December 2013 Archives
December 31
How can I make GMail messages appear w/ white text on black background?
GMail Themes only change the look of the inbox as best I can tell, not the background and text color of the actual messages. My grandfather's eyesight is degenerating badly, and he can read white-on-black much easier than black-on-white. I assume the answer involves user styles managed through the Chrome plugin Stylish, which has a lot of options for Google Chrome, but searching the web hasn't turned up a working snippet of code for user styles that will change the text and background colors. Any help would be greatly appreciated!
Where should I put my Oregon Political Contribution Credit?
I'm a relatively new transplant to Oregon, so I didn't find out about the Oregon Political Contribution Credit until last April. And then I promptly forgot about it until I heard a fairly annoying ad on the radio reminding people today is the last day to make a contribution. Should I donate my 50 bucks to any particular cause? [more inside]
iPad vs 2-in-1 laptop/tablet
My wife wants to buy a laptop that also converts to a tablet. She needs a good typing laptop for work (15 inch screen, nice keyboard) but she also dreams of using the tablet portion for sketching (like they do on Project Runway). She is not an artist; she just wants to draw a bit. I am concerned that the laptop/tablet combo will be less than ideal. I have heard that these tablets are not as sensitive as an ipad, and I am wondering what software she would use that would be better or as cheap as a $10 app. I think she should get a cheap laptop along with a used iPad. Does anyone have any firsthand experience one way or another? [more inside]
Looking for timestretching software that supports variable tempo curves
I'm looking for an audio timestretching tool that allows me to vary the compression/expansion amount over time. In other words, I'd like to be able to draw a tempo "curve" for the input file—say, starting at −8% speed and remaining there for the first minute and twenty seconds; then gradually increasing speed so that it reaches +12% at 5:33; then remaining steady at +12% for the remainder of the track. Help? [more inside]
Name this book/story, SF division
All I remember is the macguffin is time travel, and the setting is a time period that I think may be similar to the few generations before and after the Roman occupation of Gaul. There may have been a murder mystery thrown in. The book was in English, I suspect by an American author. [more inside]
Truck + plow blade. Snow-covered driveway ending in garage. Can it work?
Dumb question: can a pick-up truck with a plow blade clear a short straight driveway that goes from the street right up to a garage? By design, the plow is intended push snow in front of it—so won't the result be a pile of snow against the garage door? Or can the blade be raised high enough so that the driver can move it over a mound of snow, lower the blade, and drive backward to pull the snow away? [more inside]
posted by StrawberryPie at 5:02 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by StrawberryPie at 5:02 PM PST - 11 comments
Target Credit Card Fraud: The gift that keeps on giving (spam)
Victim of Target credit card fraud followed up by a massive flood of spam. We're curious what exactly is going on. [more inside]
posted by neilbert at 4:09 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by neilbert at 4:09 PM PST - 12 comments
Gamer teen to coder
A friends teenage (16) son is considering skipping university and instead training themselves to be a programmer, with a particular interest in making games. Assuming he's starting from scratch what would be some good cheap or free resources to get him started? Both in terms of getting the basics and allow him to work on a game-related project that might hold his interest?
I married an idiot.
Husband was arrested for saying something stupid during chemotherapy. What happens now? [more inside]
posted by wandering_not_lost at 3:20 PM PST - 25 comments
posted by wandering_not_lost at 3:20 PM PST - 25 comments
What's the Real Effect of Not Paying Time Share Maintenance Fees?
Let's say that I own a timeshare that I cannot sell or give away or rent. Let's read as given I am stuck with this thing for 7 years AND every year there are "maintenance fees" and "annual charges" and all sorts of things costing me up to $6000 a year. Let's just imagine this is the situation and I can't pay them anymore. [more inside]
Tub is leaking water through the floor, and I'm very worried (Cleveland)
Living in the Cleveland, Ohio area. The area around my upstairs bathroom's bathtub has been leaking through the floor to the downstairs bathroom for some time now. I kept putting off getting it fixed, and when my son who is home visiting saw it grew extremely worried. He said that it is damaging the structural integrity of the house and could also be breeding "black mold" which is a health hazard. Is it really that bad? What kind of work would be necessary to fix this, and should a professional be called? (Picture inside) [more inside]
30-something lady still eating like my 80's latchkey kid self
Resolution time! I grew up eating junk food. Lots of it. My fruit/veggie intake is minimal to non-existent. Though my BMI is in the healthy range, I know I can't possibly be healthy with decades of this diet. Where do I even start to relearn how to eat? [more inside]
posted by sixtyten at 2:42 PM PST - 33 comments
posted by sixtyten at 2:42 PM PST - 33 comments
What's life like with an epileptic cat?
The cat the we are fostering to adopt just had a very scary seizure. She may have epilepsy. What's life with an epileptic cat like? I'm interested in treatment costs, medication, frequency of blood work, incontinence issues, cat quality of life, or anything that might be useful. [more inside]
posted by fermezporte at 2:38 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by fermezporte at 2:38 PM PST - 4 comments
Drummer wanted. Humans need not apply.
Looking for the right solution for a drum machine / software / thingee for casual jam sessions. [more inside]
Where (online) to buy a nice framed photo of DC?
I am thinking of buying a nice framed photo that is recognizably DC (landmarks, cherry blossoms, etc., or something more creative) as a wedding gift. I looked at Art.com and everything was pretty generic, 'obvious' and postcard-looking. I'd love to find a photo that is a bit more unique, or even perhaps a cool framed graphic print. My budget is not awesome: I am looking to spend under $300. Any recommendations of websites/photographers/artists I should check out?
posted by imalaowai at 2:20 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by imalaowai at 2:20 PM PST - 16 comments
All your chocolate are belong to me.
I received an 11 pound bar of Callebaut MILK chocolate last year. I have about 10 pounds of it left. What on earth am I going to do with it?? [more inside]
High income options for life science PhDs
I am graduating within the next year. I will have my PhD in Pharmacology - 4 first author publications, 1 patent. Several presentations at national conferences in my field. I also have an MS in Biochemistry and a BS in Math. 1 year of experience working as a research specialist in academia. Various extra curricular activities that demonstrate leadership. I want to make 100k a year or more. I want to do this reasonably quickly (within the next 4 years). I do not want to go back to any schooling of any type. What options are available for me?
Help me out with the old online dating profile please.
Hello, I'm trying out the whole Match.com thing for the first time and am having trouble making my profile really stand out. I'm getting a little writers block as well. I've tried doing the funny thing and it just comes across as corny. I'm not fond of my writing skills and what I've put together feels it's a little flat. Let me know if anybody has any suggestions for improvement. Of course, any grammar corrections are more than welcome as well.
More inside and Thanks! [more inside]
Where to learn about cars?
So, assume I don't know an awful lot about cars but would like to learn. What books and/or websites do I turn to? [more inside]
posted by Steely-eyed Missile Man at 12:18 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by Steely-eyed Missile Man at 12:18 PM PST - 8 comments
They Rip MP3s, Don't they?
In honor of (juke)Boxing Day, I want to move into the 21st century, and wrangle my prehistoric CDs into digital forms. Delight me with techniques for central storage and playback of all my musics! [more inside]
Its bigger on the inside...
Did Matt Smith quit, or was he fired from Doctor Who?
WIN7 Permissions, sharing and HTPC, so so much fail.
How can I clear up whatever problem with windows 7 permissions is plaguing my new HTPC? [more inside]
Where can I buy an electronic target rifle?
I want to do target practice in my basement, but no bullets, pellets, or BB's. I'd like an electronic target rifle that uses infra-red or ultra-violet light and somehow indicates where I hit on the target. [more inside]
I don't enjoy hanging out with women.
I AM a woman. I don't generally like hanging out with women. Suggestions? [more inside]
posted by skbw at 11:09 AM PST - 78 comments
posted by skbw at 11:09 AM PST - 78 comments
How does the shrinking work in Michael Crichton's book Micro?
There's a Michael Crichton book (technically finished based on his notes) called Micro. It is about a group of people who get shrunk to miniscule size and are attacked by mundane wildlife. [more inside]
NYE Online!
As usual, Mr. jshort and I will likely spend NYE at home... We typically go to bed early since we don't have TV and watching the clock isn't all that exciting. If we decide to stay up, are there online resources to help us ring in the New Year? I'm aware of this app, which looks fine, but I like to have options. We're in the US Eastern time zone (GMT - 5:00).
posted by jshort at 10:36 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by jshort at 10:36 AM PST - 2 comments
Do I tell my wife that I have a child with someone else?
A long time ago, I asked this question. Since, I learned that it is most likely my child, but the mother does not wish for me to play a role in his upbringing. I made the promise I would keep it between the two of us, but my wife demands to know what is going on. [more inside]
Best place to hold stuff I need to get to later on?
Every now and then I go through my inbox and clear it out. I create events in Google calendar whenever there is an item I need to address in the future. I've never been 100% happy with this non-system for reasons I can't properly define. Is there some better place to offload everything that integrates with Android and windows/any browser? [more inside]
Find this essay!
In the 70's (I think) there was an essay written on meat-eating that argues that the animals we eat exist because we bred them for eating and if they are raised humanely then they have had a life which they would not have had. The author might have been Annie Dillard, John Ashbery, or Wendell Berry. I just would like to find this specific essay. Please do not turn this into a discussion of the rightness or wrongness of the premise.
Turkey Timing
I have a 5.13 kg (11.322 lbs) turkey I am cooking tomorrow IN A TURKEY BAG. I would like advice on cooking times from people who cook their turkey IN A BAG. According to this recipe, the total cooking time is 2 hours, and that is freaking my shit out. [more inside]
posted by DarlingBri at 8:42 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by DarlingBri at 8:42 AM PST - 11 comments
Novels set in Westchester, NY?
Looking for books set in Westchester County, New York, in any of the towns/ cities. So far, I have T.C. Boyle's World's End, Gish Jen's Mona In The Promised Land, and various John Cheever works. I want the "a ha!" moment, when I recognize a street or a founding family's name while I am reading. (Boyle did that so very well.) Fictionalized towns are OK too. Thanks!
posted by Neeuq Nus at 8:27 AM PST - 17 comments
posted by Neeuq Nus at 8:27 AM PST - 17 comments
How can they still be selling credit card numbers stolen from Target?
My understanding is that a stolen card or card number has a shelf life of a couple of days at most, before someone gets wise to the theft and cancels the number. The stories I'm reading suggest that these stolen numbers are good for quite a long time. The online stores that sell them even guarantee they're still good! Are the owners of the cards failing to notify the bank after realizing that their cards were used at Target during the period when all the numbers were stolen? Are the banks not scanning their files to find out which cards were used at Target during the period, and taking the initiative in canceling them?
Cash and disclosure
When we found out we would be moving we had a yard sale. We did really well! But we need that money to go towards our closing costs/ required reserves on our new home. How do we explain a cash deposit of this nature to our lender? We can't very well track down every random stranger that came by to purchase something. We can write a letter explaining where the money came from, but would that be good enough? [more inside]
SourceThatQuote Filter: Give an @sshole a hard time?
(Apologies for the vulgarity)
I often find myself gravitating to the phrase "what's the point of life if not to give an asshole a hard time?"
I really think this is a loose adaptation from a movie, but maybe I'm really the asshole. Rudimentary googling produces no answer. Anyone know the real quote and source?
No probing analysis of my psyche or job necessary.
How can I get help with an *extremely* bad, intractable sleep problem?
I need help finding an exceptional sleep specialist or sleep center to help with a complex, long standing problem with insomnia. I need to find someone really good who's serious. [more inside]
kanji interpretation, or other character?
I would like to translate the name 'sophia' using kanji characters.
Perhaps there is another Japanese writing character more appropriate for these sounds? or for a name?
Recommend Brooklyn sports bar near Barclays Center?
We have Nets tickets for this Saturday at Barclays Center but may want to scoot a bit early to catch the end of Eagles/Saints if possible.
Looking for a nearby place (walking distance) that's not too crazy (two 14yo boys with us) and will be open to putting that game on a TV if it's not on.
posted by stupidsexyFlanders at 7:01 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by stupidsexyFlanders at 7:01 AM PST - 7 comments
Beer Suitcase Best Practices
Other than the 50 lb weight limit for checked luggage, what should I consider when attempting to take back as many exotic midwestern delights (aka 12 oz bottles or pint cans of beer) as possible to the west coast? It would go in a roller suitcase with my clothes as padding.
Declaring a mental disability on a job application in healthcare
Should I declare a mental illness on a job application within the NHS (UK) or not? [more inside]
Looking for authoritative data on adult conflict styles and tactics
I am looking for researched or surveyed information on how adults in a relationship fight. Specifically, books or articles on how common it is for adults to make deliberately hurtful comments in anger, and references from sociology, psychology or counseling about the effects of that style of fighting.
Seeking vivid descriptions of cities
I'm looking for vivid written description of cities (real or fictional) that are especially accurate or perceptive. Interested in any written (i.e. passages from books, magazines, possibly song lyrics; not looking for videos) description . I'm more interested in descriptions that capture the "feel" of a city, as oppose to something clinical or factual. Especially looking for passages where the author has strong emotions (positive or otherwise) about the city in question. Length-wise, anything from a few sentences to a few paragraphs. Thanks AskMefi!
posted by dragonfruit at 6:33 AM PST - 30 comments
posted by dragonfruit at 6:33 AM PST - 30 comments
Looking for a new cologne
I’ve worn the same cologne off and on for about 20 years, and I think it’s time for a change. I’m looking for scents for everyday wear with woody notes (or citrus/fresh notes, like what I wear now). Nothing musky or spicy! [more inside]
Help for a photography newbie!
My mum got a shiny new camera. It has dials and buttons and beeps now and then. Understandably, it's all so confusing. Help! [more inside]
posted by 0 answers at 6:00 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by 0 answers at 6:00 AM PST - 5 comments
Percentage Question
How to write down life and business goals
It's the goal writing season, and I recently came across an article that explained a specific technique for writing down one's goals. [more inside]
Name that sci-fi short story (aliens discussing humans)
Do you remember reading a short science fiction story where aliens were regretting their decision to exterminate humanity? [more inside]
Getting in shape without getting bored
Over the past year or so, due to several factors (busytimes with work, moving places twice, a surgery), I let my diet and my fitness slip up. I would like to get back in shape and lose some weight as well. Typical problem: how to come up with a solid exercise/diet plan so that it becomes routine? [more inside]
What's the best iOS app for body weight monitoring?
I'm looking for an easy to use, extremely simple app for monitoring my body weight and fat%. [more inside]
How to prepare for disaster without going all Doomsday Preppers
I think it's not too tin-foil-hatty to say that we're getting more extreme weather because of climate change. Let's say you're city dwelling DINKs with a cat and you want to kit out one of those under bed storage boxes with supplies (food? candles? batteries? whiskey? tiny cat hard hat? I really have no idea) in case of extreme weather. What would you include? [more inside]
posted by nerdfish at 1:36 AM PST - 34 comments
posted by nerdfish at 1:36 AM PST - 34 comments
How to manage emotions when teaching
How do you keep yourself from getting too emotionally invested in your students and your teaching? My day can be made or destroyed by my students and the extent to which this happens makes me uncomfortable. [more inside]
posted by sarae at 1:03 AM PST - 17 comments
posted by sarae at 1:03 AM PST - 17 comments
December 30
Guitar Hero controllers on PS3 and XBOX360?
I picked up an XBOX 360 Guitar Hero controller for very little money at a thrift store. But I do not have an XBOX, I have a PS3. So I have been doing some eBay research, but I am still rather confused. [more inside]
A "Great" Anniversary
I like to give myself literary new year's resolution and since this year will be the 100th anniversary of The Great War I think it would be fitting to read some literature and history of/from that era. I've read Guns of August and All Quiet On The Western Front. What else should I read?
posted by brookeb at 10:22 PM PST - 37 comments
posted by brookeb at 10:22 PM PST - 37 comments
Books Like The Jungle?
What are some books, stories, or poems like Upton Sinclair's The Jungle? [more inside]
Help with my NYE playlist: poppy, top-40-ish
We're throwing a house party tomorrow, and I'm looking for a painless way to get some top-40-ish best-of-2013 music playing all night. [more inside]
New Jersey "exit tax" questions. (Nonresident sale of NJ real estate)
How do I file to get the money back that was withheld at the closing of a condo in New Jersey? [more inside]
How do I get a banjo onto a flight as hand-luggage?
I'm wanting to take a banjo on a (domestic) United flight to Honolulu soon. The banjo fits the letter of the law (dimensions etc) for fitting it into the overhead locker, but I'm concerned that flight crew may want us to check it. Musicians of Metafilter, what are your tips and wisdom for getting a banjo on board a United aircraft as hand-luggage?
Around the World in Eighty Pages
I am trying to read my way around the globe. Can you please recommend me international fiction/memoirs that frame the contemporary culture, customs, and values of the country that it is set in? [more inside]
Name that tune!
It's a short song, with a female vocalist and what sounds like acoustic guitar and violin/fiddle in the background, relatively fast-paced. I can't make out all the lyrics (it's on Store Radio at work) but the bits I've been able to work out are "remember the years when you and I were young and free" and "a knock at the door, I'm going to have company". Any ideas?
posted by mornie_alantie at 7:51 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by mornie_alantie at 7:51 PM PST - 5 comments
Help me compile a list of 100 books to read
This year one of my goals is to read two books a week, help me make sure I get the good ones! [more inside]
posted by everydayanewday at 7:39 PM PST - 35 comments
posted by everydayanewday at 7:39 PM PST - 35 comments
Feedback on itinerary for short stay in San Jose, Costa Rica?
Feedback on itinerary for short stay in San Jose, Costa Rica? I'm very unfamiliar with the area... [more inside]
Double taxes? Really?
If a person lives* in Washington state but works** in Oregon, to which state does she pay state income tax? Oregon, Washington, or both? [more inside]
LA eats for a big group
Where can my large family go eat on a Friday night in Los Angeles? [more inside]
Where to spend wester NYE in Hong Kong?
Where should we spend western NYE in Hong Kong? [more inside]
Which PMI-related courses should I take to obtain PDU's?
I am a certified Project Management Professional (PMP). I am always looking for good values in my ongoing education while also meeting PMI's PDU requirements. I also want to take those courses that others have found to be rewarding and useful for project managers' careers. Frankly, from what I've seen online and taken so far, it has been somewhat disappointing. I am looking for your recommendations. Are there any courses you can recommend? Thank you!
What's fun to do in Joshua Tree?
Based on the hive mind's advice, I'm off to Joshua Tree for a few days to get out of the city and see some stars. What's fun up there? Deets inside. [more inside]
Will the Prius C "fit" my needs?
I've driven a 2008 Honda Fit Sport for the last 5 years, right up until it got totaled in a collision last week. One of my top choices on paper is the 2013 Toyota Prius C 2, and another is the 2013 Fit Sport. I'll be test driving a Prius C tomorrow, but in the meantime I want to hear from anyone who has experience with both cars. One specific question is: How roomy is the back seat in the Prius C as compared to the fit? [more inside]
Is e-mail legally binding in any way?
We're up to renew our lease and want the new lease modified so that we can keep our dog in the apartment. Our landlord refuses to modify the lease at all and suggested instead an e-mail stating that we are allowed to have the dog. Is this meaningful in any real way? [more inside]
Know any good instrumental workout music?
I've been flirting with weightlifting on and off for awhile and figure with New Years' right around the corner there are plenty of people in the same boat of "this is the year I get abs!" Good pulse-pounding music is of course a big help, but I find songs with lyrics too distracting for work out time. Know any cool stuff without words? [more inside]
posted by johnpoe50 at 2:31 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by johnpoe50 at 2:31 PM PST - 12 comments
Everything into one notebook
Help me organize my notebook. Separate sections or all mixed up? [more inside]
posted by jgwong at 1:54 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by jgwong at 1:54 PM PST - 9 comments
Which quadcopter model would you recommend?
Have been thinking about getting a small quadcopter for indoor use, I know very little about them or radio control stuff in general. Which one would you recommend? [more inside]
How do you keep your head when it starts to fly off the handle?
When an argument is brewing or someone upsets me, all my mindfulness study goes directly out the window. I am immediately engaged with the full complement of negative emotions and responses. When I've calmed down I can see all the things I should've said or done differently - if I'd managed to keep my head. How do you train yourself to practice INSTANT mindfulness?
posted by Josephine Macaulay at 1:17 PM PST - 22 comments
posted by Josephine Macaulay at 1:17 PM PST - 22 comments
Job application, not sure what to do.
For job applications, what should I do about a few months long job where I was terminated after being moved between projects? [more inside]
Low-cost tablets for academics
I would like a low-cost tablet for academic work. Mainly reading and annotating PDFs and scientific papers, note-taking, and brainstorming/checklist-type activities. I have a Nook and barely use it because it's terrible with PDFs and can't do graphics and figures at all, even in the ePub format. I don't know anything about tablets--I don't even own a smartphone--so I have no idea where to start looking, what's appropriate, or what's a reasonable budget to expect. [more inside]
Vegetable soup hacks?
It has literally been a couple of decades (maybe 3) since I threw a bunch of vegetables in a pot and made vegetables soup. What are your tricks and hacks for vegetable soup? [more inside]
Apprehensive about ordering glasses online
I need to wear glasses all the time for my job (and for seeing things in general). Unfortunately, they broke the day before Christmas, and, while I have repaired them, they're pretty unsightly. The only way I could replace them in the near future would be to order a pair online. However, I have kind of a small head and am apprehensive about not being able to try frames on before purchasing them. How have you folks done with ordering glasses online that fit comfortably? Where should I order from? [more inside]
posted by The Great Big Mulp at 12:28 PM PST - 30 comments
posted by The Great Big Mulp at 12:28 PM PST - 30 comments
Supplemental income suggestions
What type of additional services could I provide and/or part time jobs could I take to supplement my income? [more inside]
posted by Wolfster at 12:04 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by Wolfster at 12:04 PM PST - 6 comments
Suggestions for online (Mac) computing tutorials
Brushing up...and doing things correctly with my new computer...help out an oldster! [more inside]
posted by naplesyellow at 11:48 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by naplesyellow at 11:48 AM PST - 6 comments
Looking for advice on leaving the cat alone for a week.
Hard as it is to believe, we are leaving our beloved kitty all alone for the first time since we got him 5 years ago. I'm looking for advice as well as answers to a couple specifics. [more inside]
posted by Lutoslawski at 11:08 AM PST - 32 comments
posted by Lutoslawski at 11:08 AM PST - 32 comments
Bridged DSL Modem Still Broadcasting SSID cause problems?
I have att dsl at my house. I bridged the modem and setup a third party router and all is fine. Only problem I can see is that the ssid listed on the side of the modem and is still being broadcast. The wireless light on the front of the modem is off so I don't see why. I tried connecting to the ssid with supplied password and it doesn't do anything so I'm assuming it's inactive. Could having an ssid that is unusable cause problems with interference or something? It's kinda driving me crazy.
Is there paint to use on pre-baked Sculpy?
I want to paint my Sculpy before baking it. That's because I want to paint designs on a rolled-out strip, let it dry, then roll it into beads, and then bake it. If I bake the beads first, it will be hell to paint the kind of itiny designs on the beads that I want to be there. (And I don't want to make the designs out of different colors of Sculpy - that's too difficult for me and not the look I'm going for.)
I haven't, in my research, found any way to do this. Help?!
(alternatively there is a product that is not exactly Sculpy that I can paint and then roll into beads and then either bake or get it to harden in some way other than baking?)
posted by DMelanogaster at 10:57 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by DMelanogaster at 10:57 AM PST - 15 comments
I'll Sample Anything
Who was (is?) the musical artist Apeonaut? [more inside]
posted by komara at 10:52 AM PST - 1 comment
posted by komara at 10:52 AM PST - 1 comment
Stiff keys on MS Natural Keyboard - already cleaned it.
I use an ancient MS Natural Keyboard, but the main thing that's relevant here is the key mechanism.
The Goog will show you models old and new.
I recently took mine apart, cleaned the plastic parts with water, got it nice and clean (years of accumulated cookie crumbs, etc.)
The problem is - now the keys are kind of stiff. For example, if I strike them at a slight angle, they don't depress as smoothly as before.
The standard advice online is to clean a keyboard to prevent sticky keys, but I have the opposite problem.
Is there some kind of lube/oil/spray I can use?
posted by 4midori at 10:42 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by 4midori at 10:42 AM PST - 3 comments
Mac-less in Seattle (but hopefully not for long)
I know everyone asks the "which mac?!" question constantly, but it's a bit of a moving target, isn't it?
I am looking to replace my 2008 MacBook (aluminum). I know that the recommendation is to buy either the Retina MBP, or the MBAir. But would I be shooting myself in the foot if I bought a non-Retina MBP?
Caveat: Can't really wait months and months for the next and newest--this is my work computer and I can't afford to have it crap out without a replacement. [more inside]
posted by like_a_friend at 10:40 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by like_a_friend at 10:40 AM PST - 15 comments
Life after Teaching?
I have surpassed the statistical average and have taught (Mathematics) in NYC public schools for over 10 years. I have an MA in Psychology and a need for a change. Any suggestions Mefites? [more inside]
posted by bquarters at 10:33 AM PST - 16 comments
posted by bquarters at 10:33 AM PST - 16 comments
Bay Area online news to replace horrible SFGate?
I no longer want to read the (free) San Francisco Chronicle online because of their vile, racist, homophobic comment section. I try incredibly hard not to read the comments, but it's impossible, and what I'd really like to do is no longer reward SFGate with clicks. [more inside]
Need easy weeknight family meal recipes
I know there have been many, many recipe questions on AskMe. I'm sorry to contribute yet another one. But I am in search of simple, quick meals that will actually be eaten by my small family. [more inside]
posted by barnoley at 9:01 AM PST - 56 comments
posted by barnoley at 9:01 AM PST - 56 comments
Call all book detectives! I'm looking for a book, the cover was blue...
Please help me find a book on toy making from the 1960s or 1970s (and that I read in the 1990s). [more inside]
Buying a house in 2014. Maybe?
The only solution I can see that will allow me to live with all my pets (current and future) is to finally purchase my own home. However, I'm not entirely convinced this won't be a colossal mistake! On the other hand, if I'm not ready now I probably never will be, nor will I be able to achieve my "pet goals". Am I ready to be a homeowner? Is this really a good idea for me? Are there any other options? Obviously, there are some snowflakes. [more inside]
posted by cgg at 8:55 AM PST - 24 comments
posted by cgg at 8:55 AM PST - 24 comments
Task management for the overwhelmed
Are you easily distracted and overwhelmed? What task management techniques/systems have you found successful? [more inside]
posted by overeducated_alligator at 8:40 AM PST - 17 comments
posted by overeducated_alligator at 8:40 AM PST - 17 comments
Temecula, CA accomdations with an eastern (for star gazing) 2 hr radius?
How can we find a room/cabin/whatever that has a hot tub and a fireplace within an eastern 2 hr radius (for star gazing) from Temecula, CA? [more inside]
Kindle Imposter Needs To Be Shut Down!
Starting around 11am Dec 25 I started getting email from Amazon for a person named Tammy XXXX who shares my last name. My assumption is she used my email address accidentally to register her kindle. What do I do about this? [more inside]
Winter getaway/babymoon in Berkshires/Cooperstown?
My wife and I are planning a babymoon for mid-February, and want to visit the Cooperstown Baseball HOF. Are there things to do around there, or things to do in the Berkshires, that are pregnant-friendly and winter-friendly? [more inside]
posted by cavs33 at 8:06 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by cavs33 at 8:06 AM PST - 11 comments
Weird fertilizer/gassy smell in the basement (from the water heater?)
I was away from the house last night when I got a text from my wife about a strange "fertilizer" smell coming from the basement of our house. I came home a few hours later and smelled it immediately - hard to describe, but a slightly acrid, recognizable chlorine-y scent reminiscent of a garden center. It was noticeable on the first floor but stronger in the basement. I sniffed around for a while but couldn't locate an obvious source. The only thing I could find that was awry was that the pilot light had gone out in the water heater (only time that's happened), which is suggestive of a chimney backdraft. I relit the pilot without issue and verified that the water heater was venting correctly with a stick of Nag Champa. Multiple C02 detectors in the house detected nothing.
We'll have an HVAC guy come out ASAP, but I'm wondering if anyone else has experienced this and whether I'm diagnosing the issue correctly. Is this what water heater fumes smell like? We've lived in the house for a year, and this is the first time it's happened. [more inside]
posted by ndg at 7:36 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by ndg at 7:36 AM PST - 15 comments
Looking for house cleaner in Jamaica Plain, MA
Can anyone recommend a good house cleaner in Jamaica Plain, MA? I've checked yelp reviews and Boston magazine but I'm hoping for a personal recommendation. Thanks!
Correct way to charge rechargeable devices (iPhone, laptop, toothbrush)?
I've just been told at the Apple store that it's a bad idea to keep the iPhone plugged into the power for long periods when fully charged, and that if possible I should really only charge it when it tells me to (ie. when the battery is almost dead). [more inside]
posted by Dragonness at 7:35 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by Dragonness at 7:35 AM PST - 7 comments
BookFilter: English fiction with lots of Spanish language elements
I'm looking for recommendations of English-language fiction that heavily features Spanish-language elements. I'm working on learning Spanish again (I had 3 years in high school, about 10 years ago) and thought it would be fun and useful to read novels that incorporate Spanish heavily, kind of an immersion strategy. [more inside]
posted by sprocket87 at 7:00 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by sprocket87 at 7:00 AM PST - 11 comments
Use 'terms' on hardware?
Are terms and conditions, disclosed after sale, legitimate? What if the associated item is a gift? [more inside]
posted by Goofyy at 5:23 AM PST - 29 comments
posted by Goofyy at 5:23 AM PST - 29 comments
HATE FB
My HTC One Android phone has somehow become infected with a Facebook app again. I want to delete it permanently, completely and forever. It wont let me, I've checked the forums and googled around. When I drag the icon into 'remove' or 'un-intsall ' it just wont. It doesnt show up in my list of Apps in the App manager menu... its like voodoo...Gah! Is there a way or is Facebook like forever, like Orwell's canonical Boot?
posted by evil_esto at 1:21 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by evil_esto at 1:21 AM PST - 14 comments
Cob houses and dust mite allergies?
My husband and I are interested in building a low-cost house (in India, where we live). We've been researching building materials/technologies and cob is something that interested us. But we aren't sure whether cob houses might be prone to getting dusty (in particular, dust-mitey) and set off my allergies. [more inside]
Depressed & lonely; obviously the solution is to make myself lonelier!
I had a significant depressive period earlier this year. I'm climbing out if it now, but I'm awkwardly reticent and hung-up about telling anyone about my issues. My closest friends don't know or have been told a generic, "It was just a hard semester for me" story. But I feel so isolated and acutely lonely when I stumble and have a few bad days again, and I'd like to be able to reach out to friends. I don't want to engage in destructive isolation and have this unnecessary martyr complex, and need advice on how to open up and ask for/accept support. [more inside]
posted by Sudo at 12:53 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by Sudo at 12:53 AM PST - 13 comments
December 29
Hybrid vs. Cyclocross bikes?
