conflict Resolution with respect to romantic relationships. The book Getting to Yes by William Ury is cited as the classic text on Conflict Resolution. It may be outdated and not focused on emotional aspects however. What can you recommend, books or otherwise, as a direction for me?
.
Lip Balm Squeeze Tubes
I love Carmex. My wife hates it. I like being allow to still kiss her in winter, so I need to replace Carmex with something else. What other lip balms are worth trying that I can get in a small squeeze tube? [more inside]
posted by Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug at 1:22 PM PST - 41 comments
posted by Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug at 1:22 PM PST - 41 comments
chronic fatigue syndrome and outside space design
I've been asked to redesign/change a large garden for a client with chronic fatigue syndrome/ME (or at least something that looks a lot like it - diagnosis is pending) - the garden was designed as a high-maintenance perennial space - my aim is to retain as much as possible while lowering maintenance but there must be more that I could do so my client can continue to enjoy the space. [more inside]
posted by unearthed at 1:02 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by unearthed at 1:02 PM PST - 11 comments
Digital piano upgrade: what's better than a Casio Privia?
I want the best digital piano money can buy, and I think it's a Kawai. Question: Am I right, and which model? I have read every review and discussion I can find but still need answers, if I can get them. Details follow. [more inside]
I want my shoes back! (NYC petty theft?)
The other day, I had a pair of sneakers stolen from the hallway right outside my apartment (my roommate and I usually have several pairs outside, and have never had any stolen in all the time we've been living there). The landlord was able to provide surveillance footage, and found out it was a GrubHub delivery person (who brought food to an apartment on a higher floor) at 4:20 in the morning. [more inside]
posted by matticulate at 12:08 PM PST - 17 comments
posted by matticulate at 12:08 PM PST - 17 comments
Japanese Translation, Please
I have a small Japanese quartz wristwatch, and would like a translation of the script on the front and back.
It would be helpful if anyone knows the approximate value. Thanks.
posted by weapons-grade pandemonium at 11:56 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by weapons-grade pandemonium at 11:56 AM PST - 12 comments
Moving pictures off an Ipad to PC.
I'm having trouble pulling files off an Ipad into my PC (Win7 HomePremium.) [more inside]
posted by Marky at 11:39 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by Marky at 11:39 AM PST - 9 comments
Help me find this book about interdimensional conflict at a sci-fi con
I think the novel was published within the past three years or so and written by a female author, maybe with a first name starting with D? I'm sure it focuses on a science fiction convention and beings from other dimensions coming into the hotel and various intrigues. Ring any bells?
posted by overglow at 11:25 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by overglow at 11:25 AM PST - 5 comments
Lots of music on hand for little money
I'd like to find a (cheap!) way to bring a buttload of downloaded Spotify songs into work with me every day without burdening my phone. [more inside]
Accountant in Ithaca
Small business owner in NH until mid 2016. Then moved to NYS. Never filed 2015 taxes (filed extension). Realizing that it is just too much for me do. I'm organized and very small scale (gross sales less than 85k). Any recommendations for accountants in Ithaca NY who have the time and space to finish my 2015 AND 2016 taxes as soon as possible?
When is a wedding ring not a wedding ring?
When we got engaged it was with a cheap comedy ring and my now-husband offered to get me a proper engagement ring if I found one I liked. I'm not a big jewellery person so it wasn't a priority. Now we've been married over a year and I do have a wedding ring, which is just a plain band, which is what I wanted. I've now found another ring that I love, and would like to get as my belated engagement ring. However, it's being sold as a wedding band. Is that a problem? [more inside]
posted by maybeandroid at 9:02 AM PST - 38 comments
posted by maybeandroid at 9:02 AM PST - 38 comments
Having a baby before buying a house?
Debating the pro/con of trying to conceive before buying a house. I think we can and want to, my partner and the world thinks we cannot. [more inside]
posted by inevitability at 8:02 AM PST - 56 comments
posted by inevitability at 8:02 AM PST - 56 comments
DIY Plumbing Question - Incredibly Complicated Shower Valves
DIY plumbing adventures - help with shower pressure and incredibly complicated valves. [more inside]
Help me find a psychiatrist in Atlanta
I need a doctor in or near Atlanta to help me manage my panic disorder, but I have no idea how to find a good one. [more inside]
Workspaces in Kowloon, Hong Kong
I'll be in Hong Kong for the next three weeks. Where can I hunker down with a laptop and a pile of books and get some writing done? [more inside]
Where to put my savings money?
I currently have:
-- Ally Online Savings Account
-- Betterment Individual Account
-- Simple IRA (from work) [more inside]
Which moderately expensive thing has most radically improved your life?
Assuming a cap of about $1000, what object/device/service/experience has made the most profound positive difference in your life? [more inside]
Complete family medical situation hitting proverbial poop fan...
Where do we turn? Things have gone bazonkers on us...
Two weeks ago my 83 year old mom called me with a racing heart. In to the e.r. we went and she was diagnosed with tachycardia caused by heart failure - blown mitral valve. She's too frail for surgery so they medicated as best as possible and sent her home, where she has lived alone for decades. There are just my sister 1000 miles away and myself to help her.
We arranged home help, PT and OT for her. She was told not move without a walker.
Next day I fell off a ladder... [more inside]
Do I have to attend a wedding if the bride hosted my engagement party?
Someone I used to be close with but haven't seen for over a year even though we live in the same metro area has sent a 'save the date' card. She voluntarily threw my husband and I a lovely wedding reception when we eloped 6 years ago. Am I obligated to go to her wedding because of this? Snowflake circumstances inside... [more inside]
posted by ShadePlant at 4:22 AM PST - 62 comments
posted by ShadePlant at 4:22 AM PST - 62 comments
January 10
The holy trinity of monitors
Help me improve my 3 monitor rig. I'm a computer novice and I need your expertise. [more inside]
PMS symptoms but period hasn't shown up yet
If a woman was experiencing her normal PMS symptoms like cramps & unusual emotional fluctuation on and off for a certain amount of time, but her period has failed to show up, how long would a doctor want to wait to see if it's just a flukey cycle? Or if the doctor didn't want to wait, decided enough time had passed, what would they do next? Assume pregnancy is a million-percent impossible. Assume Dr. Google has already been consulted. [more inside]
posted by bleep at 9:55 PM PST - 21 comments
posted by bleep at 9:55 PM PST - 21 comments
Weird greasy residue on the leather surfaces in my car
I went to my car the other day, and all of the leather surfaces (not seats, they're cloth) have some black, greasy residue on them. What the hell [more inside]
Rebound or closure sex or...? Help me identify it
I find it difficult to break up with someone, so there's often a phase where I try to be 'platonic friends' but we go back to normal and then I try to break up again and repeat and repeat. At this point, the relationship is pretty bad for both me and the ex as we fight a lot but I simply cannot get over my feelings for the ex (is this codependency?). [more inside]
posted by thesockpuppet at 9:05 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by thesockpuppet at 9:05 PM PST - 12 comments
Cheddar-Pecan Biscuit Recipe fail
I got these cookies for Christmas and OH MY GOD they were ridiculously good. I have been attempting to make a home version but, so far, utter failure. Hope me! [more inside]
Amazon vs Google, Prime vs Chromecast
I have a new Chromecast. It works with several services that I've tried. However, when I tried to cast Amazon Prime (Mozart in the Jungle), it gave me picture but no sound. Is this a local thing, or a skirmish between two tech Giants. [more inside]
Should I take a crappy job in a city I love, or hold out for better?
I am job hunting in my niche field, should I take a unrelated, crappy job in the city I want to live in or wait out for something better? [more inside]
What are some good party games that can be played remotely?
What are some good party games that can be played remotely? [more inside]
posted by phoenixy at 6:25 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by phoenixy at 6:25 PM PST - 12 comments
Help me figure out what's wrong with my dog
My almost 9 year old chihuahua has been been acting like he's in pain, urinating massive amounts and acting odd. More details inside, [more inside]
Where do I buy weird scents like cut grass or burning rubber?
I want to make weird perfumes for fun. Like those Comme des Garçons colognes that smell like a gas station, or a dive bar, or whatever. Where would I find those types of scents (mown grass, burnt rubber, urine, rotten eggs, cigarette smoke etc)? Unsurprisingly, the essential oil suppliers don't stock them. [more inside]
posted by dontjumplarry at 4:52 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by dontjumplarry at 4:52 PM PST - 13 comments
Persistent safety issues on leased car; looking to get buy-out
I am trying to get GM to buy out the remainder (~$1400) of the lease on my 2014 Chevrolet Spark EV with 12k miles due to persistent and unresolved safety (and other issues) including brake failure. Dealership is not helpful and GM customer support is not panning out. What else can I do? [more inside]
Hacks for postpartum work routine and life balance
I'm trying to develop a perfect system for my week, barring illness and other sorts of temporary changes. Routine soothes me. Exercise soothes me. I am still breastfeeding around the clock and I work two jobs out of necessity. I want to fit it all in somehow. Help? [more inside]
posted by crunchy potato at 4:00 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by crunchy potato at 4:00 PM PST - 12 comments
Help us plan a trip to the English countryside
My wife and I (early 30s) are interested in touring England the last week in May. More specifically, we'd love to experience the English countryside, including the Cotswolds, Bath, etc. Additionally, we'd like a bit of time in London. We're considering approx. 13 days, including travel (from Atlanta). [more inside]
posted by rbf1138 at 3:49 PM PST - 28 comments
posted by rbf1138 at 3:49 PM PST - 28 comments
To do in NYC on MLK Weekend?
Myself and the missus are going to NYC for an anniversary weekend, arriving late Saturday and departing early evening on Tuesday. I want to make sure we have an amazing time. (Of course!) What should we do? Our likes include photography and and visual art generally, theater (but not musicals usually), classical music (especially newer stuff but old classics, too), vegetarian food, queer stuff, and museums. [more inside]
My heavy furniture doesn't have feet. How do I protect the carpet?
I need to protect the carpeted floor from some furniture I have. I've got some dressers (MALMs from Ikea) that have a rim around the bottom, rather then a discrete foot. Additionally, I've got a dresser with one long foot the length of the dresser on either side. What can I put under them to protect the floor, and where do I buy it? [more inside]
posted by Canageek at 2:26 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by Canageek at 2:26 PM PST - 14 comments
Am I legally allowed to be at home with an order against a roommate?
This question is partly law, partly human relations. Law part: My landlord (occupant of same house) is saying my partner and I are not allowed home because we have a protective order against a roommate. Human Relations: How should we proceed with LL to smooth things over to stay there until another housing situation gets settled? Lots of details ahead! [more inside]
How to make prop food (medieval setting)
So, my daughter's theater group is putting up a Robin Hood play. I've made carriage wheels and wooden swords, but now I'm being asked to whip up some prop food. This is slightly outside my comfort zone. [more inside]
Is there a definitive popular history book about Auschwitz?
I say "popular history book" only to distinguish from academic sources. Thanks for your suggestions.
posted by Bobby Bittman at 1:07 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by Bobby Bittman at 1:07 PM PST - 6 comments
Feminist bachelorette sash
Need ideas for a feminist bachelorette sash. [more inside]
posted by Waiting for Pierce Inverarity at 1:06 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by Waiting for Pierce Inverarity at 1:06 PM PST - 13 comments
GrammarFilter: How many plurals?
In the subject line of a regulatory filing that is being submitted to multiple dockets, do I say "Docket Nos. XXX & YYY" or "Dockets Nos. XXX & YYY"? [more inside]
posted by nickmark at 12:54 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by nickmark at 12:54 PM PST - 14 comments
Listening to pandora stations while remaining on the "my stations" page?
I use Pandora when I run and I like to switch stations a lot. This means hitting the back arrow, choosing another station, waiting to hear if I like the song, repeat ad nauseum. But one time a magical thing happened... [more inside]
Looking for an 80's cartoon with a robot saying "Joan"
Ok, this one has had me searching for years, and no one knows it. A robot going, "joan... joan..." [more inside]
Basic gentile etiquette
I'm a non-Jew and will be part of the staff at a bar mitzvah event (it's outdoors and involves cooking) but I have almost zero cultural awareness of Judaism aside from what I've gleaned from movies. Please help me avoid any really obvious faux-pas. Answers from those with knowledge of British Judaism will be especially helpful, most of those movies I watched were American. [more inside]
posted by Happy Dave at 12:03 PM PST - 26 comments
posted by Happy Dave at 12:03 PM PST - 26 comments
Thinking about a career change that would require laser eye surgery...
I'm thinking about embarking upon a dramatic career change. I'm sure I have all of the other qualifications, but this particular role would be one that requires a certain Visual Acuity Standard and I'm seriously practically blind... so there's only one option I guess? [more inside]
posted by JenThePro at 11:41 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by JenThePro at 11:41 AM PST - 10 comments
Ketamine helped my treatment resistant depression, now what?
After trying EVERYTHING for over a decade to help my treatment resistant depression, I tried Ketamine infusions. They help, but they are expensive and inconvenient. [more inside]
What do I do with my old laptop?
I got a new one. Now what do I do with the old one? [more inside]
I have my dream job, except for one little tiny thing....
A few months ago, I was promoted to being the EHS (Environmental, Health and Safety) manager at my general-industry factory. Other than just having personal interest and volunteering for all of the teams, auditors, etc, this is my first job in this field. I find that I'm having difficulty with a fairly important part of the job: dealing with blood and injuries. How can I tame my instinct to be squeamish and shudder/look away? [more inside]
posted by Fig at 11:27 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by Fig at 11:27 AM PST - 11 comments
Tigers with Saddles
I've found three ties from different brands featuring tigers wearing saddles. Does this relate to something? [more inside]
posted by Deflagro at 10:25 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by Deflagro at 10:25 AM PST - 9 comments
Tofu for dummies.
I'm looking for resources on cooking tofu out there for people who are pretty new to cooking in general, and who want to keep it very simple. [more inside]
posted by backwards compatible at 10:15 AM PST - 33 comments
posted by backwards compatible at 10:15 AM PST - 33 comments
Horse Books for Young Adults
My turning-thirteen-year-old nephew loves riding horses, and I'd like to get him a book for his upcoming birthday. [more inside]
posted by gladly at 10:06 AM PST - 22 comments
posted by gladly at 10:06 AM PST - 22 comments
Will our vinyl floor kill us?