Back in the day, there were two styles of bikes that I was aware of – road bikes and mountain bikes. Now there are road bikes, mountain bikes, hybrid bikes, and cyclocross bikes. This is very exciting – as more options – but also subtly confusing. [more inside]
posted by nickrussell at 11:45 PM PST - 17 comments
posted by nickrussell at 11:45 PM PST - 17 comments
Font help!
Can anyone help me identify the font from this T-shirt? [more inside]
posted by vecchio at 10:12 PM PST - 10 comments
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posted by vecchio at 10:12 PM PST - 10 comments
Should I cut off contact with parents who have dysfunctional marriage?
For as long as I can remember, my parents have nasty arguments with each other every few days, including shouting, harsh words, put-downs at each other. When I was a child, they involved me in their marital strife, and I feel damaged from it. I am now in my 30s. I've tried years of therapy for myself to learn how to not be bothered, but I am still very bothered. I want to reduce my contact with them to just occasional phone calls, but I am scared that we'll become estranged and they'll die, and then I'll regret it. Advice from MeFites who have reduced their contact with their parents? [more inside]
posted by cheesecake at 9:42 PM PST - 24 comments
posted by cheesecake at 9:42 PM PST - 24 comments
What kind of skin treatment should I get?
I have good skin, but for the past 15 years I have had a single dime-sized discoloration on my cheek-- a faded red color but not itchy, scaly or raised. I think it is leftover from when I had an irritated dry patch there that I picked at when I was a teen. Anyway I'd like to do something about it, and my husband gave me a gift card to a medi-spa that offers a variety of different kinds of peels, microdermabrasion, etc. I'd like to know what type of treatment is best for helping get rid of this type of spot. Not interested in a long recovery time (a day or two is ok) or having to go back for multiple visits unless absolutely necessary. I'm overwhelmed by the options but would like to use this gift certificate towards a treatment that will minimize this discoloration, without having to consult a dermatologist first. (YANMD) thanks!
Dreaming of Ottolenghi and Amada; stuck on frozen gyoza
I love cooking, but it's been a while since I've cooked on a regular basis (besides throwing together ingredients for salads and pastas) and even longer since I put together a proper meal with courses. I'm a pretty decent cook (and I have a list of favorite blogs, like Smitten Kitchen and 101 Cookbooks) but nothing's clicking, and I want recipes that are complicated and fun and delicious for a change of pace! And so I turn to you, AskMetafilter: help me find awesome, vegetarian, delicious, adventurous dishes to usher in 2014. [more inside]
posted by jetlagaddict at 9:24 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by jetlagaddict at 9:24 PM PST - 14 comments
locing fine straight hair
Looking at trying to twist up my own hair need input on how to start I have very fine straight hair. Any and all suggestions would be welcomed! Thanks
On job searching and hope.
Looking for experiences of job seekers who were offered a job long after the final interview.
What is the LONGEST amount of time you have waited for a verbal and written offer?
Some background: i quit my job somewhat unexpectedly to relocate after some crummy Life Things happened. I have been job searching for almost 7 months. I work in academic research (coordination and managerial roles, I am not a trained phd researcher).
Back in the late fall I had a promising phone interview. The in person portion did not
go quite as well, but I still had a good feeling. They told me that hiring occurs at a glacial pace and I probably wouldn't hear from them for a vague amount of time.
I want this job and I want to convinced myself that maybe I am still in the running, but I still feel like I would have heard at least something by now.
I was also told I would be reimbursed for part of my travel since it was out f state. It had been two months and nothing. I know they have not hired for the position yet and I was told it would be slow, but...
Your experiences with long hiring processes? Or time between final interviews and offers or rejections?
posted by anad487 at 8:48 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by anad487 at 8:48 PM PST - 14 comments
Returning to a stressful home environment during school breaks
I'm in my early twenties. Whenever I come home during breaks in school, I find the atmosphere at home unbearably stressful. It's so bad that my sister (who is in college and also comes home for breaks) and I prefer to stay literally paralyzed with anxiety in bed all day or either leave the house for most of the day. It mostly boils down to the fact that we can get yelled at for almost anything we do. There is no way to win-- I will get yelled at or criticized or caught in some argument over the most ridiculous thing no matter what I do. Alternatively, I will have to watch my siblings get yelled at for something equally innocuous. My siblings and I walk on eggshells all day. It's exhausting. But I love my parents. I already don't see them very much and I just want to enjoy the time I have with them. How can I better do this? Any tips or strategies to reduce the stress? [more inside]
posted by gemutlichkeit at 8:09 PM PST - 18 comments
posted by gemutlichkeit at 8:09 PM PST - 18 comments
The realities of online dating in the UK?
I'm concerned that I might have unrealistic expectations of online dating, and that this might be why I'm not having much luck with it. [more inside]
posted by toerinishuman at 7:53 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by toerinishuman at 7:53 PM PST - 9 comments
Professional Matchmaker Wanted!
Recommendations needed for good recruiters/staffing firms/headhunters in cloud services management. [more inside]
Best place to see stars near San Francisco?
I have a hunger to see the night sky in all its glory. Where can I go to within 50 miles of San Francisco to be awed by a sky full of stars?
New Yorker interested in legal marijuana jobs
I'm a New Yorker who is completely willing to move to a new area for work and a change of pace.
With Colorado legalizing marijuana starting January 1st, I find myself interested in working in what will certainly become a lucrative industry. Without specific experience, is that possible? [more inside]
New Year's night, dinner in Manhattan; GREAT service?
My husband has been incredibly wonderful and patient as I trained for two marathons this past fall, and a 48.6 mile challenge that I will embark on next week. I would like to treat him to a great meal in Manhattan on Wednesday night. [more inside]
dumped by email. Wrote a response. Send or not send?
I was in a relationship with a girl for 3 months. In the final weeks she became increasingly distant, but assured me that it was only because she was stressed out and depressed and we were good.
We spent Christmas together, then the day after she dumped me by an email that was full of bullshit . We talked for a bit after she sent the email, where I never said anything I would regret but only that it was unfair how she handled it. And I said I wasn't angry. [more inside]
posted by atetrachordofthree at 6:08 PM PST - 36 comments
posted by atetrachordofthree at 6:08 PM PST - 36 comments
Dr. Windykites- realistic goal or foolish pipe dream?
I want to become a Doctor. With my history and circumstances, is this a realistic goal or just a daydream? [more inside]
What was this sit-in space vehicle toy I had as a kid?
The Christmas season has me thinking about a toy I had as a child in the late 70s and early 80s. I don't know what to call it -- or even what category of toy it is, so I can't search for it with Google. [more inside]
posted by Flying Saucer at 5:55 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by Flying Saucer at 5:55 PM PST - 10 comments
Great historical fiction for YOUNG kids?
I want to get my girl (8 years old) some highly readable historical fiction. I have two goals: (1) get her great, interesting stuff to read that will entertain her and broaden her horizons, and (2) more specifically, get her books set in places that we may actually go, since it's so much more interesting to visit places when you have a context for them. [more inside]
posted by fingersandtoes at 5:42 PM PST - 24 comments
posted by fingersandtoes at 5:42 PM PST - 24 comments
Need to remove a file from Yahoo Groups but we don't know what group
A document revealing my friend's private information has shown up on Google searches and she is hoping to have it removed. It looks as if someone posted the PDF to Yahoo Groups, as a file attachment. The trouble is that we can't figure out what Group it belongs to because the URL is obscure. [more inside]
Documentary on Time
I am looking for the title of a documentary on the concept of time that I think was produced for the Discovery Channel in the mid 90s. It was rather bland, but I still want to see it again. It wasn't about time travel or anything flashy, it was just about the concept of time.
Can anyone point help me out with a title or a place where I can purchase it?
posted by 517 at 5:33 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by 517 at 5:33 PM PST - 2 comments
First generation iPad browser (or other!) help for crashing, viewing
My iPad 1 (iOS 5) crashes a lot and has trouble viewing some sites (dlisted, I'm looking at you). I'm running Safari. Any advice on how to make it stop is greatly appreciated, I'm happy to change settings, browser, jailbreak, etc, I just don't know what to do. [more inside]
Socially responsible credit card?
I need to sign up for a new credit card and am looking for one that is as socially/environmentally responsible as possible (i.e. not tied to big banks, corporations and/or oil companies who would be profiting off me as a consumer and doing bad things with that profit). Does such a card exist? I've searched online but am wary of bias.
I would like to learn more about Japanese mythology
What are some good English-language resources to learn about Japanese mythology? Book recommendations are welcome, too. My interest is mostly to gain some background knowledge that would help me understand better Japanese novels or manga, in the way that knowing Greek or Norse mythology is helpful when reading Western literature.
Turn-based games for both the iPhone & Kindle Fire
My mom and I have been playing Words With Friends lately (I have an iPhone 4S and she has a Kindle Fire). We want to find more games to play together that are turn-based, that work on both devices, and that are ideally free (or at least cheap). We like puzzles, word games and classic card/board games, and want something that won't feel too slow, as she only plays once per day. This has been much harder to Google than I expected, so I'm hoping to gather some recommendations.
posted by JannaK at 4:06 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by JannaK at 4:06 PM PST - 8 comments
How do I fabricate stuff?
What books will show me how to fabricate stuff? The FabLab curriculum is oriented more towards digital fabrication techniques, but I'm interested more in (seemingly) simple things such as all the different types of fasteners for hanging things on walls, or how to make objects that serve a function (e.g., a lamp, or a steel-and-wood bench) look less, well, home-made. I guess what I'm asking, and have a hard time translating into a search query, is: how do I learn to make the things I want to make look more designed and less like they were a Saturday-afternoon hobby project? (which, in all fairness, they are) [more inside]
Which figureheads have taken power?
Just what the title says. Besides the Meiji restoration, when did a figurehead manage to overthrow / take over from whoever the de facto rulers were? Bonus points for figurehead positions that had actually held power in the past and lost it.
Snowflake seeking snow-free home
I want to move someplace in the US where I can find a good enough job to pay the rent, have a good social life, and avoid all of the weather that New England has. This is pretty much all I have to go on, so I need some help figuring out how to proceed from here. [more inside]
help with post-break up coping?
i'm at break-up +3 months and could stand to re-up my mefite input as regards coping. [more inside]
How do I write a will and help my mentally ill son become independent?
I am a woman in my early sixties and have a son with pervasive developmental disorder (Aspergers and bipolar) in his early thirties who lives with me. Although I am currently in good health, I am aware that there is an urgency to write a will which I have been putting off due to anxiety about the situation. I am unsure of how to go about doing this. Details inside. [more inside]
What's the best option for a dedicated media box for my tv?
For the past year, I've been plugging my laptop into the TV using an HDMI cable to watch netflix, youtube clips, or TV shows. This is getting tedious, and I'd like to move to a dedicated box for this purpose. But I don't know what to get. [more inside]
posted by zug at 12:23 PM PST - 21 comments
posted by zug at 12:23 PM PST - 21 comments
Software for jamming along with on guitar, with tampura?
I play solo guitar, and had great fun jamming along to a tampura, which is an indian drone machine. I'm wondering if there is any software that can replicate this sound, or perhaps an album with 'very' minimal production in a single key.
I'm particular interested in playing celtic music, and perhaps the blues also if a chord sequence facility exists? I'm aware there are some complex 'band in a box' midi sequencers that can do this, but I'm looking for a simple solution with high quality looping droney sounds with some organic sounding variance.
dealing with dry skin and being active outdoors
I like running in the cold, but it’s majorly screwing up my skin and drying out my already dry skin much more than usual. Please help me! [more inside]
What does a "John Dos Passos-like list" look like?
I was reading a review of Kim Stanley Robinson's 2312 and a reviewer said the following:
The author inserts John Dos Passos-like lists here and there in the text. Not quite sure that works, however (These lists are distorted and truncated in the Kindle edition).
What do these lists look like? [more inside]
posted by hjo3 at 12:15 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by hjo3 at 12:15 PM PST - 3 comments
How seriously should I take the "in a relationship" in her fb status?
I met a woman I liked through a common friend. I've learned from my friend that this woman has recently broken up with her boyfriend. I think I heard she is seeing someone new. I don't know for sure. My friend does not know about my interest in this woman, and I don't want to openly ask if she is available.
Said woman befriended me on facebook soon after we met. I checked her profile and it reads "in a relationship". There are no boyfriend's photos, names, or specific references to a SO in her recent posts. She might have neglected to update her relationship status (even though she has been posting other pretty personal stuff lately) or she may indeed be in a relationship. If she is not, I would be interested in starting chatting.
So, is it common to be single and leave the fb "in a relationship" unchanged? Would you attempt to establish contact here? How would you go about that?
PS: I know there´s plenty of fish in the sea, "fish" whose singledom is less uncertain, but I'm interested in exploring this particular situation now.
posted by Basque13 at 12:01 PM PST - 23 comments
posted by Basque13 at 12:01 PM PST - 23 comments
magical realism/surreal books by women
I love Kelly Link, Jeannette Winterson, Margaret Atwood, Karen Russell, and Aimee Bender. I would like to read more books like this. Women authors only please, and I'd also love to have more queer and of color authors in my library. Thanks !
How can I save money on food?
How can I save money on food if I live in a place with roommates and an inoperable kitchen?
Assuming that nothing in the kitchen works and that I work a full time job, study part time, and my roommates are overgrown slobs who I never see and don't really care about my opinions or thoughts.
Using mascara without the brush.
So I'm having a recurrent pink eye issue that has been going on for months. Obviously eye make-up is a no go, but considering this has been going on for so long, I feel I should probably just work around it instead of waiting it out. Does anyone have any techniques for putting on mascara without touching the brush? [more inside]
posted by Dynex at 11:05 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by Dynex at 11:05 AM PST - 8 comments
Honda CRV: Road Noise for the Ears?
My trusty Chevy finally gave up the ghost after eleven loyal years, thus I am in the process of picking out a new vehicle and have focused my sights on the Honda CRV EX-L. While this model is ranked by many as best in its class, one continual complaint I keep reading is that it suffers from excessive road noise. I would love any input from CRV owners or those who have had experience in riding in Honda CRVs. [more inside]
posted by Atreides at 10:41 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by Atreides at 10:41 AM PST - 15 comments
How long is too long for muscles to heal?
So I'm older now and I know that injuries take long to heal. I'm just trying to get a handle on my new normal. I pulled the muscles in my upper arm two months ago and it's still sore. Is this normal for age 40ish? [more inside]
How can I automate my new year's resolutions?
I have a number of goals, not quite new year's resolutions exactly, but the new year is getting me going on implementing them. They include reading more, running more, staying on top of current events, continuing to study French, listening to more new-to-me music, things like that. None of these are measurable or "SMART" goals, and that's the way I want it--I want this stuff to become a habit, not a chore. How can I automate these goals so that they are more likely to just happen? [more inside]
Is There Such a Thing as 1000D Ballistic Nylon?
ThinkGeek is selling a "deluxe" version of their Grab-it pack holster which they claim is made from 1000D Ballistic Nylon. However, from what I can find there is no such thing as 1000D Ballistic Nylon. Instead, there's 100D Cordura Nylon (initially used in the 80's).
Am I wrong here? Is the description on ThinkGeek incorrect? If it is, what is the primary difference(s) between Cordura and Ballistic nylon?
posted by OpnSrce at 9:26 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by OpnSrce at 9:26 AM PST - 2 comments
Dell vs Lenovo or other Desk-top for writing paper, surfing net
I am not a gamer or anything, and I want a desktop for writing papers at home. I got the Dell 20 inch all in one for $349 but I cannot believe how slow it is on the internet- brand new out of box, and it froze a few times. I want to be under 500, ideally no more than $450. I like the flat screens at least 20 inch. Any advice? thanks!! i like the lenovo monitors and key boards. [more inside]
Central American lion parks
Is there a statue of a lion (or possibly Chinese lion) in or near a nature preserve or park in Central America? [more inside]
You're MythTV, no good for me
A friend purchased a generic smart TV box (running Android 4.2) for use as a PVR for her elderly mother for Christmas, but is seeking a port of the MythTV back-end.
It seems like it should be simple, but neither of us has been able to find an answer. Compiling the source code is apparently not an option as that would void the warranty and they are not comfortable.
Does anyone know of an alternative that isn't a paid subscription service (a TV guide like ICE TV) for Australia that will work?
I'm not that smart in PVRs, but we are both comfortable with Linux at different levels.
Recommendations/advice/reassurance for a trip to Pakistan?
My colleague (who is from Pakistan originally, is well-traveled, and is well-known/liked within the science community within Pakistan) has invited me to join him at a scientific conference (all-expenses-paid) in Bahawalpur (Punjab province) in February. After consulting with my wife, I accepted, and I'm excited, but I'm also a bit nervous. I could use recommendations, advice from those who know Pakistan (and especially this area), and especially reassurances, as many people look at me as though I'm crazy when I mention that I'm going to Pakistan. [more inside]
posted by JMOZ at 7:08 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by JMOZ at 7:08 AM PST - 10 comments
Jessa-fy my relationship
What fun, romantic, slightly edgy things could I do with my boyfriend?
Things are really good between the two of us, and we are not particularly "edgy" people. He is extremely sweet and actually a bit of an introvert. But we often joke that deep down inside, he has a part of him that wants to be wild and carefree, and flirt with danger. We refer to this as his "inner Jessa" after the obnoxious character on the series Girls who lives for the thrills and doesn't care what people think.
What surprises could I spring on him that will appeal to his inner Jessa? What have you done for your boyfriend/girlfriend along these lines? It should be something fun, unconventional and maybe slightly transgressing society's accepted boundaries. [more inside]
Makeover, Boston edition
Where can I go to get a good haircut, makeup tutorial, or personal stylist in the Boston area? [more inside]
Keeping friends in the loop?
Last night, while capping off a great day out, my girlfriend stumbled upon a big table crowded with friends she knew from before we met. It created a wave of sadness and nostalgia on her part that I could not do much about but listen. We go on several dates each month. I am working really hard to make our life more certain and rich but see clearly that I am not able to provide enough group experiences that my girlfriend would enjoy. I like to entertain but she is tired of always having everyone at our house. I can find lots of groups to join. I really want to ask her friends not to forget about us when they are going for a night out. What are some tactics I could use to do this?
posted by parmanparman at 4:59 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by parmanparman at 4:59 AM PST - 8 comments
Animal birthday cake suggestions for a big kid please!
My sister's birthday is coming up and I'm developing a tradition of baking her a cake in the shape of an animal. Looking for animal and recipe suggestions. [more inside]
posted by neilb449 at 3:16 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by neilb449 at 3:16 AM PST - 12 comments
Jarred awake by sensation of someone grabbing, shaking, or poking me?
I'm sometimes jarred awake by the physical sensation of a hand roughly grabbing, shaking, or poking me. What's going on? NON-WOO EXPLANATIONS ONLY, PLEASE! [more inside]
posted by Jacqueline at 1:44 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by Jacqueline at 1:44 AM PST - 15 comments
What would happen to an astronaut if they floated off in space?
After watching Gravity and Europa Report I started to wonder what would happen to an astronaut's body if they floated off in space. Googling reveals information about how long they'd be able to breathe (~8 hours) and that we have little jet packs that can help people maneuver, but nothing about what would happen over thousands or millions of years, assuming there's no way to rescue the astronaut alive or dead and they drift off into outer space, say on an interplanetary mission and not near the Earth's atmosphere to be burned up. [more inside]
posted by UltraFleece at 1:00 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by UltraFleece at 1:00 AM PST - 11 comments
December 28
Integrating receipt scanner with Sage 50, Canadian edition
My husband and I have a small consulting business. I would like to scan all our receipts and then download them into Sage 50 so as to save time when doing our monthly accounting. Do you have any experience doing this? What hardware/software did you use? Did you have to do anything special to be compliant with the CRA? [more inside]
posted by angiep at 9:49 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by angiep at 9:49 PM PST - 3 comments
Int student finishing MFA, possibly obtain one-year working pass...
I'm a semester away from finishing my MFA in San Francisco and I'm looking for advice on how to start job-searching especially as a (about to be former) international student. [more inside]
Meter Reader Craziness
Help me understand why the energy company seems to (somewhat randomly) choose to estimate my energy usage rather than billing me for actual usage. [more inside]
Sing along with Jabo
I'm looking for suggestions for songs and/or free songbook pdfs for a sing-a-long. [more inside]
Sex and intimacy and emotional connection
For the last odd month, I have been getting together with this guy and having really enjoyable/intimate/fun sex together. He just wants to be friends, but I'm half trying to convince myself that it could be/will be more, eventually. I just don't get it, how can the sex be this lovely with no emotional attachments on his side? [more inside]
posted by Ocellar at 6:20 PM PST - 50 comments
posted by Ocellar at 6:20 PM PST - 50 comments
Name that tune
There is a short YouTube video that contains three songs. The second of three has me stumped. Can you help?
Songs:
1. Kuomintang - Teargas & Plateglass
2. The second seems to start at about 0:35 of the video, seems to have a similar feel to Teargas & Plateglass but I'm stumped.
3. Cloud Atlas End Title
Looking for first- or second-hand expereinces with no!no! hair removal
There's a new version of the no!no! hair removal system, so I'm taking another stab at asking the hive mind for their opinion. The question was asked back in 2008 and 2004; back then it was new and pretty unknown and now the usual online sources have as many good reviews as bad. Five years later, I'm hoping there are enough MeFites that have tried it to get a better sense of how well it works. [more inside]
posted by Room 641-A at 6:05 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by Room 641-A at 6:05 PM PST - 8 comments
I want to do a Manhattan Project on obtaining a post-grad degree.Advice?
Hello,
Is there a formula for thriving at post-grad level with a reputable degree? [more inside]
Best recipes for savory cereal/Chex mix?
I'm looking for the best recipes for homemade chex/snack mixes. Savory, not sweet. [more inside]
Am I being undermined at work?
Something upsetting happened at work that makes me feel totally undermined, but I'm not sure how to handle it. Can I get some help from the office politics gurus of MeFi? [more inside]
Lost my camera in the snow; is it worth trying to find it in the Spring?
I dropped our point-and-shoot today while sledding with the kids. I figure the camera is a write-off, but I may be able to find it when the snow melts. Will the SD card still be good? [more inside]
Seeking meat slaughter in Los Angeles
I have never seen my meat slaughtered, and wish to either witness this or do it. This will be a learning experience for me and for my teenage nephew. Is there a place within L.A. County to participate in or to witness slaughter?
I need 80's instrumental sex music.
For a comedy show I need some 80's sex music. Something funky but definitely of the 80's and it can't have words, or at least have large sections with no words.
posted by Uncle at 1:55 PM PST - 23 comments
posted by Uncle at 1:55 PM PST - 23 comments
Registered nurse vs physician assistant
Hello.
I need your opinion on going back to school. I currently work in healthcare in a hospital lab as a technician. I make good money don't get me wrong but I would like more responsability, more clinical diagnosis and treatment related job. I want to interact with patients and be a more important person than just a lab tech. I am thinking nursing school or physician assistant school. Please tell me the reality on the field, which one job gives you more satisfaction: pa or rn?i am 27, almost married,no kids, no house. I have a bachelor in biology/ medical technology.
Do you think the rn to nurse practitioner is a better option than the physician assistant?
Three odd negs?
Lecturer's odd behaviour from the semester is still niggling at me, what was it about? [more inside]
posted by Chorus at 1:31 PM PST - 31 comments
posted by Chorus at 1:31 PM PST - 31 comments
How can I assert my dislike of something more effectively?
How do you honestly and politely let someone know when you don't like something that they absolutely love without opening the door for them to try and convert you into liking it? [more inside]
NYC neighborhood with no pigeons?
Im looking for a neighborhood to move to with no lots of pigeons around the subway stations.
All borough including Jersey City are considered, but I'm really trying to stay in affordable ones.
I find all lower Brooklyn are ridden by the rats with wings, especially D train Ft.Hamilton pkwy and all stops follows, all lower part of N trains especially Bay Pkwy.
I also found lots of pigeons at grove st stop of PATH in Jersey city.
Queens seems hae more rodent problems.
Please help give some advice about really clean and affordable neighborhood in NYC.
I caught Lyme disease in one dirty residence. I am sick with rats and rats with wings in NYC.
posted by pack2themoon at 1:14 PM PST - 22 comments
posted by pack2themoon at 1:14 PM PST - 22 comments
Is it better to read Proust when you're young, or when you're old?
I'm approaching forty; there are only so many books I'll get to read in my life. With that in mind, I'm trying to plan out my reading at the start of each year (planning one year at a time, mind you -- my 40-year-old self doesn't get to be the boss of what I read when I'm eighty). [more inside]
Transitioning from academia back to a former job
I'm coming to think that, while I don't hate academia, I'm beginning to like it less and less and have apprehensions about continuing through to my dissertation. I'm in my second year of the PhD program, and have a masters with practical application in the field that I was working in before deciding to continue on to my PhD. The place where I was working, a public library, is now hiring for a position similar to the one that I was in before I left. Typically my master's degree would command a higher salary, and I think I would probably need a little bit more than what they're offering to live comfortably and start paying down my extant debt accrued during my masters (I'm not taking on any new loans, thankfully).
I left on great terms, and feel like a really strong candidate for the job with the skills I've gained in the interim, but would only be able to take it with slightly higher salary than they offer now. I loved this job, and it's looking more and more appealing compared to my current experience in academia. What steps should I take to contact the HR department of the library system to a) let them know that I'm interested and suss out how interested they might be in me, and b) talk about flexibility in salary? [more inside]
Procrastineation
How to stop stress/procrastination/self-punishing/comfort binge eating? [more inside]
Dark spots
A couple of months ago I noticed a couple of dark spots in the back of my neck. Now they are bigger (I was getting my hair cut, they thankfully don't have hair). I'm going to the doctor at some point in the future but I'm wondering if they are 'GO NOW' priority or 'Wait until I get paid'. Any ideas?
How has the MFA/Creative Writing affected fiction?
Is it possible for a layperson to differentiate an MFA trained author from one who isn't?
posted by larry_darrell at 12:37 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by larry_darrell at 12:37 PM PST - 13 comments
Where Can I Send My Supplement Off For Testing?
I have a 'condition.' There is a supplement touted as a miracle pill for those with it. Recently I went to purchase another bottle of my trusty supplement, which costs $59 for 60 pills, and I came across a few reviews stating that the content in the capsules is just plain white sugar. I thought what a joke, but I cut one of mine open anyway, and lo and behold, it looks, tastes, and smells exactly like white refined sugar! [more inside]
posted by OneHermit at 12:27 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by OneHermit at 12:27 PM PST - 13 comments
How far in advance to buy trip/travel insurance?
We're booking flights from the US to Scandinavia soon, with the trip planned for late May 2014. I'm getting confusing guidance about when it's best to buy trip/travel insurance from a third party vendor (i.e. not our airline). [more inside]
posted by midatlanticwanderer at 12:16 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by midatlanticwanderer at 12:16 PM PST - 4 comments
Is there a decent weekly news-in-review podcast?
I've been looking for a good weekly news-in-review podcast, but I can't find one. Surely one must exist - right? [more inside]
Grieving - my boyfriend was supportive but has become unsympathetic?
My boyfriend has gone from being supportive to unsupportive/critical of me in a short space of time. [more inside]
It's only for personal use, honest.
Please advise me on the best microphone to buy in order to record vocals at home. [more inside]
posted by billiebee at 11:22 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by billiebee at 11:22 AM PST - 7 comments
Help me find hope that things will get better
Things just keep getting worse and I don't know what to do. Please see extended explanation. [more inside]
Tell me what to watch.
I've got the landlord coming on Monday to do something mysterious to my appliances and my apartment is a slight disaster area. The only way I can stomach cleaning for extended periods is to watch a show or movie in an alternating schedule--20 minutes of cleaning, 20 minutes of watching, rinse and repeat. I need more stuff to watch. [more inside]
Traffic Hell A
How long would you expect it to take me to get to LAX from Pasadena this Tuesday (New Year's Eve) for a noon flight? [more inside]
How can I be (or demonstrate that I am) more thoughtful?
It's clear that my partner thinks I'm not as thoughtful as he is. How can I become more thoughtful - or prove to him that I am being thoughtful - without keeping a tally sheet or going crazy? [more inside]
Help us plan a Southern road trip from Chicago!
We have 7-10 days for a road trip (leaving from Chicago in a couple days) and are thinking of exploring the South by car. Where should we stop, and what should we see? Thoughts we've had include driving towards Florida or Savannah and hitting Cattanooga, Asheville, Bowling Green, and/or Nashville. We will have one dog with us, so bonus points for State Parks or Forests where we can hike with her, but we'd like to see some towns or cities, too. Thank you, hive mind!
Broadchurch font
Hoping that the fab font people on here might be able to help me out. I was wondering if anyone can identify the font used for the title in the Broadchurch tv series? We are currently branding our music company, and this is EXACTLY the sort of font we have been searching for. I have done some poking around, but I can't find a listing for that particular font. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Hit me with your best music macrohistories!
Trying to find the perfect book to scratch a partner's literary itch for macrohistories related in some way to music. Details within. [more inside]
posted by Stacey at 9:14 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by Stacey at 9:14 AM PST - 12 comments
Vacation days on loan from employer
The company I work for is changing their policy on vacation days. Has anyone ever heard of vacation days being "loaned" to employees to be paid back if/when that employee left the company before the end of the year? [more inside]
Help me get rid of my 'idea possessiveness'
I have a tendency to be protective or possessive over what I consider to be (but isn't at all) my personal intellectual property. I would like to figure out ways to get rid of this feeling. Examples inside. [more inside]
posted by ladybird at 8:07 AM PST - 25 comments
posted by ladybird at 8:07 AM PST - 25 comments
Help me find very large wool or wool blend socks
I have very wide feet and I wear either a sock for wide feet or a sock in size 12-15 or XXL. These are hard enough to find in regular white cotton socks and I need to find them in a warm wool or wool blend sock.
Do warm, non-synthetic, petite maternity pants exist?
I'm mid-second trimester and not fitting into any of my pre-pregnancy pants anymore, so I'm looking for suggestions of maternity clothing -- stores, brands, styles -- with the following constraints: [more inside]
Carved up Skyrim for multiple characters?
I got Skyrim for Festivus, yay! I'd like to experience it as more that one play style; how can I divide up the map / quests so that I have minimal repetition? I tend to explore and have a hard time saying 'no' to side-quests; are there areas that I should save for one particular class?
posted by a robot made out of meat at 7:26 AM PST - 16 comments
posted by a robot made out of meat at 7:26 AM PST - 16 comments
How do I figure out workplace culture...as a job-seeker?
I'm currently employed, but looking for a new position, due in part to cultural aspects of my current job that are a bad fit. How do I figure out the culture of a prospective employer without dooming my candidacy? [more inside]
how to explain away this short tenure in my next interview?
after more than 3 years with my current firm, i am in the market again looking for the next gig. however there was a short stint on my resume i found very nagging. details below. [more inside]
Stray Xbox Identity
When I boot Windows 8.1, I usually play a game of solitaire to let the computer sort itself out and get my juices running. (My drug of choice is 2-suit Spider.)
When I click on the solitaire link at the opening screen, a popup opens at the top right saying "Xbox Games WarmedMilk72469." I have no Xbox and have never played Xbox games on this computer.
Am I infected with something? Is the popup simple to get rid of?
Where did the Menu go when viewed on an Ipad vertically.
I purchased a template that adapts to the device it is being viewed on. It works as it should on all devices I've tested it on except that when viewed on an iPad - specifically in portrait - the top menu disappears. When viewed in landscape, it is fine. Link to the (totally SFW) template running on my server after the jump. [more inside]
How to say nicely no, we can't bring a parcel back into Australia?
We're staying at an Airbnb in Malaysia and the host has asked us if we could bring a small present back to Australia with us, for a friend of hers who also lives in Australia. There is no way in the world I am doing this. I am 99.9 percent certain that it is just Chinese New Year decorations as the host says, but I really have no way of knowing for sure and have no ambitions whatsoever to find out that it is something prohibited or illegal from a customs officer on arrival in Australia. How can I say phrase my refusal so that she doesn't loose face? [more inside]
posted by t0astie at 4:35 AM PST - 27 comments
posted by t0astie at 4:35 AM PST - 27 comments
A flash cartoon. I saw it. I know I did.
I give up.
I saw a flash cartoon. Maybe, what, ten years ago? There was a miniature king. Birds. Talking birds? It was dream-like. The sound sparse and excellent. I remember the thing being theme-wise pretty dark. I've since looked high and low and have not been able to find it.
Any ideas?
Why does dropping the 5th sound nice?
When you make a 7th chord, it's common to drop the fifth. We're told it "sounds better," apart from fingering considerations. Why? What is is about the fifth that doesn't go so well when the 7th is in there too?
December 27
Best prepaid plan for iPhone 4s?
I previously had an android phone and was doing the t-mobile unlimited talk/text/data for $50 a month. Now I have a used iPhone 4s. I've never used anything made by Apple before so I'm a bit confused. From some research, it appears that data network is different and doesn't support 4g the same way so the t-mobile thing I was doing may not be the best way to go? Anyway, does anyone know what is the best deal for a (preferably) prepaid talk/text/data plan for the iphone 4s? Thanks!
Gift for 21 year old guy.
So I have a nephew who is 21 years old that I don't know AT ALL. His mom just married my brother, so he's only been family for a few months. I'm going to see them for Christmas tomorrow and I just realized I don't have a gift. Ideas are needed! [more inside]
posted by odragul at 9:52 PM PST - 18 comments
posted by odragul at 9:52 PM PST - 18 comments
There's one bottle of gin on the wall
My partner and I are about spend the next two weeks camping in a fairly remote national park in Tasmania. We are bringing a bottle of gin because we like it and being compact it can come in by boat with our other supplies. We can buy limited other supplies before we leave to mix with it. Other than that we will have access to (possibly rather mediocre) tank water and a decent camp kitchen. So please give us all your creative gin cocktail recipes that can be prepared with limited ingredients in the middle of nowhere. We will toast you as we drink them!
posted by deadwax at 9:45 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by deadwax at 9:45 PM PST - 15 comments
Name the movie I am thinking of! (Or tell me it is all in my head)
Name the movie I am thinking of! (Or tell me it is all in my head) [more inside]
posted by halseyaa at 8:57 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by halseyaa at 8:57 PM PST - 11 comments
Unusual rental situation
Renting a house where the landlord will stay some weekends - bad idea? Have you ever done this? [more inside]
Songs for when the boyfriend is away. "Home is wherever I'm with you..."
My boyfriend is away and I'm making a playlist of poppy songs about love that are either cheery (& uptempo) or lovely/sweet (& understated) without being "too much" of a good thing. Currently have two songs: I wouldn't dance and Home. Nothing over-the-top (no Whitney Houston or other full-lung songstresses, nothing overproduced). Any decade is fine by me. Unfortunately, I don't have much happy music and I've run out of songs already (and one of my two songs is already leaning heavily towards sad/wistful!). Any help?
posted by flibbertigibbet at 6:27 PM PST - 38 comments
posted by flibbertigibbet at 6:27 PM PST - 38 comments
Where to find mulled wine in Vancouver, BC Dec 28, 29 ?
The only place the Internet indicates we can find this is the Christmas Market, which has ended for the season. I've called a few places but haven't found anyone who currently has this beverage on their list. Will be there the 28th - 30th, and if anyone could point us at a place where we could find a glass of Gluhwein, mulled wine, Glogg (insert appropriate diacriticals where needed,) would be most appreciative.
Ashes - Splitting After Cremation
Ashes taken against both the letter and spirit of the dead's wishes. [more inside]
Look, let's shelve this discussion for a minute.
I just moved into a house and I'm trying to figure out what to do with our considerable wall real estate. One thing we saw that we liked was this image of bookshelves along a wall and above a doorway. We were hoping to emulate that idea with this wall. Can you help us? [more inside]
We got hitched! Going to see a lawyer for a will. What to ask?
A week ago today, my sweetheart and I got (gay) married in Utah! We're thrilled. We're going to see a lawyer familiar with gay rights issues that our friend recommended in the new year so we can draw up wills, etc. Here's the question: what is the etc? And any tips for input on wills? [more inside]
science + art = ?
Please help a generalist brainstorm on what to do for a living. I'm finishing up a PhD in the physical sciences, and I love art and design. I'm happiest if I can constantly learn new subjects and if I can make things every day. How do I bring the parts of science and the parts of art that I love into the working world? [more inside]
Swoon! Parka love! But I need more information.
I am on the verge of this parka by Quartz Nature. I have searched the web for reviews of this Quebec company, to no avail. (Really, the NSA would have been proud of my efforts.)
I'm more looking for reviews of their coats, rather than of the company, but there's just nothing out there for me to read. Do any of you MeFites happen to be Quartz Nature customers? Do tell all.
posted by BostonTerrier at 4:18 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by BostonTerrier at 4:18 PM PST - 6 comments
PDF form checkboxes go blank when emailed. Why?
Updated a PDF form for a client. Now, checkboxes go blank when the form is emailed or saved. Why? [more inside]
How can I help my friend come out to play with baby around?
I've only seen my best friend outside of his house twice this year. He and his wife have a 15-month-old baby boy, and they ignore, decline or don't make it to every social engagement because the baby might cry, or the baby is sleeping. They've all but stopped communicating with me. Help me understand why this is so hard for them, and if there is there any advice I can use or pass on that can help? [more inside]
posted by cogat at 2:57 PM PST - 55 comments
posted by cogat at 2:57 PM PST - 55 comments
101 guide to NYC laundry service
I've been dropping off my laundry for the past several years now, but really only know about the drop and fold. My work wardrobe is more business attire these days (male), but can't seem to figure out the terms and services usually available. This may sound a little silly, but I run into language barriers and unclear signs in every laundromat in a 10 block radius.
So whats usually available besides the classic wash & fold (and dry cleaning)?
-I have button down shirts, what does pressed mean?
-Whats the correct term for wash and iron? Sometimes they look puzzled. (sometimes they don't have this service)
-If you have your shirts done itemized, the $1.75 each option, what are they doing?
-How do most men get there work shirts laundered at these places?
Thanks, and note: these laundromat persons around me are all pleasant, and hard workers, but I just can't figure out whats what.
Evaluating a kid for possible attention, sensory, & motor issues
My son's teacher, my spouse, and I have concerns about a few different, but possibly related, issues with my 9 year old son. What kind of place should we bring him to for an evaluation? I'm looking for suggestions either about general kinds of places you might bring a kid to get an evaluation or for specific places in Portland, Oregon. Any other input on these individual issues, including how they might be related, is welcome as well. [more inside]
Grabbing an Expiring Low-Competition Domain
I want to try to buy a domain (expiring next month) which I'm pretty sure won't be competed for. I don't want to keep loading WhoIs (it's a hassle, plus I'm afraid my inquiries will be logged, creating the appearance of interest in the domain). GoDaddy and SnapNames offer aggressive sniping services which funnel into auctions, and this biz model creates incentive to escalate auction competition. Since I'm not anticipating competitive interest (nor do I want to risk inducing it!), is there a non-industrial strength service which will simply monitor and grab the domain as it comes on the market, without all the dodgy auction provision stuff?
Not Negging, But...
I was approached at a bar by a man who tried a very unusual line on me--one that I've heard before. Is this a common tactic in his world? [more inside]
posted by therewolf at 2:17 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by therewolf at 2:17 PM PST - 13 comments
My tub! It cannot be cleaned!
My husband and I are moving into a house soon (woo-hoo!) and want to leave our apartment spotless. This isn't an issue for any part of the place except for the bath tub! [more inside]
posted by Verdandi at 2:06 PM PST - 28 comments
posted by Verdandi at 2:06 PM PST - 28 comments
Scenes about forgetting, then remembering again
There's a particular kind of movie scene I really like, where a character has forgotten their purpose (due to amnesia, magical fugue, etc -- not absent-mindedness), then remembers it and sets themselves back to the task at hand with a renewed sense of urgency. Please recommend me movies with scenes like this? Examples below the fold. [more inside]
posted by prize bull octorok at 2:05 PM PST - 18 comments
posted by prize bull octorok at 2:05 PM PST - 18 comments
What should I title my porn-related art project?
I'm doing a rather extensive art project that uses images from porn magazines in various ways. I don't think it's important to discuss all those particulars but can leave a comment with them if that would help. Anyway, I'm having trouble coming up with a title for the overall series. I've considered synonyms for porn, words for porn in other languages, porn terms (like "money shot" and such), lines from famous quotes about porn, and a variety of other titles, but none seem right. Does anyone have suggestions? Even if you have a general suggestion (like "why don't you read x website?") rather than a specific phrase, that would be helpful. Thanks.
Upcoming contemporary dance in NYC?
I wanna go to some dance performances! Help me figure out what to see. [more inside]
posted by neroli at 12:17 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by neroli at 12:17 PM PST - 7 comments
What to do about a dog's unwanted behavior?
A friend's dog has an unusual behavior. It he sees someone with shoes on, in other words walking or sometimes just standing, he goes nuts. I goes into a play bow and starts biting the shoes. Sometimes he succeeds in biting through a tennis shoe, for example, which is painful. If you move your feet, he thinks you are playing and becomes more aggressive. He will stare at the shoes looking for the slightest hint of movement. If someone tries to correct him, usually by saying no loudly, he pulls back and barks and maybe takes a swipe at a hand and becomes aggressive. I can sometimes get him to stop by holding on to his collar until he snaps out of it. But that is difficult to do sometimes.
Otherwise this dog could care less about shoes. If there is a shoe on the floor he leaves it alone. But put on shoes and watch out.
Any ideas how to correct this behavior?
He is about a 2 year old lab mix, if that matters.
How to best treat rhinisitis?
The only cold symptom I ever get is a bad runny nose, what drug treats a runny nose and only a runny nose? [more inside]
posted by cirrostratus at 11:33 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by cirrostratus at 11:33 AM PST - 13 comments
LED TV breaking Wifi Network
I have a wifi network on an Airport Extreme 802.11n, extended by several Airport Express (2008 model, MB321LL/A) base stations. My new Samsung LED TV, in a room about 20 feet from the Airport Extreme, takes down my entire network—I can't reach the internet anywhere in the house—until I shut down the TV and reboot the Extreme. Suggestions for diagnosing and repairing the problem, please? [more inside]
posted by MarkWBennett at 11:05 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by MarkWBennett at 11:05 AM PST - 9 comments
Where should I sell my camera, in Seattle?
I want to sell my Nikon D40. I live just north of Seattle. What's the best place for me to sell it? [more inside]
posted by The corpse in the library at 11:04 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by The corpse in the library at 11:04 AM PST - 10 comments
Cooking with Asian ingredients, 101?
I recently made Smitten Kitchen's Miso Veggie Bowl for a holiday dinner, and it was incredible. (Seriously, try it.)
But now I have quite a bit of leftover miso, sesame oil, rice vinegar, ginger, and sesame seeds. (Oh, and tahini, which isn't Asian, but I still don't know what to do with.) Help? [more inside]
posted by ulfberht at 11:01 AM PST - 27 comments
posted by ulfberht at 11:01 AM PST - 27 comments
Dance "textbook" for different qualities of movement
I am at the stage in my dance hobby in which I am trying to go beyond individual moves into dancing those movements in a way that evokes a specific feeling. Whether it's assertive & funky, soft and flowing, or happy and excited--I need to learn how to use my body to convey different moods. I'm taking private lessons, but are there written resources like textbooks or handbooks that walk through basic principles like "here's what makes arm or leg lines look confident, this is how to make a movement look quieter, etc."? I do partner dancing but resources for any style of dance are welcome.
Inheritance question, Canadian/Dutch edition
Knowing none of you are my lawyer, I pose this actual inheritance situation. [more inside]
cuckoo clock chimes at 10 before the hour
Hi - my Mom has this quartz cuckoo clock. It chimes at 10 of the hour and I'm hoping to fix it for her. [more inside]
Good-quality men's warm pajamas (not made in China)
Misterben is seeking good-quality warm men's pajamas. LL Bean is excluded since the quality has dropped in recent years. Pants only or a set are OK. Flannel is preferable, although fleece will also be considered. The price should be approximately under $50 USD. Finally, they must not be made in China or from a brand that is known to use sweatshops. He loves US-made brands but we know that is hard to find at this price point.
How do I become an adventurer - and still get paid?
I want to move around the world, get paid a decent salary, and not have to worry much about room and board - What jobs should I apply to? [more inside]
posted by jander03 at 9:40 AM PST - 27 comments
posted by jander03 at 9:40 AM PST - 27 comments
Best mascara for dry eyes?
I was given a few no-no's for eye makeup by the eye doctor: must not be waterproof, avoid alcohol, and no oil-based makeup removers. How do I find brands/products that meet the above criteria? [more inside]
Fun Fun Elmo Filter
Looks like they just finished producing the first season of Fun Fun Elmo, which is the Chinese version of Sesame Street. I'm looking for other recommendations of Chinese children's shows that would be appropriate for my 5 year old.
Pleasant Goat and Big Big Wolf (喜洋洋) is popular, but too violent. And "Dora the Explorer" in Chinese is interesting, but also not what we're looking for. We'd love suggestions like Adventures of Little Carp (小鲤鱼历险记) that were originally produced for a Chinese audience. Bonus points if you can direct us to shows that were designed to be educational (like Sesame Street), rather than just shows directed at kids.
posted by richmondparker at 9:36 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by richmondparker at 9:36 AM PST - 3 comments
What should I do alone in Montreal tonight?
Staying downtown near Atwater metro. 25 year old woman [more inside]
What is this method of painting method called?
I have a couple small (approximately 3"x5" in) paintings that I picked up in a thrift store. Likely not worth much, but I like them and would like to find out more about them. Here is one, here is the other. [more inside]
posted by BeBoth at 9:29 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by BeBoth at 9:29 AM PST - 5 comments
Looking for a good butcher in Seattle Eastside.
I moved (again), to the Seattle area, and am now without a good butcher (again). Can anyone recommend a good butcher in Seattle's Eastside (e.g. Redmond/Bellevue)? I cook pretty seriously, so ideally I'd like a place that has high quality meats, is knowledgeable enough to answer questions, can deal with custom or unusual orders, that kind of thing.
posted by madmethods at 9:21 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by madmethods at 9:21 AM PST - 6 comments
Tastes of the Midwest: Grocery Edition
I work with a small retailer of non-perishable foodstuffs (among other things). Niche and one-of-a-kind product lines—local/craft/boutique, organic, gluten-free, etc.—do quite well here, and we'd like to carry more of the same. [more inside]
iPhone 4 versus iPhone 4s: antennas, maps, and iOS questions
I have a no-contract plan at Virgin Mobile USA, which I like because it is so cheap ($35/month for unlimited data and enough calling). The downside of cheap and no-contract is expensive phones. However, I just lost my Android phone and would like to switch back to iPhone. My options at Virgin are iPhone 4, for $200, iPhone 4s, for $314, or iPhone 5, for more than I want to pay really. How to decide? [more inside]
Stuck on you
What is the best way to clean and remove the remnants of vines that have been stuck to my garage wall for years in preperation for a paint job? The little nubs that remain after the vines have been pulled away.
How do I build the Best Of July-December 2013 playlist?
I have a friend who loves good music (a bit of explanation inside) and has been out of the country with limited media access for the last 6 months. I want to put together a sampler mix of everything she's been missing out on in the second half of 2013, but I don't know much about current music. What resources are out there that can help a musical novice assemble this playlist? [more inside]
posted by Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug at 8:36 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug at 8:36 AM PST - 8 comments
Gift for an aspiring children's author
I want to get my friend a gift who would like to write books for children. But I don't know what would be a cool gift. What would you get an aspiring author? [more inside]
posted by Attackpanda at 8:33 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by Attackpanda at 8:33 AM PST - 6 comments
High maintenance fitness tracker recommendations
I'm looking for a fitness tracker / calorie counting app ( or a combination of, if I have to) with some fairly specific requirements [more inside]
Back muscle injury after car wreck...how long to heal?
Hello all,
I know YANMD, but I am curious about how to go about addressing my muscle gripes with a doctor. [more inside]
posted by Young Kullervo at 7:44 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by Young Kullervo at 7:44 AM PST - 7 comments
What type of mental health professional do I need?
I'm working on separating from my spouse and need objective help on figuring out how to do this (financially, emotionally, working on co-parenting agreements). What type of mental health (or perhaps legal) help do I need to do this? (Like when I'm choosing from the insurance company dropdown menu or googling for people.) I need more than a mediator, I think.
How do I forgive my parents for reacting badly to my pregnancy?
My parents are very religious and do not agree with many of my life choices (I'm gay), but they have worked through their discomfort and I thought we were in a better place. They reacted badly to my new pregnancy and said horrible things which hurt me a lot. Where do I go from here? [more inside]
help us choose our first iphones
My parents and I are about to get iphones (and smartphones!) for the first time. We're trying to choose between the 4s and the 5. I've heard that the 5 models tend to eat through data even when the user isn't meaning to use data. Can anyone confirm, deny, or otherwise talk about this problem? [more inside]
Best Canadian mail-away negative scanning services?
I have some 120 and some 35mm negatives that I would like to have scanned, and there's nowhere nearby that offers this service.
Has anyone in Canada used a online mail-away negative scanning service? If so, what was your experience? If you do this regularly or have used more than one, which is your go-to?
Can you drink every day and not be an alcoholic?
Where is the line between drinking-is-my-hobby and alcoholism? [more inside]
How can I write a good statement of purpose?
I'm applying to a competitive writing workshop and as part of the application I need to compose a cover letter / statement of purpose. What should I include? [more inside]
Say this, not that
Recently I discovered some great phrases that work much better than the standard response to a situation, and was wondering if anyone had any others. [more inside]
Working in independent medical review
What do you know about working in independent medical review? [more inside]
December 26
Why is my boyfriend's behavior so inconsistent?
Do other people see this as normal, or am I clueless because I've never had children? [more inside]
Intuitive Sensing, Sensory Intiution
In the world of Myers-Briggs, what's the difference between N and S? [more inside]
posted by pseudostrabismus at 11:10 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by pseudostrabismus at 11:10 PM PST - 14 comments
Aspergers Career Paths?
I'm somebody who's classic Aspergers (very focused interests, excellent with little pieces of data, sociable but utterly clueless), who's increasingly aware a lot of jobs revolve around the political side of things, and who's currently tossing up on university courses for future career potential (environmental/geosciences being a current lock). [more inside]
Recommend me a stylish nappy bag
We want to buy a nappy/baby bag but we don't like what we've seen. This may not be possible, but we'd like something for less than $150 aud including shipping, if relevant, and it needs to ship to or be available in Australia. We'd like something fairly modern. [more inside]
posted by jojobobo at 10:55 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by jojobobo at 10:55 PM PST - 16 comments
High quality flowers in Brooklyn?
I need to have flowers delivered to a friend in Brooklyn (South Slope), and I want them to be great - looking for recommendations for someone who can do a beautiful, high quality arrangement and won't try to rip me off or fall through on delivery.
posted by ryanshepard at 10:25 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by ryanshepard at 10:25 PM PST - 3 comments
Programs that will let me travel to Europe
Hello folks!
I am looking for a way to spend the next 4-6 months travelling around Europe (I have some money saved up). Does anyone know ways to work for money or volunteer in Europe, preferably with a group of others? I don't have EU citizenship. Has anyone had any positive or negative experiences doing this?
Thank you, and Happy (upcoming) New Year!
One False Keystroke
What am I doing that makes my computer suddenly read all inputs as though the Shift key were pressed, and how do I make it stop? [more inside]
Help Me Find the Perfect Grown Up Classic Purse
I'm looking for suggestions for an everyday classic, leather, cross body purse without any bling. Mefi bag experts, I need your help to sort through my options or find the purse I saw on the green recently. [more inside]
posted by Bunglegirl at 8:46 PM PST - 18 comments
posted by Bunglegirl at 8:46 PM PST - 18 comments
Juvenile Glaucoma, Panic Panic
My second grader might have juvenile glaucoma. Our insurance is changing at the beginning of the year. How fast do we need to proceed? [more inside]
How to walk to Hobbiton and other 365/52 challenges
I want to listicle my life in 2014. The web is full of 365 day/52 week project ideas like take a photo every day or cooking a dish from a new country every week, but short on the nuts and bolts of doing them. What kept you going? What made you drop the whole thing in March? What do you wish you'd prepared or done differently? What projects would you recommend from personal or friends' experiences? I'm interested in the process, not so much the project itself.
Salvage title requirements in MI
I purchased a used car from a family member without running a carfax report. My insurance agency just told me it was totaled before, and when I put the pieces of the story together that makes sense (the family member had told me he had "rebuilt" a part, but that term has not been completely elucidated until now). But the fact the car was totaled is not indicated on the title. [more inside]
Resources for Period Accurate Decorating
I own a 1931 Arts & Crafts style house in Seattle, and am looking for resources to help me give it some "period accurate" accents. (For example, my foyer houses a working, refurbished phone from the 1930's). [more inside]
Just call him a litter bug
My cat tracks litter all over the house and my husband is Over It. Please help me keep both men in my life happy! [more inside]
Moisturizer for Hot tub?
We use the Soft Soak System by SpaGuard and in particular the Shock-Oxidizer, Stain & Scale, and the Sanitizer. Lately, it has really been drying our skin. Is there a moisturizer that can be used in concert with these to help with this?
Can I use my sister's US Verizon phone in the UK?
My sister just replaced her US-based Verizon Motorola Droid Razr and I want to know if I can use it in the UK. That is all.
Can't remember old (50s? 60s?) horror movie - only remember the end
I think it was in black and white. It was definitely in English. Not sure if it was American or British. [more inside]
posted by Meep! Eek! at 6:39 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by Meep! Eek! at 6:39 PM PST - 5 comments
How do I find a "real" tech job?
My workplace is in a decline, and I think it's time for me to explore other options.
I'm a programmer at heart, an architect and team leader in practice, and a manager in name. Prior to this job I'd had really soul-crushing experiences in consulting, so (for example) I am experienced with but extremely cynical about capital-E "Enterprise" platforms and technologies. I don't want to go back to that world; I want to find a company and a team with a spark of life to it and people with the incentives to help each other out.
What's the best way to filter for tech job opportunities that won't sink me back into the muck? [more inside]
3 motivational tools to help me rock 2014
I want an app, a visual reminder & a sound track. 2014 is going to be my best year yet, and I need some tools to make it work. [more inside]
posted by b33j at 5:48 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by b33j at 5:48 PM PST - 8 comments
Be my personal suit shopper?
It is APPIC predoctoral internship interview season, and I need a new, formal suit ASAP for mid January! [more inside]
posted by amileighs at 5:44 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by amileighs at 5:44 PM PST - 14 comments
Hairstyles or other ideas for keeping sweat out of my hair?
Does anyone have any magic ways to keep your hair less sweaty while exercising? I want to run every second day, but I don't want to wash my hair that often and have just realised that that is actually the number one reason why I procrastinate on running. [more inside]
posted by lollusc at 5:33 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by lollusc at 5:33 PM PST - 8 comments
Backpack for hiking supplies and easy access side pocket to DSLR camera?
Husband loves to take photos when hiking, but hates taking his backpack all the way off and on again every time he wants to reach for his camera. I need a hiking backpack for my husband that will hold all the regular stuff for a day hike but with some sort of easy access zippered side pocket where he can just reach around to grab his camera, shoot photos, and put it back inside while leaving the backpack on his back the whole time. Ideally for $60 or less. Searched around on amazon but cannot find it. Any suggestions? Thanks!
Why do the syrups go last?
We got a sodastream for xmas. All the instructions say to add the syrup *after* carbonating the water. Why? [more inside]
posted by colin_l at 4:20 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by colin_l at 4:20 PM PST - 11 comments
Fun neighborhoods for first time visitors to NYC?
I have been charged with being "the guy" to sort out accommodation for four of us in NYC in May. I know exactly what I want, but how do I ensure that I'm doing right by them? [more inside]
New Year's Eve in Madrid
I am going to be in Madrid, Spain for a few days. Most of my time is scripted. However, I had the afternoon of New Year's Eve free. Do you have any suggestions on what to do? I am already going to the Prado, taking a walking tour, and a bus tour. I am looking for something that is a must see or do. I am a female in my early 40s. I may or may not be able to get someone else to go with me.
posted by nimsey lou at 3:47 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by nimsey lou at 3:47 PM PST - 10 comments
Why is it so hard to make it in America?
How would you put together a reading list that helps answer the question "how do Americans' present-day struggles for wellness, independence, and community compare to humans who've lived in other places and times in the ethnographic record?" [more inside]
Help me find a good older model DSLR
Hi all. I'm thinking of upgrading my camera from a bridge/superzoom to a proper DSLR. My budget is pretty small and it's likely to see some pretty rough use, so I probably don't want to get anything new. I think I have a pretty good idea of my requirements, but navigating the world of obsolete DSLRs is a bit complicated for me so I would appreciate your recommendations. [more inside]
Sexism for neckbeards
Please share with me your absolute beginner level resources to foist upon an unexamined sexist. Snowflake level: special needs. [more inside]
posted by Iteki at 2:51 PM PST - 22 comments
posted by Iteki at 2:51 PM PST - 22 comments
Japanese document in "Sherlock"
At 3:35 in the "Unlocking Sherlock" video on PBS.org, a scroll with Japanese characters is shown on the wall. [more inside]
posted by Joleta at 2:32 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by Joleta at 2:32 PM PST - 3 comments
Location Ideas for Wedding Photos in Brooklyn - Winter Edition
My sister will be getting married next month, Yeah!
She doesn't know where to take her post-wedding/pre-reception pictures, Boo!
Does anyone have any cool spots they know of in Brooklyn to take some wedding shots? [more inside]
seeking xmas workout place in Portland OR
I'm visiting NE Portland for the holidays and want to be able to work out. I've called several nearby gyms and none of them offer day passes, they're all members only. Where should I go to burn off all the holiday eatings?
posted by Sauce Trough at 2:10 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by Sauce Trough at 2:10 PM PST - 6 comments
Optimal Blind Spot Mirror Placement
I normally position my car's side mirrors according to this method of minimizing blind spots, but the car I'm driving now, the driver's side mirror will not move as far out as I need it to, so I am supplementing the mirrors with little convex blind spot mirrors (the current mirrors also won't show parking spot lines). However, what is the optimal placement for these? Outside/bottom? Inside/bottom? People have them all different ways and I'm wondering what works best. [more inside]
New Year's break in Paris, on the cheap
My girlfriend and I have won a week's holiday in Paris over the new year period. Flights, bed, and breakfast are covered -- how can we stretch our food and entertainment budget? [more inside]
posted by pont at 1:33 PM PST - 22 comments
posted by pont at 1:33 PM PST - 22 comments
Give me your best savory finger food recipes, please. Celiac edition.
I've volunteered to bring some finger foods to a small New Year's Eve party of other adults who are, let's be honest, more serious foodies and better chefs than I am. One guest has Celiac disease, which eliminates the sorts of things I normally make - like little quiches/tarts, spanikopita, or cheese puffs - when I want to impress. Popping them in the oven to cook or reheat, or transporting them hot, is not a problem.
posted by DrGail at 1:17 PM PST - 24 comments
posted by DrGail at 1:17 PM PST - 24 comments
Good, symmetrical multi-button wireless mouse (for left-hander)?
Hi everyone. I'm looking for a wireless replacement for my Logitech MX310 mouse, which has served me well for years.
Many mice have extra buttons that can be assigned to various functions. The nice thing about the MX310, though, is that its extra buttons were symmetrical, so it was as easy to use left-handed as right-handed.
Do you have a recommendation for a good, relatively inexpensive wireless replacement?
Do I tip my personal shopper?
Do I tip my personal shopper? I suspect the answer is yes. If so, how much? Snowflakes inside. [more inside]
Please explain like you are talking to a 3rd grader
I have a kindle and a kobo. I am trying to switch permanently from my kindle to my kobo which I will make my new ereader because it has many other options as well ( the tablet offerings). I have downloaded the epub mobi,az, etc. converter and epub master. I need to remove the kindle DRM to be able to move the kindle books to the kobo. Everything I read makes it seem so straightforward yet, there must be one thing I am missing. I have searched mefi for answers but am not finding anything that helps. Within my reading, it appears that using those programs you add the file and it converts it, super easy. Mine are not converting. [more inside]
Suggest unto me more records like Ronnie Laws' Friends And Strangers.
So Im sitting in this dive downtown waiting for a friend to show up, and this lady in her 60's is absolutely destroying at Jukebox. I mean Delphonics, Philly Soul, early 70s Quincy (you gotta love the modern Internet jukebox.)
So then, out of nowhere, the greatest song I have never heard comes on. It's Ronnie Laws' "Friends and Strangers" and the song hits me so square-on that I'm on ebay ordering the vinyl before the song even ends. Now I can't stop listening to the album and want more. That's where you come in... [more inside]
posted by Senor Cardgage at 12:44 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by Senor Cardgage at 12:44 PM PST - 6 comments
Which to watch first?
Should I re-watch The Shining before watching Room 237, or vice versa? [more inside]
posted by sparklemotion at 12:23 PM PST - 21 comments
posted by sparklemotion at 12:23 PM PST - 21 comments
What CAN I eat?
Going to finally really commit to low-carb. Past attempts have obviously failed. Please set me up for success. [more inside]
posted by rabbitrabbit at 12:22 PM PST - 29 comments
posted by rabbitrabbit at 12:22 PM PST - 29 comments
Was this car dealer taking me for a ride?
Does auto financing ever fall through after a car has been driven off a lot? Dealer tells me this is a usual situation. [more inside]
posted by gfrobe at 12:12 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by gfrobe at 12:12 PM PST - 13 comments
Help me subtly prank a Philadelphia-obsessed friend
I'm looking to make a list of hockey players who have played for both the Buffalo Sabres and the Philadelphia Flyers. [more inside]
posted by troika at 12:00 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by troika at 12:00 PM PST - 5 comments
What's the best pen to get?
I'm looking for a refillable ink pen that I can use for years to come. [more inside]
posted by chrchr at 11:47 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by chrchr at 11:47 AM PST - 13 comments
Weird me out!