We're remodeling our basement, and the contractor is recommending we use this flooring product. It looks like it would solve a lot of basement flooring issues, but I'm concerned about some of the chemical components, including PVC. Here is the product information sheet. Assuming we're not intending to eat off of the floor, is the PVC (or other components) a problem? One of the benefits of the product is that it require very little to no gluing, so VOCs from glue shouldn't be a issue. TIA!
When and how to call elected officials who are not MY elected officials?
I call my own elected officials about issues, but all of them (federal and state) are Democrats, and Republicans have the majority in the federal Senate and House, so I want to reach them too. When, if ever, is it useful to call an official who doesn't serve my district or state, and what can I say to be effective? [more inside]
How to easily get a 2nd number on an Android phone?
For safety, my not technical, Android-phone bearing friend needs a second phone number for US calls and SMS.
On iOS, I recommend Sudo App. It's overkill here, but would work. Can you suggest a similar solution for Android?
Help me dive into the Cloud (Computing)!
I've been tasked with moving one of our programs that we rely on to "the cloud". This program is BOTH a server, AND contains the clients (that is, our computers do not have the client installed on them, instead it runs over the network). Is there a cloud solution that would work well for this? [more inside]
posted by TrueVox at 9:09 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by TrueVox at 9:09 AM PST - 11 comments
Styles of Salsa?
This year, I want to learn how to dance Salsa. To that end, I enrolled myself in two beginner classes simultaneously. I figured that they'd be teaching the same dance, I'd get two different perspectives on what was most important, double the in-class practice and at the end, I'd likely choose one teacher and keep going with him/her. But...the Basic Step for the two classes is reversed. Teacher #1's first step (for the men) is left foot forward. Teacher #2 has left foot back. Do different styles of salsa have completely different (i.e., opposite) footwork? [more inside]
Who are the moderate Republicans?
Who are the moderate Republicans in the House and Senate? The ones who might be more susceptible to pressure, phone calls from constituents, etc, during the confirmation hearings and beyond? [more inside]
Best digital drawing tablets?
Looking to buy a tablet (small, not a laptop substitute) for my adult son who draws and wants to do more of it. [more inside]
Pimp my (sweet) potato, please
We are new to the joys of baked sweet potatoes for dinner. I'd like to bake them and stuff them, but am at a loss for what to stuff them with. So far, all I've got is leftover pulled pork. What else should I stuff my sweet potatoes with?
posted by sarajane at 7:52 AM PST - 36 comments
posted by sarajane at 7:52 AM PST - 36 comments
Wiring an electric guitar
Asking for my SO: In wiring an electric guitar, how do we make sure to get the right pots for the pick-ups. This is for a passive system, btw. [more inside]
What's the deal with remote jobs?
My life change and impending move has meant I have to figure out all over again where to work and what to do. [more inside]
ISO: WP Appointment Plugin or SaaS with a Twist
I've searched high and low for an appointment/calendar plugin or online platform that simply offers to book weekly time slots (e.g. Wednesday at 4:00 pm) if available. Tracking specific dates (e.g. January 10) doesn't matter. Have you run into something that does what I need? [more inside]
So what's the best thing to do with Yahoo Mail, Flickr, etc.?
Given the recent news, does anyone have best practice links and tips to transfer accounts? [more inside]
"We're so excited for you! ... Wait, you want our tax returns?!"
I've been accepted to graduate schools, but my parents won't provide me with their financial information — which, unfortunately, is required for me to apply for need-based financial aid. What to do? [more inside]
Recommendation for California CPA or tax preparer for late filings
I've had some complicated tax wranglings. Any recommendations for a good CPA in San Francisco Bay Area who works fast and can help me untangle this? [more inside]
How can I best try to reconcile my estranged sister with the family?
My sister is estranged from my parents and me. It’s been about 5 years since she’s been in touch with everyone, initially estranging herself from my mother, then my father. For about a year after that she was still in touch with me, but ceased contact when I refused a request I saw as an attempt to make me ‘take her side’ against our mother. [more inside]
How can I sell myself on learning the skills to do office administration
I haven't worked in a long time due to my disability (bipolar) and also many years when I was a caregiver. I live in a city (Glasgow, Scotland) which is great for music and low cost of living, but quite hard to find jobs in outside of bar work and call centres. I have been working with a careers advisor from a mental health charity and we agree that me updating my skills in Microsoft Office would open a way to doing office admin or data entry work, which I could do for maybe 8-10 hours a week while managing my disability and trying to improve my health. Yet my skills are all in English and with words, and although not unintelligent I seem to have blocks about learning Office and resistance to it. How can I reframe this learning task so that I stop resisting it, embrace it, and start getting some office admin experience for my resume? [more inside]
posted by AuroraSky at 1:09 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by AuroraSky at 1:09 AM PST - 12 comments
Help me be the boss of breakfast
Pretty simple: are you the boss of breakfast? Teach me your ways. [more inside]
posted by athirstforsalt at 1:07 AM PST - 31 comments
posted by athirstforsalt at 1:07 AM PST - 31 comments
January 9
Looking for glow-in-the-dark art paints for watercolor painting
Looking for a good brand of glow-in-the-dark paints in various colors that can be added to a watercolor painting that is available from a reliable online retailer. Bonus: warm colors like red and orange besides the usual blue/greenish yellow. [more inside]
posted by whitelotus at 8:53 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by whitelotus at 8:53 PM PST - 8 comments
Wide Fi suggestions on best practices?
I'm dealing with two buildings spaced approximately 200 feet apart. Inside the buildings (on the third floor) are network capable security camera DVRs but no network connection. I'd like to be able to access the DVRs wirelessly ideally from anywhere in the two buildings but minimally from a room on the first floor of one of the buildings. What is the best practice way of doing this? [more inside]
What's the most efficient non-moving shape for collecting solar energy?
I am working on a solar water heater, and I am trying to figure out this geometry problem. I know a parabola is the most efficient movable shape to collect the sun's energy, but what is the most efficient fixed shape? It will clearly change with date and lattitude, but given an average day, what shape focus the most energy onto a heating tube? [more inside]
posted by juice boo at 7:42 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by juice boo at 7:42 PM PST - 6 comments
Looking for newbie advice on applying for State Department/federal jobs
Just looking for an understanding on how to get these jobs, or whether it is even accessible without further schooling. [more inside]
Hope Me Hope My Mechanic
2005 Honda Civic sedan, electrical failure. Towed three times now since Thursday. Mechanic is stumped. [more inside]
posted by Koko at 6:37 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by Koko at 6:37 PM PST - 15 comments
How to track chores?
We're looking to formalize our family's assignment and tracking of chores. But how? [more inside]
Putting the hysteria in hysterectomy
My girlfriend will be undergoing a radical hysterectomy in a couple of weeks, for something that may or may not be cancer. I am coping less than well, but don't want to put all of my anxieties on her, as she has quite enough to be getting on with. I need help managing my anxiety and figuring out how I can best support her before, during, and after the surgery. [more inside]
Help with Identity Theft
Hey All Brilliant Folks,
My hard drive was stolen with all of my personal information on it. I have changed my passwords but I need some advice on what else I can do to stave off identity theft. I know that someone is trying to use my information because they signed into a dropbox account that I hadn't changed the password for.
Any advice is very welcome, THANK YOU!
posted by sunnyblues48 at 5:51 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by sunnyblues48 at 5:51 PM PST - 8 comments
Wordpress plugin for building an event?
We're a medium-sized restaurant in a small town with a large banquet room and other spaces and options available for event bookings. We need a plugin that allows users to build a custom event and tally a quote. [more inside]
My eyeglasses Rx vs. my contact lens Rx...do they jibe?
Can you determine if my contact lens (bifocal)prescription and my eyeglasses prescription are the "same" ? (links below) [more inside]
KPIs for my life
I've been wondering how much useful data about my day to day behaviour I can record seamlessly(or at least with very limited overhead).
Ideally I'd be looking to grab all the data into one repository and then do analytics on it. What data could I capture, and how? [more inside]
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 4:45 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 4:45 PM PST - 10 comments
I am not so easily shocked nor do I wish to be shocked more often.
A dimmer switch in my house started shocking me recently. We investigated yesterday and the switch was not grounded (it is now). Did my wool slippers put me in jeopardy? [more inside]
How does Disney deal with bad behavior in the parks?
Are there specific guidelines for how Disney employees should handle difficult patrons? I'm looking for responses to situations ranging from bratty kids all the way to hostage-taking. [more inside]
My laptop is dying. How should I salvage the contents of its hard drive?
My 5+ year old Windows 7 laptop has gotten a little touched in the OS and no longer wants to boot up. Startup Repair tricks that previously got it running again no longer work. I’m afraid its time has come. The good news is, when I can get myself a command prompt, it looks like the hard drive is functioning normally. I have resigned myself to buying a new laptop, but my question is, what’s the best way for me to recover and save the files I have on that hard drive? [more inside]
posted by prize bull octorok at 1:31 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by prize bull octorok at 1:31 PM PST - 9 comments
Remedial Maths for IRA Calculation
How do you mathematically calculate the value of an IRA -- sub question, how often does interest on an IRA accrue? [more inside]
posted by alana at 1:31 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by alana at 1:31 PM PST - 7 comments
best software to record computer tutorial?
I would find it enormously helpful to be able to record computer tutorials to show users how to upload files to a specialized system, where to click, what to include. What is the most user-friendly program for recording such materials? [more inside]
Home automation - flood detection and motorised valves
I live in a flat and I am petrified at the idea that I may cause water damage to my neighbours (especially when I am not at home - which is a lot of the time these days).
I am looking to put together a home automation system which detects water leaks and automatically turns off the domestic hot and cold water supply. I think I will have Fibaro water sensors, a Z-wave hub, and z-wave switches to control motorised valves and turn off the supply. Do you have any experience with or advice for such a setup? [more inside]
Socially interactive iPhone games
My kids like playing with my iPhone. I like playing with my kids. What are some kid-friendly iPhone (or browser-based) activities that act as springboards for face-to-face human interaction? I'm not so much looking for games like Ticket To Ride where we each take turns focusing on the phone. I'm more looking for things like Heads Up or Spyfall where the phone is involved, but the main focus is on the other humans in the room. [more inside]
posted by yankeefog at 12:46 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by yankeefog at 12:46 PM PST - 6 comments
Securing Thermos to backpack
The philosophical loophole that wins the game...
What are some climactic scenes from film/TV involving a game or challenge, where the only way to beat your opponent is to think about the game from a different perspective and find the philosophical loophole in the challenge's rules? For example, Kobayashi Maru in "Star Trek" or the Mutually Assured Destruction of "War Games." [more inside]
posted by egeanin at 12:14 PM PST - 23 comments
posted by egeanin at 12:14 PM PST - 23 comments
Colombia Edition: Cartagena + Caribbean Coast tours with cool people
I have a week alone on Colombia Caribbean's coast prior to a wedding in Cartagena at the end of Feb, looking for some advice on cool tours or tour guides. Previously a die-hard solo traveller but with little time to plan and trepidatious feelings about being a single (late 30's) woman in Colombia I'm considering something more organzied. I'm very active but the obvious active option - the lost city hike - is out of my comfort zone now due to Zika. Can you recommend a cool + active tour company?
Fun, educational summer workshops: Europe.
I'm looking for 5-10 day workshops that do not require prior knowledge of a subject to attend. These could be artistic workshops (preferably not painting), literary retreats, cooking classes, etc. My budget is a maximum of $1000. [more inside]
posted by Everydayville at 10:39 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by Everydayville at 10:39 AM PST - 11 comments
At&t shutdown 2G, now I don't have 3G
I get my cell service from Consumer Cellular (which uses AT&T cell towers), reception at home has always been spotty, but OK. As of last week I now get absolutely nothing at home (even after 3 days no texts got through), Consumer Cellular says this is because of the 2G shutdown (we have 3G/4G capable phones). AT&T says we should have plenty of 3G reception, but won't do anything about it because we are not directly their customers. [more inside]
Hip, hurt and hobbled
After appropriately training for a couple of months, I ran a 4-miler on September 16th this past year. After hobbling across the finish line, and somehow making it back to my car and home, I was unable to put any weight on my right leg, and after X-rays and MRIs discovered that I had a stress fracture on the compression side of my femoral neck. I was able to spare myself surgery, and did everything on the appropriate timeline, but I am still not done. [more inside]
Must I wait for my SSA-1099 if my return is identical to last year's?
My tax situation, including income, is identical this year and last down to the penny. I'd like to file ASAP to use a refund for a time-sensitive car repair. Must I wait?
How does the role of honorary aunt/uncle evolve during a child's life?
Parents of MetaFilter: What are some things you commonly find yourself wanting/needing from your friends when it comes to interacting with your children, especially as the kids get older? What are some of the most valuable things the long-term honorary aunts and uncles in your lives have done for the kids that has help them feel loved and supported growing up? [more inside]
Husband's Boss Throwing Us A Baby Shower Etiquette?
Yay, we are expecting twins in a few weeks! My wonderful husband's wonderful boss/coworkers want to throw us a small baby shower. I have questions. [more inside]
posted by Syllables at 9:45 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by Syllables at 9:45 AM PST - 13 comments
Looking for sledding saucer (or other sled) suggestions
Recent east coast snow storm got our family out sledding. We've gone through 8 saucers in the past 3 years, what's a better option (or longer lasting) ? [more inside]
Horrid little flappers
After reading the excellent Clara Bow: Running Wild, I want to read more about 20s Hollywood, flappers, or both. I don't know a huge amount about that time period so don't be afraid to suggest the obvious. Biographies or novels, I'm open to either. Recommend some books to me!
How do I clean copper items?
This is a 2 part question:
1. I have some old copper cookware that has carbonized stains on it. How do I clean them?
2. How do I clean my large copper hood over my cook top without leaving obvious marks between the sections I clean it in? [more inside]
Mistake on app
I made the mistake of reading a completed app for graduate school after submission. I re-read an essay and it has a missing verb and period. I am freaking out that it will jeopardize my entire app, and it's one of my top choice schools. What do I do next? [more inside]
posted by pando11 at 8:47 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by pando11 at 8:47 AM PST - 12 comments
How can I cultivate intentional kindness & decency despite fear & anger?