I'm fascinated with the Uncanny Valley theory and would like to see more examples of it. I'll look at anything: YouTube, movies, articles, books, video games - you name it, I want to see it. I've looked at several things online and have poured over the wikipedia entry for it, but I want to see the truly weird and far out examples of uncanny valley.
Weird me out, MeFi!
We're gonna need a montage!
I was joking with someone about needing a montage for getting in shape; now I'm stuck on the idea and want to build a playlist. [more inside]
posted by epersonae at 10:58 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by epersonae at 10:58 AM PST - 12 comments
Can I ever get the water marks off of my screen?
A few days ago, my Nexus 7 wasn't switching on. Taking off the back showed there was water inside it - though I hadn't dropped it in water. Left it to dry and it works again - save two 'water stains' on the screen. Does this mean it's likely to remain functional? And can I remove these water marks? [more inside]
Recommend books about "infinity"
I'm looking for recommendations of popular science books about the mathematical / scientific concept of infinity. [more inside]
How To Close Yahoo Mail account???
Wanting to close my Yahoo account. How would I do so and save all past e-mails.
Children's book: mid 1970s, a scary (for me) mystery
This is what I remember: A boy (and his dog?) wants to go outside, and he asks his mother for permission. She says "okay, but don't cross any streets in this fog!" [more inside]
posted by Melismata at 10:26 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by Melismata at 10:26 AM PST - 3 comments
Crowdsourcing a 30-something New Years Eve in toronto: I need ideas.
My friends and I are single ladies in our mid 30s, and we want to go out on NYE, preferably to a restaurant and/or bar that is unlikely to be filled with 23 year olds in bandage dresses. [more inside]
Kids those days!
A few of Ernie Bushmiller's WW2-era Nancy comics mention a subculture called "Jitterbug" (as in "a jitterbug") that has its own fashion that I've never seen depicted anywhere else: Example 1, Example 2. Was this an actual thing? [more inside]
Things to do with hummus
What interesting (food) things do you make with hummus? Sandwich combinations? Other ideas? [more inside]
Pure CSS Navigation
I need a pure CSS navigation menu solution for a static, one page application, the simpler the better. [more inside]
posted by jedicus at 9:07 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by jedicus at 9:07 AM PST - 9 comments
I am looking for a smartphone, without Google, Apple, or Microsoft.
I am looking for a smartphone, but do not want to be special friends with Google, Apple, or Microsoft. [more inside]
What concerns should I have about scientology and children?
How concerned should I be about the involvement of my nephew (12 yrs) and niece (10 yrs) in Scientology? [more inside]
Maintaining significant weight loss: how do you do it?
A year and a half ago, I lost a large amount of weight, i.e. 75 lbs, or about 30% of my body weight on a very low calorie diet, under medical supervision. Although I was not able to follow the official maintenance program after moving to a new city, it was relatively easy to keep things stable for the first year. But, about four months ago, I notice that some of the weight--about eight lbs worth--had crept back on. Although I've lost five of them, the last three seem determined to stick around. This, combined with the dismal statistics on long-term maintenance (97% of people regain within five years), has me pretty scared. Have you beaten the odds, and if so, how do you do it? Also, what is the balance of food vs. activity in your regime? [more inside]
My hair is so dry and I am wondering why and how to improve it.
This has been going on for about a year. At first I noticed my shoulder length hair falling out more but that has definitely improved. For the last month it's begun to feel a little itchy and for a few weeks I started using dandruff shampoo every 2 days though I don't have that problem. Does anyone have any thoughts or solutions before I cut it.
posted by Tziv at 8:20 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by Tziv at 8:20 AM PST - 15 comments
Blindness translation to and from dreams?
I am a quite vivid dreamer, but one of my reoccurring themed dreams is me going along, usually in a vehicle which I may or may not control, and going blind temporarily while travelling in that vehicle. I'm used to them, but does going blind during vivid or lucid dreaming at all related to blindness caused by TIAs? [more inside]
posted by tilde at 8:06 AM PST - 16 comments
posted by tilde at 8:06 AM PST - 16 comments
Using a 13" MacBook Air as an audio delay.
This is for live sound at a party. I need to add a delay to a set of speakers to synchronize them with the main stacks. I don't have a digital console or an effects box capable of this. Could I use something like Audiomulch to do it? How would I set up my 13" MacBook Air so it won't shut don't or cut the audio for several hours? [more inside]
I need help with my son's iep
At the parent-teacher conference Dec 5th the teacher told me my autistic/ADHD/OCD/GAD child is so aggressive the staff fears their safety and want to use restrainsts, and they want to bring it up in the next iep. This is the first I've heard of any aggression. [more inside]
Forgiving a parent's infidelity
I'm unsure if and how to forgive my father for having an affair.
I feel that being unable to get past this, is affecting me as a person and has complicated my relationship with my mother. I'd really like to hear from others who may have come to crossroads with forgiving a loved one, especially anyone who's dealt with a parent's infidelity. [more inside]
Give a kind bit of advice to a young lady adrift in the sea of life.
My brain is swirling with options and I just need kind advice. I have no shoulder on which I may settle my weight for a moment's rest. I beg your listening ear!Should I sit tight and save or make a move to take pressure off my vehicle? It needs to last me a few years.... How can I escape the white trash wastes I have been condemned to? [more inside]
Best subway Android apps?
I just recently took the plunge and switched to Android, which has a lot of great/cool apps. Unfortunately, most of the ones I've been trying seem to require internet connection, which is completely useless to me. I want to play games in the subway: if I had internet connection, I'd be on the internet, not playing games. Can anyone recommend some good Android apps that don't need connection?
Great friend I grew up with passed away. Can't make his funeral.
A great friend of mine passed away. I can't make his funeral in another country tomorrow, and feel really guilty. Should I/what can I do? [more inside]
men's leather trench coat, in the Greater Toronto Area?
Where in the GTA (greater Toronto area) is a good place to look, for a quality, genuine leather men's trench coat? [more inside]
Easing my way into the 2000s
Getting an iPhone / smartphone for the first time! Is ebay/Craigslist an okay place to start? [more inside]
What are the interactive options for practicing rhetorical figures?
Reading it, learning it, still crap at it. How might I meet others, to master rhetoric? [more inside]
Camera Accessories
NOT another "what camera to get" question; I already own a Canon EOS Rebel T3i. It's the other stuff I'm confused about! I received a $200 Amazon gift card, but I'm getting overwhelmed trying to decide what to get. [more inside]
posted by DisreputableDog at 3:01 AM PST - 22 comments
posted by DisreputableDog at 3:01 AM PST - 22 comments
December 25
Help me crush this crush!
I'm married, with a kid. I work in the service industry. I have a powerful, consuming crush on my boss, who is also in a serious relationship. I used to be his boss, and we have a very friendly and candid relationship. I really, really need to not feel this way anymore. If I try to back off and go professional, he always asks what is wrong and it sucks me right back in. How do I make it stop?
posted by hopemeplease at 11:32 PM PST - 24 comments
posted by hopemeplease at 11:32 PM PST - 24 comments
What might this German dessert be?
What is this dessert I read about on a blog? It was cooked by a German person and the blog author wrote: "It was like a really, really thick pancake cooked in a huge skillet, then cut up into big chunks, and topped with a syrupy, crystallized type of peach topping that was just to DIE for. Everyone in Germany/Austria/Hungary knows what it is". I don't think she knew what it was called, but I want to, because it sounds freaking delicious!
posted by threeants at 11:27 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by threeants at 11:27 PM PST - 11 comments
What should I do with my deceased grandmother's handbag?
She passed away almost 10 years ago but no one knows about this bag. I don't think she wanted anyone to know. I should have dealt with it when she died but I had forgotten about it. Inside are her IDs, a letter from someone that has been folded and unfolded so many times it's falling apart, and about $470. [more inside]
Condolence gift?
After the Recent suicide of an old friend who lives out of town, I have been trying to think of an appropriate gift that might bring any degree of comfort to his devoted wife. Rule out flowers and foods. donations don't really rock my boat. I want to avoid the presumption of books about spirituality or grieving/ healing. I am stumped. Any ideas?
posted by Lylo at 9:51 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by Lylo at 9:51 PM PST - 14 comments
Toshiba Satellite: good deal?
I have a nephew who is thinking of buying a Toshiba Satellite L50.A01Q: 2.40GHz Intel® Core™ i7-4700U Quad Core Processor 15.6" HD Widescreen with TN LED Backlit Display 8GB RAM, 1TB HDD 2GB nVIDIA GeForce GT 740M Graphics.
He is 18 and heading off to university, and wants it mainly for typical laptop stuff with some light gaming (skyrim, minecraft). It's $NZ 1280 with a 20% discount, so normally $1600 or so. The deal only lasts one day.
My feelings are he could get something as good for cheaper, given that the slick processor isn't gonna be all that useful to him. Is that sensible? Or is it actually an ok deal?
Best practices for hiring a nanny?
I'm in the process of hiring an occasional daytime babysitter, who may become a more regular babysitter if the freelance work I'm getting turns into a regular job. I'm feeling rather panicky about leaving my baby with someone. Help me figure out best practices to keep my baby safe and soothe my fears. [more inside]
posted by Ollie at 5:54 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by Ollie at 5:54 PM PST - 8 comments
Good job offer's deadline is up, but a preferred job offer is incoming.
I have a good job offer in hand, but the deadline was today, and a preferred job offer is close enough that they say they're just waiting for the offer letter to be signed. Special details inside. [more inside]
Penalties for importing presumed antique ivory carvings to Canada?
An xmas present may be made of an animal controlled by CITES. I'm struggling through the ethical dilemma of whether to even keep it - respectful insight welcome - but am now wondering what the legal ramifications might be of even trying to bring it home. [more inside]
Altitude sickness and panic. Help me cope!
Traveled to Yellowstone from Illinois. I have gotten hit with with some altitude sickness. Unfortantly my biggest symptoms are insomia, panic, and diarrhea. Ick. YANMD. Can you help with coping strategies ? [more inside]
posted by AlexiaSky at 4:29 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by AlexiaSky at 4:29 PM PST - 15 comments
What are some useful paradigms for understanding people?
Sometimes it can be useful to divide people into categories* for the purpose of understanding the differences in how people behave. For example:
*Asker, guesser: Askers assume that it always okay to ask for a favour, guessers feel that one should have a good idea of whether the favor will be granted before asking.
*Advocates, truthseekers: Advocates care about winning an argument, truthseekers search for the truth.
*Givers, takers, matchers: Givers always try to help people; matchers try to help people, but seek reciprocity; givers only care about what what they can get from others.
So, what are some useful paradigms for understanding different people? [more inside]
posted by casebash at 3:14 PM PST - 32 comments
posted by casebash at 3:14 PM PST - 32 comments
Help me chose a small dog as a pet, snowflake details inside
Help me chose a small dog as a pet, snowflake details inside [more inside]
How can I redirect my FedEx package to a different address?
I am in Texas right now for the holidays, I have a package arriving to my apartment in Ohio which is very important (it will allow me to renew my drivers license). I am flying back to Pittsburgh this Sunday night, and I'd like to have the paperwork in Pittsburgh with me, otherwise I'd have to drive to Ohio to get the paperwork, and then drive back to Pittsburgh. I called FedEx and they said only the shipper (with a FedEx account number) can re-direct the package. I'm wondering what are my options to save me a trip of driving to Ohio and back. Can I ask my package to be held at FedEx in Ohio, and then pay for them to send it to me in Pittsburgh? Can I authorize a friend to go pick it up from the FedEx location instead of me and then have them send it to me? Are there any other options? Thanks for the help askmefi! Please feel free to ask me more questions if anything is unclear
Software job: Am I going to get fired? How to make it go best-ish-ly?
Do verbal warnings predict firing? What should I expect if I do get fired, and how do I make the best of it? [more inside]
Should I get the Dr. Who DVD or just watch on Amazon (online)?
I want a copy of "The Day of the Doctor" (50th Anniversary Special.) I have to choose between the DVD or the Amazon online "collection". [more inside]
Microoenada y longaniza
Can I nuke this sausage? I hope I can. [more inside]
Best alternative to Skype for Android and PC?
I'm getting tired of Skype constantly resetting my phone while video chatting [more inside]
Emergency cleaning a dry clean only costume?
Dry cleaning a furry costume with milk on it? [more inside]
Anyone ever try L-CITRULLINE for impotence?
Hi,
45 yr old male with erectile dysfunction problems. I'm curious if anyone has any experience with L-CITRULLINE supplements?
Thanks!
Estonian songs about barn swallows?
The barn swallow figures prominently in Estonian folklore and culture, and I would love to find poems or folk songs that mention it. Unfortunately, I do not speak the language, and I am stumped over how to proceed. Do you know any Estonian verse about barn swallows, or can you suggest how to start looking?
Beautiful wall calendars?
I am looking for a really beautiful and distinctive 2014 wall calendar. Has anyone seen any really great calendars this year? Whatever I get will have to be available via mail order, because the calendar selection in my town is fairly limited.
Bad at math
I have a question about probability math. I am essentially flipping a coin (except instead of a 50/50 chance, my odds are 50.5% heads, 49.5% tails).
I am concerned with the probability of me hitting heads (a 50.5% chance) several times in a row. [more inside]
posted by disillusioned at 4:43 AM PST - 45 comments
posted by disillusioned at 4:43 AM PST - 45 comments
December 24
Anybody know what movie this is from?
Trying to identify what movie this gif comes from. Warning: kind of really scary.
posted by DZack at 8:45 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by DZack at 8:45 PM PST - 5 comments
“Original” self-marketing ideas
I'm looking for original self-marketing ideas for a writer and/or a designer. Okay, social media is important: Design your own page, update it frequently and get your friends to like it and promote it to their friends. But I'm looking for those kinds of tips that you've read and thought to yourself "Well that's original!". Something on par with Nine Inch Nails'/H2DA/Radiohead's decision to give their music for free "lest they come to the unique live concert experience" marketing ploy. Have you ever come across a Seth Godin or a Malcolm Gladwell book (or anything else) and was struck by something interesting?
Things to do on Christmas day in San Francisco
So my original Christmas day plans fell through, and I live 5000 miles from most of my family. I do have a brother who recently moved to San Jose, though, and we'd like to spend the day doing something together. We're both wary of bringing each other to friends houses (we're different kinds of people, move in different circles, etc) - so we'd like to try and find something fun and novel that we can go and do, just the 2 of us (though if it were something social in the sense that we may meet a bunch of strangers doing this thing, then that would be cool).
Anybody have any ideas?
We're also British. I don't know if this information will help you, but hey, there you have it. 2 British guys in San Francisco with no idea what to do on Xmas day. Hive mind, halp!
Help me help my disorganized family member
I have a close family member who I am somewhat estranged from. But he has some needs that I have the skills to help with, and I want to help. Help me help him. [more inside]
Boxes to pulp to boxes again, but what of the tape?
I unpack a cardboard box. I cut the tape and flatten the box, and a person with a truck takes it to the recycling center, where it is chopped up and wetted into a paste and made into other boxes. What happens to the tape that held the box together? Is it soaked off before the box is chopped up? Is it a total waste, or is it incorporated into a recycled product? How bad is plastic tape for the environment?
Help me understand fragrance: Hermes edition.
Do you use Hermes perfumes? Do you like them? Can you explain them to me? I'm not a typical perfume wearer. I recently tried the Hermes fragrance Un Jardin Sur Le Toit at a friend's house and I really liked it. Then I started googling and found myself in a world of top notes, drydowns, accords, and other things where I don't even know what the words mean, much less how to understand them. Can you help me? [more inside]
posted by aaanastasia at 3:45 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by aaanastasia at 3:45 PM PST - 13 comments
60s soul
Looking for more 60s soul songs to make me happy. [more inside]
posted by pH Indicating Socks at 2:42 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by pH Indicating Socks at 2:42 PM PST - 15 comments
Minor key electronic songs—please recommend!
What are some minor key electronic/house/ambient songs similar to Moby's "Hotel Intro" on the Hotel album? [more inside]
posted by ArgyleGargoyle at 2:40 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by ArgyleGargoyle at 2:40 PM PST - 10 comments
iPhone Replacement Screen Quality?
I dropped my iPhone 4S a couple weeks ago and broke the screen. Insert humorous anecdote here. Can anyone describe their experience with 3rd-party replacement glass versus "official" replacement screen glass? Bonus points for specific locations in suburban Boston where I could get this fixed on a while-you-wait basis, since I'll be in Boston-ish over the next few days. Thanks.
posted by baseballpajamas at 2:30 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by baseballpajamas at 2:30 PM PST - 9 comments
Dealing with social anxiety about "new" family arrangements
My mother recently divorced my step-dad of 11 years and started dating a new guy about 6 months ago. Having a stranger in my family is causing my social anxiety to manifest when I go to visit on holidays and other times, and I don't know what is the best way to talk to my mom about this, and to what extent I should feel OK removing myself from these situations. I'm 26 years old but I have the feeling that the way I am acting is perceived as highly inappropriate and rude for an adult. She has been very understanding of my anxiety in the past but is now that it is related to her boyfriend, she's taking it personally and I'm not sure what to do. [more inside]
posted by supernaturelle at 2:28 PM PST - 26 comments
posted by supernaturelle at 2:28 PM PST - 26 comments
Need a Manhattan Italian Restaurant
Need Epic Italian restaurant in Manhattan. This may have been asked before but restaurants change and close all the time. Relatives are coming into Manhattan this Friday from Texas (originally from Long Island) and seek "epic pizza and Italian food". I know places in Brooklyn etc so please only Manhattan. They have a family of 4 and subways to Bensonhurst would be prohibitive. Special "Awesome Points" for "hole in wall" tiny places. Mifi-ites don't let me down!
Looking for MacBook keyboard outline template
I'm searching for a size-accurate outline image of a unibody MacBook keyboard (basically an accurate diagram/wireframe). For this outline file, any format will work, although Vector (.ai, .svg, etc.) would be ideal. I've tried googling but the results tend to be photorealistic images with broad outlines, shadows, etc. I'm looking for a technical drawing like a blueprint. The goal is to make custom keyboard covers with multiple languages by die-cutting and laminating paper; these would be one piece, hence the need for precision. I'm thinking there must be an diagram of MBP keyboards one on the web somewhere... Any advice on where to find one would be highly appreciated. (As far as I know, the keyboard layout is the same for all models except the 11 inch/Air.) Thanks in advance.
1000% of the US RDA of WHOOOOOOMP.
In an attempt to be all healthy and virtuous, I tried to make kale chips in the microwave. I nuked a small plate of plain, unadorned kale. The kale WENT UP LIKE A FREAKING FIREWORK (sparks, flames, scary noises). Multiple times (hey, I learn by doing). WHY?! [more inside]
posted by julthumbscrew at 1:04 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by julthumbscrew at 1:04 PM PST - 16 comments
Looking for a Silver Superman ring in Toronto.
Please help me help my husband replace his Silver superman ring. (Toronto version) [more inside]
Are my "unlisted" youtube videos irretrievably gone ?
In the transfer of Youtube to Google, my unlisted videos have vanished. Is there a way to get them back? [more inside]
posted by ragtimepiano at 12:18 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by ragtimepiano at 12:18 PM PST - 6 comments
Am I on Candid Camera?
When I boot up my work laptop, the camera light comes on for an instant. Is it taking a picture? If so, where would it store those pics? [more inside]
posted by LonnieK at 12:13 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by LonnieK at 12:13 PM PST - 11 comments
Christmas goose problems!
I have a beautiful, just shot wild goose! Except I didn't expect to receive a wild rather than tame goose, and I have no bacon or other fat to cover it in. How can I cook this without turning it into leather? Help? [more inside]
posted by digitalprimate at 12:04 PM PST - 17 comments
posted by digitalprimate at 12:04 PM PST - 17 comments
How do I deal with passive insults?
I always run into these types of people at work and life. Hopefully someone can understand what I mean. [more inside]
What unnamed theme do Top Gun, Batman & Robin, and 300 share in common?
What are your favorite unintentionally gay movies? [more inside]
posted by Mike Mongo at 11:21 AM PST - 47 comments
posted by Mike Mongo at 11:21 AM PST - 47 comments
How to download Yahoo group archives?
Our organization has years' worth of Yahoo group postings. We would like to move our groups to Google but still be able to access and search these archives. Recent changes to the Yahoo groups UI seem to have broken existing third party tools.
How can we download Yahoo group archives and host them on our own site?
Missing Link: Overdrive Edition
Can you help me find a lost link to an awesome guitar-nerdy overdrive review site? [more inside]
Looking for earbuds
I'm looking for earbuds. Under $200 is preferable but willing to go up to $300. Suggestions? [more inside]
What are your tools and rituals for reflecting on the past year?
Around New Years I enjoy rituals or activities like filling out little surveys in my journal that help me reflect on my past year and make a record I can revisit in the future. Do you have (or know of) any year-end rituals that you find satisfying and/or specific questions or surveys you use for self-reflection? [more inside]
Am I overreacting to my boss's (maybe innocuous) remarks?
I quit my first post-college job a few months ago because I decided to relocate. My company offered to let me do contract work for them, so I’ve been doing projects for them on the side. However, given what I just learned about something my boss said, I don’t know if I want to keep freelancing for them, or if I'm overreacting. [more inside]
All I Want for Christmas is to be Negative
I had an encounter with another man several weeks ago. I would normally wait for the end of the three month window to check my status, but I have recently gotten sick, which (given the vague symptoms listed for acute retroviral syndrome) has me spooked. I have made arrangements to get tested later in the week by DNA PCR (18 days after exposure, with the understanding that I will still get tested at 3 months), which should give me a decent degree of confidence whether I have HIV and whether these symptoms are ARS. However, I won't get these results until well into next week.
In the meantime, it's the holidays, and I need to keep up my spirits and not cause chaos with 'what ifs.' Not that this is a conversation I'd ever feel comfortable having with my family. I'm feeling really isolated and am spending too much time inhabiting my own head. I could really use some external feedback about how high my risk is and whether I have any right to be this worried.
Handwringing details inside. [more inside]
No Cat Pee Smell Litter Box - Does it exist?
Okay, sorry for this gross question I am about to lay on you. I clean my cats' litter box on a pretty regular basis, scooping it daily (okay, almost daily) and then washing it down when needed. It is large size. What I am finding is the cat claw scrapes go down to the base and it's like the cat pee seeps down into the actual plastic of the box and just makes the box permanently stinky. I tried litter liners and it was a disaster - they ripped them to shreds and it was just extra mess to clean up. Does there exist like a stainless steel litter box base or that material they make space ships out of or something?
Best vacuum for "human hair" on carpets
There are plenty for pet hair. What about "human" hair? And we are talking "long strands" here. [more inside]
Backing up an open disk image?
Based on your answers to my prior question, I keep sensitive files on my Mac in an encrypted disk image. I back up my Mac to Time Machine, plus a local external Superduper! clone, and to Crashplan. How do I ensure those backups accurately record the disk image--do I have to eject the disk image or will the backups copy the open (mounted) disk? [more inside]
No dogs at Christmas
Despite no one wanting to go there, it seems that we're doing Christmas at my sister's house this year. No one wants to go there because a) she doesn't cook well and b) she has two big, untrained, messy, and annoying dogs. I can handle the crappy food if I don't have to deal with the dogs. How can I get her to keep them in a separate room without getting really pissed at me? [more inside]
Orchestral Manoeuvres leave me in the Dark
I attended a concert last night and I have a question about how the members of the orchestra are paid. [more inside]
posted by essexjan at 3:08 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by essexjan at 3:08 AM PST - 15 comments
Is there hope after cheating?
I severely fumbled with my boyfriend's heart. I don't know what to do. [more inside]
posted by Cybria at 1:35 AM PST - 30 comments
posted by Cybria at 1:35 AM PST - 30 comments
Porky Christmas Goodness - please help make this happen!!
I have a 3 lbs Pork Shoulder I do NOT want to braise, but rather roast. I need advice on whether roasting is an option. I also have some Pork Cheeks going in the slow cooker overnight with a bit of white wine, garlic, rosemary, and shallot. Plus a lot of fat trimmings. Including a small amount of smokey slab bacon. Can I make Rillettes from this after overnight slow cooking? Or was the addition of wine and shallot a deal breaker? Specific plans for the Pork Shoulder (Injection? Brine? Wet rub?) after the jump.... [more inside]
posted by jbenben at 1:17 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by jbenben at 1:17 AM PST - 13 comments
In search of cool user-interface tweaks for XP
Help me pimp my box! [more inside]
December 23
Reporting an Impersonation of a Police Officer
Today I was talked to by an older man who I believe was impersonating a police officer, but without any harm or foul intent. Should I follow up on it, and if so, is there a way to do it without ruining his life? [more inside]
Merida
We are visiting Merida, Mexico next week and have questions [more inside]
Chicago on New Year's Day. What's there to do? Where to go?
Catch: New Year's on a Wednesday. I don't have the surrounding days off. [more inside]
Can We Be Friends?
I had a sort-of breakup recently, and I'm wondering whether I should move forward as friends or never speak to this guy again. [more inside]
posted by cscott at 8:36 PM PST - 24 comments
posted by cscott at 8:36 PM PST - 24 comments
A long walk in Philadelphia and New York: Where should I be going?
Last year around the holiday, there was a trip to Chicago that ended up having an awesome walk down Clark Street for five or six miles. My boyfriend and I had a great time and want to replicate the experience in Philadelphia and Manhattan/ possibly the other boroughs. So, Philadelphia and New York people, what route would you recommend?
Route preferences: between 5-7 miles, photogenic architecture, relatively safe neighborhoods, and not exclusively through highly touristed areas. We will be staying in Philadelphia and traveling by train to NYC so somewhere near a commuter train station would also be great but not absolutely necessary. I like snobby coffee, book stores, and craft beer, so any walk that incorporates some of those along the way would be great.
Also open to suggestions for activities, shows, or other interesting things to do between Jan 9 and 13 in either city.
Slow basement seepage towards boilers, solutions?
Aaahhh, the Northeast. With melting snow and rainfall, our basement has a slow leak, maybe two to three inches deep at the worst. It has reached under one of the boilers, barely a half inch at that point, and we are trying to figure out if/when to panic. [more inside]
Brining the wrong turkey
I accidentally bought a turkey that has been "deep basted with butter." Can I still brine it? [more inside]
Help me dismantle my couch.
How big is the hex wrench needed to remove the legs from a Natuzzi sofa? [more inside]
How can I filter one term out of my feedly feeds?
There is exactly one word that I never, ever want to read anything about, and it's super-hot right now (with no end in sight) and comes up all the time lately in the stuff I read via RSS. I use Feedly on Firefox. Is there a script that does this? Some kind of native setting in Feedly that I haven't found? If there's a solution that is cheap-but-not-free, I'd happily consider it.
Anyone?
Cyclist visiting Tucson this week. What should I check out?
I'm visiting family in Tucson the 24th - 30th and I'm flying my road bike in from San Francisco. I'm intending to get a lot of riding done while I'm there since I've signed up to participate in the Rapha Festive 500.
I'm looking forward to doing some great riding including Mt. Lemon (I'll be staying up in the Oro Valley area). While I'm there I'd love to also tap into any cool cycle-culture type stuff the city of Tucson may have to offer. Are there any great cycle coffee shops? Brew pubs? LBS's with some actual community to them? Any group rides or cycle clubs that really embody the Tucson community.
While I'll only have my roadie with me I'm also into fixed gear riding in SF. I don't know if that's a thing in Tucson, but would love to know of stuff in regards to that too. I know there is a strong senior cycle community out there, but for what it's worth I'm a 31 year old male.
Thanks!
posted by matt_od at 5:45 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by matt_od at 5:45 PM PST - 5 comments
Ok to eat? Spaghetti sauce question
I sauteed onion, ground beef, ground italian sausage and then added a can of crushed tomatoes. We ate dinner and it was left out for three hours. eat or toss? Thank you!
posted by michellenoel at 5:08 PM PST - 23 comments
posted by michellenoel at 5:08 PM PST - 23 comments
How can I be less sensitive about things I should really expect by now?
I would like tips on how to have a thicker skin when people say offensive things or especially when people defend offensive things. You know how whenever there's a racist incident someone says "but was anyone really surprised?" Well I am that person who is somehow always surprised and I tend to cry a little. I cry over comments on the internet. I don't know anyone else who reacts like this and I'm afraid I'd just be dismissed because there really are more important things going on. I want to respond less dramatically, maybe just shrug my shoulders or say something intelligent but not get so upset.
posted by Danila at 4:50 PM PST - 27 comments
posted by Danila at 4:50 PM PST - 27 comments
Any experience with myofunctional correction?
My daughter's dentist is recommending myofunctional correction to correct a bad bite. My person experience is with regular orthodontics when i was a child and they did nothing. I am open to new approaches, but I'd like to know if anyone has had good or bad experiences with myofunctional correction.
What do I get my pregnant wife for her birthday?
My wife is 36 weeks pregnant, and her birthday is next week. What should I get her? I'd like to get something for her rather than something baby-related. But at the same time, she has already taken advantage of many of the luxuries that pregnant women seem to appreciate -- like spa treatments, massages, and prenatal yoga. I'm a little stuck. Any good ideas? [more inside]
No Certificate of Occupancy. What are my options?
My out-of-state relocation to Brooklyn, NY is suffering from complications due to a delayed Certificate of Occupancy. What should I do? More details below the cut. [more inside]
What do you use to clean floors? How about grease spots in laundry?
We've been using Pine-sol cleaner for years. The pine oil in it dissolved grease and killed germs. Unfortunately, the old formula has been replaced by a new "original formula" that is advertised as having a longer-lasting scent. It stinks! It smells like very bad cheap imitation floral perfume now, a long-lasting scent that makes the house smell horrible. We can't have this scent in our house. What should we use instead? [more inside]
Free Software For Making Audio Mashups
My 12-year-old son hit me with an awesome idea for an audio mashup; take the vocal track from Miley Cyrus's "Wrecking Ball" and lay it over the music from Gotye's "Somebody That I Used To Know" (working title: "A Wrecking Ball I Used To Know"). I need help finding the right software. [more inside]
posted by DWRoelands at 1:27 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by DWRoelands at 1:27 PM PST - 9 comments
Messy Breakup Advice
I'm trying to make a full break from my significant other. Things get messy because we currently share a home, I feel that he is verbally and borderline physically abusive, and I am expecting a baby in about 8 weeks. I have been intermitently sleeping in hotels or couch surfing, but am having trouble sleeping well. My significant other SAYS he has moved out so I have a quiet place to stay while trying to find alternative housing, but would you go back? [more inside]
Where to live in the UK this summer
My spouse and I are interested in living in the UK next summer. We'd like to stay for three months, and we're looking for ideas on where to live and how to approach organizing this visit. [more inside]
Playstations not playing well with NAT?
I'm a network wrangler at a university. I keep reading articles in the consumer press that that the new playstations have issues in a NAT environment. I'm trying find out what's actually going on with it but my google-fu is failing because all my searches are overwhelmed with results containing, say, instructions for how to set up your linksys home router to do the right thing. Which isn't quite as applicable to my enterprise-level Juniper SRX firewalls. Anyone have pointers to a more enterprise-level technical documentation on this? I'd like to have a good idea of what the issues are before I try and put dorms full of PS4-wielding kids on a NAT network. Thanks!
Finger waves in New York?
A question from my fiancée:
Bromius and I are getting married in Brooklyn in May. I have a vintage-y wedding dress and about five inches of hair, so I figure finger waves are the way to go for the big day. I'm not from NYC and I don't know any hair stylists in the area. Are there any you would recommend that can do finger waves/retro-y hair? Bonus points for makeup artist recommendations (retro-y or not).
Thanks!
How to serve homemade noodles with a rib roast?
How to serve homemade noodles with a rib roast? [more inside]
posted by wwax at 11:38 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by wwax at 11:38 AM PST - 15 comments
is it safe for me to live in this neighborhood?
I finally found a place in Brooklyn that seems perfect with one catch: it's in a semi rough area. The thing is I can't seem to get a clear opinion online of exactly how unsafe it is. [more inside]
Where can I find an image of the Mountain Standard Time zone?
I'm looking for a map that shows the Mountain Standard Time zone and nothing else. It would look something like this only zoomed in to the MST. I'm hoping to use the image to make a t-shirt so black and white works best. I've tried Flickr with no luck. Thanks!
posted by Fister Roboto at 11:19 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by Fister Roboto at 11:19 AM PST - 7 comments
What happens when you try to talk to your spouse's doctor?
My husband gets a clean bill of health from his doctor every time he goes for a checkup, which makes no sense to me if she knew his habits. He seems to like and respect his doctor, and is inclined to listen to her. I've been considering calling her up and informing her of what she's been missing. Have you ever done this? Have you ever been the doctor on the receiving end of this information? I welcome your thoughts and experience. [more inside]
Looking for a specific pair of Roos
The most comfortable shoes I own (Kangaroos Tai Chi M) are starting to show their age. When I bought a replacement pair online a couple of years ago, I was disappointed that they use a different material/style which is more rigid and far less comfortable. Help me find the older style of Roos! [more inside]
Christmas Present for friends in a LDR
Because of work, my very good friend and her husband live on two different continents (she in Asia, he in North America) and see each other every couple of months. I'm wondering if there are any apps or digital subscriptions that they can share/use together around $25 that might make a good Christmas gift for both? [more inside]
Where should I go for international mobile research?
I work in product marketing for a mobile company. As 2013 draws to a close, I am thinking about strategies for growth in 2014. One big area is ramping up international growth. I am currently in the information gathering phrase. I am reading up a lot on mobile and international markets. I would love to travel and gather information to accomplish the following goals: [more inside]
Duck, duck, no goose
So, I got a couple duck breasts for our Christmas Eve supper, and was hoping for any and all helpful hints on how to prepare them. [more inside]
posted by PlantGoddess at 10:18 AM PST - 18 comments
posted by PlantGoddess at 10:18 AM PST - 18 comments
[moviefilter] Gunshot 'shatters' film-camera lens: which movie?
Please help me remember a film scene. During a shoot-out, possibly a car chase, a gunshot hits and shatters the camera lens. That's the trope anyway. This occurs in an iconic movie. TVtropes.org lists some similar moments but those are pretty random and weak examples, whereas the one I have in mind is from a movie classic. Could it be "Bonnie and Clyde"? -- but I checked film stills and nothing's showing up. Help!
posted by taramosalata at 10:10 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by taramosalata at 10:10 AM PST - 5 comments
Quarter-page sheet protectors
What can I use to organize quarter-page-size cards in a binder? [more inside]
posted by roll truck roll at 10:06 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by roll truck roll at 10:06 AM PST - 5 comments
"Cool" things to do in Reno, NV.
My girlfriend and I are visiting Reno to see my parents for Christmas. My parents are older (early 60's) and really enjoy doing "cool" things. We live in Portland and when my parents visit here they always have a great time and really enjoy doing the "cool" things we like to do. The thing is... [more inside]
Lost scifi short story from my youth, the Golden Age of Scifi.
I am looking for a science fiction short story probably from the first half of the 20th Century. It involved a deep mine, strange events at the bottom, footprints in stone and a species that evolved to live underground, INSIDE the rock. [more inside]
posted by Seamus at 9:46 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by Seamus at 9:46 AM PST - 4 comments
Ow My Ear
I have an earache for the first time since I was, what, 6? It sucks. Help. [more inside]
Tea-of-the-month club recommendations
We're thinking of getting a friend of ours some kind of Tea of the Month club subscription as a (slightly belated) Christmas present. We're not big tea drinkers ourselves; can anyone recommend a particular company to get it from? [more inside]
posted by Horace Rumpole at 9:32 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by Horace Rumpole at 9:32 AM PST - 12 comments
Tablet piano instruction?
I have an electric, piano-weighted keyboard that I want to learn how to play. I can't afford lessons right now. It has MIDI in and out connectors. Is there a hardware/software combo that will take that MIDI out connection, plug it into an Android or iOS tablet, and provide a more interactive teaching experience? [more inside]
I crash later in the day, and need this to stop.
I wake up at 7 am, and am very sleepy by around 6pm. This occurs whether I work or have the day off, and is screwing with my hygiene and social life. I would appreciate advice on what could be the problem, or in the case that there is nothing fixable, raise my energy levels naturally. [more inside]
What is this?
Is this *trigger warning terrible whistling* the theme song to something? If not, what is it? [more inside]
posted by h00py at 8:17 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by h00py at 8:17 AM PST - 14 comments
Purchase used iPhone on Amazon?
My iPhone was stolen and I need to purchase a new one. I am considering saving myself the hassle of a craigslist interaction by purchasing a used one through an Amazon retailer. Has anyone done this? Would you recommend it? Anything I should look for specifically besides carrier compatibility etc.?
Christmas craft help - decorating picture frames
Every year my family does a craft project around the Christmas table. This year we're decorating picture frames. I'm supposed to buy the supplies. Except I've never done this before and I don't know what to get. Help. [more inside]
Abusive family seems to know where I live. What do I do?
My abusive mom that I cut off ties with (along with the rest of my abusive family) emailed me a few days ago and seems to know where I moved to. She said that she tells everyone back home where I moved to. She made it sound like she just guessed it, but I find it highly unlikely. If it wasn't just a guess, I don't know how they found out (since I haven't contacted them since arriving in my new city) or how much they know. Am I in danger? Should I move? What do I do? Please help. [more inside]
Gimmee your yummy, not too fussy, bread stuffing recipe?
After years of making only rice dressing for our Christmas turkey, I no longer have even the bones of a recipe for bread stuffing in my head – care to share yours? [more inside]
posted by taz at 6:24 AM PST - 20 comments
posted by taz at 6:24 AM PST - 20 comments
How can I make a baby doll look like HR Giger's Alien?
For a costume I need an alien. I would like to take a plastic baby doll, maybe 16", and modify it to look like an alien, preferably HR Giger's Alien from Alien. [more inside]
What is cb9465.msi?
This is a second-hand office computer, running Windows 7. Every time I turn it on, a box pops up asking to install C:\Windows\Installer\cb9465.msi. What is this file, what is it trying to do, and how do I make it stop? The folder C:\Windows\Installer must be hidden, because I can't see it, and Google turns up nothing for the name.
How do I make my (TLC@AOM) presentation more interactive?
I am preparing a 30 minute presentation proposal for the Teaching & Learning Conference at the Academy of Management Annual Meeting next year. One of the evaluation criteria is “evidence of a dynamic and interactive session”. I just want to describe a new teaching methodology in an online learning environment, so how do I make the session “dynamic and interactive”? What are the expected types of activities? Any help would be much appreciated! Bonus points if you attended the TLC@AOM last year! Thanks in advance!
posted by Bobka at 5:45 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by Bobka at 5:45 AM PST - 4 comments
When to follow up about following up?
I met an old classmate at a party recently and would like to reconnect. I emailed her about asking her to hang, but I've gotten no response. What next? Social anxiety-colored snowflakes abound. [more inside]
Xmas potluck for the secular humanists, and fresh out of frankincense.
What would Jesus bring?
Just moved, most of my kitchen stuff is still in boxes, but want to bring something homemade. Hosts making "a" salmon, so I assume that means whole and poached or roasted, so I'll bring a nice pinot noir. But what side or dessert or whatnot would work and be easy enough with let's say just a skillet and a pasta pot and a few tools to work with? (I don't have myrrh either.) Help! Thanks!
Origin of 'Step-dad [...] kill command [...] dog [...] died [...] never.
Hi everyone, I'm apologize for the oddness of my title. I am looking for the origin of this quote: 'My step-dad said he would tell me the secret command word for "Kill!" once the dog had died, but he never did.' It may not be verbatim and is presumed to be from a book. Thank you!
Looking for a good pair of scissors
Looking for some suggestions/recommendations for a good pair of scissors. [more inside]
posted by dbirchum at 4:43 AM PST - 18 comments
posted by dbirchum at 4:43 AM PST - 18 comments
dealing with new food allergy?
I tried a new citrus fruit yesterday and had an allergic reaction. How wide of a range of citrus fruits do I need to avoid while I wait to see a doctor? (YANMD) [more inside]
Blog This! Bookmarklet
Blogger used to have a bookmarklet that could be dragged to the bookmark bar in one's browser. It was called "Blog this!" and was a little snippet of javascript that let you highlight text on a page and then publish it, with a hyperlink, on your Blogger blog. Does anyone know if this still exists?
posted by mecran01 at 2:27 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by mecran01 at 2:27 AM PST - 6 comments
Facebook etiquette: to tag or not to tag?
Is tagging OK when you want to make sure that specific people will see (or, at least, be notified about) a specific post? Even if it would mean tagging about 20-30 people... [more inside]
December 22
Abraham Lincoln Quote?
I'm looking for a quote from Lincoln that essentially says, "If you want to see the leaders of the next generation, look to the children's schoolyard." Does anybody know that quote exactly and it's source?
I'm looking to get (re)belted...
I have a slim leather belt with lovely Mexican silver hardware; but the belt itself is fairly shredded, and has already been repaired once (by a shoe repairman, who did the best he could).
Who fixes belts these days? How do I find someone to put the hardware on a new piece of leather, in Montreal, in New York, or on the Internet? How much should I expect to pay?
posted by musofire at 8:21 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by musofire at 8:21 PM PST - 3 comments
How to unruin Pinterest?
My Pinterest feed has been ruined recently, it's mostly posts by strangers about topics I don't care about. How do I fix this? [more inside]
posted by aerotive at 7:32 PM PST - 23 comments
posted by aerotive at 7:32 PM PST - 23 comments
How can I increase income to pay student loan debt?
I have $85k in student loan debt, and need to increase my income so I can pay it off. I need a bigger spoon to eat this elephant. Fishing for ideas. [more inside]
Unusual feats of badassery
I'm looking for feats of skill, intelligence, or courage that fall outside the usual martial arenas (so, no beating somebody up). I would prefer written sources but will accept other media also. This is kind of vague, so let me give an example: I remember once reading a book where the protagonist challenges some alleged badass to slit his wrist and just bleed into a bucket. First person to staunch the bleeding loses. I'm not really interested in identifying the book, but rather finding more examples of surprising challenges like that. [more inside]
Looking for gift-worthy bottles of beer
I'd like to pick up a couple nice beers to put under the tree for my partner. I don't drink much beer myself, so while I know what he likes enough to pick out everyday-drinkin' stuff for him, I don't know what's currently available that might be nice (new, seasonal, unusual, somewhat difficult-to-find) enough for a gift. Any ideas? Helpful details below the fold. [more inside]
posted by rhiannonstone at 6:55 PM PST - 30 comments
posted by rhiannonstone at 6:55 PM PST - 30 comments
Beautiful Music Theory
I want to adorn my walls with gorgeous music theory posters. Suggestions please. [more inside]
Transporting Christmas Dinner
I want to do a special day after Christmas dinner for myself and my boyfriend. The only thing is, I'll be in a car for 6-7 hours heading back from my parents' before I'll be back at my house. I'm looking for ideas for a festive meal that can be transported in a cooler for that long and will reheat well once I'm home, or be really tasty served cold. [more inside]
posted by PearlRose at 5:45 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by PearlRose at 5:45 PM PST - 8 comments
Sluggish iTunes despite following steps
I have my iTunes on an external 1 TB USB drive for iMac (10.6). It is around 250 GB. Despite following the steps of moving the itl and other files to my computer Itunes folder as layed out nicelly in this link among others (look at user roncron's commments at bottom of page). ITunes is still sluggish when deleting tracks especially. I have 3GB RAM, not using any other item while running iTunes, and Activity Monitor doesn't show any large discrepancies of things running in the background (unless I am looking at it wrong).
Maybe my computer is just too old or needs 4 GB of RAM. thanks.
posted by snap_dragon at 5:27 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by snap_dragon at 5:27 PM PST - 5 comments
How can I engage in better conversation and avoid boredom?
I'm tired of dreading large social gatherings where I am bored/bore people. How do I step up my game and engage people in conversation such that it is enjoyable and interesting for all involved? I want to avoid small talk. Please give me tips, tricks, mantras to make it better! [more inside]
posted by kendrak at 4:05 PM PST - 28 comments
posted by kendrak at 4:05 PM PST - 28 comments
Christmas Bonus for Building Staff?
How much should I give the staff of my luxury condo building in Brooklyn in Christmas bonuses? [more inside]
No Snow Tahoe
On Dec 26, my sister and I, and 6 teenage boys (children, nephews, and friends) are going to Squaw Valley, California, near Lake Tahoe. The plan, of course, was a great ski vacation. But now we are looking at nearly no snow. So, what else can we do? [more inside]
posted by Flood at 3:56 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by Flood at 3:56 PM PST - 10 comments
Become a buddhist monk to treat my depression?
I'm pretty depressed and want to become a monk temporarily to help me find myself again and be better person. Is this an unethical reason to be a monk? [more inside]
posted by defmute at 3:40 PM PST - 34 comments
posted by defmute at 3:40 PM PST - 34 comments
Logic Pro and multiple microphones on separate tracks
In Logic Pro, is there a way to add two Shure SM81 microphones (connected via Shure USB-to-XLR adapters) as separate tracks for recording? Currently, the only way I've been able to bring them into Logic Pro is as a merged or aggregate input device, which means the signals from the two mics are merged before going into one track. I do not want this, but instead wish to feed the signal from the two mics into two separate tracks. Is there a way to do this in Logic Pro with the equipment I have? [more inside]
potty training blues
Can anyone give us tips on getting our daughter to "let go" in the potty or toilet??? She can hold it in and knows when she needs to go... but can't do it in the right place. [more inside]
Help me find a webcomic about knitting a sweater
I'm trying to rediscover a webcomic in which the protagonist is a Jewish girl who defeats a monster in a sweater-knitting competition. I think it may have been linked from MetaFilter circa 2010, but I can't re-find the post, and apparently failed to bookmark it. Can you assist, O Hive Mind?
posted by Androgenes at 3:15 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by Androgenes at 3:15 PM PST - 3 comments
A rugged, semi-professional flap-top bag or briefcase or whatever.
I need a sturdy flap-top briefcase or messenger bag for holding a 15" laptop, books, notepads, and small personal items. I am considering the Saddleback thin briefcase, but the prominent role of Bibles in the product demo videos on the Saddleback site is giving me pause. I'm also wondering if a similar price/quality ratio can't be found at a lower cost. [more inside]
Help me remember an influential Islamic text about the US in the 1920s
I'm trying to remember details about a book written about the US in the 1920s from the perspective of a visiting fundamental Muslim. The book, from my memory, was influential in the progress of fundamental Islamism (and later terrorism) as the book described the jazz age, black people, women's sexuality, etc. in a very bad light. Strangely Google isn't helping me with this. Thanks!
posted by reductiondesign at 2:28 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by reductiondesign at 2:28 PM PST - 3 comments
Experiencing Weather on the Internet
This is kind of an oddball questions, but I love things like Rainy Mood that allow you to feel like it is raining outside, and it's my go-to site for some background serenity when I'm on the computer. I like other types of weather, too, like being inside when it's snowing (wind blowing), watching a lightning storm, that kind of stuff. Are there sites that do this well, in terms of simulating weather or encouraging the kinds of feelings that surface from being in weather? I like the sounds, but also visual representations, as well.
posted by SpacemanStix at 2:04 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by SpacemanStix at 2:04 PM PST - 9 comments
This sentence is an example of the passive voice that I'm desperately
trying to get rid of.
I have to write for my job and although I'm a good writer, the passive voice is my nemesis. I want to use it consciously and for a reason, not as a mistake or a bad habit. So ummm, yeah, I need some resources. [more inside]
posted by onecircleaday at 1:54 PM PST - 22 comments
posted by onecircleaday at 1:54 PM PST - 22 comments
Open in case of very small emergency.
I'm assembling a bag of useful things that I will keep in the trunk my car. What goes in it? Think less "zombie apocalypse" more "raining, forgot umbrella." [more inside]
posted by justkevin at 1:48 PM PST - 50 comments
posted by justkevin at 1:48 PM PST - 50 comments
Kosher-keeping Jews of Metafilter! How do you do it?
I was raised in a kosher household, and am feeling like I would like to get back into keeping kosher. Kosher (or Kosher-ish) MeFites, how do you do it? [more inside]
Hip hopping in style?
I have to hop on one foot on concrete. Are there any fashionable and supportive shoes for me? [more inside]
Identify a film musical featuring a song about Rin Tin Tin
Can you identify a classic film musical about a woman who meets a guy that turns out to be a film star? It includes a big song/dance built around people at a party name-dropping film stars, but the heroine only being able to remember the name "Rin Tin Tin". [more inside]
posted by metaBugs at 12:55 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by metaBugs at 12:55 PM PST - 4 comments
What is this UK radio broadcast called?
A long string of obscure messages. Almost like code. Said in a low voice, a hypnotic monotone. I though it might be the Shipping Forecast, but that has some sense to it, in that it uses recognizable area/place names. What I'm thinking of seemed more mysterious, harder to parse. Does this ring a bell? Thanks.
posted by the sobsister at 11:37 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by the sobsister at 11:37 AM PST - 6 comments
American Express gift card online use
I just used a $25 American Express gift card for an Amazon order that was more than $25. What happens now? [more inside]
posted by lewedswiver at 11:01 AM PST - 16 comments
posted by lewedswiver at 11:01 AM PST - 16 comments
This gluten-free cake needs gluten
I'd like to add flour to this gluten free cake recipe, but I'm not sure how much to use. The current recipe makes a very wet batter. Also, would I need to adjust baking powder amount after adding flour?
Boob pain for Xmas
Basically what it says on the tin. I've been having a bit of an achy right breast for a while now. Help me calm down between now and my mammogram in two weeks. [more inside]
How To Get Out
I've been married for ten years. The last four have a been a long downhill slide. I have to end it. Do I give him notice or just go and deal with the aftermath? [more inside]
Using Safari on iPad Air with Chrome on Mac
I've been using Chrome on my Mac and Safari on my iPad Air. Trying to get them both to sync with each other is a challenge. I used a Safari on Mac for a short while recently to keep the two perfectly in sync but I've since switched back to a Chrome on my Mac as it is just a quicker and nicer to use browser. On my iPad Air I've installed Chrome but nothing beats Safari on the iPad as it's smoother and uses a faster rendering engine. Chrome on iOS is a bit sluggish and doesn't feel comfortable to use.
Is there a way that I can sync my Chrome bookmarks and settings on my Mac with Safari on my iPad?
posted by antgly at 8:46 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by antgly at 8:46 AM PST - 2 comments
Road conditions in Oakville, Ontario
Toronto Mefites! I'm currently in balmy western Pennsylvania, with plans today (Sunday, December 22) to drive into Oakville, Ontario. Oakville is in Halton, about 38 miles southwest of Toronto. How difficult is that going to be in light of this weekend's ice storm?
posted by Ian A.T. at 8:22 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by Ian A.T. at 8:22 AM PST - 12 comments
December 21
How can I try to approach this (battered) woman?
Yesterday I came back for holidays to the small town where I grew up. At my sister's home, she introduced me to a nice young woman (let's call her Mary) who lives next door from my sister. From my weekly phone calls to my sister, I knew that Mary and my sister had become quite close over the last couple of months. Mary seems to be a helpful and considerate person. On meeting personally yesterday, I found her attractive too. I knew she was living with the father of her two young children, so I had ruled out any attempts to get to know her. However, last night during dinner with my family, I learned from my sister and mother that a couple of weeks ago Mary had had her partner arrested on charges of domestic violence. I also learned that there was a history of incidents of spousal violence involving the couple, and that the man had since his release from prison been living in a different flat next to Mary and their children. According to my sister, Mary is planning to terminate the relationship soon. [more inside]
Feminist basics for dads?
I'd like to get some recommendations on the basics of feminism, especially as it might relate to things a dad can do to help his daughters prepare for and deal with sexism in society and also do his part in understanding the world and making it a better place for women (and by extension all people). [more inside]
posted by Reverend John at 9:58 PM PST - 34 comments
posted by Reverend John at 9:58 PM PST - 34 comments
How to do a gift exchange for a large family.
One parent doesn't "play by the rules" in our family gift exchange and therefore one of the grandchildren gets two presents while all the rest only get one. As grandma/step-grandma to the other eleven kids, this aggravates me every year. Is there a better way to do gift exchange in a large family? [more inside]
posted by tamitang at 9:01 PM PST - 43 comments
posted by tamitang at 9:01 PM PST - 43 comments
Bluetooth Headset Which Mutes Calls
Is there a reasonably priced (<$50) bluetooth headset for Android (HTC One) that can mute calls? I've done a healthy amount of research & I'm not sure why what seems like such an obvious feature is so curiously difficult to find.
posted by forallmankind at 8:41 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by forallmankind at 8:41 PM PST - 7 comments
Feel good movies and TV shows.
Please give me recommendations for feel-good TV shows and movies that are available on Netflix streaming or Amazon Prime to help get me through a tough time. [more inside]
posted by catatethebird at 8:30 PM PST - 43 comments
posted by catatethebird at 8:30 PM PST - 43 comments
Book / textbook recs for learning basic (art) painting techniques?
Decided to take a break from photography. Would like to learn how to draw / paint. Can anyone recommend a good book / textbook for reference purposes?
Anyone went through the "crown lengthening procedure"?
Anyone went through the "crown lengthening procedure"? [more inside]
Volunteering in NYC
I'd like to possibly do some volunteering. Specific requirements inside. [more inside]
How do I get a test specialist job with IBM?
I have 17 years experience in the computing industry at 33. Web design, hardware, etc. I am looking to either move sideways and learn more, or exit the industry (which I do not want). [more inside]
posted by squirbel at 7:20 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by squirbel at 7:20 PM PST - 4 comments
Who's trying to fix the NSA back door in SSL?
In some of the Edward Snowden articles they mentioned that the NSA put back doors into web standards like SSL. Is anyone trying to find them? What the latest news about it?
Help me learn how to collaborate with programmers!
Hi everyone,
I will soon be working on a project that involves the development of a web platform and will be hiring part-time engineers. I would like to know enough about programming and web development to be able to collaborate with them and understand the language, and have realistic expectations of when things get built. So I am not looking to learn how to program (I wish I had time for that), but rather have a basic understanding of how the system works and fits together (front-end, back-end, etc.)
Anyone know of any good online resources- online courses, websites, etc. for this type of knowledge? I've checked out Code Academy and Khan Academy, but both seem heavily focused on helping you learn how to write code vs. understanding the system abstractly and holistically. But I may have missed something. Thanks in advance for your help!
posted by tessalations999 at 6:48 PM PST - 19 comments
posted by tessalations999 at 6:48 PM PST - 19 comments
Advice on using a flowbee
Ok, this post was the best pepsi-blue ever and I just ordered a flowbee. Any hints? [more inside]
posted by bswinburn at 6:39 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by bswinburn at 6:39 PM PST - 6 comments
perfume dabblerey
For some time now I've had an on-off fascination with scent and perfume, particularly the artistic side of scent. How can I further explore this? [more inside]
posted by divabat at 6:15 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by divabat at 6:15 PM PST - 14 comments
Help me figure out clues to a gift please
My mum makes me an advent calendar with little gifts and chocolates every year. The past two days I've unpacked a nail and a piece of a vinyl disc - she says these are clues to an event on Monday. She had previously asked me to keep a two hour slot at an allotted time free the day after tomorrow. Now I wanna know what treat I'm in for (I can only assume it's something positive!) but I cannot for the life of me figure out what this could be. I mean, I have one idea but don't wanna list it here as to not distract you. I'd really like to see what you guys might come up with. (Full disclosure: There's a chance this is a play on words and my mother is German. Nail is "der Nagel" and for the disc I have apparently not figured out the correct term yet...)
posted by mrsh at 5:55 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by mrsh at 5:55 PM PST - 15 comments
In need of a Mac Mini like computer, but for Windows.
Looking for a Mac Mini like computer, but for Windows 8. [more inside]
How to find an ovum donor in twenty years?
My wife and I will soon use an egg donor to try to conceive. It's important to us that our future child be able to contact the egg donor if the child so desires and it's in his or her best interest. The egg donor is open to this. Until there is a need for contact (either for the aforementioned reason or because of a medical issue), she prefers not to be contacted (nor are we eager to initiate contact until such time). How can we maximize our chances of being able to reach her in the future? It could well be over a decade before such contact is initiated. Phone numbers and email addresses are not that long-lived. [more inside]
Stories where the hard-charging protagonist is submissive or masochistic
[NSFW?] I am looking for fiction (books/movies/short stories/TV/etc) of a non-erotic nature where a hard-charging and strong-willed protagonist is revealed to possess a submissive or masochistic side. [more inside]
Cookie frosting toxicity for dogs
My two pugs (15-pound females) got into the garbage and ate probably about a tablespoon each of CakeMate cookie frosting (similar to this.) I've googled each ingredient (i.e., xanthan gum, propylene glycol alginate) and none appear to be toxic to dogs. They are exhibiting no physical or behavioural symptoms of poisoning. Should I continue to worry?
Can I keep and store chinese lantern branches?
I've had some chinese lantern branches in a vase for about a month now, no water, and they're still in great shape--bright, intact "lanterns." I want to replace them with something a little more wintery, but I hate to just throw away the chinese lanterns. Can I wrap them in paper or something and store them away until next fall? Or will they just disintegrate into dust?
Help me figure out my life... goals? wants? needs?
This has been a year of change (breakup, move, deaths, grad school). I'm home at my parents' for the holidays and want to take some time to reflect on what I want for the next year and the rest of my life. I feel like I'm entering a new phase of life, and want to do it with self-knowledge and a vision of what I want it to be. This includes career, love, friendships, travel, everything. I'm hoping you can recommend exercises, readings, and approaches to figuring out what I truly want and (to a lesser extent) how to get there. [more inside]
Another laptop recommendation, i7 needed
Another laptop recommendation (or how can I get back to as good a laptop as my 2002 laptop?)
Wanted:i7 tablet with digitizer and matte screen without all the extra frills. [more inside]
Who's better for me - the girl I want or the girl my family wants?
It seems like a no-brainer answer at first glance - of course you stick with a girl you really dig regardless of what Mommy and Daddy think. But I'm not so sure my own tastes are in my best interest... [more inside]
posted by johnpoe50 at 2:23 PM PST - 51 comments
posted by johnpoe50 at 2:23 PM PST - 51 comments
Recommendations please for the nearest gorgeous landscape. [Northern CA]
I am finishing finals and me and a bud would like to go somewhere on tuesday and look at something really gorgeous. I live in Davis, CA and am willing to drive 2.5 hours in any direction. Looking for specific recommendations. [more inside]
My friend doesn't want to be an admin assistant anymore
One of my good friends has been an administrative assistant for the past few years and is getting depressed and burnt out. What types of jobs can he get with his skills? [more inside]
Decadent veggies: what is your best recipe?
The boyfriend and I will be attending a holiday dinner with his brother, who professes to hate all plant-based food except grains, rice, and potatoes. He has thrown down the gauntlet and asked us all to produce a vegetable based dish that he will actually enjoy. Please save us from defeat by sharing your most delicious vegetable and fruit-based dishes. Main meals, side dishes, appetizers, and desserts all welcome, and the dish can include other food groups, as long as the fruit or vegetable is prominent.
posted by rpfields at 1:15 PM PST - 47 comments
posted by rpfields at 1:15 PM PST - 47 comments
Should I be blog mistress of my own domain?
I have a couple of blogs on Blogger (and want to start a third one), and I've had a few people advise me to move them to their own domains. Should I, and if so, where should I move them and how? [more inside]
For ADD-ers: How do you set up your morning in order to stay productive?
I currently have a sporadic work schedule for a job that I would like to quit as soon as I land something better. On my days off, I know that I need to be filling in the extra days with productive stuff such as finding a new job. And on occasion I am successful! But more often than not, a misstep in the morning tends to snowball and leads to an entire morning - or even day - wasted. I'd like to know how other people who suffer from ADD or impulsivity were able to beat back their morning bad habits, or even reform them into good ones. [more inside]
Video streaming app for Android
I'm looking for a video streaming app and server for an Android phone and a Windows PC. [more inside]
posted by ArmyOfKittens at 12:48 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by ArmyOfKittens at 12:48 PM PST - 11 comments
How can I get this seemingly interested employer to actually hire me?
How can I get this seemingly interested employer to actually hire me? [more inside]
posted by TryTheTilapia at 12:46 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by TryTheTilapia at 12:46 PM PST - 5 comments
Moving 1BR Apt from CT to NC in one week: help?
Looking for some advice on moving a one bedroom apartment worth of stuff from Connecticut to North Carolina the week of New Years!
Legitimate moving companies (Atlas/United/etc.) can't do it in such short notice. Renting a UHaul/Budget van is as expensive as using a company with little/no reviews. Any other suggestions? Any specific references for a reputable company which can make this happen?
Thanks!
Can I fake out my work VPN with a complete disk copy?
If I do a disk copy of my work computer, will the VPN be usable? Nothing nefarious planned; I simply want to be able to VPN in if I'm stuck at home (snow, sickness) without my work laptop.
posted by IAmBroom at 10:08 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by IAmBroom at 10:08 AM PST - 15 comments
Translation from Hawaiian to English of a Hawaiian song
Where can I find an English translation of the lyrics to a Hawaiian song called "Ka `opae" written by Dennis Kamakahi? [more inside]
posted by surfgator at 9:21 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by surfgator at 9:21 AM PST - 2 comments
Best Practices for Database Interfaces on the Web?
I'm in the earliest possible stages of building a web interface that will make it easy to display, graph, download, summarize, and interact with a wide variety of data. If you use scientific data from the internet, what are some of the websites you've encountered that make using data the easiest, most intuitive, and give you the best control? Also, what are some must-have features for you, and some of the best and worst design decisions the site builders have made? [more inside]
posted by ropeladder at 7:41 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by ropeladder at 7:41 AM PST - 4 comments
Airlines don't allow "snub-nosed" dogs. But my dog's face is special!
I have a Boston Terrier and would like to take him on a plane. Airline rules say Bostons are "snub-nosed" dogs that are not allowed on planes. But this particularly charming Boston is not "snub nosed" at all. His nose is not squishy. No breathing problems. He has a noble carriage! Many people think he is, in fact, some other breed. Is there any leniency in airline policy on this? (Pic inside!) [more inside]
posted by amoeba at 7:21 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by amoeba at 7:21 AM PST - 15 comments
Started to install a printer, and bricked my laptop!