Like many of you, I've been imbibing a heady emotional cocktail of fear and anger since the US election. I'm putting more time/effort/money toward opposing Trump's agenda and supporting progressive policies at the local level, and I'm working to stay on top of self-care (therapy, as-needed anti-anxiety meds, occasional spiritual counseling, sharing love & support with family/friends, closing the fucking tab when I need to). Here's where I'm concerned: I think it's important to maintain the capacity for moral outrage in the face of injustice. However, I worry about turning into an "angry person." [more inside]
posted by duffell at 8:25 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by duffell at 8:25 AM PST - 14 comments
Quiet Books from Diverse Authors
I like quiet books that are inward-facing, but I need to diversify my reading list beyond white male authors. I like introspection (think Knausgard or Proust), interpersonal relationships (Austen), or beautiful descriptions of natural environments. I don't like high melodrama, violence, or sexual violence. Do you know of any non-white and/ or female authors that fit into these categories?
Filling a hole in a household shower/bathtub stall
Kicker: the shower is "tiled" with wood, which has rotted at the base. [more inside]
The revolution will be sung, not televised
I was at a long protest about a month ago, over the electoral college, and to build momentum a couple of people started the crowd singing. Except after we got through the US national anthem and "This Land is My Land", we all collectively forgot any songs that would work to build liberal unity. Help me think of more so I'm prepared for next time. [more inside]
posted by sciatrix at 5:48 AM PST - 51 comments
posted by sciatrix at 5:48 AM PST - 51 comments
How did you get to a place of healthy, honest, open dialogue?
How did you get to a place of honest, open dialogue re: conflicts and disagreements within your relationship, especially if you have a fear of confrontation/fear of anger/history of abuse (assume no current/past abuse in the relationship)? [more inside]
In which the poster may be gaslighting themselves.
I took a new job recently, and am a veteran of several toxic work environments. The new one has a few aspects I'm not sure about. Please help me turn off the gaslights and determine a course of action. [more inside]
Should I go on this trip to India -- without my kids?
I am a doctoral student, and a chapter of my PhD would benefit from a week long visit to India. I have two very young children who are quite dependent on me, and I've never been to the developing world. Advice? [more inside]
Help identify these glasses worn by Batman (er, Michael Keaton)
From last nights Golden Globes... can anyone identify the exact style/brand of eyeglasses Michael Keaton wore? (Hidden Fences flub aside)
January 8
Bang bang into the room, bang bang all over you (lightbulb explosion)
I have a lamp above my bed with one of those GE "energy saver" halogen bulbs, and without warning, it EXPLODED, leaving tiny shards of glass all over my sheets and the mess of laundry in the room. Yes, this happened in the middle of the night - miraculously, I had happened to step out to brush my teeth. I am sleeping on the floor in another room, but I just received a set of those fleece blanket-like sheets as a gift a few days ago. I am very paranoid about shattered glass - how will I get it out of the carpet (whatever the "durable" type they use in apartments is called)? Do the sheets go in the garbage? How about my other laundry? Once again, I hate the thought of shattered glass in a bedroom.
(There is no mercury in this bulb - it is the teeny tiny glass fragments that scare me.) [more inside]
Is grinding inherently sexual?
How common is it for people to view grinding as just another type of dancing? For people who do view it as just dancing what is the etiquette given that many people view it sexually? At what point would you then be obligated to make clear that you aren't expressing any sexual interest and are just dancing around and having fun? [more inside]
[catfilter] Should I give my cat worm meds from Amazon?
Can I trust something called Drontal that I bought on Amazon to medicate my cats for what are clearly tapeworms? Pretty straightforward but a few deets under the fold. [more inside]
posted by Smearcase at 10:27 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by Smearcase at 10:27 PM PST - 11 comments
Commuting from SF to Emeryville?
I've lived and worked in San Francisco for the last ten years. I'm now considering taking a job in Emeryville and wondering what the commute is like. I've done it on BART once (about an hour, door to door) and once by car (about 40 min, door to door) and wondering if people who do this regularly can chime in on how typical those numbers are and what it's like to do it daily.
Would it be a waste of time to get an Apple TV
I currently have a Chromecast, but no cable. There are several shows I watch via sister's DirectTV login (shhhhhh) and network websites, that aren't available on Hulu/Netflix/HBONow. Right now I am mostly casting via my phone, but occasionally I watch shows on my laptop and that slows things down. [more inside]
posted by elvissa at 5:55 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by elvissa at 5:55 PM PST - 10 comments
Emotional unpacking list
Exciting and wonderful things are happening in my romantic life. I'm also depressed in a way that changes how well I feel emotion. In building a daily habit of meditation and reflection, what questions can I ask myself to make sure I'm staying honest with myself? [more inside]
Middle-aged Online Dating -- Any Specific Tips?
So, I'm a straight cis woman with two teenage kids, and I found myself unexpectedly single last spring. I'd been married for nineteen years, which means that I've had no experience at all with online dating. I'm 45, which feels incredibly old for putting myself out there. But (a) pretty much everyone single seems to date online, and (b) despite having a reasonably active social life with friends, I pretty much don't meet any single, roughly appropriate, men in real life, so online dating it is.
So far, it's been going not traumatically badly, but not satisfyingly either. [more inside]
Foot specialist in PNW
I have a foot problem that has so far stumped four foot specialists. The leading theory at this point is degeneration of the cartilage of the big toe joint, as my MRI shows a chunk of missing cartilage there. This has been going on for a year now and I need to get serious about fixing it. I'm willing to travel anywhere in the PNW, but Seattle is easiest, and am interested in exploring the possibility of treating it with stem cell/PRP. Where should I go?
Floor Mats for Senile Cats
Our eldest kitty has become a bit untrustworthy with regards to where he chooses to relieve himself. Nothing left on the floor can be considered safe. (Farewell, my beloved LL Bean Wicked Good slippers, you served me well). Most stuff, we can be careful to pick up. But not our front and back floor mats. We need new ones that can handle our senile feline needs. [more inside]
posted by instead of three wishes at 1:08 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by instead of three wishes at 1:08 PM PST - 11 comments
Driving and parking for the Women's March
We'll be driving to the Women's March from the vicinity of BWI the morning of January 21. Should we reserve parking on Parking Panda, park at a Metro station, or? [more inside]
Organ Music Recommendations
I have been listening to an album of Bach Preludes / Fugues, performed on a organ (here). I like the classical music meanderings, the droning consistency, and especially the organ sound. Could you help me find more like these? [more inside]
Dual-pane iPad ebook reader
Is there an ebook reader for the iPad that will allow me to have two different books pulled up side-by-side? [more inside]
posted by griphus at 12:31 PM PST - 1 comment
posted by griphus at 12:31 PM PST - 1 comment
Where should I donate to NPR?
I would like to set up a recurring donation to an NPR local station, but I do not have an NPR local station. Where would my (little) money make the 'most' difference? [more inside]
posted by slanket wizard at 11:59 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by slanket wizard at 11:59 AM PST - 12 comments
Translate this symbol from Arrival
Simple, delicious eating during long weekend in the mountains
My sister and I are spending a few days/nights in the mountains with easy access to a grocery and a small kitchen (with stove, oven, microwave) in our cabin. She is vegetarian, and I am not, but I am game for eating only vegetarian for our trip. What are some simple, delicious meals we can enjoy together? Bonus if they're also healthy!
How to value an atypically low-mileage used car?
Changes in my work life (positive changes, for the most part) have wrecked my ability to rationally assess an atypical car-buying opportunity. Help? [more inside]
Harry Potter fanfiction alternative to Deathly Hallows
About 3-4 years ago I read a novel length Harry Potter fanfiction that was an alternative to the Deathly Hallows. Can you help me find it? [more inside]
posted by freyley at 9:49 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by freyley at 9:49 AM PST - 12 comments
Turns our hearts to 'Mush!'
Font ID
Can anyone ID the font(s) used? Image within [more inside]
posted by mani at 9:09 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by mani at 9:09 AM PST - 7 comments
Molar Implant: One graft or two? Autologous plasma or no?
Ms. Wrench (~50F) needs a dental implant to replace a broken molar. We have two estimates: one with lots of plasma culturing and two graft sessions (at extraction and at implantation); and one with one graft at implantation (I think; it's one graft, but not sure of the timing). [more inside]
What are good ground rules to ask for as a condition for moving back in?
My depressed husband (previously) has been getting worse, culminating in two incidents this week that made me go stay at a family member's. What are some things I can ask for as a requirement before I move back in? [more inside]
posted by sockmeamadeus at 8:48 AM PST - 77 comments
posted by sockmeamadeus at 8:48 AM PST - 77 comments
What is the best service to track ebook pricing?
My beloved Luzme.com has been down for weeks now with no specific date to come back online, other than "January 2017." In the meantime, what other services exist that will let me find the lowest price for ebooks? [more inside]
European Brands: Bakeware Bugaloo
My previous question on European cookware brands was so very helpful in my slow yet steady betterment of my cookware. Now it's time to do the same for bakeware. [more inside]
Can I eat it?
I roasted a chicken exactly a week ago (Sunday, 1 January) carved it and stuck the leftover slices (or shreds really, given my carving skills) and a few bones in a tupperware. I used some for sandwiches but there's still a fair amount left and I'm not so sure it's safe to eat any more. But would it be ok if make a soup with it? [more inside]
posted by the long dark teatime of the soul at 7:03 AM PST - 16 comments
posted by the long dark teatime of the soul at 7:03 AM PST - 16 comments
With Love, from San Antonio
What wonderful, unique gifts can I get in San Antonio? [more inside]
January 7
Reality check
I need a reality check: am I unreasonable? If so, what should I do about it to fix myself (please don't suggest therapy, I genuinely don't have access to it). Have you faced or seen a similar relationship dynamic and if so, how was it handled? [more inside]
Becoming more comfortable talking about myself
How to start opening up to other people? [more inside]
Emotional responsibility/breaking up with someone you still have to see
How responsible are you for someone else's feelings in the midst of uncertainty?
Also, what is the best way to break up with someone when you will have to keep seeing each other around all the time afterwards?
(Somewhat convoluted backstory inside...) [more inside]
posted by prism4tic at 10:52 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by prism4tic at 10:52 PM PST - 9 comments
My parents are in a cult. What should I do?
My parents are deeply involved in a cult-like religious group that I believe to be exploitative in nature. It seems to be getting worse. What sort of actions can and should I take? [more inside]
Metric liquid measuring cups in NY
Is there anywhere in New York City I can find a liquid measuring cup which will show me metric measurements on the "front," assuming I am right handed? [more inside]
Where can I find this jacket?
I came across a picture of someone wearing a jacket that I would love for myself. Does anyone happen to know the brand of this particular jacket or perhaps a brand which makes a similar one? [more inside]
Wedding Gifts for a Brazilian Couple from the USA
We are friends with a Brazilian couple that will soon be getting married. We will be sending gifts in the mail. The pre-shipping price point we're looking at is about $150. One thing we absolutely will be sending is a pack of red party cups (the groom has expressed interest in them!). But what else should we send? [more inside]
The democracy of the dead
Share with me your favorite longform articles about tradition and traditions. [more inside]
The 40 Hour Workweek
I am self employed and work from my home office. I enjoy what I do for work. I make sufficient money to pay my bills. But I am only averaging about 15 hours a week and need to start continuously working 40 hour weeks. I am not sure where the time is going, if this is a motivational issue, or how to best address this. Please help me figure out the easiest way to transition. [more inside]
posted by Malleable at 7:28 PM PST - 42 comments
posted by Malleable at 7:28 PM PST - 42 comments
Dressing a hot-running baby for winter
Just when I figured out the car sear cover and baby sleeping bag, it turns out my baby runs hot and won't wear what he's supposed to. So how can I make sure he is warm enough, without over-heating him? [more inside]
posted by ficbot at 7:27 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by ficbot at 7:27 PM PST - 14 comments
chapter book recommendations for almost 4-year-old
My son will be 4 in March and he loves books. Can you recommend some longer/chapter books age appropriate with easy listening comprehension? [more inside]
posted by sabh at 6:52 PM PST - 20 comments
posted by sabh at 6:52 PM PST - 20 comments
Is Goodreads editorial content advertising?
I use Goodreads and occasionally enjoy what purports to be editorial content from the site itself: for example, this list of anticipated 2017 books, monthly round-ups of notable new releases in various genres, newsletters, year-end best-ofs, etc. None of this stuff is expressly labeled as advertorial, but given the Amazon-owned site's obviously extensive relationships with publishers and sellers, I feel like a lot of it might in fact be "sponsored content," and I'm curious to what extent I'm being marketed-to. Does anyone know?
posted by eugenen at 5:06 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by eugenen at 5:06 PM PST - 2 comments
All-Clad Tri-Ply vs. D5 cookware: heating / response time
I'm going to be receiving a set of All-Clad cookware as a wedding gift (lucky us!) and am trying to choose between their original Tri-Ply (with 3 layers) style and their newer D5 (with 5 layers) series. As it will be a gift, price is not a factor (again, lucky thing). We'd be happy with either style in terms of looks and most aspects of performance. The deciding factor could be the heating and heat response time, with which it's entirely possible that the decidedly more pricey D5 line actually performs decidedly worse. More details below. [more inside]
Waterproof digital camera suggestions
I am going on a tropical vacation in April and will be snorkeling, etc. I'm looking for recommendations on a solid waterproof digital camera to use while I'm in or around the water. [more inside]
Oh Lord, help us sell these Mercedes Benz....
Hw do we proceed with the sale of 50+ classic Mercedes' bodies and parts?? My husband and son bought classic Mercedes of various ages and models from a parts company that was going out of business. My husband received a title for each vehicle. The plan was to start an online business to sell the parts. My son harvested, organized and stored the parts in two 50 foot semi-trucks and the bodies are stored on some land we own. So far so good but then things changed significantly in our lives. [more inside]
How to get paid maternity leave offered at workplace
I would like to write a letter to our executive director advocating adding parental leave to our benefits. I feel that my voice will be heard and respected. What is the best way to do this? [more inside]
Should I sign a year lease or go month-to-month?
Please help me decide whether to sign another 1-year lease or go month-to-month on my apartment in Boston's Jamaica Plain. [more inside]
Seeking NY sightseeing advice for a Southern California native.
If we want to visit 9/ll Memorial, Empire State Building, Ellis Island/Statue of Liberty, do I book separately or buy a City Pass?
Any other $$ saving advice/suggestions?
posted by Sunnyshe at 2:22 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by Sunnyshe at 2:22 PM PST - 4 comments
Trying to find two books/stories I read as a kid
One was I believe a short story about a boy who had a remote-control that froze time... [more inside]
posted by diocletian at 1:47 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by diocletian at 1:47 PM PST - 3 comments
I am the auntie in charge of turning the kid into a nerd.