Help!
My family member ask me to help install a printer (a Lexmark x5470) on her laptop. I installed the drivers and then, when I restarted the computer the MOUSE AND KEYBOARD DONT WORK. I can't login! I can't do anything! It even happens in safe mode, I am running windows 7 family premium, 64 bit on an hp laptop. Help me not ruin Christmas,
posted by cacofonie at 6:50 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by cacofonie at 6:50 AM PST - 9 comments
Seen any good (by good I mean bad) erotic thrillers?
My wife and I are big fans of cheesy erotic thrillers. Can you suggest any we haven't seen? [more inside]
posted by The Card Cheat at 6:40 AM PST - 33 comments
posted by The Card Cheat at 6:40 AM PST - 33 comments
Can you point me to a TV show episode that contains words like "adorbs"?
I'm looking for examples of real-world (that is, non-Internet) usage of new slang shortenings like "totes", "ridic", "adorbs" or "awks". TV shows where characters use such words would be great, especially if the episodes are available online. I've found Youtube videos where people talk about the phenomenon, but I'd prefer non-ironic, spontaneous examples.
How to deal with my height
I'm a girl that is 1,76 m tall, and I'm having serious problems with my height. I'm getting really depressed with it over time and I've come to the point where I am completely desperate. I really need some help. [more inside]
Should I switch my electricity provider to ConEd SOLUTIONS?
is this ConEd solutions on the level, as providing more eco-friendly electricity than my regular Con Edison provider? What are the pros and cons? The agent who is trying to sell me this says my bill will go up a little. This is for residential usage in New York City.
Any experience or information on this is much appreciated.
posted by DMelanogaster at 5:23 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by DMelanogaster at 5:23 AM PST - 10 comments
Looking for dystopian short fiction and literary theory
Please help me find as much short (8,000 words or less) dystopian fiction and literary theory (any length) as possible! Anthologies are fine. It can be on the internet or in book/magazine/any purchasable form. It can be famous; it can be obscure. Anything goes, really! [more inside]
posted by Quilford at 4:54 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by Quilford at 4:54 AM PST - 15 comments
Interview extroardinaire
How to do well in interviews? [more inside]
Should I try to get out of this lease?
I recently signed a lease on a new apartment that I'm supposed to move into on January 16. Now, I'm having serious second thoughts and trying to figure out if I should talk to the owner about getting out of the lease. I paid a deposit, but don't mind forfeiting that.
I've been looking for a new place for the last four months, ever since new neighbors moved in upstairs. I have insomnia, though my sleep had been ok earlier in the year; it got much worse, though, because the new neighbors are frequently up late talking loudly. Even smaller sounds, like their footsteps on the hardwood floor above me, started to bother me. It's been a huge problem because I haven't slept well essentially since they moved in, and though I tried to talk with them, I definitely want to move. [more inside]
Staying in close contact with someone that has hurt you...bad idea?
I basically had a thing with this guy that I ended up wanting more commitment than he did. When I ended it, he begged me to stay in touch so we are. Details inside. [more inside]
posted by sabina_r at 4:13 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by sabina_r at 4:13 AM PST - 14 comments
Any tips on how to eat less?
I would like to start eating less. [more inside]
posted by Enchanting Grasshopper at 4:02 AM PST - 22 comments
posted by Enchanting Grasshopper at 4:02 AM PST - 22 comments
Great Red Shark Blues
I'll have time to waste in California in February and have set my mind on enjoying a Hunter S. Thompson memorial road trip to Las Vegas. Trouble is, it's proving surprisingly hard to find someone who'll rent me a Great Red Shark to do so. What can I do? [more inside]
A purposeful life for a paper notebook
What do you use your paper notebooks for? I was recently gifted with several beautiful notebooks and also acquired various notebooks over the past year. I am having trouble figuring out great and practical uses for all of them. Hivemind, lay on me your notebook wisdom. [more inside]
December 20
Will a Kaiser doctor write an Rx that you can take to another pharmacy?
That's pretty much the whole question. I ask because I am signing up for Covered California and am leaning toward Kaiser, as that is the health provider I will have up to Dec. 31 of this year and it would be nice to not switch everything around. But the plan I am looking at charges $19/30 day supply for generic medications, and I know that one of my meds can be bought at Target for $10/90 day supply. I know that the normal Kaiser process is to use the in-house pharmacy, but I wonder if doctors will write a prescription that you can take elsewhere. Medications form the bulk of my healthcare spending so this could potentially make a big difference to my meager budget.
posted by imalaowai at 11:28 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by imalaowai at 11:28 PM PST - 8 comments
Help convince me that alcohol isn't terrible!
I don't drink at all and I'm happy that way. What I don't like is the strong aversion I have to other people drinking. Help me understand why people drink and why it needn't be all that evil! :) [more inside]
posted by miaow at 10:16 PM PST - 39 comments
posted by miaow at 10:16 PM PST - 39 comments
I want to buy a fancy thing for my girlfriend, but lady sizes confuse me
Help! My lovely girlfriend is blessed with sexy curves. I want to buy her either a particular dress or a particular skirt, in a surprise gift sorta way. But the sizes don't really match. And I am confused. [more inside]
Help me find the right Master’s Programme specialising in Oil in Germany
Hi there,
I’m in a conundrum -
I hold a Bachelors Degree in Physics and I am currently searching for a Master’s Programme at a German University specialising in the management of Oil resources and/or the relation to Oil and Physics that I studied. [more inside]
How can I minimize the cost of a public transit only trip to LA?
I'm planning a solo trip to Los Angeles for a week this coming February and will only using public transit... [more inside]
Unguided trekking in Tierra Del Fuego - Bad idea?
I'm going to Tierra Del Fuego soon, and I am considering going on a four to five day unguided trek... [more inside]
posted by MeanwhileBackAtTheRanch at 7:24 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by MeanwhileBackAtTheRanch at 7:24 PM PST - 4 comments
How long should Clarks shoes last?
The shoes look fine but my husband says they are "dead" after only six months of daily wear. Is this normal? [more inside]
Almost a decade later, any updates on alternatives to Ikea?
I'd like to configure a recessed niche part of a rec room wall with some floor-to-ceiling sliding doors, a la the Ikea PAX system.
I recently picked up an Ikea piece and was gobsmacked to discover just how horrible they've become since the last time I bought any. [more inside]
Watch band pin replacement
One of the cotter pins in the stainless steel band of my Citizen watch has come loose to the point that it slides out on its own rather easily, separating the links of the watch band. The watch is still under warranty, but I'd rather not deal with shipping it away and waiting for such a minor repair. Are local jewelry shops likely to have a replacement pin, or [more inside]
posted by tonycpsu at 6:50 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by tonycpsu at 6:50 PM PST - 7 comments
Can you use a Samsung Galaxy Note without phone service?
I'm interested in getting a Galaxy Note (perhaps a used "Note II" version off of Craigslist) to use mainly as a sketchpad. Also, any other apps that happen to be helpful. I already have a mobile phone, so I wouldn't want to sign up for another account. Will the device function as just a hand-held computer, without cellular service? So for example, could I connect it to my home wi-fi network and use Dropbox, browse the Web etc?
Is it contagious and is Christmas cancelled?
The person my mom lives with has a gastrointestinal virus or some such thing. He is still symptomatic. My mom does not have it, but is she contagious? Gross-ish detail to follow. [more inside]
What does "MTK" stand for?
This may be an absurd long-shot: what song/album/artist could "MTK" stand for? [more inside]
posted by Starmie at 3:33 PM PST - 23 comments
posted by Starmie at 3:33 PM PST - 23 comments
Using Hulu (free) with Chromecast on iOS?
I've googled this, but every reference is to Hulu Plus.
I have an iPod 5th gen, and the Chromecast dongle plugged in to my TV.
Using the Chrome browser for iPod + Chromecast app, watching stuff like Netflix works fine. However, when I visit Hulu.com, the site detects my OS/Browser, and won't serve me content unless I buy Hulu Plus. Of course I can plug my laptop directly in to the TV, and watch Hulu's free programming that way. But not with Chromecast.
Is there a way to mimic a desktop browser in Chrome, and then 'Cast' a Hulu program to the TV? Other options?
Is CiviCRM suitable for a tiny nonprofit?
I am involved with a tiny nonprofit -- we have a few hundred donors, volunteers and clients, and no paid staff. Some of our volunteers have been frustrated with our recordkeeping system (shared Google docs), and one of our volunteers is suggesting CiviCRM. I think this is overkill. [more inside]
Books to make Statistics Interesting
If I'm going to succeed in a field I am considering (bioinformatics), I'm going to need to learn a good deal of statistics. I have limited experience in the subject and have never found the details of it especially compelling. Can you recommend some books on statiistics (not necessarily light on the details) that are well written and interesting? Something designed to get the layman interested in the details could be good, but textbook recommendations would also be good.
New questions about an old problem (belly fat)
Regarding diet/exercise, what would you think would be the most effective way to lose my belly beyond what I'm already doing? [more inside]
Job Seach Resources Help for Science-y, Communications-y Type Jobs
I'm looking for some help finding job search resources for a field that, at least as far as I know, doesn't have a super specific name. I'm interested in looking for communications-y type jobs that are specifically in science-y environments or that work with science-y content. Bonus points for resources specific to Washington, DC or Baltimore. [more inside]
posted by forkisbetter at 2:00 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by forkisbetter at 2:00 PM PST - 5 comments
If You Like Aramis and Drakkar, You'll LOVE...
I have waited too long to buy my father a Christmas gift. He is hard to buy for, but one thing he reliably likes is cologne. The only trouble is I have no idea what he likes now or even what newer men's fragrances are out there. It's been years since I purchased cologne for him. [more inside]
posted by Serene Empress Dork at 1:15 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by Serene Empress Dork at 1:15 PM PST - 13 comments
Postcard stalker?
Since mid September I've been receiving vintage postcards in the mail from an anonymous person. [more inside]
posted by Hellafiles at 1:01 PM PST - 153 comments
posted by Hellafiles at 1:01 PM PST - 153 comments
Fuck female-pattern hair loss
Female-pattern hair loss: Is Rogaine my only hope? [more inside]
Best way to approach a girl in a library?
So I'm going to this library practically everyday to study (I can no longer study at home) and there's this girl who sits 5 meters or so from me in another table. We just stare at each other for seconds and then look away. [more inside]
posted by Attozes at 12:27 PM PST - 32 comments
posted by Attozes at 12:27 PM PST - 32 comments
How do you keep your deck from pooling water?
The wood on my deck is too tight, so water isn't draining. This = icy danger and a messy entryway.
How have you dealt with this? I don't want to drill drainage holes if i don't have to.
Thanks!
posted by smelvis at 12:15 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by smelvis at 12:15 PM PST - 9 comments
What to do to heal from a cough?
In week 4 of a cough they say I just have to wait out. What can I do to speed things along here? [more inside]
Where is the rear brake pedal on the new Vespas?
The Vespa scooter I rode many years ago had a front wheel brake operated by a hand lever and a rear wheel brake operated by a foot pedal. Motorcycles have the same layout.
I see Vespas all over the place, but they don't have the rear brake pedal. How do you actuate the rear brake?
Raincoat adaptable for puffy and unpuffed people
What's a great waterproof men's rain shell / raincoat that I can wear over my winter coat AND by itself in the summer? [more inside]
posted by scarylarry at 11:52 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by scarylarry at 11:52 AM PST - 4 comments
Anyone trained in singing out there able to answer this?
I've taken up singing as a hobby and have started a class. I'm confused as to some of the technical aspects we're learning. On the one hand the instructor has mentioned that Singing is merely sustained Speech... but then she has also said that singing is different from regular speech because when we sing we must aim to keep the rib cage up and expanded whereas when we speak the rib cage and intercostal muscles collapses with the breath.
So this has left me wondering- Is the collapsing simply a bad habit that many of us do that we should correct during our speech? Or do we really need to breath differently when we sing rather than the rest of the time? I'm not talking about how we would need to take a bigger breath to sustain a note or something like that.. I'm talking about the technical aspects of breathing ie - The use of the intercostal muscles etc... Should the technical aspect of breathing for speech and singing really be that different from one another?
In sickness and in (better) health
My wedding is coming up in a few months and I want to find some small things I can do to reduce my spare tire before I walk down the aisle. [more inside]
Facebook etiquette for what is basically, a year-long vacation?
After years of saving and planning, I've been able to realize my dream of traveling the world for a year. I'm 6 months into my trip and I've been posting photos or updates about where I am in the world on facebook about 2 or 3 times a week. While many people have expressed appreciation for the updates or interest in what I'm doing, I've noticed about 7-10 friends who used to interact with me all the time on FB and real life have totally stopped liking/commenting/sending messages although they're still very active on the site. I kind of suspect some of them have blocked me from their timelines. I know not everyone will have an opportunity like this and I try to be sensitive to that. I'm not preachy about "the importance of travel", or posting pics of 5 star hotel rooms and fancy restaurants (I'm doing this as cheaply as possible, mostly hostels in developing countries and couchsurfing.) At the same time I LOVE seeing others' travel pics and, well, want to share some of the exciting, amazing things I'm experiencing with people in my life. But some people seem put off by this, so I'm wondering - am I being a jerk? What's the etiquette here?
posted by horizons at 11:01 AM PST - 55 comments
posted by horizons at 11:01 AM PST - 55 comments
Explain student loans to a twentysomething!
I'm trying to figure out how federal student loans have changed in the past 5 years, including the Bipartisan Student Loan Certainty Act of 2013. [more inside]
posted by annabellee at 10:42 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by annabellee at 10:42 AM PST - 3 comments
What can a customer do?
I placed an order on The Body Shop's website on Dec. 1 for cyber monday. There was some issue with shipping (where the courier company was given insufficient information, and never delivered and instead returned the package), and I never got the package that I had paid for.
I have called, emailed, and tried numerous time to get in touch with a customer service person. I was on hold for more than half an hour each time, and no representative ever responded to my email. I am infuriated now-- they charged my credit card.
What options do I have at this point? What can I do? I want either a refund or my order. I don't care which. [more inside]
How to make light floors and dark furnishings work?
It's time to paint the living room. Problem: we have light wood floors with dark furnishings and my SO wants to keep the room "light and airy" whereas I would do anything to avoid white or eggshell walls and keep pushing for colors he says are "too dark and claustrophobic". What color scheme can we both agree on to really tie the room together? [more inside]
Is there life on Mars?
When scientists seek out life forms on other planets, what kind of methods/ technology are employed (both past and present)? I am especially interested in anything on this topic that would have been going on in 2006, but any information would be helpful about any era.
Can I expect the airfare of this ticket to go back down?
I am considering booking a roundtrip ticket from Chicago-Montreal for a certain weekend several months from now. I've been looking up prices for the last week or so, and most google/orbitz searches were consistently around the low $400 mark for a trip with one-stop each way. I checked today and notice that now the fare of the same flights are around $600. Is there any reasonable way of knowing if the price will decrease again in the foreseeable future? [more inside]
Last minute trip to Portland and Seattle!
We just decided to drive from SF to Seattle via Portland for about a week. What are some fun family things to do? Places to eat? Places to stay? Snowflake details inside. [more inside]
Who owns/services your mortgage and what're they like? Does it matter?
We're shopping for a mortgage (in the DC area), and are feeling anxious and frustrated that 1) it's so hard to know who we'll end up with because so many lenders/originators are likely to sell our loan and/or servicing after closing, and 2) it's easy to find complaints about most servicers out there and hard to find anyone that's satisfied. What has your experience been like with the place(s) that own and/or service your mortgage? Or should we put all that to the side and just try to find someone with the best rates/fees and the best reviews/recommendations regarding smooth and quick closing? [more inside]
posted by EmilyClimbs at 9:19 AM PST - 22 comments
posted by EmilyClimbs at 9:19 AM PST - 22 comments
So, uh, how does this sex stuff work, anyway?
(Or, how do I reconcile the tension that comes with wanting to date but not having an internal template for how the whole rigmarole of dating works?) My life is pretty good right now, and a huge part of why it’s that way is my amazing friendships. But sometimes I feel like taking steps towards something more meaningful and a little more permanent in my life. Where do I start? I feel a little weird about the whole sex and dating thing for chicken-and-the-egg-y reasons, and weird emotional issues too, and reading on the Internet and hearing from friends about the myriad ways people are able to be judgey, or to screw each other over, or generally look out for #1 in their relationships is really getting me down too. As a result, I’m kind of despairing a little about being able to find a mutually respectful and healthy environment with someone neat where I can explore the sexual side of myself and we of ourselves, all the while remaining true to myself and what I value. [more inside]
Tax emergency in Canada
A disabled relative is having all the money automatically taken out of her account by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). She doesn't owe taxes (all she has to do is file and they will give the money back) but this will take many months. What can we do? [more inside]
posted by Dreadnought at 8:15 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by Dreadnought at 8:15 AM PST - 10 comments
Suggest an audiobook for a long, boring drive.
The week after Christmas Mr. Ant and I are driving from East Tennessee to Central Florida and back, which is about 1600 miles. A good audiobook would help a lot with the boredom. [more inside]
Does a basic homeowner's insurance policy cover water line replacement?
Tree roots have grown into the main water line that runs from the meter to my house and the whole thing has to be dug up and replaced. (Merry Christmas to me!) It occurred to me while talking with plumbers yesterday that my homeowner's insurance might cover something like this. However, I read the policy packet and am not seeing any details about what my insurance does and doesn't cover. [more inside]
posted by something something at 7:54 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by something something at 7:54 AM PST - 15 comments
Help me find a nutty, German dessert to bake!
What are your favorite nutty German desserts that are not terribly sweet? Please share your tried and true recipes! [more inside]
What can I do on Christmas Eve in Fort Smith, Arkansas?
As part of an epic, if ill-timed, roadtrip, I will be in Fort Smith AR on the evening of Dec 24. What might I find open in terms of restaurants and entertainment?
unempathic roommate?
I work in a human services discipline, and recently one of my clients passed away unexpectedly, most likely due to natural causes. I was shocked and very sad to find out about this, but also had a number of other clients to see that day, and so coped with it during the day as best I could. That evening, when my roommate asked about my day, I briefly told her what had happened and that I was pretty affected by it. She, a nurse, gave a response best paraphrased as "Yeah, that sucks, when my first client died it was really hard for me, it could have been suicide, did you think about that?" and then launched into a long description of everything that had happened to her that day. I was rather stunned by her apparent disinterest in my experience, and didn't say anything, but I've been feeling pretty annoyed since then, and am not sure how to best deal with this. [more inside]
What is a good way to signal the end of a large gathering?
I regularly find myself needing to conclude a fairly sizable gathering of people. Too often I find myself at the end of our proceedings, saying something like "Have a great week," expecting people to get up and leave. But they don't. After an awkward moment, I find myself resorting to "We're done." Everyone laughs and finally leaves. How can I better signal a conclusion?
Camera Recommendations for Video Blogging?
I've heard really good things about the Canon T3i but I'm not a fan of the bulk. Does anyone have other camera reccs (good with video) that offer a full swivel LCD screen? [more inside]
What are these odd kinda-USB ports on my HP laptop?
I have an old HP Pavillion (I think) laptop. It has two standard USB ports, and then two others that are almost the same size as USB ports, but not quite, and any USB items I plug in do not get recognized by the computer. Anyone have any clue what they might be?
I need cookie receipes...
I got an early Christmas present, these cookie stamps. So now I need cookie recipes that I can stamp. My go-to cookies are chocolate chip and thumbprint, which I don't think would work.
No doubt the basic peanut butter cookies that are smooshed with a fork would be fine, but what other cookies are "smooshable?"
Why is my MacBook running so slow?
How can I figure out why my MacBook Pro is running so slow, and what can I do about it? [more inside]
Non-technical WordPress user's guide
I'm looking for an absolute beginner's guide to WordPress that just covers creating and editing posts and pages and uploading media, and nothing else; the kind of thing that I imagine a web developer might give to a client. Can you recommend some (free) on-line resources? [more inside]
posted by Zeinab Badawi's Twenty Hotels at 5:14 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by Zeinab Badawi's Twenty Hotels at 5:14 AM PST - 2 comments
Budgeting QA time in web dev?
For those working in web dev with a dedicated QA/testing team: what percentage/ratio of the project schedule do you devote to testing, fixing, and regression testing, especially when compared to planning and the time actually allocated to dev? [more inside]
posted by flibbertigibbet at 5:08 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by flibbertigibbet at 5:08 AM PST - 11 comments
Dizzy in bed in the morning
I've been waking up before my alarm the last few days, seemingly just so I can be dizzy for 5 minutes before I go back to sleep. When I do wake up, any movement causes me to be dizzy and I have to lay there for another 10 minutes or so before I feel good enough to get up. After that, the dizziness is gone until the next morning. You're not my doctor, but any ideas or suggestions? [more inside]
posted by sarae at 5:04 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by sarae at 5:04 AM PST - 15 comments
Before or After Christmas to buy a desktop computer?
Does Dell Computer run the best sales of it's desktop computers before or after Christmas? [more inside]
the joys of PMS
As I've gotten older, my PMS has gotten worse and worse. It's not emotional, though, just physical discomfort. Anyone have any ideas on how to ease the week or so before my period? Details within. Warning: This got gross. [more inside]
Weirdness in the workshop
Is it possible for a 3 phase motor to switch polarity without changing the input wires anywhere? [more inside]
posted by Kerasia at 1:17 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by Kerasia at 1:17 AM PST - 14 comments
Introduction to Culinary Studies - Portable Edition
Looking for lunch ideas to pack and take with me, when I go to college starting in January.
So, in January, I'll be starting full time school again. Yay. However, this particular Community College has a dearth of lunch options - just a sad cafeteria, and nothing within easy walking distance that I know of. Boo. (North Seattle Community College, if familiar). And I need ideas.
I won't have access to a refrigerator. I will have, in theory, access to a microwave - but it may break, and/or be in constant use by other students. So I'd probably need dishes that can be eaten safely at room temperature that are filling and tasty. I can cook, and am adventurous, so I'm willing to try lots of different things. [more inside]
posted by spinifex23 at 1:17 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by spinifex23 at 1:17 AM PST - 14 comments
Can anyone help me identify this weird water pipe in my yard?
I rent, and tonight I heard the sound of running water in my yard. I went outside to investigate and saw that water was spurting upwards out of this black pipe in the yard that is about 8" in diameter and sticks out of the ground about a foot (link to picture inside). The pipe has a cap on it that has a hole in it - it looks like an intentional hole that water is supposed to come out of. However, I've lived here for years and I've never seen or heard this happening. It rained today, and I live in SoCal where it hardly rains, but again, this seemed new. The water coming out was substantial and flooded a bit of my (very small) yard. After a while the water flow petered out. Since then, it's been going on and off at random intervals. I've tried to see if me running the water or flushing the toilet is connected to this, but I'm not sure that there is a correlation. The water coming out looked clear, but smelled a little funky and may have emitted a little steam (I didn't want to touch it to check the temp). The pipe is located less than a foot away from the side of the house and is next to my water heater that is located outdoors in some sort of locker thing. I've left a message for the landlord but wanted to see if anyone has any insight as to what this thing may be, and if this is unusual. Thanks! [more inside]
Does this relationship worth continuing?
I have known this girl for about 8 months. She has put a lot of pressure on me to meet her parents and wants to see my parents as well. In the beginning of our relationship she told me that she was done with dating and the last person she wants to be intimate with should ideally be her husband. She said that she dated two other people in the past and I am the third one. Since she was 30 years old and her number was too low to me, I asked her if she met other people in between her serious relationships and she said yes but she claimed she was not intimate with them. Anyways I did not care about her number as long as she was honest with me. [more inside]
December 19
IF only I knew where to start...
Please recommend some interactive fiction with published source code (Inform 7) that is good for showing a beginner IF author best practice. [more inside]
posted by man down under at 11:33 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by man down under at 11:33 PM PST - 3 comments
Frozen Epipen
Today I realized that I left my purse in my car for several days, in temperatures well below freezing. In my purse was an epipen. It was in the cold, and quite possibly frozen, for at least 72 hours, possibly longer. I know that the pens aren't especially shelf-stable even under the best of circumstances--is it still good? [more inside]
posted by MeghanC at 10:40 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by MeghanC at 10:40 PM PST - 12 comments
Where to go for high quality freelancers? (Angies list for oDesk?)
I'm a big fan of outsourcing, and use oDesk extensively. But sometimes I need a reliable worker from a recommended source. Is there an Angie's List equivalent for online professionals? [more inside]
NYC subway trains stink, mold?
I feel sick every time I get on to nyc subway trains. The N train is constantly stinky like urine and mcdonalds and feet, that triggered my multiple chemical sensitivity badly.
I noticed 7 train usually have very fresh air which does not trigger my symptoms, as well as #6 train. R train is much better than N train, and E train is much better than F train.
I want to know what caused these nasty stinky trains? Are all odor caused by mold?
Btw: I can't tolerate PATH smell as well.
I'm so confused people in these trains seem do not feel anything.
Any information or comment are welcome.
Crafting a Monthly Love Letter
Christmas gift help: what's a fun way to visually design a different love letter for each month of the year? [more inside]
Set of religious greeting cards with no one to send them to?
I accidentally bought a pack of beautiful Hanukkah cards with no one who celebrates it to send to. What is the best thing to do with them? [more inside]
posted by ichomp at 9:30 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by ichomp at 9:30 PM PST - 15 comments
Old friend had a baby... maybe.
I recently did a Google search for an old college friend of mine that I haven't seen since his wedding a couple of years ago. I found a link to a baby registry with his and his wife's name on it, and the due date was listed as a week ago.
I really want to call him up and congratulate him, but there's something a little weird about it: The registry has a ton of stuff on it, but almost nothing has been purchased: Just a few stuffed animals. This makes me worry that maybe they lost the baby and they just never took down the registry. [more inside]
SugarSync alternatives?
Sugarsync is transitioning to paid-only plans, with the minimum plan being $75/60GB. This is more space than I need, so I'm looking for alternatives. [more inside]
Cost of living in Beijing?
Hi, I've some prospect of an offer to work in Beijing for what I understand would be closer to a citizen's salary than an expat's, which in theory is okay. The number looks to be about 11,000 RMB per month. There is some Beijing cost-of-living info out there, but I'd be grateful for your experiences and thoughts. In short, I don't want to live somewhere dire by any standard and live on rice and twigs. Possible? Thank you for your thoughts.
Issues with spoken-word listening apps on iPhone 5s, other smartphones?
It's that magical time of the biennium where my loved ones upgrade my phone for me. I listen to a lot of audiobooks and podcasts on my current phone, an iPhone 4s, using the Audible and Downcast apps, respectively. Unfortunately, when I pause and do something else on the phone, it often "forgets" what I had been listening to, forcing me to reopen the app. I'd like my next phone to not experience this issue, but relevant info isn't something I can get out of the standard review article, so I've turned to you kind people. [more inside]
Glass Block or Insulated Replacement Window
So I have been working on my house and making it energy efficient. It is now time to replace the basement windows in my split level. One double wide window needs to be replaced with one that opens to meet code, but the other three single wide windows do not. Would I be better installing glass blocks in those three, not vented, or installing either a picture, slider, or another type of insulated vinyl replacement window? If I should do a replacement window, which type should I use? [more inside]
posted by Nackt at 7:44 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by Nackt at 7:44 PM PST - 6 comments
Help me find a Plant of the Month Club for a gardener's gift!
I'm looking for recommendations for a monthly subscription club that ships live plants suitable to be replanted outside or, at a minimum, kept alive on a porch or window. Cut flowers won't work here, I want to give a gardener a steady stream of projects and surprises for 2014. Mid-Atlantic region of the east coast if it helps. Thanks you so much in advance! This is a bear of a bunch of search terms.
Cat stops meowing
My cat has barely let out a meow since I've been home from work. Usually he starts up as soon as my keys are in the door. I plan on taking him with me tomorrow if he's not back to normal by the time I'm ready to leave for work, and hitting the Vet. Any ideas what could be wrong though? [more inside]
Sutter Health doctor rec needed
I'm moving to the Brentwood area and need a new doctor (family medicine/internist/GP) who is part of Sutter Health. My wishlist: Relatively young, female, not obsessive about my weight, good diagnostician, uses MyHealthOnline. [more inside]
Christmas in a ski condo. Please help me cook.
Spending Xmas at a shared ski condo, and not sure how to plan. Apparently folks share the (poorly equipped) kitchen, so I can't monopolize it for hours on end, and people don't usually share meals. [more inside]
When is it appropriate to ask about someone's health?
A friend of mine (let's call her "Sarah") came over for dinner at my flat last week. Some way through the meal (just after the first bottle of wine was finished) she told us that her partner had recently been tested for a very serious medical condition. She then said that she "hadn't intended to talk about it".
She will have recently received the results of this test, and I'm wondering whether it's appropriate to ask her what the result of the test was.
I care a lot about Sarah and her partner (who is an incredibly warm and wonderful person), but I don't want to intrude. On the other hand, I don't want to be unsupportive.
A few details are below the fold. [more inside]
I waxed my skis, now please un-wax my floors
I offered up my house's basement to apartment-dwelling friends for a ski waxing party, and now walking through my basement with sock feet is potentially lethal. Is there anything I can do to tone down the slippage? [more inside]
One couple in Sacramento for the holiday - no family - what should we do
The lady and I are hanging out in Sac-town, next week with a little spare time to go out and about. What should we do? Bonus points for holiday-themed ideas.
Curious about my possessed knuckle
I woke in the middle of the night last night with a pain in my finger, only to find that my pinky knuckle--and only my pinky knuckle--was red, sore, and a little swollen. I put some antibiotic ointment on it (because that is my solution for everything) and went back to sleep. When I woke up this morning, it was completely back to normal.
I know you're not a doctor, but what is this? Did I cut off circulation? Was it an illusion created by my anxiety-prone mind? Am I going to die?
If it helps, I live in a cold climate and I've never broken any fingers.
Spice me up
Can you help me meet and learn about spices, but the minimal cooking version? [more inside]
posted by Wolfster at 4:31 PM PST - 26 comments
posted by Wolfster at 4:31 PM PST - 26 comments
I've created a dirty talking monster
I've been having a wonderful (until recently) online relationship with a guy until I told him to talk dirty to me now he won't stop. [more inside]
posted by sundaytea at 4:03 PM PST - 22 comments
posted by sundaytea at 4:03 PM PST - 22 comments
Computer-controlled typewriter output (with impact, not typewriter font)
I'd like to use my computer to generate output that looks like it was typewritten, not like it's a photocopy of something typewritten, i.e., with some form of mechanical impact printing. What's the cheapest way to do this? [more inside]
Is the website unopenedsavings.com a scam?
I've been looking at some toys for the kids for Christmas and this site, http://www.unopenedsavings.com keeps coming up with prices way cheaper then a lot of other online retailers. However, I've never heard of it and the site itself seems a little "scammy". Any thoughts? Thanks
$3100 bill for "completely covered" procedure.
My doctor sent me for a colonoscopy due to family history. The clinic gave me some paperwork saying it would be completely covered unless they found something, and then it would be $250. They didn't find anything. I lost the paperwork. Now they're sending me bills for $3100. [more inside]
posted by johnofjack at 3:12 PM PST - 26 comments
posted by johnofjack at 3:12 PM PST - 26 comments
Identify this 1960s counterculture book
I'm trying to identify a book I once encountered on the shelves of the father of a friend. The father grew up in the 1960s in the UK. I think the book was also from the 60s, and it was a shockingly underground artefact of the 60s counterculture. As I recall, it was a mixture of a guide to counterculture life, and fiction. The guide provided practical information on countercultural necessities, such as squatting, drugs and possibly theft. The fiction part included the indelible description of a someone cutting a hole in someone's scrotum, and inflating it with a drinking straw (as part of a sexual encounter, I think). As you can imagine, googling this has been an unpleasant experience.
13 years old, my car’s about to hit puberty.
I have a 2001 Prius and it needs a new hybrid battery. Does anyone in Milwaukee, WI, know of a shop that can do this? [more inside]
Too close for comfort . . .
I've searched previous threads regarding appropriate relationships with exes, but I'm still a little confused with my situation. Would really appreciate some feedback from both the male and female perspective. [more inside]
This totally awesome iridescent bag
I saw the coolest messenger-ish bag today, made with subtly iridescent fabric. Anyone know where I can find this bag? [more inside]
Tokyo Hotel Location Filter
Part of my honeymoon will be in Tokyo. We are narrowing our hotel choices (we are limited to these for point/free redemption ability), but wanted to get a sense of the pros and cons. We are seasoned travelers who will likely be seeing many different parts of the city and nearby towns (i.e. Kamakura). Have seen this thread but want to get a sense for a couple.
What are your thoughts on where to stay? Our criteria include a)ability to get in and out, b) 'interestingness' of area --is it a 24 hour district (this is good) and c) the IT honeymoon factor (i.e. the hotel experience). [more inside]
posted by sandmanwv at 1:39 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by sandmanwv at 1:39 PM PST - 5 comments
Taking care of a European Cypress tree
My dad sent me a European Cypress tree in the mail. How do I take care of it? Minnesota edition. [more inside]
posted by Zosia Blue at 1:38 PM PST - 1 comment
posted by Zosia Blue at 1:38 PM PST - 1 comment
How can I get my car to start?
My much-babied, recently inspected 2008 Scion xD won't start! When I got in the car yesterday morning and turned the key in the ignition, it made a buzzing/grrrr sound and some of the dash lights come on -- but that was it, the engine wouldn't turn over. I tried again about a half hour ago, and it did start up after a little hiccup, so I thought maybe yesterday was a fluke. But when I got in the car just now to actually go somewhere, it refused to start up again. Now the radio won't even turn on, though most of the dash lights still do. I tried rolling it down the hill, pumping the breaks, all the stuff non-mechanically-minded me can think of. Help! What can I do right now to get it to start and to get the engine to turn over? [more inside]
posted by rue72 at 1:27 PM PST - 18 comments
posted by rue72 at 1:27 PM PST - 18 comments
Help me escape my college town!
I'm a 20-year-old college junior near the Roanoke area of southwest Virginia, and I have a car for the first time this year. I need ideas for interesting attractions within a four hour drive. More details inside. [more inside]
Why won't images print in my MS word document?
Why won't images print in my MS word document? Especially when these same images printed just fine in a nearly identical previous version of this document? [more inside]
posted by mai at 12:47 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by mai at 12:47 PM PST - 6 comments
End of World problems: disaster recovery / secure remote access for SMB?
What are IT folks doing to ensure continuity for small business customers whose offices could be affected by natural disasters? Is XenDesktop a good idea, and if so, what configuration would seem to make the most sense? Other ideas also fervently solicited. [more inside]
posted by Embryo at 12:46 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by Embryo at 12:46 PM PST - 5 comments
Help me make an awesome 90's alternative rock mixtape
Inspired by the Cones Of Dunshire link on the blue wherein Letters To Cleo is invoked. Trying to make a 60 minute mix of vaguely obscure alternative rock from the 90's. Preferably early to mid 90's. Preferably of the one-hit-wonder-you-totally-forgot-about-until-hearing-that-again variety. No bands that are still together allowed. Or at least, no bands that you ever heard from again but quixotically still tour.
posted by mediocre at 12:44 PM PST - 87 comments
posted by mediocre at 12:44 PM PST - 87 comments
The Cheesecake Factory at Home.
I have a great cheesecake recipe. I want to bake it for a small profit or no profit, mostly for fun and to see what it's like to run a business. It does not have to be an official LLC or anything, but can be. What do I need to know to run this business? [more inside]
How to best deal with a despised close friend of my SO?
For reasons that I find entirely justifiable, I despise one of my significant other's closest friends. Until recently, we have gotten along, and although he treats his girlfriend terribly and frequently complains about their relationship to my SO and me, I thought he was just unhappy in his relationship, and dismissed it. Recent events have brought to light that, not only does he dislike me deep down, it appears he genuinely thinks of women in general as nothing more than inconsequential beasts with breasts that somehow continue to exists despite their obvious stupidity and inability to do anything of value. Obviously this revelation makes me a little uncomfortable with the idea of he and my SO cavorting about together without me being around to deter the "I hate women" diatribe. Snowflake details inside. [more inside]
Etiquette for contacting possible post-doc opportunity
I'm about to finish my PhD this coming Spring in the U.S., and although the funding I received was specifically for creating "practitioners" I'd actually like to sharpen my research and publication skills via a post-doc. The thing is, most researchers in my area are in the U.K. How do I introduce myself to them? [more inside]
posted by absquatulate at 11:40 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by absquatulate at 11:40 AM PST - 5 comments
What does getting married have to do with Christmas cards?
My partner and I got married a few months ago, and now we are receiving Christmas cards from people who had not sent us any before. Why? [more inside]
posted by Pwoink at 11:02 AM PST - 29 comments
posted by Pwoink at 11:02 AM PST - 29 comments
Aviators: how do you lookup navaids' A/FD pages in ForeFlight?
ForeFlight is a great replacement for paper charts and the A/FD -- except when it comes to non-airports in the A/FD. How do you find information about a navaid that is not on an airport? [more inside]
Christmas parties shouldn't involve a trip to the grocery store, right?
My boyfriend is having some coworkers over tomorrow night for a little get-together/party thing. This isn't their official christmas party (they had that at work last night), just a few (6-7 or so people) getting together. When asked about what he's doing for food, my boyfriend just assumed they'd all just go to the grocery store to get something, which I personally find pretty... weird. As I'm helping host, I want to provide better noms! [more inside]
Please help me find and choose a Drupal theme
I'm hoping to find a Drupal theme/template that would be suitable for the website of a wedding venue. [more inside]
Ipod to Computer file names, renaming files question
I transferred files from an old ipod to a new computer, but lost all of my file names. Names appear in hundreds of folders like AAAA , and within each folder 100's of songs title AAAA.
Now the catch is the mp3 tags still have some of the proper filenames, but what program can I use, or what method to strip MP3/ID3 tags to rename all of the files? (I don't want to do this manually, were talking 10,000+ files)
posted by MechEng at 10:40 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by MechEng at 10:40 AM PST - 7 comments
Help me find a great, easy baked French toast recipe!
I foolishly committed to having my parents over for Christmas breakfast, the day after we are hosting 10 people in our tiny apartment for Christmas Eve. I'd like to make a baked French toast where I can whip it up the night before, leave it in the fridge overnight, and just pop it in the oven in the morning. I figure that plus bacon plus fruit and we're done. But I've never made baked French toast! Please point me toward your favorite recipes and share any tips you might have. Thanks!
posted by skycrashesdown at 10:18 AM PST - 16 comments
posted by skycrashesdown at 10:18 AM PST - 16 comments
Is my therapist's definition of "social currency" correct?
Recently I spent hours with a former co-worker gossiping about our former workplace. We didn't actually connect or strengthen our own friendship; I just felt shitty after. My therapist labeled this conversation/habit "social currency" because workplace gossip was something impersonal to talk about that could ease conversation, but didn't result in actual sharing. But I've Googled the phrase and don't see "social currency" defined in that way. Is there a phenomenon by another name that she was referring to? [more inside]
posted by whenbynowandtreebyleaf at 10:12 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by whenbynowandtreebyleaf at 10:12 AM PST - 10 comments
I need health insurance and MassHealthConnector is broken
Hello all, I was laid off from my job in July and went to Europe for a few months. Now that I am back in USA, I tried to sign up for affordable care act via www.mahealthconnector.org/ only to find out this site is the reincarnation of the devil. I cannot finish my application for this health insurance because I get stuck on a page that requires me to put in my employer info. Now since I am unemployed I obviously do not have an employer. This site literally will not let me complete the rest of the application without entering a whole bunch of information on my current employer which does not exist! How on earth do people without jobs apply for this??
Does anyone else run into this frustrating issue? Is there any other health insurance I can sign up for?
Make my parents' Christmas.
I'm a 40 year old man, recently single and spending Christmas with my parents for the first time in two decades. They're excited, help us have a good one. [more inside]
posted by Caskeum at 9:50 AM PST - 17 comments
posted by Caskeum at 9:50 AM PST - 17 comments
A last minute Christmas by myself?
For various reasons including pets with no available sitter and a few failed plans, I have my first Christmas Day in NYC by myself. I don't feel particularly sad about this, but it might be weird to wake up in the morning with nothing to do. Fun and meaningful activities? [more inside]
posted by ulfberht at 9:44 AM PST - 20 comments
posted by ulfberht at 9:44 AM PST - 20 comments
What to do in Albany on a weekday in January.
I have to take a crash solo trip to Albany, NY in mid-January for a (very short) business meeting on a Wednesday morning and another meeting the next day. I will be staying in a hotel near the SUNY campus, and my meetings are downtown. I'm looking for suggestions of things to do afterwards on Wednesday, as I will have the whole day and evening to kill, as well as a bit of time on Thursday morning. I will not have a car or bike, but am perfectly happy to walk sizable distances or take public transit, and though I plan on dressing appropriately for the weather, I'd prefer activities that involve at least some amount of indoor time, are open on a weekday, and are on the cheaper end. Suggestions on places to eat are also welcome! Oh, and though I have driven through it, I have never actually been there before. Thanks!
posted by likeatoaster at 9:16 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by likeatoaster at 9:16 AM PST - 9 comments
How To Talk About Sex
Occasionally, I bring up the subject of sex with my partner, and I always get nowhere. Sex has never been something that we've really talked about. We had those first few conversations when we met several years ago: disclosures of risks, general preferences, expectations for monogamy, etc. and from there we just let it develop naturally. We need to talk about it because our sex life isn't meeting my needs, and I've asked to talk about it, but I still don't know how to talk about it, and I'm afraid this is just going to become another in a string of failed attempts to talk about sex. [more inside]
posted by this *is* my happy face at 9:09 AM PST - 28 comments
posted by this *is* my happy face at 9:09 AM PST - 28 comments
Looking for good spacey music streams
Long story short - diagnosed with ADHD, went on Adderall, changed my life, and I've found that I'm particularly productive if listening to non-lyrical, somewhat unpredictable/atonal music in my headphones. My go-to web streams are Soma.FM's Space Station Soma and Deep Space One, but both of these stations often feature music with vocal interludes or samples. These distract me a bit, as well as making me laugh, because the interludes are often quite hilariously stereotypical (reminiscent of Strong Bad's electronic classic "The System Is Down").
So basically, I'm looking for web streams of spacey music without vocals. Any ideas?
Plex Alternative for Cataloging/Playing Ripped DVDs in Video_TS format?
I have a number of ripped DVDs that maintain the original DVD file structure. VLC can play them fine. So can built in DVD players. I like Plex for the way it catalogs and organizes the files for me, but it never played that structure back very well, and in newer released versions it isn't even trying to play it any longer. Is there something with same cataloging features of Plex that can seamlessly pass the file to VLC or some other program for play back? Solutions for Mac and/or Windows are welcome. Extra credit if there is a client/server implementation that could actually play these files through something like Roku.
Planning a ski trip... A year in advance
Help me figure out all the logistics involved in planning my very first big-boy vacation: A ski trip to the Rockies. I could use location recommendations or tour companies if any of you have experience with that. Details inside [more inside]
One woman pyjama party
If I have nothing much to do on a Sunday, I like to have a bath and spend the day in a pair of pyjamas, preferably while watching telly and sewing. Where can I get some awesome pyjamas that fulfill all my annoying fit requirements? [more inside]
Dog-proof beanbag chairs?
Do you have destructive dogs? Do you have beanbag chairs that have survived the attentions of your destructive dogs? Please tell me the brand and where you bought them (online shopping preferred). Alternately, general advice on which material(s) are particularly impervious to chewing and dog pee would also be appreciated. Thanks!
Help me with a Spanish Christmas present for my mom VERY FAST!
I need to get a Christmas present for my mom (I KNOW HOW LITTLE TIME THERE IS LEFT, THANK YOU!). I'd really like it to be related to our recent trip to Spain, ideally somehow either to the flamenco dancer Adrian Sanchez or to the Cortylandia display in Madrid. Any ideas welcome! [more inside]
Is the AppleCare warranty for an Imac worth the money?
I'm looking into buying a new Imac 21 1/2" for about $1300. They offer an AppleCare extended warranty for $100 a year. Is it worth it? What's your experience with the Imac? Thanks!
Need ideas for chocolate-flavored olive oil
I was gifted with a bottle of chocolate-flavored olive oil. What are some of your favorite recipes or uses for the stuff? I don't want it to gather dust in my cupboard.
Letter etiquette, reply to a job offer: 'thanks, but no thanks'
My SO applied for, was interviewed for, and subsequently was offered an academic post (lectureship). Some stuff just wasn't right from the outset, and all the contact with the department made it clear that it's not the right place to be working. Please help us to say 'no thanks' correctly. [more inside]
Need a quick advent activity for tonight!
It's my turn to come up with a surprise advent activity, and I'm running out of steam! Help me find a short, seasonally-appropriate thing to do with my fiance. [more inside]
Please shed some light onto my ignorance of iOS development
I'm beginning development of first iOS app and I aim to know as much as I can about what I don't know about app development. [more inside]
posted by j3nn1f3r at 5:57 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by j3nn1f3r at 5:57 AM PST - 6 comments
The science of depression
What are major and minor theories concerning depression and what causes it? [more inside]
posted by LoonyLovegood at 5:31 AM PST - 23 comments
posted by LoonyLovegood at 5:31 AM PST - 23 comments
Daughter can't leave her mother's side.
My 4-year-old daughter has suddenly become incredibly over-attached to her mother - Why? [more inside]
SELF-ESTEEM - I need that. In Megadoses.
Time to rebuild my psyche. I've been somewhat of a target for the narcissism, drama and toxicity of an entire family for too long. Extreme emotional abuse. Now, it's time for a COMPLETE make-over. This stuff has effected me to the point where I was depressed with an eating disorder and in general just extremely low-achieving in life. So low, it's pathetic - but given the circumstances, understandable. So - my question is this: I am looking for FREE resources, books, seminars, hidden gems out there ( you can memail if that's preferable) on the exact steps, thoughts and actions required to begin to build self-esteem. [more inside]
Is this acid reflux? Is this heartburn?
YANAD - but I went and saw a doctor and I'm still a little confused about things! The medication isn't helping and the symptoms aren't "standard", so is this reflux or something else? [more inside]
posted by thebots at 1:05 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by thebots at 1:05 AM PST - 19 comments
December 18
Low-care pet?
Visited a fellow window-less office and saw a small, apparently forgotten jar tucked behind their computer. Upon inquiry, my coworker pulled it out and was astonished that the little shrimp-things and plants inside were still alive and madly swimming around. He told me he thinks it was a kit one of them got in the mail. I want something like this. [more inside]
posted by DisreputableDog at 11:43 PM PST - 17 comments
posted by DisreputableDog at 11:43 PM PST - 17 comments
Online dating is a numbers game, so help me improve my numbers
Like most straight guys on OKCupid, I'm lucky if I get a response to one in ten messages I send. This would be fine if I could fire off several messages every day, but I'm running into writer's block. One-liners and templates don't work, and I rarely know how to compose a longer message to someone I know next to nothing about. (I'm a mumchance kind of guy; I'm terrible at small talk even with friends I've known for years.) Help stir my creative juices, tell me what kinds of messages have got your attention in the past, oh and why not critique my profile while you're at it. [more inside]
posted by zeri at 11:31 PM PST - 45 comments
posted by zeri at 11:31 PM PST - 45 comments
HTML on Craigslist Problem
Craigslist no longer allows the HTML A command. This is a hardship for me as I often sell several items in different Craigslist categories and can no longer post a link to all of my items for sale. Hoping someone can help me figure out another way to do this. [more inside]
Flight stuff for Toddlers
We'll be flying with a two year old for the holidays and I'm about to place an amazon order for toddler headphones so he can watch a few favorite shows if things go poorly. Anything else I might want to add to the order? [more inside]
posted by HMSSM at 9:10 PM PST - 23 comments
posted by HMSSM at 9:10 PM PST - 23 comments
Now that is a nice track suit.
Help us realize our holiday dream of eating ice cream in front of the tube in matching track suits. [more inside]
What kind of palm tree is this?
I bought this tree at a stoop sale about 8 years ago and they told me it was a "weeping palm". Just got around to googling that name and it looks like that might not be a real name for any kind tree, or at least any kind that tells me what kind of potting soil it wants. Help? Bonus points if you help me take awesome care of it.
posted by paul_smatatoes at 8:36 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by paul_smatatoes at 8:36 PM PST - 5 comments
My kid can't sing, but can recite just like me - what's this called?
Our two year old loves songs and poems and has learned a bunch of them - but she recites them all as spoken poems, even when other people are singing them with her. My other kids are adopted and sang, and my husband points out that I cannot remember lyrics except as poems, so it appears to be an inherited trait. I can remember teaching myself to sing Baa Baa Black Sheep as a kid with great effort. Melodies and tunes don't connect to lyrics at all in my memory - hum a few bars and I will stare at you blankly. Both of us enjoy music - it's specifically lyrics that just don't compute. What is this particular quirk called? We're not worried at all, but my husband would like to know more about it because he'd like to have her enjoy singing too.
posted by viggorlijah at 8:07 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by viggorlijah at 8:07 PM PST - 11 comments
How do I get a rough estimate of alimony in my upcoming divorce?
My wife and I are splitting up relatively amicably in the state of California. We'd both like to avoid a legal fight over money and income, but after some requests of hers that seem a little unreasonable, I'd like to get an assessment of how our income would roughly split up if we *did* go the legal route. Still, I'd rather avoid paying hundreds of dollars to a lawyer to figure that out. Is there some cheap way to get an extremely rough assessment of alimony? [more inside]
Do food sensitivities get worse if you remove the culprit from your diet
Over the last few months I have developed a food sensitivity (I believe the culprit is rice). It is merely annoying at the moment, but I was wondering what happens when you remove an item to which you are sensitive from your diet? Generally speaking, does your sensitivity get worse? [more inside]
posted by baniak at 7:20 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by baniak at 7:20 PM PST - 7 comments
Anorgasmia and Antidepressants
I am having unpleasant sexual side effects from my antidepressant. I am wondering what my options are. I am a 28 year old male. [more inside]
Brainstorming school fundraising
So at the last minute (today) I got "volunteered" to be the parent rep. for my daughter's classroom at a parent's association brainstorming session tomorrow for fundraising. I am a little out of my depth here, and I would like to show up with at least one idea, but I can't think of anything that hasn't already been done at her school. Help? [more inside]
posted by gaspode at 6:32 PM PST - 24 comments
posted by gaspode at 6:32 PM PST - 24 comments
Straightforward Lasagna To Feed 10-12 People?
Next week I am cooking lasagna for 10-12 of my SO's coworkers after their Christmas day shift in the hospital. I am a decent cook but I've never made lasagna before, certainly not for this many people. Any Metfies have any favorable (and straightforward) lasagna recipes for feeding lots of people? I'm not looking for anything fancy, just simple and effective.
Side question: I don't have any baking pans, could I use two of these instead.
Help me track down a fictional landing site?
I have a question about the film, Gravity, and the geography of its ending. Obviously there are major spoilers if you click through. [more inside]
posted by Narrative Priorities at 5:57 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by Narrative Priorities at 5:57 PM PST - 12 comments
Looking for commercial kitchen supply store, north Chicago burbs
I'm looking for a restaurant supply/commercial kitchen supply store in the northern (near Gurnee) Chicago burbs. I'm setting up a business in Japan, and there are some things (like clothing in my size, certain specialized utensils) that are difficult or expensive to find here. I'm also interested in GFS/non-membership stores that sell bulk spices, if there are any in the area.
Vet Recommendation
Could anyone recommend a fabulous vet for cats in the SF Bay Area? [more inside]
What are the jazz standards of your kitchen?
I'm pretty recipe-bound in the kitchen. I'd like to get better at improvising. I'm looking for things to cook that are instantly identifiable and delicious despite major changes in the ingredients list, the culinary equivalent of a jazz standard that can be played a thousand different ways while still being itself. Dishes that have the weird recognisability of Benderick Cumblebatch's name. What have you got? [more inside]
posted by justsomebodythatyouusedtoknow at 4:08 PM PST - 36 comments
posted by justsomebodythatyouusedtoknow at 4:08 PM PST - 36 comments
Los Angeles Very Small Business Taxes
I have a very, very small business (a blog; it gets decent traffic and I made some money advertising). I have some questions, and I'd like to speak to a tax professional or attorney for probably less than 30 minutes. I'm in Los Angeles, CA. Can you recommend someone and give me a ballpark cost? [more inside]
posted by insectosaurus at 3:55 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by insectosaurus at 3:55 PM PST - 3 comments
To neuter this beautiful dog... or not?
We got our 13 year old son a beautiful chocolate lab (his name is Tony and here's the obligatory picture). Is there a good reason to have him neutered? [more inside]
posted by brownrd at 3:34 PM PST - 47 comments
posted by brownrd at 3:34 PM PST - 47 comments
holding the deed to my parents house--what should i be thinking about?
My parents are moving to florida (previously--they ended up in Lehigh Valley). They are also in the midst of filing for bankruptcy, and have asked that I therefore hold the deed to the new house. Help me wrap my head around this. [more inside]
I don't need an electric wheelchair 'cause fire shoots out my butt
As I wait impatiently for my new bad ass manual chair (like, it is a sweet little thing, all *latest technology* *aerodynamic* *ultralight* yadda yadda), it occurs to me that the question, 'why don't you get an electric chair' is one with which I am having an increasingly hard time shrugging off without wanting to be like because I have super strong arms *BAM* SEE? I'm not on the brink of violence, honest, but would like some help quelling you know, those tendencies toward belligerence. To that end, what are a range of responses that will shock (in not a mean way). [more inside]
Help stop my friend from trying to hire a black-hat hacker
Someone very close to me is involved in a UK libel/defamation case as plaintiff. They want to hire a black-hat hacker to 'improve' their case. I want to stop them from doing so. [more inside]
posted by motty at 2:13 PM PST - 25 comments
posted by motty at 2:13 PM PST - 25 comments
Family law attorney recomendations in Milwaukee
So my sister in law missed a court date after moving out of Wisconsin. She failed to keep her address current with her child custody court and missed the notification of a court date. She now has found out she has a bench warrant out for her arrest. So what is next for her and can anyone recommend a good lawyer in the area?
SSRIs and the end of romantic love
Four months after my husband went on Lexapro, I could see it in his face that he didn't love me anymore. At seven months, he asked to separate after four years of marriage. After finding this article online, I'm curious as to whether others have had similar experiences. Have you or your spouse experienced a decline in attachment/romantic love after starting an SSRI? [more inside]
Can I afford to take out a mortgage?
I make about $46,000 in Seattle, WA. Monthly take-home pay, excluding overtime which automatically goes into a savings account, is $2,800. I have no debts and no significant non-optional recurring expenses. At some point in the next few months, I will have about $150,000 in cash after splitting the equity in a home that is being sold. Assuming that I can put that amount toward a down payment, can I afford a mortgage? Before I contact my lender, is it even wise for me to take one out? I've been looking at a few suitable homes in North Seattle priced at or below $275,000. [more inside]
Introducing a new foster dog
Due to an emergency rescue, my plans for introducing a new foster dog have been pushed up significantly to tonight. There is one problem, I'm the only one around tonight and by the time, I pick her up - it will be super dark so introducing dogs in a neutral location is out. Help me make this as smooth as possible. [more inside]
posted by lpcxa0 at 1:07 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by lpcxa0 at 1:07 PM PST - 8 comments
Feature Length Music Video
I'm looking for movies that are essentially glorified music videos in the vein of Interstella 5555, Fantasia, or The Wall. Are there any other movies like those?
Christmas presents that support a vegan lifestyle?
My parents, both in their 60s, have recently gone "mostly-vegan" for health reasons. I'd like to get them some Christmas gifts that support this decision (and their overall commitment to more healthy eating). I've already gotten them some kelp noodles (they loved them at a vegan restaurant we went to). Other thoughts about basics/add-ons/general useful and inspiring stuff for a couple of vegan noobies? [more inside]
Christmas Tofurkey?
Vegetarians of MeFi! What are you having for Christmas dinner? I am totally capable with vegetarian dishes in general, but most of them are rather light and don't seem substantial enough to be a Christmas dinner. So what are you having? [more inside]
posted by whatzit at 12:37 PM PST - 21 comments
posted by whatzit at 12:37 PM PST - 21 comments
Bay Aea tax advisor with knowlege of option exercise implications?
In the next few weeks I have to make a decision about exercising some incentive stock options. I have a general idea of the tax implications of this event, but I would like to meet with an accountant who can run me through the exact numbers. [more inside]
What's that book with the thing?
I'm trying to recall a business/self-help book. The main idea was that setting goals and pacing yourself is counterproductive, and that accomplishment happens by immersing one's self in a big idea. Steve Jobs, etc. I believe the cover was an illustration of a businessman opening a shirt to reveal a superhero costume. There may have been a critique of Tony Schwartz' energy management model inside. It was probably written in the last ten years. Can anyone name the book?
posted by michaelh at 12:26 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by michaelh at 12:26 PM PST - 2 comments
Renting a room. The walls are pink. I'm a dude. What I cover it with?
Is there any cheap neutral-colored wallpaper that I could use that's temporary? Or anything else that I can cover it with that I can take down later? I just can't do a pink room, man. [more inside]
posted by suburbs at 12:17 PM PST - 28 comments
posted by suburbs at 12:17 PM PST - 28 comments
Should They Eat This?
I'm recovering from a miserable couple of days of norovirus- started puking late Monday night, now just sleeping it off. The thing is, I'm supposed to be hosting ten people for Christmas dinner here Saturday afternoon. Am I going to sicken the whole family? [more inside]
Brisbane Christmas Gift Help - Dificulty Level: Antipodes
My brother is going to depart for Brisbane (the one that isn't near San Francisco) to do a postdoc in invertebrate biology about 15 minutes after Christmas and is pretty much taking everything he's going to take as check luggage. While the $100 note has that cool Lyrebird graphic and is easy to pack, it seems somewhat unimaginative. [more inside]
What should I think about while jogging?
You are a jogger. You do not necessarily LIKE jogging. What is your headspace while jogging so that you keep going? [more inside]
posted by Eyebrows McGee at 10:30 AM PST - 47 comments
posted by Eyebrows McGee at 10:30 AM PST - 47 comments
Two Player Head-To-Head Doom over Internet between PC and MAC
I want to play head-to-head Doom/Doom II over the internet with a friend. I have a PC, she has a Mac. What's the easiest way? [more inside]
posted by 0bvious at 10:21 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by 0bvious at 10:21 AM PST - 3 comments
How to make each gift count at Christmas
My kids get so many holiday gifts these days that on Christmas day many of the new items are just tossed aside and only the shiniest given attention. I’m wondering if it would make more sense to stagger the unwrapping rather than let them open everything at the same time. I realize the unwrapping frenzy is part of the fun, but clearly receiving many gifts at once minimizes the value of the individual gifts. I don't come from a tradition of Christmas-time excess so I don't really know what this feels like to a kid.
Scaling down is probably not an option, unfortunately.
posted by Dragonness at 10:20 AM PST - 51 comments
posted by Dragonness at 10:20 AM PST - 51 comments
Beginning knitting book for kids
I'm looking for a book on how to knit, for a 7 year old. I'm planning to teach her the basics in person, and then give her the book to take home for further reference. Can anyone recommend a good one? Bonus: Do you have a favorite yarn store in SF?
Online Magazines or Magazine-like Sites?
I enjot reading OMNI Reboot, Aeon Magazine, IEEE Spectrum, and Nautilus. Can you suggest more like them? [more inside]
posted by the man of twists and turns at 9:50 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by the man of twists and turns at 9:50 AM PST - 12 comments
Christmas vacation places in Southern CA.
Hi!
Since most of our family is traveling for the holidays, and we haven’t yet taken our honeymoon (we got married in October), we thought we’d take a trip ourselves. But we could use some recommendations for someplace to go. [more inside]
How to fold a trifold brochure that has a front, a back... and a front
We have to print out and fold up hundreds of this pdf brochure (spoilers: BEDBUGS!). Usually a trifold brochure is a no-brainer -- print two-sided, fold in thirds (either accordion or in on itself). This is very much a brainer. Help. [more inside]
GiftFilter: prank edition
Secret Santa draw asked for "something useful for playing pranks", and I've...got nothing. Help? [more inside]
posted by kagredon at 9:13 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by kagredon at 9:13 AM PST - 19 comments
Make This Into Salad Dressing, Please
A few weeks ago I had dinner at Oh Canada, Eh? and the meal included the most amazing salad dressing I've ever had. We asked for the recipe and the chef gave us the ingredient list, but did not include amounts because (he said) he always makes it in such huge batches. [more inside]
posted by kate blank at 9:13 AM PST - 26 comments
posted by kate blank at 9:13 AM PST - 26 comments
Character effectiveness in WoW: what's the player skill: gear ratio?
At or near the top end of the WoW performance curve, how much does gear contribute compared to player skill? [more inside]
Looking for these dining utensils made from large nails
Last month I had dinner at a restaurant in Rome that used these utensils. They seem to each be made from a single, large nail. I've tried to find them online, but have come up empty. Maybe the hivemind has some ideas?
posted by jedrek at 9:02 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by jedrek at 9:02 AM PST - 11 comments
Recommend me some high quality hair clippers?
After watching this scene from Full Metal Jacket, my SO wanted to get a pair of similar quality clippers. He has shaved his head by himself for more than 10 years but often complains of clippers that clog, or have a slow motor or "miss spots". He was blown away by the clippers in that Full Metal Jacket scene. After searching online Wahl seems to make good ones. Can anyone recommend me some good high quality clippers?
He shaves his head with no guard on the blade down to 1/8".
What should I be looking for in a work relocation package to Australia?
Asking on behalf of a friend: May be transferred from the US to Australia shortly. What should I be looking for in a relocation package? Special snowflake details inside that may affect your answer!
I have been transferred around the US a lot and thus know how to assess a relocation package when it's from point A to point B in the US - and, most importantly, I know when it's not enough and I need to hold out for more. I've never been transferred overseas and the only thing I know right now is that a relo package like the ones I get in the States would probably be insufficient. What should I be looking for? [more inside]
posted by under_petticoat_rule at 8:26 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by under_petticoat_rule at 8:26 AM PST - 14 comments
A little perfume? Good. A lot of perfume? Not so good.