A low-income, uneducated friend of mine is utterly, utterly terrified that her 14-month-old baby will continue the cycle of poverty and become a statistic. Specifically, she wants help ensuring that he learns to read, write, and do math on schedule. Difficulty level: the only time she has to do pre-reading and pre-math activities with him is during their twice-daily 3 hour train commute while she's exhausted. [more inside]
Help me identify the weirdest light switch I've ever seen
Please help me identify these incredibly weird and annoying light switches that are installed throughout my house. [more inside]
posted by lattiboy at 1:27 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by lattiboy at 1:27 PM PST - 10 comments
Only Sort of Leaving Academia? Affiliate Research Professor?
My husband just got a job offer that we can't refuse. I am a tenured professor in the arts at a large state doctoral research institution. We really have to move. My husband's new job will cover both our salaries and then some...we will be close to family and in a much better city. [more inside]
Protecting car door from dings
I got a new to me car and already put a ding on the door by opening it against neighbor's brick wall. I want to apply something to prevent this from happening again. [more inside]
posted by RichardHenryYarbo at 12:19 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by RichardHenryYarbo at 12:19 PM PST - 3 comments
Need help sorting out my mental health treatment
Very confused right now. [more inside]
What to do about my parents' unbearable friend?
My siblings and I have plans to get together at my parents' house for a belated holiday get-together in a few weeks. I just found out that my parents invited their friend Magda. We can't STAND Magda but have never said anything about it to my parents. How should we handle this? [more inside]
How do I deal with hurt feelings towards my future in-laws?
My fiancé's parents were against our marriage at first, but have now come around. I still feel hurt by the way the reacted when we first told them, but am not sure how to act when I next meet them. Help, please? [more inside]
posted by LoonyLovegood at 10:44 AM PST - 23 comments
posted by LoonyLovegood at 10:44 AM PST - 23 comments
Don't say "Cheese!"
I'd like to ask my subjects to say something other than "Cheese!" when I'm taking a photo, especially of a group. What do you use to make them crack up and produce a genuine smile or laugh? Bonus points for wacky or inappropriate to use on friends.
posted by Dragonness at 9:28 AM PST - 29 comments
posted by Dragonness at 9:28 AM PST - 29 comments
Do I need a new GI dr?
I have IBS-D, and I'm having some doubts about the quality of care I've been getting. YANMD but you can tell me if you think mine is doing a good job. [more inside]
posted by mermaidcafe at 9:25 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by mermaidcafe at 9:25 AM PST - 6 comments
Knut Hesterberg Propeller Table
How can I authenticate a Knut Hesterberg Propeller table? [more inside]
Oh Green, what's this machine?
Just curious what this machine is that one of the characters in The Night Manager was carrying. My best guess is a portable printer, but I don't see a similar one online and the blocky thing on the back of it doesn't seem like it would be part of a printer.
posted by duoshao at 9:01 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by duoshao at 9:01 AM PST - 5 comments
Investing for *women*: will someone mansplain it for me?
I am new to America (I'm French). I know next to nothing about investing and find it very intimidating. I am slowly wrapping my head around it all. But I need help. [more inside]
posted by Sijeka at 8:58 AM PST - 20 comments
posted by Sijeka at 8:58 AM PST - 20 comments
Can I generate an audio timecode track in After Effects or Premiere?
I have a client who has requested delivery of a video with timecode in the audio track. I know there are cameras that record timecode on an audio track, but I haven't found a way to generate such a track in post with Creative Cloud applications. The source video didn't come with an audio track. [more inside]
posted by under_petticoat_rule at 7:40 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by under_petticoat_rule at 7:40 AM PST - 2 comments
Is there a straight equivalent of a gay bathhouse?
I recently read an article about gay bathhouses in my city. I'm interested in something similar for straight people - in two ways. First, a place where you can pay a daily fee to essentially use a sauna and Second, a place like that where sex is not necessarily encouraged but ignored. [more inside]
U.S. Healthcare 101 / Remedial edition
Despite being a lifelong American, I still don't really understand our healthcare system. Can you give me some info - treat me like I'm 5 years old. [more inside]
My dad hates apologising, and it's damaging relationships
My dad gets into arguments with people almost like a hobby. He regularly upsets people with this, but more so with his inability to apologise or take responsibility for upsetting people. It is pushing people away from him. Can you suggest ways in which I might talk about this with him which won't end up in another argument? [more inside]
meal planning without the planning
I want to be a little more organised with regards to how I approach my weekday evening meals, but I want my planning to incorporate some space for flexibility, to allow for different moods, levels of hunger, etc. Can any of you seasoned meal-planners tell me how you manage this? [more inside]
January 6
Lyrical double takes?
What are some lyrics that are so good that the first time you heard them you kind of did a double take, or they stopped you in your tracks, because they're so good and also had an unexpected quality to them. (Don't get too hung up on the unexpected part but I think people know what I mean.)
Recovering my Gmail Account
I think there are people here that can help me with this puzzle! You guys are my last hope! [more inside]
Plus-size lingerie shopping, Amazon Prime edition
I have an unexpected getaway of the sort where I'd like to bring some lingerie. For speed and convenience's sake, I'm hoping to buy a few pieces on Amazon, Prime-eligible so they arrive in time. I'm having trouble deciphering the sizing since brands seem to do things differently (plus Amazon's search is so bad). I'm hoping someone can help me find something sexy for my size 24, bra size 40G body. More within. [more inside]
Thin brick over concrete in a California driveway apron?
I'm considering putting brick down in my driveway apron. It currently is covered by concrete. I live in Southern California. Is there any reason I shouldn't (professionally) install bricks over the concrete? Bonus question: what about installing thin bricks (1.5" thick)? We will be driving over the surface. [more inside]
How to promote a resume editing service
I have a knack for cleaning up resumes and making them shine. How do I get the word out online? [more inside]
posted by Michele in California at 8:00 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by Michele in California at 8:00 PM PST - 8 comments
Lesser known ways to travel and live communally
About a decade ago, a book called "Delaying The Real World" came out, and it detailed ways to travel the US and the world and listed many organizations and ways to stay in a place for free and communally, while also being of service in some way. Is there another, more recent guide to ding this, or does anyone have resources for how to do this? I know/have done WWOOF and Workaway, but many of my destinations are cities and do not have these options (NOLA, Portland, the PNW in general, Nashville, Santa Cruz, Northhampton Mass, Provincetown). Thanks!
Genital herpes . . . Whaaa?
I just recently learned that I have had genital herpes for 25 years. Color me stunned. What are the chances, after 20+ years of unprotected sex with my monogamous partner, that they have not contracted the virus from me? My partner has never had anything remotely related to a herpes sore on their genitals or other part of their body. At this point are they likely an asymptomatic carrier? Is the viral load so low during non-outbreak periods that they could have avoided the infection altogether? [more inside]
Translation of bits from an Azerbaijani Wikipedia page
I'm looking for a translation of a few bits on a particular Azerbaijani Wikipedia page. [more inside]
posted by Hairy Lobster at 6:03 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by Hairy Lobster at 6:03 PM PST - 8 comments
How would you spread a $100 bet on the Super Bowl?
I'm an American living in the UK (sports betting is legal here). Let's suppose I had $100 to spread on various bets between now and Super Bowl LI. How would you suggest I spread those sweet Washingtons, using current odds? [more inside]
posted by Optamystic at 5:32 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by Optamystic at 5:32 PM PST - 4 comments
Cool picture time
What small object do you think would be interesting to see as a CT (aka CAT scan)? [more inside]
Computer Bag Refresh
So I own this bag. I've had it for over a year and it has served me well. But let's be honest, it's not that cool or hip. I was thinking of buying a new one. But maybe this one can be saved.Any ideas on how to give it a new look without just sticking pins and/or stickers on it? The only criteria I have is that it has to be cheaper than buying a cool bag (i.e. $50+) and it can be done in a weekend.
Obtaining a restraining order in Massachusetts
Asking for a friend. Relationship of a few months has devolved from serious emotional manipulation to actual physical abuse. This guy is unhinged - violent outbursts followed by desperate apologies, text messages, showing up at her house unannounced. How does the process for obtaining a restraining order work? How long does it take? The most severe incident happened today (I'll spare the details). If she filed a police report today, could she get the order immediately? Within a few days? Is a restraining order the same as an order of protection? Or..... will a restraining order just make things worse and jeopardize her safety?
posted by onecircleaday at 3:14 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by onecircleaday at 3:14 PM PST - 10 comments
Reorganizing Excel data
I have two related but slightly different questions about how to rearrange Excel data so that I can analyze it properly. I've been struggling with these problems for a while, and finally just gave in and am throwing myself on the mercy of MeFites. [more inside]
posted by Superplin at 2:37 PM PST - 28 comments
posted by Superplin at 2:37 PM PST - 28 comments
Baseboard heater melted a piece of plastic and now everything stinks
Somehow, a small bit of plastic fell into our baseboard heater and melted, dripping through the baseboard fins. The house now smells like hot glue guns and it's worse every time the heater kicks on, which is a lot because it's cold. How can I fix this? [more inside]
Digitize & upload music library
I am digitizing a friend's CD music collection. Once I rip it to MP3s (what she requested), what would be the easiest & cheap as in free way to send it all to her via the Interwebs as I do so? [more inside]
Removing baking soda that is stuck inside of carpet?
Like many folks, I like to occasionally sprinkle baking soda on carpets to freshen up things. Typically I leave the baking soda on the carpet for 12 to 24 hours and then vacuum it up. Unfortunately, though, not long after I last sprinkled baking soda on my carpet I managed to spill a (very large) amount of water on the floor where I had sprinkled (a quite liberal amount of) baking soda, and now it's very much stuck inside of the carpet, and my vacuum just does not want to suck it up. [more inside]
posted by GlassHeart at 1:38 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by GlassHeart at 1:38 PM PST - 15 comments
Personal Planetarium?
I'm looking for a home planetarium that will fill a room with stars. I'd like something that projects onto the walls and ceiling, and something that's bright enough so that the stars are visible on a wall 10 feet from the device. The star themselves don't need to be correctly placed, I'm going for the feel of a stary sky rather than being able to identify specific stars and constellations. At the same time I do not want any constelation lines, planets, or really anything except the stars themselves. [more inside]
posted by Maastrictian at 11:08 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by Maastrictian at 11:08 AM PST - 12 comments
Tree ID Florida Edition
What kind of tree is this with long threads/vines coming out of the branches? What are those threads? [more inside]
How to support a colleague with a sick cat?
My colleague's cat is ill and it sounds like things may not go well. We work in a small, friendly, collegial group, but we aren't friends exactly (e.g. don't talk/hang out outside of work) so I want to be careful not to overstep; but I do want to be as supportive as possible, especially if the outcome isn't good. [more inside]
posted by bighappyhairydog at 11:05 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by bighappyhairydog at 11:05 AM PST - 14 comments
Simpsonsfilter! Help me find this Homer quote
I have a memory of Homer listening to some villainous/horrendous plan/idea/rant and saying to Marge (who urges him to exit) something like "wait wait, let's see where this is going." What episode is this from? [more inside]
posted by RingerChopChop at 10:55 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by RingerChopChop at 10:55 AM PST - 4 comments
Home security webcam recommendation
My partner and I just moved into a new condo in the city, and the added foot traffic in the hallways seems to be driving our dog crazy. We are looking for a wireless webcam security solution that will allow us to check and see how he's doing while we're out, as well as provide a bit of extra security, as a secondary priority. Researching the options on Amazon is totally overwhelming. Requirements within. [more inside]
posted by lieber hair at 10:24 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by lieber hair at 10:24 AM PST - 9 comments
Are cassette tape "Norelco" cases with sharp corners still available?
I'm a musician who's released music on cassette tape before, and I'm going for a "vintage" look. All the present-day duplication services and suppliers I've seen only offer cassette tape cases with rounded corners. Where could I find classic-looking ones for sale in quantities of 50–100 or so? [more inside]
posted by dmalashock at 9:19 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by dmalashock at 9:19 AM PST - 7 comments
Excel PivotTable filter: how to calculate percentage?
One field, FieldA, is being summed in a column. Another field, FieldB, is being counted in a column. How do I get FieldA/FieldB as a percent in the pivot table? [more inside]
posted by bologna on wry at 8:57 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by bologna on wry at 8:57 AM PST - 5 comments
Looking for commercial insurance - small manufacturing
I'm having a heck of a time finding a firm that will insure my small company, and I've been shopping around for over a year through brokers and companies that insure other local retail and service businesses. I'm looking for basic commercial insurance, covering equipment, inventory, and liability. Nothing out of the ordinary (I would think). [more inside]
I need advice on which gaming monitor to buy
My son and I recently built a gaming PC from scratch and I'd like to buy him a great monitor to go with it. I need help, however, in choosing the right one. [more inside]
posted by Jamesonian at 8:19 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by Jamesonian at 8:19 AM PST - 12 comments
What are some resources to get my Kindergartener reading?
My daughter is on the cusp of being able to read on her own. What can I do to help her while still giving her space and not pushing her too hard? She prefers to do things on her own, though she'll tolerate parental direction in short bursts. She loves games (both in app form and real life), drawing, science experiments, puzzles and writing. She is read to every day at bedtime, but gets frustrated with reading text on a page. I would love resources and advice to help get her going with reading. [more inside]
posted by Alison at 8:06 AM PST - 27 comments
posted by Alison at 8:06 AM PST - 27 comments
caregiver tips after a back surgery?
My partner will be having back surgery next week and I'm looking for tips on how best to support him and prepare for the surgery and extended recovery. [more inside]
Putting my life together after depression
Hello, I'm 28, male, have been diagnosed with depression for a few years now, been taking meds, have very few friends, no job, haven't worked in about a year, never had a real full-time job. I feel like I'm throwing my life away and I don't know how to be happy/productive/human again. Please advise? [more inside]
I'm diabetic, I swear!
I'm in my twenties, type 2 diabetic and need to make changes in my diet and lifestyle. I feel ashamed about the prospect of enforcing my dietary limitations because it's socially restricting if not unacceptable in some cases, and on top of that, people have told me that I "cant be diabetic" based on my appearance. [more inside]
who are they guys...
that pretend they are researches, bluff their way into technical conferences and then do presentations which spoof the topic of the conference
they did one where they proposed a suit to remotely control workers in the third world.
Has your close coworker committed suicide.
Please tell me how you got through it. If you could comfort or give any advice to yourself when this happened, what would you say? [more inside]
Looking for new blogs to read
As the title says, I'm looking for blog recommendations. [more inside]
Best Text-to-Speech with Voices?
My daughter wants to write dialog for her animations and record it with text-to-speech. What's the best software, ideally with lots of different voices, ideally free? [more inside]
What should I test before I buy a used hackintosh?
I'm considering buying a used hackintosh. I'll have the opportunity to test the system briefly before making my decision, and I was wondering what I could do to look for potential issues [more inside]
posted by motdiem2 at 5:58 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by motdiem2 at 5:58 AM PST - 4 comments
Ideas for small low-salt snacks/meals?
Because of Reasons, I find myself needing to prepare frequent low-salt high-calorie meals/snacks for a family member. I'm fairly short on time so simple ideas are better. Not aiming for completely salt-free, but no cheese or sausage or added salt; assume bread is OK. Many thanks for any ideas!
posted by altolinguistic at 5:50 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by altolinguistic at 5:50 AM PST - 13 comments
Print on demand in ring binder format?
Looking for print-on-demand services that offer a 'ring binder' option (a bit like this... A4 print bound with two or three of these). The book would be offered online, one click print, bound and shipped. Ideally with a cover and back cover of higher quality (hard back?) material. [more inside]
Against Athens
We tend to see much of the pre-Roman ancient world through Athenian eyes, because Athens produced so much literature, history, philosophy and sculpture. But there was a big world beyond Attica that gets misrepresented as a result. I'm looking for books or articles that correct this distorted view. [more inside]
posted by 8k at 3:16 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by 8k at 3:16 AM PST - 9 comments
save my relationship with beans
Has anyone successfully prevented a food intolerance from worsening? Or reintroduced a food that their body had previously started rejecting? Digestion chat abounds within! [more inside]
posted by terretu at 2:36 AM PST - 18 comments
posted by terretu at 2:36 AM PST - 18 comments
Bees, Words and Spells
What apps have you found or know to be useful when preparing a 8th grader for multiple Spelling Bees? [more inside]
January 5
Come on baby, don't fear the nice guy?
I'vei decided to date again, after some self-reflective time off. I think that I might be sabotaging myself out of dating men who are nice. How can I change this? Snowflakes inside. [more inside]
posted by Champagne Supernova at 11:58 PM PST - 18 comments
posted by Champagne Supernova at 11:58 PM PST - 18 comments
gluteusmedius tendon operation
i have a problem with the gluteusmedius tendon. it has had soreness for more than a year due to an impact injury and has been diagnosed as a tear.
the surgeon has recommended operating. he said it is a fairly standard operation with about 3 months recovery.
my question is, has anyone had this surgery, and if so, can you give me any tips? such as length of recovery, how long off your feet, how successful was the operation. [more inside]
posted by edtut at 11:56 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by edtut at 11:56 PM PST - 3 comments
Family card game for mixed skills and size?
Recommendations for a card game with strategy, lots of luck (my poker-playing kid stopped playing chess with any of us years ago) and for 2 to 5 teen/adult players to play in an hour or less. I really want one that uses decks of plain cards as we end up losing bits of game pieces after a few months. We'd be willing to put in time learning the rules but Bridge is too rigid, Uno way too simple. Meaningless points betting is fine. What's worked for your family?
Want to Make a Chair/Ottoman/Settee Out of Foam Rubber
So I want to make a chair/ottoman/settee - square layered with a whole lot of good foam rubber repurposed from a mattress and cut into the size and shape I need. It's a pretty big-sized piece to be - approximately 3x3.
Google fu fails and pinterest as well, what I'm looking for is the outer-enveloping material ideas and plans to keep everything bound well, nice, tight and together.
Any leads - appreciated!
posted by watercarrier at 11:20 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by watercarrier at 11:20 PM PST - 13 comments
Wireless access points or mesh networking?
Our house is not tremendously big, but is challenging to cover with wifi signal because it has plaster walls with metal underneath. Currently we have a router wired to two wireless access points, a setup which provides pretty good coverage. Our internet service supposedly runs at 1 gigabit per second, although we are told to realistically expect 40 MB. I'd like a router that has parental controls and wondering which way to go: [more inside]
Help Me Un-Invite My MIL to a Race
My mother-in-law has invited herself to my upcoming marathon. I would prefer to not have the stress of her visiting on a already stressful day. Please help me un-invite her. [more inside]
posted by thewestinggame at 8:53 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by thewestinggame at 8:53 PM PST - 16 comments
Write our signs, please?
Family BlahLaLa will be attending the big Los Angeles march on 1/21. We all want to carry signs, but we need help coming up with something. It could be unique to us, or we'd be happy to copy great signage seen at other protests. Ideas, please? [more inside]
Zombie blood in 28 Days Later doesn't count
I was joking with a friend about how we should postpone our blood pact because he has a cold, and we realized neither of us really knows if that even makes medical sense. Could you realistically pass on a cold via an ill-timed super-swearsies? Are there any surprising or lesser known "totally can!" or "totally can't!" illnesses in that category? Interesting underlying blood mechanisms?
Pimp my diet
I have to completely change my diet because my triglycerides are sky-high. I also need to lose weight, work around gastroparesis, and spend as little money as possible. Hope me? [more inside]
Hidden Gems of Non-US TV
I recently watched the French series Les Revenants and the British series Penny Dreadful and The Fall and absolutely loved them. What are some other really awesome non-US shows? [more inside]
How to get a middling amount of stuff from LA to Washington
I'd like to get a small amount of stuff from Los Angeles to Washington state this spring and am looking for affordable options. [more inside]
Immigration attorney recommendations in Seattle (or elsewhere)
Any recommendations for an immigration attorney in Seattle, or maybe elsewhere nearby if very good? [more inside]
Would you eat it: gelatinous bone broth soup?
I had to boil chicken for a casserole, and made a broth of its remnants two nights ago. (I guess tonight would be the third night of its existence.) Tastes ok. Eat it or not? [more inside]
posted by cotton dress sock at 4:26 PM PST - 19 comments
posted by cotton dress sock at 4:26 PM PST - 19 comments
How to read statistics accurately
I know the risk of SIDS is quite low. I can't figure out just how low given that some of the factors are preventable. [more inside]
posted by JoannaC at 4:01 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by JoannaC at 4:01 PM PST - 8 comments
Port Corporate Phone Number to Google Voice
GV won't port corporate number, there has to be a way to port number to a personal line cheaply and then port to GV, right? What is the cheap way to do it? [more inside]
Got hit with a C&D for a shirt design, then someone stole it, what now?
Can someone use my work without my permission after they issued a cease and desist to keep me from using it myself? [more inside]
What does "Range" mean on Wunderground?
On Weather Underground, how is the "Range" for daily high and low determined? (Under "History" when you view a forecast, e.g. this one.) It looks like it's different from record minimum and record maximum, but I can't find any info on how it's calculated.
"sensitive" facebook groups and privacy
Can I make private that I am a member of a certain Facebook group? How? [more inside]
posted by bearette at 2:04 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by bearette at 2:04 PM PST - 15 comments
Marriage: Right girl, wrong situation?
I'm Getting married with some jobless soul searching normally done alone.
Could it be a case of Right girl at the wrong time? [more inside]
How did you our people you know learn to not be racist and xenophobic?
I am going to be teaching a semester-long class on intercultural issues to college students, and I am wondering how you or people that you know learned to not be xenophobic and racist. Are there any books / articles / films / experiences / activities that changed your thinking in deep ways? This is basically a required cultural sensitivity class, which I can largely design however I choose, so I am gathering ideas. Any thoughts would be appreciated.
posted by mortaddams at 1:10 PM PST - 36 comments
posted by mortaddams at 1:10 PM PST - 36 comments
Help me stock the pantry via food stamps
There is a possibility that my food stamps will be reduced or eliminated in the near future. My card will be refilled before that, however. (If there is a change I'm not sure when that would take effect. Probably the following month, but who knows.)
I'd like to pretty much use the entire monthly allotment up, just in case.
How do I use my allotment to get the most value out of it? [more inside]
gift ideas needed!
My husband and I are traveling to see family in the Philippines. I want to bring some presents, but I'm conflicted about what to get and who to bring them for. Full outline of my headache inside. [more inside]
posted by brilliantine at 12:53 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by brilliantine at 12:53 PM PST - 7 comments
Advice on attending RSC Anderlecht match?
I'm going to be in Brussels for a conference next month and I'm interested in checking out an RSC Anderlecht match, specifically the Europa League match against Zenit. However, I'm running into a brick wall trying to find information about tickets, as the club's site links to an online ticketing service that doesn't seem to work. I gather that tickets are available at the stadium before match time, though I did see one thing that suggested tickets weren't available day of match. Can anyone shed some light on this for me? Also, I have never been to a match in Europe -- is it cool to just wander in as an outsider and cheer for the locals?
Did I not pay my building staff enough?
First time NYC apartment building owner. I gave holiday tips... did not receive the response I'm used to. [more inside]
How do I explain this to my boss?
I am being considered for a promotion and am scheduled to have a chat with my boss about it next week. At the same time, I'm going to need to tell my boss that a colleague (at the same level as me but newer) hasn't been doing his work and that I've had to take it on in order to meet a deadline. How do I explain this to the boss in a way that doesn't come back to bite me? [more inside]
posted by hazyjane at 12:34 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by hazyjane at 12:34 PM PST - 11 comments
Into the garbage chute, flyboy!
Give me your favorite PG insults from movies and TV, please! [more inside]
posted by phunniemee at 12:31 PM PST - 55 comments
posted by phunniemee at 12:31 PM PST - 55 comments
Could non-job related reasons cause ruining interview?
So I just had a good interview, and I was invited again for a second round. The hiring manager and I were chatting at the end as the hiring manager was showing me out. I let him know that I have a cough and I apologized before the interview began. Towards the end he asked me how long have I been coughing, and I responded by saying that "I have been coughing for 2 months and it doesn't seem to go away." The doctors said that it is not bronchitis but many people would think that anyway it seems. Do you think the hiring manager is not going to hire me because he suspects I have bronchitis or some other coughing disease? He might be afraid that his entire staff will get sick! Although I cough a lot, I feel totally fine otherwise. Has anyone who is a hiring manager not hired anyone for similar reasons? I feel like I lost an opportunity, because as I shook his hand when we were saying good-bye, his face seemed as if it had some horror.
Ranunculus bulb recommendations.
Have you bought ranunculus bulbs online? If so, is there a particular vendor you'd recommend? [more inside]
posted by saladin at 12:10 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by saladin at 12:10 PM PST - 3 comments
Recommendations for DIY meal replacement shakes
I like the idea of Soylent but it upsets my stomach. There are so many alternatives out there. Have you tried them? What were they like? Maybe you can help me figure out one I would enjoy. [more inside]
Photos, Chromebook, and Google Drive
I'm probably doing something wrong, but I have questions about Google Drive, my Chromebook, and pictures. [more inside]
Horror stories about authors writing fiction about their mothers
I'm looking for cautionary tales about authors who wrote fiction with thinly-veiled or semi-autobiographical or explicitly acknowledged characters based on their real mothers. [more inside]
Lightweight wireless headphones
I'm looking for a pair of bluetooth headphones that are: lightweight, foldable and made to fit over the head (not to wrap around the back of the head). [more inside]
posted by entropyiswinning at 9:53 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by entropyiswinning at 9:53 AM PST - 6 comments
How to erase everything on a Mac desktop?
I have to return my Mac desktop to the job I just left. I've been careless about using it as my home computer too, downloading photos, looking at my bank accounts, etc. Is there a fast and easy way to delete everything on there? [more inside]
posted by pipti at 8:47 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by pipti at 8:47 AM PST - 14 comments
Help me explain nominal, ordinal, and interval data, and means and modes
I'm on a project that is collecting ordinal data through surveys - for instance 'How satisfied are you with product X on a scale of 1-10?' We are analyzing and producing charts etc. using the mean as the reporting unit. I think this is wrong, and we should be using the mode. So: What are accessible and authoritative sources that I can read up on and also point to that show why we should be using the mode and not the mean? [more inside]
posted by carter at 7:51 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by carter at 7:51 AM PST - 11 comments
1-800-hire-me
Widgets Inc. (in the US) wants to schedule a phone interview with me (on vacation in Germany). How do I make this work? [more inside]
I would to visit land art sites in SW US before kicking the bucket
I am a Brit, 55, and land art has long fascinated me. I would like to visit some of the sites I have read/seen so much about, such as The Lightning Field, Sun Tunnels, Double Negative and/or similar.
Roden Crater would be a must, if possible. If not is his exhibit still on in a Las Vegas mall? I'd also like to see the Rothko Chapel. [more inside]
How do I pay this person?
How do I pay someone who won't give me their name or contact info? [more inside]
K, ok?
Do you get enough potassium in your diet? Do you even think about it? [more inside]
posted by flourpot at 7:04 AM PST - 23 comments
posted by flourpot at 7:04 AM PST - 23 comments
Low cholesterol food/recipe suggestions?
My niece has been diagnosed with high cholesterol - does anyone have any recommendations for appealing low cholesterol food? Snowflakes inside. [more inside]
Need a writing program/application
I'm pretty sure this has been asked before, but I can't find anything within the last few years. I'm looking for a writing program that looks clean but has some basic editing features. TextEdit is too basic but Word is too fussy. Any new, good programs these days? Must be available for Mac. Fancier features are OK as long as it doesn't start looking or feeling like Word. Cost isn't so important.
posted by ancient star at 6:24 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by ancient star at 6:24 AM PST - 12 comments
Park City Recommendations
Headed to Park City on a boys ski trip. Looking for restaurant / bar recommendations. Any cuisine and any price range. Go.
Do Pagans have a PR problem?
I coordinate a Pagan student group at a university. Recently I've put up a couple of flyers in coffee shops off campus, but someone(s) keeps taking them down. Why? [more inside]
posted by heatherlogan at 5:20 AM PST - 33 comments
posted by heatherlogan at 5:20 AM PST - 33 comments
Advice for air travel with power wheelchair
We are flying for the first time with my daughter's power wheelchair, and could use some advice to make sure the chair gets to our destination, and home again, in one piece, while making life easy for baggage handlers. [more inside]
posted by valleys at 4:57 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by valleys at 4:57 AM PST - 7 comments
You like the design of your shower head. Why?
I'm looking to get a new shower head as ours is broken. Literally just the head, the kind that screws onto the end of a hose and is clipped to the wall above a bath. But there are so many different kinds I'm kind of losing my mind here. [more inside]
January 4
Is this story about Star Trek real?
There's a scene in the classic Star Trek episode "The Naked Time", which is mostly known for shirtless Sulu, where he stands in front of Uhura and says "I'll protect you fair maiden!" And she says, "Sorry, neither." I noticed this tumblr post pop up on Facebook and Twitter in the last few days suggesting that Nichelle Nichols adlibbed that line. Is that true? [more inside]
posted by crossoverman at 11:23 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by crossoverman at 11:23 PM PST - 13 comments
Pithy prose for pepper-up post-its
I'm studying for the USMLE Step 1 (aka medical school boards). It's grueling. I want to write motivational notes to myself on post-its that I can put up in my apartment, car, etc. What short bits of motivational text should I put on them? [more inside]
Help me find my bitcoin!
I have a bitcoin "wallet backup" from a couple years ago, but I don't know how to re-import this into a bitcoin client. [more inside]
posted by anotherthink at 8:12 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by anotherthink at 8:12 PM PST - 7 comments
Please diagnose my pup.
My dog has vague symptoms (lethargy, weight loss) and normal blood work. Help me figure out whether we should continue testing, or I'm being an overprotective pup mom. [more inside]
Help me find this citation?
So I have this question around the history of the architect of the Banff Springs Hotel in Canada. Maybe you can help? [more inside]
Help me organize my job hunt, ADD edition
I'm job hunting! ... again. Right now I'm looking for anything that pays, preferably above minimum wage, that I can do with my various disabilities. I need it soon, too. My issue is trying to organize my job hunting and keeping track of what I need to do... because of my ADD, I have pretty epic Executive Function disfunction, and I can't just "remember" what things need to be done. I also have issues keeping on track. [more inside]
Help me visit Sri-Lanka
Dear Hive, could you help me plan my honeymoon in Sri-Lanka? [more inside]
Non-alcoholic Robbie Burns options
This year I'll be hosting a (small) Robbie Burns night this year! We have several guests who are not drinking alcohol. I'm looking for some good, thematically appropriate, non-alcoholic drinks to provide for them.
posted by platypus of the universe at 6:23 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by platypus of the universe at 6:23 PM PST - 11 comments
How do I know if I have too much work or if I'm incompetent?
My job consumes most every waking hour of my life, and--though I generally enjoy what I do--causes me immense amounts of stress. I want better balance, but I'm having trouble parsing whether this situation is my fault or the job's fault. Are my job responsibilities too much for anyone, or do I just need to learn to be a better worker? What tools do I use to figure this out? [more inside]
Help me pick a cornet mouthpiece
Help me pick a cornet mouthpiece that won't tire me out. [more inside]
Help me be more accurate
I need tips or suggestions to be more accurate at work [more inside]
Emily Dickinson filter: Remember content but not words
I am looking for a particular poem by Emily Dickinson. As I recall it was just four lines ( but could be six) saying, in essence, 'I didn't realize the weight of the burden I was carrying until someone else started to help me carry it.' Please quote me the poem, and/or its number. Thanks!
posted by uans at 4:17 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by uans at 4:17 PM PST - 10 comments
Roadblocks toward independence
I've got a 12-year-old girl on the spectrum with a raft of other mental health issues. It's difficult for her to maintain self-control and my wife and I have recently decided to progressively increase the risk of her melting down by not removing what we identify as obvious irritants, or by diffusing potentially upsetting situations. Have you tried this with someone you love with a disability? Can you offer potential avoidable pitfalls or strategies? [more inside]
Where can I get measuring spoons in bulk in Canada?
I would like to buy 20 or so cheap 5ml measuring spoons that I can for example just leave in the baking powder container. Where can I get this in Toronto? Either a physical store or online are fine. [more inside]
posted by any portmanteau in a storm at 3:22 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by any portmanteau in a storm at 3:22 PM PST - 5 comments
How to voice my thoughts on religion
I was raised in a very religious household, and, over time, came to realize that I did not believe in God or that if I believed in God he was not worthy of worship. I'd now describe myself as an atheist. Extracting myself from my religious community and my religion were some of the hardest things I had to deal with as a kid. It has led me to believe that, while a person can be religious and that's fine, I think practicing religion with your children is not fine, since it sets them up, if they ever want to leave the religion, for a very painful process, and possibly the loss of a relationship with their parents. [more inside]
Time Capsule stuck in bridge mode
We have a network with a Time Capsule which used to act as a router but now seems to be stuck in bridge mode, allowing internet access to only one device (out of four). [more inside]
posted by johnofjack at 2:38 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by johnofjack at 2:38 PM PST - 2 comments
In my day, we called them 'roh-buts'
It's been a while since last someone asked, so for 2017: what are good recommendations for non-iPhone smartphones for seniors? [more inside]
Apps for communicating with deaf friend?
I'm looking for apps that will help me communicate with a deaf friend. Are there apps that will add subtitles to real life, so that he can read what's being said during group conversations? Also, is there a way to video chat with captioning, so that he can skype someone in real-time? [more inside]
posted by tinymegalo at 2:30 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by tinymegalo at 2:30 PM PST - 3 comments
Roll-your-own podcast downloading
I'm looking for a piece of software that will monitor a webpage, scan it for URLs of a particular form, and whenever a new such URL is posted, download the MP3 file that this URL points to. In an ideal world, this MP3 file would be added to my iTunes library as well, but it's not strictly necessary. Does such a tool exist for Mac OS? [more inside]
posted by Johnny Assay at 1:57 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by Johnny Assay at 1:57 PM PST - 4 comments
Bernd das Brot merchandise in Berlin
We are in Germany and my husband has developed a fondness for Bernd das Brot. We saw a plush of him on someone's desk - do you know anywhere in Berlin that might sell such a plush (or other related merchandise)? [more inside]
I'd like to be whitelisted, but I don't know what block list I'm on
At some point in the past year, my non-MeFi Twitter account got on several block lists. I’ve no idea how, and only discovered the situation when I couldn’t see some linked tweets from accounts I’d never visited but with whose politics I sympathized.
To be clear: I’m all for building collaborative block lists using whatever criteria the maintainer chooses. That said, I'd like to appeal this & hopefully get whitelisted. Can you help me find the right maintainer to contact? Special snowflake details are inside. [more inside]
posted by Going To Maine at 1:23 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by Going To Maine at 1:23 PM PST - 4 comments
Years of your granddaughter's life are being ignored.
How do I deal with my MIL choosing to ignore her only grandchild over her already-gone mother with dementia? [more inside]
posted by side effect at 1:23 PM PST - 63 comments
posted by side effect at 1:23 PM PST - 63 comments
Funding cuts: what does this mean for me
My mom was unemployed in California receiving unemployment insurance. She has a new job. The offer letter says that funding cuts are possible and her job might be eliminated in the future. The fact that this is directly in the offer letter is freaking me out. What does this mean for us? [more inside]
App for notifications about upcoming media?
I like movies, tv, books and music. Is there an iPhone App that lists upcoming items in these (and/or other) categories, allows me to select favorites and then will send me a notification a week or two before said media becomes available? Yeah, I can go through various websites for movies or tv and then add'em to a watch list, but ideally, I'd like it all in one website or app. [more inside]
Pay-to-peek
Asking for a friend (really): How to go about setting myself up to be a webcam girl, given my requirements? This is not a should-I-do-it question, it's a how to do it question. [more inside]
Frame with door to display a small book
I have a small book (about 12cm x 6cm) that I want to display - what kind of frame am I looking for? [more inside]
posted by StephenF at 12:26 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by StephenF at 12:26 PM PST - 2 comments
Coworkers like to complain while socializing - help?!
I have an interesting and reasonably well-paying job. So do my coworkers. There are some annoyances, mainly with upper management, but honestly, things are going quite well. But: whenever my colleagues get together for coffee, the conversation quickly turns into a complete complain-fest. This brings me down. How do I change this - either the complaining, or my emotional reaction to it? [more inside]
posted by CompanionCube at 12:13 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by CompanionCube at 12:13 PM PST - 13 comments
Which software is best to generate 1099-MISC forms?
I am an officer for a small non-profit in the U.S. In 2016, for the first time, the organization paid at least $600 to certain individuals, and I understand that the organization will need to provide these individuals with 1099-MISC forms by January 31, and that these forms will also need to be provided to the IRS. Can you recommend software to accomplish this task? [more inside]
And I thought 2016 was bad?
Will you answer another self-care question on avoiding political apathy? [more inside]
My whole life could be different!
What do you wish you had started doing sooner? [more inside]
Joint bank account, no will -- working as intended?
I have joint banking and investment accounts with my unmarried partner. If I should die unexpectedly (i.e. before we marry, which is in the cards but probably not for several years), without a will, shall the joint assets pass to my partner instead of to my estate? [more inside]
posted by serelliya at 10:15 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by serelliya at 10:15 AM PST - 8 comments
Looking for digital audio of "Radio Free Dixie"
Radio Free Dixie was a musical/political program that was broadcast out of Cuba in the early 1960s (Wikipedia). You can find a few snippets on Youtube, and a few other places online but in general, it seems that archives of the show are either not digitized or very hard to find. Perhaps someone else has better Google-Fu than me and can help find some more! [more inside]
posted by jeremias at 10:12 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by jeremias at 10:12 AM PST - 5 comments
Who plays the mobster at the beginning of this Prince video?
The guy disparaging Minnesota at the start of "Cream" looks so familiar, was he on Star Trek: The Next Generation?
Best/Most Secure Way to Ship Valuables
Jewelry, silver flatware, crystal, etc. [more inside]
Spring/Summer seasonal jobs in the US (that allow some solitude)
I need a change I'm looking for seasonal (/not career) jobs in the US that are not as people-heavy as being a camp counselor or tour guide. (Something like working at an information desk is OK.)
Anywhere is OK as long as it's fairly easy to find housing, or housing is provided. [more inside]
Pregnant in New York: foreign, partly insured, need prenatal care help
My unmarried partner and I are pregnant for the first time, while on a six-month working trip to NYC (four months left). We found out on the weekend and in order to be (partly) covered by our insurance for prenatal care, we need to provide a LOT of information to the insurance company: chosen providers, required tests, costs, etc.
We don’t have a clue where to start with this: not just because this is our first pregnancy, but also because the American health care system is so foreign to us. We need help on how to start choosing a temporary care provider and… well… everything else! Can you help? [more inside]
Dressing for work AND working out
Need tips on how to dress stylishly when I have to exercise at the gym in the middle of the working day. [more inside]
Help me be the new (new) manager
I've been made a manager. But the team hasn't been managed and doesn't want to be. [more inside]
How do I research assisted living for a disabled adult on Medicaid?
Where do I start in finding a dog-friendly facility that takes Medicaid, for a non-senior disabled adult who needs to move to an assisted living facility?
My sister is in her mid-40s, physically disabled, and now mostly bedridden. An important caveat for this search is that she is ADAMANT that her medium-sized dog must come with her. [more inside]
How do I go about resetting old nooks with a dead owner?
A dead family member has left us three Barnes & Noble Nook readers. They're not screen locked, but I seem to be unable to run updates or get into the Google Play store. How can we reset them and make the usable? Can they be repurposed to general readers for books under Kindle? Model numbers under the cut: [more inside]
Wireless carriers in the US Southwest (New Mexico) in 2017
Is there a suitable replacement for Verizon as a wireless carrier in New Mexico? I'd like to cut our bills while getting coverage throughout the state, and nationally (occasionally). [more inside]
Is there a course of actions to improve these interactions?
But I've always had a great relationships with ex's... [more inside]
BBC website main content!
I have successfully done the header and menu section of the BBC site. The main content section is giving me a headache. This is how far i have gone: here , my goal is here
Here is the code https://jsbin.com/yixuqo/edit?html,css,output
i do not know, how to align the texts properly and create a div for it. Based on the website, the title and picture are closely related as a link, if you hover it. I am stuck at the beginning. Please i need help!!! I am still learning CSS.
I want my morning alarm to be a stream of online radio via my phone.
I've been using the Public Radio and Podcast app, but sometimes (like this morning) the alarm either doesn't go off or it goes off at the wrong time. I understand that the app's creator is no longer supporting it. What is the best replacement? I'm looking for something that functions well and has the variety of choices offered by the Public Radio and Podcast app.
My phone is an Android. Thanks!
Anti-slip/grip solution for AirPods
Mostly loving these ridiculous new AirPods, but as many have noted they are slippery as can be. I don't necessarily mean even in your ears, as much as just pulling them out of the case.
I know that at some point there will be "skins" to cover them, but the tight tolerance of them fitting in the case, plus the holes for all of the sensors, will make these solutions difficult. What I'm looking for is a solution to add some "grippy points" strategically to the earpieces themselves. [more inside]
posted by rtgoodwin at 6:16 AM PST - 17 comments
posted by rtgoodwin at 6:16 AM PST - 17 comments
First language acquisition age: does it differ by language?
Does the age of first language acquisition differ by language? [more inside]
The Anti-Work Reader
I recently came across this article on why the corporate fad of 'time management' is bad. It neatly summarized and expanded on a lot of thoughts I've had about working culture for a while now. Help me find more like it! [more inside]
posted by anaximander at 5:48 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by anaximander at 5:48 AM PST - 7 comments
Need author recommendations from the Indian Subcontinent or the diaspora
I am looking for recommendations for contemporary fiction authors who either write about life in the Indian Subcontinent (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh) or Nepal, or about life for the diaspora (in whatever other country). Authors I've enjoyed reading: Chitra Banerjee Divakunari, Anita Desai, Thrity Umrigar, Kamila Shamsie, Meera Syal, Anita Nair, Vikram Seth (maybe he's not as contemporary anymore), David Davidar, M.G. Vansanji, Jaishree Misra
I'm not interested in books about the colonial experience such as EM Foster or Paul Scott.
Tenants rights - landlord selling house, Oregon edition
Our landlord is selling our home.
She's had the realtor and photographer round, and everyone agrees on principle that (a) landlord or agent has the right to access with 24 hours notice, (b) as tenants we're paying (full) rent and expect quiet enjoyment as a result, (c) we're not going to keep the house as a show home. We've just paid Jan rent in full. Our lease expires at the end of Feb, so Feb rent is "last months rent" which our landlord already holds. So we have no ability to withhold or negotiate rent. [more inside]
January 3
Because Green isn't a flavor.
Mefites who consume Soylent (specifically the bottled kind), what do you use to flavor it? [more inside]
posted by isauteikisa at 11:40 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by isauteikisa at 11:40 PM PST - 9 comments
The Road to Recovery (Of My Stuff)
Do I have any sort of rights when it comes to recovering items left behind in a previous residence and items moved to a storage unit without my permission? Level of complexity: ridiculous, because my family is dysfunctional. [more inside]
Find this book & illustrator
I Need help in finding the book this page is from and the illustrator who worked on it. - Front page &
reverse [more inside]
Black mirror: Targeted ads across devices/users - how to make it stop?
My girlfriend is getting ads targeted at me on Facebook when browsing on her iPad - when I've been searching on my iPad. How can I make this stop? [more inside]
posted by fieldtrip at 8:58 PM PST - 17 comments
posted by fieldtrip at 8:58 PM PST - 17 comments
Why am I the insured on my dad's homeowner's policy?
Several months ago I moved out of my dad's second home, where I had been the only primary resident. I had my mail forwarded to my new residence, and today I got a billing statement for a homeowners policy (that began last month) on that second home, listing me as the insured. Why? [more inside]
How can I best deal with vision loss in one eye due to "floaters"?
I have "floaters" in my left eye which are affecting my vision more and more over time. My job consists 90% of staring at a computer screen or driving. Both of which make my left eye mess up my vision. What things can I do to accommodate this as I stare at screens or drive? [more inside]
Suggestions for upgrading PC build
My old 2012 PC is starting to wear down a bit but lack of funding means I won't be able to do a complete rebuild until a few years down the road. Looking for advice for decent upgrades and advice for installing new parts. [more inside]
Cell phones: institutional edition
The institution I work for allows cell phones as long as they are pre-paid and have no camera, internet capability or voice recording. Does such a thing (still) exist? [more inside]
posted by arrmatie at 6:28 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by arrmatie at 6:28 PM PST - 15 comments
Help me find someone to help me find a job in Chicago
I live and work in Chicago, and I have got to find a new job. However, at 47 years of age, even with a degree from a prestigious university and plenty of skills and intelligence, my "on paper" work history leaves me no way to cobble together a résumé that would mildly interest anyone, and I am wary of services that offer to help you turn out a great C.V./cover letter/etc. (for a price, of course). The job-hunting sites online all contradict one another about everything. I don't know how to job hunt, but I'm desperate to get out of my current job--and, more importantly, into a job I can actually bear (I'm not going to shoot for the moon and say I've got to like it). [more inside]
posted by tzikeh at 5:10 PM PST - 43 comments
posted by tzikeh at 5:10 PM PST - 43 comments
[massage therapists] I need analysis of my body mechanics...
I have a bit over 2 years experience in massage therapy, but my sacroiliac area is chronically bugging me.
I've found lots of advice to use good body mechanix, but most of the "experts" talk a good game but then don't seem to walk the walk when I watch their videos.
The consensus seems to be:
- • work "under" your sternum
- • keep your "4 points" --front delts and front of hips-- pointing same direction
- • get leverage from hips/thighs, not shoulders/arms
Can this hoodie be altered?
Is it realistic to ask a tailor to add side panels to this hoodie? [more inside]
posted by Janta at 4:25 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by Janta at 4:25 PM PST - 6 comments
Treadmill and Elliptical recommendations
We are thinking of buying a treadmill and/or an Elliptical [more inside]
Where to find William Morris wallpaper
Searching for William Morris wallpaper. Their UK home (william-morris.co.uk) only ships to customers in the UK, and the former source in US (Charles Rupert) went out of business, apparently 3 months ago.
So we need help. Where can we get William Morris wallpaper for our new-to-us Victorian house's dining room?
Looking for Visa/MC Gift Card to use for online shopping
I'd like to use a pay-as-you-go gift card type thing for some kinds of online purchases. [more inside]
Step 1: Ecology PhD Step 2: ??? Step 3: Profit!
I'm a recently-minted PhD with a focus in forest restoration / forest ecology. Most of the jobs I'm qualified for that are even kinda related to my studies pay worse than going back to being an admin assistant. I want to make at least $40K. I don't want to move (so no moderately-paying postdocs). I am kinda burned out on science. I am kinda burned out on physically-demanding fieldwork. Help me make money. Or convince me that paying my dues as a field or lab tech will pay off in a few years. [more inside]
Help Me Help Them
I've been asked to set up a GoFundMe campaign to help cover bills while someone is in ICU. Help me do this right without creating more work, stress, or hardship for them. [more inside]
What should I do!!!
Hello. I need some serious advice. I'm dating this guy who really seems to be harsh and mean. Everytime we have a discussion he yells. Wen we have a disagreement, he yells at me like I'm a 2 year old. I find myself telling him to calm down. Just the other day we were talking and I was crying he did not care that I was crying. He told me to get out my feelings and grow a backbone . [more inside]
posted by Sippi15 at 3:07 PM PST - 40 comments
posted by Sippi15 at 3:07 PM PST - 40 comments
Can I replace my laptop with an iPad Pro?
My laptop, a 11-inch Macbook Air, is becoming elderly and I need to replace it. Can I just forego the laptop and get an iPad Pro instead? Details inside. [more inside]
No Frills Carry-on luggage that still fits
I'm in the market for a no-frills carry-on luggage (definitely wheeled, prefer soft-sided, in the 20-22 inch range) in the $1-200 price range (would go higher up to $300 for extremely good materials / durability). I've been hearing that recently airlines are cracking down much more rigorously on roller carry ons that are just outside the 22 inch limits, which is making a lot of the guides available from >1 year pretty useless to me. Any recommendations for a relatively cheap carry-on that you've flown with recently (past 6 months) and passed the size limit tests?
How to win friends and influence Lip Sync contests
We are new to town and we have been invited to a new friends' lip sync party - yay! We want to do a good job so everyone knows what amazing friends we could be (kidding not kidding). What song should we do (one cis guy, one cis girl, um, one 20-month old toddler). Details inside! [more inside]
iPhone expense/ledger/spend tracker apps minus budget features?
Suggest expense apps or spend trackers for my iPhone that do not require having a budget? I do a good job at tracking my expenses using Dropbox and a Numbers document but I'd like to do more stuff more easily from my phone, maybe get some reports. I'd like to get more of a handle on where my money is going and, if possible, sort out expenses by trip. I've tried a lot of apps and I'm coming up short. Maybe there is one you like? Specifics follow. [more inside]
posted by jessamyn at 2:18 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by jessamyn at 2:18 PM PST - 12 comments
Please help my find a good tech tool example to use in my job interview
Hi! I have an interview a [Social Network] tomorrow and I anticipate a question about implementing a management system for organizing and coordinating different information from different sources. As a non-technical person, I'd love some ideas for tools/software that I could use as examples. [more inside]
Healthy cooking in bulk
Looking for your favorite healthy delicious recipes to cook in bulk! [more inside]
Help me choose what supercars to drive!
I'm being invited to a team-building event where we're driving supercars. Help me pick my two cars! [more inside]
Is Taiwan Basil the same as Thai Basil?
I have a recipe I'm excited to try tonight that calls for Thai Basil. I went to H Mart and picked up "Taiwan Basil" which looks like what I expected, but... is it? [more inside]
posted by pazazygeek at 1:30 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by pazazygeek at 1:30 PM PST - 5 comments
Feed the Trolls
Lindy West has (understandably) left twitter, and this is devastating to me because her willingness/bravery to engage with trolls and actually argue with them with such a concise and amazing level of clarity was inspiring, and informative. Who can I follow on twitter to fill this void? [more inside]
What is this sort-of sentence diagramming?
In grade school, we did some grammatical analysis that isn't quite sentence diagramming. What is it? [more inside]
Should I continue with my PhD program?
I think I know the answer, considering I'm even asking this question. It's a humanities PhD, although not exactly in the discipline (or with the type of approach) I most wanted; I have a full-time job; etc. Many more snowflakes inside! [more inside]
Good critiques of Buddhism?
Can anyone recommend good critiques of Buddhism as a religion, particularly in print form? (There are some online, but I am looking for something more comprehensive and deeper than a short-form article.)
Snowflakey Goal Tracking App
Looking for an Android app to assign me cumulative points based on all the stuff I do or don't do. Details inside. [more inside]
Antenna to extend wifi range?
I want to buy or rent a small, powerful USB antenna (or other hardware) to extend a laptop's wifi range to 600+ feet (physically like this one, though I don't see an indication that one is powerful enough). [more inside]
Vegas Wedding Advice
My awesome friend got engaged this Christmas to an equally awesome fella. They are rocking the Vegas Wedding and would love some ideas/suggestions. [more inside]
Three Days Somewhere Warm and Relaxed to Get Work Done
I'm in NYC and need to complete 20 hours worth of super annoying editorial work. Was thinking of going somewhere warm to do it. [more inside]
Best way to protest inaguration. West Coast edition.
My friend and I are considering whether to fly from California to DC. Best use of resources? [more inside]
Cats and dogs, oh my!
I want to get a kitty! How do I make this work with my housemate's relatively untrained resident dog? Hope me, pet-knowledgeable humans of Metafilter. [more inside]
brutal honesty filter: asking for money instead of wedding gifts?
Is there any elegant way to ask for money instead of gifts? Is this always just rude? Details within! [more inside]
posted by cakelite at 10:35 AM PST - 38 comments
posted by cakelite at 10:35 AM PST - 38 comments
1970s mail-order cosmetics - company name?
In the 1970s there were ads in the back of magazines like Teen or Seventeen for a company that sold lip gloss and I think eye shadow etc., only by mail. The lip gloss came in cute little tubs, and I think they had a logo that had something to do with ladybugs, bumblebees, or butterflies. In middle school I became something like a sales rep and sold the items to my friends in order to get a discount for myself or perhaps free products. It was definitely not a big company like Avon or Mary Kay. Does this ring a bell for anyone? My sister and I are going crazy trying to remember!
How do I learn to assert myself more in romantic relationships?
Are there any mental strategies, books or just general advice you've found to be particularly useful on becoming more assertive and expressing needs, preferences and feelings clearly and confidently in romantic relationships? [more inside]
posted by armadillo1224 at 10:13 AM PST - 20 comments
posted by armadillo1224 at 10:13 AM PST - 20 comments
Accents
I have three accent questions: 1. What modern accents are closest to the sound of English before and after the Great Vowel Shift? 2. Where (as exactly as you can place it) did the stereotypical salty seaman accent come from? 3. What accent do dictionaries use in their IPA pronunciation guides? (And do prescriptive and descriptive dictionaries approach pronunciation differently?)
posted by clawsoon at 9:15 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by clawsoon at 9:15 AM PST - 8 comments
Travel mug that's barista-friendly?
I need to replace my annoying old plastic travel mug. Can you recommend a travel mug that's friendly to baristas/coffeeshop servers/other hot liquid handling people? Also, I would love to hear any travel mug etiquette tips or best practices for handing them back and forth between customer and server. [more inside]
Help me navigate the Washington DC DMV
I have several options for car registration in DC and none of them seem to work. Please help me navigate this process! [more inside]
posted by kingoftonga86 at 8:59 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by kingoftonga86 at 8:59 AM PST - 5 comments
What should I do to get back on track with my life?
I work in the technology field and have ended up in two jobs where the interviewer assured me the positions were not call centers when they turned out to be just that. I began to feel disillusioned about my career and if I picked the wrong career. The stress from not knowing what I should do with my career, myself, my life, as well as my boyfriend's depression led me to experience burn-out and become depressed. [more inside]
Toggles!
Mood Fabrics has been unable to fill my order for these toggles a couple times in a row now. Suggestions for alternatives? Either online or in the city of Chicago?
Jacket to be made of this cloth.
How do I find occupational therapists to discuss an idea/are you one?
I recently stumbled an awesome research project that I'm thinking could be a great breakthrough for treatment of pain and weakness due to conditions such as stroke, chronic pain, etc. I want to talk to people who could give me some context as to whether it makes sense, but have zero real business/marketing/whatever this is experience. Can you help direct me? [more inside]
How do I recover and rekindle my inner fire in 2017?
Help me navigate the healing and rejuvenating process that precedes getting my inner flame burning again in mid-life. [more inside]
Am I Doing Enough For My Elderly Parents?
Inspired by this recent ask I would like to ask you all if you think I am doing enough for my elderly parents and if not, what I can reasonably be expected to do. Details below the fold. [more inside]
Politics, Friendship, and Anxiety - Oh My!
I have social anxiety and had recent e-drama with a friend over our respective politics. How do I stand up for myself and my beliefs under pressure more effectively? [more inside]
Where to rent a NYC-area studio/1BR for $1500 or less?
I work in Chelsea (NYC) and I would like to rent a studio or 1BR within 75 minutes door-to-door for $1500 or less. Where should I focus my search? More details inside. [more inside]
...And Then I Ran Screaming From All My Coffee Toys
I'm burning out on making coffee at home. Too much fuss. Too much mess. Too much money. It's become way too cluttered and way too annoying.
I don't wanna be my own imitation barista. I just want coffee. I've reached my limit with all the measuring, weighing, preheating, prewetting, timing folderol. [more inside]
What do I need to know before buying a first home?
I'm just starting to consider buying a first home - it will be an apartment in Canberra Australia but this, plus a basic budget is as far as I have got. Just wondering what do you wish you had known before buying your first home? What did you do that worked out well for you?
Lumpy sci-fi
Are there any science fiction novels you would recommend that have a mix of both hard and soft sci fi? [more inside]
January 2
Why do all my wooden cutting boards have cracks in them?
I have a bunch of wooden cutting boards, and they all have some form of split on one side, usually on the glue seam. Why does this keep happening, how can I fix my boards, and how can I stop this from happening? [more inside]
posted by gchucky at 9:03 PM PST - 33 comments
posted by gchucky at 9:03 PM PST - 33 comments
New England ski trip with, eh, snowflakes.
I'm hoping to treat myself to a couple of days skiing sometime in late Feb/early March. I'd like to ski somewhere I have not before, and larger than the Wachusett-size mountains I usually hit. [more inside]
posted by vrakatar at 7:06 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by vrakatar at 7:06 PM PST - 6 comments
How does one speak with a recruiter?
I'm getting ready to make a career transition and am looking at a lot of different options, but I want to make sure the next step I make is the right one. Recently I was contacted by a in house recruiter (not a headhunter) for a company who said they saw my resume and invited me to apply to a few jobs they have open. I'd like to find out more about the positions but would like to know more about how one works with a recruiter. [more inside]
posted by Karaage at 6:33 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by Karaage at 6:33 PM PST - 5 comments
He screwed up. We want to work through it. Tips?
My boyfriend did something two months ago that betrayed my trust. I found out a month ago. We are trying to work through it but I need tips on things we can do to help me trust him again. [more inside]
Out of order to ask doctor to pay full attention during a visit?
I was dx'd with Lupus back in 1989, had a wonderful old-school (by that I mean he was in his late 70s when I first saw him) rheumatologist at the time who was also an internist. Sadly he passed away in 2003 and I began seeing a rheumy in the practice recommended by deceased rheumatologist's office. Even though new rheumy is also an internist, in recent years he is becoming more "by the book". For example, as of 2014 his office required all patients to pay for their visits (whether co-pays or full price) prior to seeing him (instead of at the end of the visit). In late 2015 my employment situation changed so that I no longer had health insurance (I couldn't afford COBRA, which ran just over $1400/month). As a result, I ceased my twice annual appointments with rheumy, because I could not afford the office visit (he saw me once after my insurance ceased for the "discount" price of $90, but did not run any blood work) plus the lab fees. [more inside]
Donald Trump killed my sex life.
So my wife and I (both ladies) have a good relationship and a good sex life. Or at least, we had one until November 8th. Suddenly, any fun sexytime feelings I had were buried under a mountain of fear, anger, sadness, and apathy. Seeking advice on how to get my groove back, with details inside. [more inside]
Best places to swim in Miami?
Best places to go swimming in Miami? [more inside]
To pseudonym or to not pseudonym?
I'm an aspiring illustrator who can't decide whether or not to use a pseudonym. Advice sought. [more inside]
Distributions/Plots for Social Sciences
I'm writing a story and I need a marginally believable conversation between a professor and grad student in the social sciences discussing some data. The student is showing the prof some data analysis and ... [more inside]
Lessons that stuck with you
What is one concept or mental model you learned in law school, grad school, business school, trade school, in a MOOC, etc., that blew your mind, stuck with you, and became a regular or essential part of your "cognitive toolkit"? [more inside]
Unbreak my heart, untotal my car.
Have you convinced you insurance to change their minds after they tried to tota your car? How did you do it? I have an older car that just needs a lot of bodywork after an accident but is mechanically sound. Insurance wants it to be a total loss, but I want them to fix it. The repair estimate is about $150 over the 75% threshold that North Carolina uses for a total loss. (Yes I am aware I can fix it and get a salvage title, but would prefer to avoid that if I can)
posted by genmonster at 12:22 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by genmonster at 12:22 PM PST - 6 comments
Repair oldish Macbook Air through Apple or some third party, or replace?
My Macbook Air (2012 model) has a bad hard drive, I think. Should I try to take it to Apple for maintenance, or a third-party? [more inside]
posted by skewed at 12:14 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by skewed at 12:14 PM PST - 7 comments
upholstery repair
Participant Disclosure Document (Return of the Job from Hell)
Good morning MeFi, I've got an email I just received from a previous abusive employer from whom I was terminated without chance of rehire. It appears they think I owe them money for participation in their company-sponsored 401K. Should I be worried? [more inside]
posted by endotoxin at 10:00 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by endotoxin at 10:00 AM PST - 14 comments
Teaching children nonattachment applied to "stuff"
I really want to start from an early age teaching my child that stuff is just stuff. I also want to be realistic about development and temperament. I have heard others speak of terrible emotional struggles getting kids to let go of excess, and it does not help that the primary caregiver for my child likes stuff and clutter. What do you suggest for raising a child to have a healthy (moderate) attachment to things, assuming this isn't a harmful goal? [more inside]
posted by crunchy potato at 9:54 AM PST - 47 comments
posted by crunchy potato at 9:54 AM PST - 47 comments
Washington DC - Womens March Weekend
My 13-year old daughter and I will be in DC for the Womens' March. We have one play day, Saturday the 20th. We'd like to go to either the NMAAHC or the National Zoo. I've never been to DC and I have oh so many questions. [more inside]
posted by duckus at 9:38 AM PST - 21 comments
posted by duckus at 9:38 AM PST - 21 comments
Pay? Save! Pay! Save?
My wife and I own a condo that is shrinking in size with every leap our daughter makes. We're hoping/planning to buy a house this fall. Between now and then, are we better off using any extra cash to pay down our condo mortgage, figuring we'll get it back when we sell the place, or socking it away until we're ready to buy the house? (We're very lucky to have no other debts.) [more inside]
posted by chimpsonfilm at 9:04 AM PST - 17 comments
posted by chimpsonfilm at 9:04 AM PST - 17 comments
Amend/update divorce decree.
You are not my divorce attorney, but perhaps you can
1. recommend one in the Houston, TX area and/or
2. tell me if my plan to request that the court change our existing divorce decree has a reasonable chance of success. [more inside]
How should I ask HR to cover my transgender surgery?
My company is self-insured and thus can write their own insurance policy without being subject to many regulations. For whatever reason, they decided to exclude transgender health services. I did not find this out until last week. I have surgery scheduled in three weeks. I am going to pay for it myself but I want to ask HR if they'll reconsider not being [swear words redacted]. [more inside]
posted by AFABulous at 7:20 AM PST - 22 comments
posted by AFABulous at 7:20 AM PST - 22 comments
Cutting My Own Bangs
Do I dare? I'd like to extend the time between haircuts, but I also don't want to look like I got my hair done at Le Weedwhacker Salon. Tips? Tools of the trade? Recommended videos? [more inside]
posted by nightrecordings at 7:08 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by nightrecordings at 7:08 AM PST - 15 comments
Finding some fun
I'm going through a patch at work that is heavy going and high stakes. I'm enjoying it, but want to make sure I stay on an even keel. So I am looking for ideas for toys, equipment or activities for frivolous fun that will serve as a good distraction. [more inside]
My message is lost on Facebook
I sent a message and a friend request at the same time. But once the friend accepted, my message was still in la la land as it was hidden under 'Message Requests.' Even subsequent messages continued to appear under the same filter. I tried deleting my conversation and sending a message but to no avail. I was able to confirm this with a separate account.
It appears the only other option would be to write on their wall, but would rather find an alternative than to make the convo public.
Any ideas, please?
Wait... They Don't Love You Like I Love You
I want to spend more time geeking out about maps, urban geography, trains, and otherwise entertaining the spatial part of my brain! What are some hobbies/games/projects/apps/etc. to try? [more inside]
posted by elephantsvanish at 12:18 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by elephantsvanish at 12:18 AM PST - 19 comments
January 1
Will I ever know how 'She Hates My Futon' ends?
I've had a bookmark for the unfinished online novella She Hates My Futon (link does not go to original site, as that domain is expired) since 2002 at least. Every so often I try to find out if the author, Craig Mitchell, is writing again and never find anything except people asking the same question. Anyone here have a scoop? [more inside]
posted by the thorn bushes have roses at 10:39 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by the thorn bushes have roses at 10:39 PM PST - 7 comments
Was there a bo ssam pork recipe of 2016?
Years ago, thanks to AskMe, I came across the Momofuku bo ssam pork recipe and have made it repeatedly since. And now I wonder...that's a pretty old recipe now. Is there something new that has come up since that I should be trying? [more inside]
Depression and GAD: the sequel
I'm having a depression and anxiety relapse. It is totally kicking my butt this time around. Does anyone have hopeful stories to share? [more inside]
Help me develop better coping strategies for difficult work environment
Hi all, I am looking for some thoughts and ideas on managing stress and emotions better regarding work stuff, because I've found myself being awfully negative lately, getting into anxiety loops, and dwelling on anger & frustration. What I am going to describe is not a great situation, of which I am fully aware, but there are many, many, many reasons why I have no interest in leaving this job now so please do not suggest it. [more inside]
posted by likeatoaster at 7:09 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by likeatoaster at 7:09 PM PST - 13 comments
Can I eat it, Can I freeze it, Creme Brulee Edition
So for New Year's, I made way too much creme brulee, using this Alton Brown recipe. Questions on dealing with the excess inside. [more inside]
Google News, but more text and less clickbait
Help me find a replacement for Google News.
Up until a year ago, I turned to Google News to satisfy my daily intake, but in recent months it seems more clickbaity and with more sources that are dubious or anathema to me (eg Fox, buzzfeed).
Apps, websites are both ok. [more inside]
Quotes and references about seeing a person clearly (or not)?
I'm looking for quotes that refer to the idea of perceiving another person-- either perceiving a person clearly and correctly or perceiving a person incorrectly. Bonus points for quotes that are literary. [more inside]
posted by Mystical Listicle at 6:00 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by Mystical Listicle at 6:00 PM PST - 13 comments
When mental illness is actually physical
So last week I explained that I was having an emotional crisis and asked for some help with decision making. It turns out that I was not having an emotional crisis and was actually having extremely dangerous heart arrhythmias that often lead to sudden cardiac arrest. (Supposedly, certain heart conditions and rhythms can be accompanied by feelings of hopelessness and impending doom.) Now I am alone in a hospital and am facing an uncertain future. [more inside]
posted by xyzzy at 5:33 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by xyzzy at 5:33 PM PST - 7 comments
What are some practical, post-degree programs to consider?
The accelerated programs to receive a BSN appeal to me. Are there any other skill-based programs that are similar for other careers? [more inside]
Background check my puppy!
I adopted a dog with a small tattoo that I'm assuming serves as some kind of identifier. I'd like to find out what information is available about her as I know almost nothing about her except for what the rescuing vet told me. Help me find out what the tattoo means and if I can find out her birthdate and breeder/state/area of origin. [more inside]
posted by Fuego at 4:58 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by Fuego at 4:58 PM PST - 7 comments
How to transfer these smartphone photo albums?
Is it possible to/how do I transfer the photo albums in the Samsung app "Story Album" to a Samsung Galaxy S7 from a Samsung Galaxy S4? [more inside]
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!! Oops, got a DUI
18 year old son blew a .15 in California on the night before new years eve at around 2:30 am.
He was caught kind of randomly, there was no accident or swerving or anything, BUT, we all know that it doesn't matter because being intoxicated behind the wheel put people's lives at risk. [more inside]
Unexpected uncle death
My uncle died several months ago unexpectedly. I was operating under the belief that it was a heroin overdose or suicide. I finally got the autopsy results that show he actually died from a cardiac event and he was a lot sicker than I knew. I'm having trouble processing this. [more inside]
posted by pintapicasso at 2:41 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by pintapicasso at 2:41 PM PST - 11 comments
guilt due to internet/computer breaks
I get extremely guilty when I take breaks and turn to the internet or computer games to unwind. Should I be trying to get over this guilt or taking it to heart? [more inside]
Help with Death
My father died last night after a very long illness. My brain isn't working well right now, so I'm asking the Hive Mind for some help. I think I have the basics under control for now, but it's the next couple of months that I need advice for. Details inside. [more inside]
Google Inbox question for regular travellers
I'm using Google Inbox for Android. I can never download attachments or view images while roaming. Help! [more inside]
posted by bergnotburg at 1:21 PM PST - 1 comment
posted by bergnotburg at 1:21 PM PST - 1 comment
Can you ID these toys?
I found these toys on the ground in my neighborhood months ago and finally photographed them so I could ask you - what are they? [more inside]
posted by komara at 1:04 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by komara at 1:04 PM PST - 6 comments
Laptops for (under) $500, Alex
Hit me with your best all-purpose laptop recommendations for under $500- no special bells and whistles needed. Current model cost $350 approximately 6 years ago, and it's been fine but I can tell it's ready for The Farm Upstate. I'd LOVE it if I could still get one that runs Windows 7.
What's it like living in Greensboro, NC?
Mrs. Monkeysuit and I plan to retire to NC this year. We like the looks of the Greensboro area, but have never spent any time there. We're northern liberals. How would that work for us? [more inside]
Please help me make my Audible membership audible
I signed up for Audible's 30-day free trial membership this morning, but can't get the free book I got from it to play on my laptop. Their tech support staff told me it's a problem with my computer. Help? [more inside]
posted by orange swan at 12:03 PM PST - 20 comments
posted by orange swan at 12:03 PM PST - 20 comments
Flavor ideas for homemade Jello?
I'm trying to spruce up my dessert options while on a super low-carb diet, and am really into Sugar-free Jello at the moment.
I would prefer to make my own so i can use a healthier sweetener than the store-bought stuff, and I'm looking for ideas of fancy flavor combination i could try outside of the classic realm of Jello flavors. [more inside]
Stamping on smooth wood
I have about 250 of these discs. I need to put colored numbers on them. I'm thinking of using an ink stamp set. Will the kind of ink that comes with this set stay on those discs, and hold up to wear? If not, then what kind of ink will?
I'm sleeping with my head in a 6 milliGauss AC magnetic field.
So there's a powerline outside my bedroom window, and I thought, huh. Turns out I'm sleeping with my head in a 6mG AC magnetic field. Help me use physics to stop caring. [more inside]
Macbook peripherals for dummies
Questions about a keyboard, monitor and USB hub for my Macbook Pro. With bonus hard drive question. Snowflakes inside. [more inside]
posted by sailoreagle at 8:04 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by sailoreagle at 8:04 AM PST - 11 comments
Identify my Taiwanese taxi lullaby
Heading to the airport from downtown Taipei last week, our baby began to cry in his seat. Our Taiwanese taxi driver offered to put on some music. What came out of the speakers was indistinguishably a collection of children's music, opening with the most incredible, mesmeric Mandarin lullaby. I wish I had shazamed it or recorded it, but failing that: you? Definitely a longshot. What I retained of the track in question was that this single song was about 31 or 32 minutes long. It consisted of a small children's choir singing a series of (almost) single syllables, one on every beat. Mantra-like, "mu / ni / so / ba / re / ta", that kind of thing, except the only actual lyrics I can remember were "Su / lu / su / lu," which isn't exactly helpful. Instrumentation consisted of gauzey strings, bass, woodwinds and tabla-like drums.
posted by Marquis at 7:40 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by Marquis at 7:40 AM PST - 5 comments
Satirical supermarket ads
A year or two ago I ran across a satirical supermarket circular on the web - you know, those colorful newspaper inserts that advertise "Cooked Ham - $3.49/lb" - that combined standard food pictures with strange descriptions. [more inside]
posted by schrodycat at 6:45 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by schrodycat at 6:45 AM PST - 6 comments
Partner hit rock bottom and I can't deal - what to do?
My partner recently told me that they spent a small fortune on drugs while I was away in order to cope with severe depression. I broke up with them because I couldn't deal and I need clarity on what to do next. [more inside]