Following this post I finally came across a perfume that is exactly what I was looking for. The only problem is that it is quite strong and the sprayer sprays out too much so the perfume is applied too heavily. How can I moderate that? [more inside]
posted by PuppetMcSockerson at 7:47 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by PuppetMcSockerson at 7:47 AM PST - 14 comments
do you even gift?
gifts ideas for my baristas & purveyors of food? [more inside]
Online crossword creator that can be filled in online.
I need a crossword creator tool that will allow me to choose my words and post the clues. There are a great many that let me do this and then print out my results and hand out as necessary. I want my final result though to be a live form that i can embed on my website that students can go to and fill out online. The search terms that I am using keep pointing me to creators that I have to print out. Any help would be great.
My dead friend's cat is dying
A friend of mine died nearly thee years ago and his cat ended up in the care of my mother. The cat is now dying. Should I email my friend's family when the cat dies? If you were the friend's brother, is this an email you'd want to receive? (The obligatory picture from healthier times.) [more inside]
Help me build a gangplank.
I need to get on and off my boat easily. More to the point my pregnant wife needs to be able to.
(Because we both live in the boat).
I have recently built a new wooden gangplank which is not too bad. (but heavy)
But for reasons I will go into below I think I need a replacement. [more inside]
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 5:19 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 5:19 AM PST - 13 comments
Where can I learn about evidence based personal development?
Most personal development is based purely on the author's personal opinion, rather than any empirical evidence. What are some good, evidence based resources for learning about personal development?
posted by casebash at 12:50 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by casebash at 12:50 AM PST - 11 comments
Specialist brick repairs in South London
My house, a standard Victorian terrace, has several spalled bricks. I'm looking for a reliable, preferably cheap, brickwork specialist in [South] London. [more inside]
posted by MuffinMan at 12:19 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by MuffinMan at 12:19 AM PST - 4 comments
Family history blog - should I start posting out of order?
I started blogging family history recently and have been having fun with it, but now I'm at a crossroads. Should I break out of the chronology and start posting content out of order? [more inside]
December 17
I'm stuck and not sure how to do life.
I am lost on how to proceed with my life/diet. Because #1 - There are many positives to eating strict #2 - There are many negatives to eating strict. [more inside]
posted by learninguntilidie at 11:16 PM PST - 21 comments
posted by learninguntilidie at 11:16 PM PST - 21 comments
I Went Out With A Dreamboat and It Went Well - Now What?!
I'm really inexperienced with these things, so forgive me! I went on a first date with a wonderful dude- he's one of those mind-blowingly amazing dudes, too cool for school, super amazingly successful, a fantastic artist, puts every inch of his abilities to full use, makes the best of himself and all his abilities..He's a dreamboat in everyway.
I've known him from online for a few years. And we'd run into each other once in a while and say hi.
He asked me out about a year ago, canceled on me the morning of our date and then didn't contact me again. Then a few weeks ago he asked me out and we weren't able to make a time to hang out (actually, I suggested Monday and he got back to me Monday evening saying he's too busy.)
Then we decided to hang out yesterday. The date went very well! [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:14 PM PST - 39 comments
posted by anonymous at 11:14 PM PST - 39 comments
Advice on water damage, flood, cleanup and insurance.
Our finished basement flooded thanks to a backed up sink and the iron filter discharge running. As far as we've been able to discern, our insurance does cover this. We've had a cleanup crew sent out by the insurance company. However, I've got some concerns on how it's being handled, specifically that not enough and not enough of the right work is being done. [more inside]
Mavericks Server
I am replacing an old XServe running Snow Leopard Server with a Mac Mini which is currently running Mountain Lion Server. I would like to know what is the best way to do this. [more inside]
Remove demonic* rust/poop stains from toilet bowl?
How to remove rust stains etc. from very dirty toilets? [more inside]
posted by InsertNiftyNameHere at 9:59 PM PST - 29 comments
posted by InsertNiftyNameHere at 9:59 PM PST - 29 comments
Can you help me find a classic, badass, [fake] leather jacket?
For the past year or so I've been daydreaming about buying a classic leather motorcycle jacket, like this or this. Tragically, though, I cannot afford to spend $700. My budget is more like $200. Can you help me fake it? [more inside]
posted by pretentious illiterate at 9:49 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by pretentious illiterate at 9:49 PM PST - 9 comments
All the single gentlemen, SF version
How do I meet single men in their 30s in SF? [more inside]
posted by so much modern time at 9:31 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by so much modern time at 9:31 PM PST - 16 comments
What is the best way to "purge" my information from the internet?
I'm interested in what people have done to find and then delete their personal information (address, especially) from online directories. I've deleted my info from WhitePages and Spokeo, but I'm wondering what other sites I should look at or if there's a master directory of some sort out there. Googling doesn't turn up much, but I know my information could still be out there.
Thank you.
posted by madonna of the unloved at 9:21 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by madonna of the unloved at 9:21 PM PST - 5 comments
Resources for web publishers and editors?
I run a fairly large (~1m readers per week) website that publishes ~20 articles per week. I'm looking for resources that will help me do my job better: managing writers, keeping up to date with publishing trends and events, managing a community, and so on. [more inside]
Recommend a printer/cartridge system?
We're trying to optimize our home printing. We don't print an enormous amount, but we want to print in color and to be able to print in moderately high quality.
You've already solved this problem and put some thought into minimizing cartridge expense: what printer do you use? how often do you replace the ink? do you refill the cartridges at a store or buy new ones from the OEM?
(Bonus points if you've solved this problem for the HP 8600.) [more inside]
Epiphone Les Paul Baritone Guitar
Thinking of buying an Epiphone Les Paul Baritone Guitar (appears to be the same model as the wooden one in back of picture). This is a craigslist purchase which I will see tomorrow. Any advice on what to look for/ask? More questions inside about price and amps and so on. [more inside]
posted by Corduroy at 8:02 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by Corduroy at 8:02 PM PST - 7 comments
Folic acid, still recommended for women who may conceive?
In light of the editorial on vitamins published today in the Annals of Internal Medicine that advises Americans stop taking vitamin supplements, should women who are trying to conceive still take folic acid? [more inside]
posted by tigeri at 7:56 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by tigeri at 7:56 PM PST - 11 comments
Where should we stay in Tulum?
Heading to Tulum without the kids at the end of Jan/Beginning of Feb for 3 nights and am seeking recommendations for accommodations based upon relatively recent stays. Our requirements: Quiet, clean, nice bed, ceiling fans, hot water, good restaurant, on the ocean. We'd like a cabana but also would consider the right hotel. We can spend up to $500/night for the right place but I'd love to find something closer to $300. Ideally, not next to any major new developments, which I understand are starting to take over the area. Thanks in advance for any help!
New monthly Plan for old iPhone 3GS
I am on an AT&T family plan.
I have had an iPhone 3GS since about 2011, and just upgraded to an iPhone 5c.
I still have the 3GS.
What is the best way for me to use this phone with a monthly plan completely separate from the family plan, with any carrier?
Our daughter is on the Virgin 35/month plan. That seems pretty good. Am I hosed because this phone was locked into AT&T, or whatzers?
Resources on Alan Moore's process
I couldn't find any information as to how Alan Moore goes about writing his comics (namely Watchmen, V for Vendetta, and From Hell). I found an excerpt from his Watchmen script which shows how incredibly detailed he is in describing each panel. I once read that on Watchmen, it was a back-and-forth between him and Dave Gibbons, where Gibbons starts off with roughly sketching out the panels, gets comments from Moore, gets greenlit, then proceeds to drawing the final version. Any more information on Moore's process? Any other scripts you know of and is his writing as detailed for all his projects as detailed (I know that From Hell has labyrinthine appendices that almost match the work itself in length for example)?
posted by omar.a at 7:17 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by omar.a at 7:17 PM PST - 3 comments
Books with no or few words? (comic books okay)
My five year old is just starting to read, and loves looking through the Captain underpants books for their illustrations. I'd like to get him some books (or comic books) that have few or no words, or which he could at least follow without knowing the words. He's really into story, and I think it would entertain him, and also (for the ones with words) encourage him to read. His interests are the stereotypical boys ones -- sports, superheroes, etc, Suggestions?
posted by michaeldunaway at 7:08 PM PST - 18 comments
posted by michaeldunaway at 7:08 PM PST - 18 comments
I'm traveling the US, what health care plan is best (PPO, HMO)?
Hello!
After getting laid-off from a job and having a job to look forward to in June, I have decided to spend the next 6 months traveling, WWOOF-ing around the US and overseas, living off of my savings and picking up odd jobs.
In terms of health care, and the marketplace, what health insurance plans cover multiple states for things other than emergencies (i.e. mental health, a foot fracture, etc)? Would a PPO do that or an HMO?
I've spent a ton of time talking to the Maryland Health Exchange people, and after being told something different by each person I spoke to, I wanted to ask you all.
Thank you kindly!
posted by Kombucha3452 at 6:52 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by Kombucha3452 at 6:52 PM PST - 5 comments
To catch a thief
About a month ago, my mom misplaced her government-owned (work) iPhone 5. After a month of searching her home/car/office/relatives/everywhere to no avail, she copped up and told boss. They took the news well and paid for not only her new phone, but also for the loss of her old phone. Being the mischievous son I am, I want to make an attempt to retrieve the phone. [more inside]
Where is a good place to buy glasses in Melbourne, Australia?
I'm having difficulty finding good frames for glasses. Does anyone know of anywhere, preferably in the inner North or CBD, that has good service and a wide range of frames? [more inside]
Google Earth Wallpaper?
I read this article that said there was a button on the Google Earth site that let you download wallpapers. The article states there's a "globe" link at the bottom of the page, however when I load the Earth page I don't see that icon. Does anyone else? Or can I get to the images somewhere else?
Tethering MBP to iPhone - how to seamlessly avoid big data bills
What's the best way to setup a MacBook Pro so that it can be regularly hooked up to an iPhone's Personal Hotspot without unexpected background processes (Dropbox, iTunes Match, auto OS or app updates, etc) resulting in massive data charges? [more inside]
How do ceramic infared heat bulbs work and are they safe to stare at?
I have a 150 watt ceramic infrared heat bulb similar to this one http://www.amazon.com/Zoo-Med-ReptiCare-Ceramic-Infrared/dp/B0002AQCPK that I use next to my desk to help keep me warm. It produces no visible light, only heat. Sometimes I have the urge to stare at it, can it hurt my eyes from the infrared radiation, similar to how looking at a regular light bulb can hurt your eyes? I am also interested in how these bulbs work, and the type of infrared radiation they give off if someone can explain it to me.
Am I doing something *wrong* in my Okcupid profile? Can I stop?
OKCupidFilter, sorry. I am getting dramatically fewer visitors and messages these past couple weeks. I haven't gotten a year older. I tried switching around pictures, editing answers, all the stuff I could think of to do. But, other than the "hey, beautiful lady, I hop ur write me back!" messages, I'm getting crickets.
Here is my profile. (Please be nice, I know I'm older.)
Is there something I can do to fix this? Or is it out of my hands?
Thanks ever so much!
posted by The Noble Goofy Elk at 5:21 PM PST - 46 comments
posted by The Noble Goofy Elk at 5:21 PM PST - 46 comments
Readings on Johnson and the Great Society
Looking for books/long articles about Lyndon Johnson and the Great Society- the history, the political effort, the hits and the flops. [more inside]
posted by ThePinkSuperhero at 5:12 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by ThePinkSuperhero at 5:12 PM PST - 4 comments
Shoes where I can wear my orthotics for normally barefoot activities?
Are there minimalist shoes that would allow me to wear my corrective orthotics during normally barefoot activities? [more inside]
Crush Me Out on Sweden!
I have developed an unavoidable crush on Sweden. I want to hear from Mefi locals about the best your country has to offer, things you love about living there, music, culture, all of it - help me crush out on Sweden! [more inside]
posted by Lipstick Thespian at 4:59 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by Lipstick Thespian at 4:59 PM PST - 10 comments
Packing light
I've always packed light by taking a backpack on all trips and going carry-on only. But I'm going to be extensive international travel with a 35-liter backpack and want to know how to pack even lighter. Usually I only go on 1-week trips, and thus pack a shirt for every day, etc. How can I pack lighter? I've heard that Merino wool is a good material for shirts that can be worn a couple times before needing a wash. What are your tips and tricks?
posted by signondiego at 4:30 PM PST - 20 comments
posted by signondiego at 4:30 PM PST - 20 comments
Give me your links to critical readings of Buffy/Angel!
Some recent FPPs about Buffy have reminded me of Reading the Vampire Slayer which is a collection of critical essays about the show circa season 5. It was surprisingly interesting and I would like to read more things like that. I'm looking for relatively academic stuff (not fannish musings but more like comparative studies of the show vs. various mythologies, thematic analysis, etc) and Google is failing me. Links to online sources would be ideal but books are okay too.
Rap song on bandcamp with Vanilla Ice sample - Alright stop
Longest of long shots but does anybody recall hearing a rap/hiphop song on bandcamp with a Vanilla Ice sample? The beat may have had a bit of the "under pressure" bass line and some hand claps. About 3 times through the song they'd throw the vanilla ice sample in from "Ice Ice Baby" and right when the sample said ".....alright stop" the beat would cut out for a few seconds and then start back up.
How to interact with an unfamiliar new resident in my parents home?
A lovely, college-aged young woman who has had a very rough year is coming to live with my parents, whom I visit several times a year, often for extended periods of time (I live 900 miles away, but I'm a student with long vacations). I think this is great. However, I feel a little at sea for how to interact with her, and to prepare for this change, especially given the giant elephant in the room: the horrible event that happened which has caused her to need a new home. [more inside]
How to share Google spreadsheet without collaborating?
I've created simple Google spreadsheet which calculates some data entered by users. Now I need to share it with my co-workers. The problem is that when I set a share on it any data entered by one user is instantly visible to all others. I want independent copies of my spreadsheet so anybody could enter different data and get different results. In short I need to turn my Google spreadsheet into a interactive webpage something doing something like this. Is it possible?
How on earth do you earn this much money?
This story about an IBM sales executive earning AUD $295,000 with a bonus of up to $1 million after allegedly earning $9 million in revenue for the firm, has made me really curious. In my industry, salaries top out around the low six figures. What does a job like this look like? [more inside]
posted by t0astie at 2:56 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by t0astie at 2:56 PM PST - 13 comments
A wiki with an Integrated list-serve?
Simple question, is there a wiki service out there (free) that integrates a list-serv into the wiki itself so as to not have to use two different services for wiki creation and communications? We will mostly be using a list-serv to communicate among our campaign team, but want a repository for documents, lists and meeting minutes, to-do's, etc - all in the same place / URL.
Thanks! :>)
Flowerpots hanging in trees
There are a series of terracotta flowerpots hanging upside-down in trees in a residential area, and I'd love to figure out why there there. This is what they look like. [more inside]
posted by carbide at 2:18 PM PST - 18 comments
posted by carbide at 2:18 PM PST - 18 comments
Can I stay the night at a friend's house? What are the rules?
I'm not sure I ever really learned the rules of when it is OK to stay the night at someone's house (non-romantic).
This is my roommate from last spring semester. I Facebooked her a few weeks ago to say I was swinging by town on the way to my parents and if she wanted to hangout. She said yes and offered me a place to stay for the night. I mentioned I was going to stay in a hotel room. She said that if I change my mind, I can stay with her. [more inside]
Do We Have Enough Money For A Trip To England?
We are a married couple with one child who is old enough to require their own room. If we're leaving from the midwest of the US, and plan to stay for two to three weeks, is $9k USD a realistic rough estimate of the amount we ought to budget for the trip? [more inside]
posted by Ipsifendus at 2:04 PM PST - 21 comments
posted by Ipsifendus at 2:04 PM PST - 21 comments
UPS wants to charge me brokerage fees AFTER I rejected the parcel!?
Hello folks,
I live in Canada (Toronto), and I ordered an item (worth US$200) from the USA about a month ago, and the seller used UPS to ship it to me. As I have never used UPS before, I was not aware of their negative reputation at the time of the online purchase. Well, about two weeks later, I received the UPS notice for a delivery attempt, and I was hugely surprised at the brokerage charge (CAN$70). Usually I do not get charged any brokerage fees at all when sellers use USPS to ship to me (because USPS hands the parcel to CanadaPost, which has never charged me brokerage fees, in my experience). [more inside]
Healing your inner child after childhood neglect. What helped you?
I have long-running case of depression and generalized anxiety disorder, with plenty of childhood triggers. I do see a therapist but due to the holiday schedule, I won't be seeing my therapist for a few weeks. I want to do some work by myself, because crying to sleep nearly every night is getting exhausting. I want my subconsciousness to chill out and be less triggered. I want tips, stories, and resources.
Difficulty: I live with my parents, and I get triggered by them. [more inside]
Tips for buying a cassette deck, in 2013, in Chicago?
I'm putting together a stereo system that only needs to be able to play cassette tapes and vinyl records, because yes I am that much of a hipster. I have my speakers and turntable, and I just picked up a 1970s receiver with integrated cassette deck...which stopped working almost immediately. How do you go about buying something with many breakable, moving parts that stopped being manufactured with any quality in the 1980s? Should I replace my receiver with just a receiver and get a standalone tape deck? Where do you even buy a standalone tape deck? [more inside]
Men's Jeans, 31" x 33"
I need your hope. I cannot seem to find any clothiers who make jeans with a 31" waist and a 33" inseam. Alas, this is the size of jeans that would best fit my (apparently abnormal, disfigured) body. Do you know of a nice shoppe that would sell such an item to me? If so, I would be grateful beyond measure.
posted by (Arsenio) Hall and (Warren) Oates at 1:15 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by (Arsenio) Hall and (Warren) Oates at 1:15 PM PST - 9 comments
Technical career ideas?
Mid-twenties looking for career suggestions and ideas. More inside about what I value/enjoy in work, etc. [more inside]
Black and White and Protected By Multilateral Treaty All Over
The #1 item on my eight year-old son's Christmas list is "AN ACTUAL PENGUIN". Please help me creatively accommodate his request without violating the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species. [more inside]
posted by julthumbscrew at 12:47 PM PST - 17 comments
posted by julthumbscrew at 12:47 PM PST - 17 comments
Help me remember an old loon joke.
There's a joke that I (think) I remember someone doing to me when I first saw a loon. The set up is: "Want to hear a loon call?", which is followed by loudly yelling "HEY LOON! OVER HERE!".
Did I imagine this, or is this an actual joke(total dad joke, but I like it)?
Switch to Malarone from Chloroquine now that I'm home?
Hello YANMDs, can I switch to Malarone (and only take it for one week as opposed to 4....) now that we're back? Or do I have to stick to the same drug? [more inside]
posted by powpow at 11:57 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by powpow at 11:57 AM PST - 10 comments
Dress Me: In search of better tops edition
I (petite, mid-20's woman) want to get rid of all my long-sleeved button-front shirts and replace them with things that are still work-appropriate but more flattering and maybe okay for non-work wear as well. What styles would work for me? Where should I shop? Special snowflake style preferences ahead. [more inside]
Looking for a quiet/soothing, easy to clean cool mist humidifer
A year and a half ago, we got a a cool mist humidifier, but now we're looking for a new one, with the caveat that it has to be quiet, or at least the noise it generates is calming or similar to white noise. [more inside]
How can I forgive myself for something I did as a teenager?
When I was 15, I was extremely cruel to a friend and sabotaged our very special relationship. I was crazy and didn't really understand what I had done until college. When I finally "got it" too late, I wrote him a letter to apologize, but he never responded. 10 years later, suddenly the guilt is flooding back again big-time... [more inside]
Flu took away my lust for life! Help!
Two weeks ago, I had the flu. I had all the classic symptoms: fever, muscle aches, coughing, chills, and fatigue that kept me in bed for 3 solid days. Now I am better but I am having odd symptoms. I don't feel like eating. Nothing tastes good. And nothing is interesting. I don't want to do crafts, or play with my dog, or read, or watch TV, or talk to my friends, or do anything, really. Everything seems annoying, and I am beyond bored, which is uncharacteristic for me. I don't feel sick, exactly, and I'm not totally exhausted like before, but I'm feeling the need to lie around in bed 2 to 4 hours a day. What is going on and how do I make it stop? All suggestions are welcome, including "woo."
Are there any gotchas/pitfalls when selling a domain name through Sedo?
I have never sold a domain name before but it appears I'm about to do so now. Yay! An offer was made to me by a buyer through Sedo and after some email negotiations we have arrived at an acceptable price and presumably the process of transfer and payment is about to begin. Having never done this before I am wondering if there are any pitfalls and gotchas I should be watching out for. Specific details inside. [more inside]
posted by Hairy Lobster at 10:50 AM PST - 1 comment
posted by Hairy Lobster at 10:50 AM PST - 1 comment
I mug L.A.
Where can I get an iconic Los Angeles-centric coffee mug? [more inside]
posted by Sara C. at 10:36 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by Sara C. at 10:36 AM PST - 19 comments
Help with gift for Dad
I need help finding a Christmas gift for my dad. I'm looking for:
- Something that requires occasional hands on -- a project, but not a full-time project
- Something a little science-projecty and geeky, but that does not involve a computer (he's 72 and not terribly computer literate; he does have an iPad, though)
- Something that has a definable end result
- Something he can attend to while my folks spend three months in their RV this winter
- Most likely something plant-related
More... [more inside]
posted by mudpuppie at 10:01 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by mudpuppie at 10:01 AM PST - 8 comments
What to get for the person who doesn't like anything?
My mom is so hard to shop for: she doesn't really have any interests, she doesn't really do anything, she doesn't appreciate nice things, and she is very set in her ways. Past years' presents have fallen pretty flat. Help? [more inside]
posted by rabbitrabbit at 9:50 AM PST - 45 comments
posted by rabbitrabbit at 9:50 AM PST - 45 comments
What did I read and where?
I am trying to find an article I read online, sometime in the past month or two. [more inside]
I don't know how she does it! .....no really, please tell me...
As I mentioned in this question, I'm a single mom of an 8 month old. My question in a nutshell is, how in the hell do working single parents do it? [more inside]
posted by argyle dreams at 9:46 AM PST - 23 comments
posted by argyle dreams at 9:46 AM PST - 23 comments
Need name of company in Richmond Virginia
Looking for the name of a company in Richmond, Virginia which makes electronics or radios and may or may not begin with the letter "C." [more inside]
What makes an aircraft flying overhead noisier?
I've been doing research on jet aircraft noise over urban areas. And, while I've uncovered some very clear explanations of the different types of aircraft noise to share with others, there are some questions that still are eluding my Google foo. I'm looking for resources that will help me to answer a variety of specific questions about aircraft noise, whether they are discussion groups or specific authors of research papers, etc.
The kinds of questions I'm seeking resources for are all related to aircraft noise, but can be somewhat different. For example: [more inside]
posted by jeanmari at 9:36 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by jeanmari at 9:36 AM PST - 5 comments
Do I have any chance of getting my money back?
On Oct 28th a friend mailed a package addressed to DirectTV at my local PO. He stood in line for 20 min and then handed the package over. The package was my equipment I was mailing back after canceling service. [more inside]
Hybrid shopping
Are there any Prius C owners out there? Will I like having a Prius C? I'm considering buying a 2013 Prius C Three or Four in the next few weeks. I test drove one the other day and really liked it. I'm going to do another test drive on the highway to see how it feels. My goal is to make a purchase that last week of December. [more inside]
posted by Cat Pie Hurts at 9:26 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by Cat Pie Hurts at 9:26 AM PST - 8 comments
I tip well but not *that* well
I was overcharged by $10 at a cafe. I know this from checking my bank statement, I no longer have the receipt. How should I handle this? [more inside]
Large scale web applications running on Windows
As a long time Linux Engineer I enjoy reading about the technologies used by sites like Twitter, Facebook, Etsy, Yahoo (for things like Flickr) and other large sites to build things out to scale. I often lend a hand with Windows customers at work and it recently occurred to me that I've never seen a website or blog posts that relate to scaling on Windows. [more inside]
Where to buy a tide clock in Toronto?
I've decided to buy a tide clock, I can order one online, but I'd prefer to go into a store so I can ask questions regarding calibration etc. Does anyone know of a store that sells them in Toronto (or area?)
Thanks
Roomba, Roomba, wherefore art thou, Roomba?
Will a robotic vacuum be an asset to our (snowflake filled) home? If so what makes, models, or features are worth the cost nowadays? First hand experience preferred but any input is welcome. [more inside]
Too late to study art?
I'm interested in studying 2D Animation later on in life but is this idea feasible or just a pipe dream? [more inside]
Can I switch to a full foot lift instead of heal lift for my LLD?
Due to back pain, I had a bone scan 12 years ago that showed I have a 15mm leg length discrepancy. Since then I was prescribed a 9MM cork heal insert to make up for most of the discrepancy (LLD for short). It has worked mostly ok, but I still have some back pain (probably from leg length discrepancy says doc). I'm out of USA for a while now and won't be able to see my normal doctor for a while.. I am considering trying a full foot lift instead of my traditional cork lift. I feel like the full foot lift will do a better job of evening out the discrepancy. Is it worth a shot? If they are both used for LLD, what benefits does one offer over the other? Which situations call for a full foot lift over just the heal?
Thanks a lot.
posted by crawltopslow at 8:27 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by crawltopslow at 8:27 AM PST - 6 comments
Learn me about the past.
History Buffs of MeFi: Please share your most favorite, most compelling sources. Movies, books, graphic novels, fiction - everything is fair game. [more inside]
Legal language needed for wedding contract
How should I word a clause in a contract which states that we will receive a refund on our deposit for a wedding reception venue if that business is sold or goes out of business? [more inside]
posted by lovableiago at 8:08 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by lovableiago at 8:08 AM PST - 6 comments
GiftFilter: Drummists - what (cheap) thing would you like for Christmas?
I have one day left to online shop for my brother's Christmas pressie and I'm drawing a blank. I've already gotten him a couple of things, but I need one more item to make it a worthwhile parcel. He is 33, a drummer, and wears casual, laid back clothes, but no "funny" tees etc. Is there a t-shirt/ book/ small piece of drumming gadgetry/ anybloodything that would suit him? Will have to be available in an online UK store for it to be delivered in time, and my budget is about £20-25. He will be travelling back to London from Belfast after Christmas so it needs to fit in carry-on luggage. Thanks!
posted by billiebee at 7:48 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by billiebee at 7:48 AM PST - 8 comments
Tell me about nonprofit marketing
Do any Mefites work in nonprofit marketing? Can you tell me a little about what it's like and how to get started in it? [more inside]
Drums in NYC
Where can I play a drum kit in New York City? [more inside]
The time for cunning plans and crazy capers.
I really, really enjoyed Nicholas Schmidle's article "A Very Rare Book" (on a nearly-flawless contemporary forging of a unique copy of Galileo's "Sidereus Nuncius") in last week's New Yorker and I'd like to read more journalism/non-fiction like it. [more inside]
Bought a used lemon. Now what?
How can I end the suffering of having purchased a terrible used car under duress? [more inside]
Someone is intentionally attacking me & my family online.
Someone has created a site via Google Sites that is radically defaming myself and my family. We're not talking about a 12 year playing a prank. It's a systematic attack with the most egregious accusations one can imagine. They're parroting my personal business site and posting info that is not only libelous, but fantastically horrible. The junk they've posted about myself, my wife and our two small children is heartbreaking. We believe we know who it is (but have no proof) and have contacted the FBI on advice of a lawyer. They've told us they'll call us once they get jurisdiction figured out and the cybercrime guys take a look. The kind SAIC looked at the site and understood the problem but only got the ball in motion. That could take weeks/months for them to move on this and the site needs to come down, now.
HOW? [more inside]
Will college costs keep growing faster than inflation in the U.S.?
I'm trying to do some long-term financial planning for my family. I need to decide how much to put in college savings plans. From what I read, College tuition in the U.S. has been increasing faster than inflation for at least the last 30 years. Does anyone have a sense of what's going on inside educational institutions and in State legislatures? Do you have any information suggesting that some efforts are being made to reduce costs or at least limit increases? I've looked at some projections of what tuition, fees, and room and board might be in 10-16 years and I don't see how I will ever be able to send my kids to college if we see the 4-5% annual increases that have been common over the last decades.
Help me find a fix for this weird MS Outlook 2010 sent items issue?
Recipients in my Outlook “sent items” folder, despite having the exact same email address, can have any one of 4 forms of displayed email address, which makes sorting by sender and date a real pain, as Outlook sees each recipient as entirely distinct / separate, despite them actually having the exact same address. See inside for example of what i mean... [more inside]
How to Talk to My Boss
There was an incident last week. I have a 1-on-1 with my boss today, and I think I should bring it up with him. How should I bring it up, or is bringing it up a bad idea? Snowflakes inside. [more inside]
Mefites led me to Game of Thrones but now I need more to read!
Several years ago I found the Game of Throne books after several people suggested it on here. I have a pretty decent amount of Christmas vacation this year and I would like to read more, well-written, fantasy. This is where you come in - what would you have me read? [more inside]
How can I be more articulate when I am talking to big shots?
I am newly promoted on a diplomatic track. I guess this promotion comes from my clear vision, unique perspective and general abilities. That's great, of course -- but: When I meet up with people high on the food chain, I sometimes speak too quickly and without enough reflection. I become very animated and expressive and while this attitude is part of my success, it simply is not professional. I lack the calm and highly articulate speech that my brilliant colleagues regularly employ. it makes me look Mickey Mouse by comparison. [more inside]
From iPhone to iPad Mini
My SO will be getting an iPad mini for Christmas. They currently have an iPhone 4 with various Apps. Is there automatic or easy method of figuring what iPhone Apps have iPad mini equivalents and auto transferring them to the iPad mini, even if it requires paying for the new App?
Resume/CV writing services in London?
Recommendations for a reasonably-priced service in London (which is where I currently am) that can help clean up my CV with an eye toward English teaching work? [more inside]
December 16
Chapter One: The End.
Tell me the story of how you managed to keep your novel organized! [more inside]
posted by mittens at 6:35 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by mittens at 6:35 PM PST - 15 comments
Gummy bears and scotch probably won't cut it.
I'm so excited. I'm so excited for Archer. I'm thinking about hosting an Archer premier watch in January. Can you suggest some party foods? [more inside]
posted by superquail at 6:22 PM PST - 24 comments
posted by superquail at 6:22 PM PST - 24 comments
No more drama please: My neighbor says I'm too loud, is it revenge?
I think my neighbor is complaining about my noise because I previously complained about him to our landlord who is his boss. Should I wait to talk to him in person, which with our schedules could be days, write him a letter, or email our landlord? All three? [more inside]
Micro-run offset printing for CD inserts.
Can anyone offer opinions on reputable offset printers for CD inserts in short-run or micro-run quantities (50-100 copies)? [more inside]
My male gender fits me ever so badly. What do I do?
My gender identity has been something I've had a lot of thought and confusion about for some time. Now that I'm racing headlong towards 30, I feel like it's got to be time to do something about it rather than just pushing it down again, like I've been doing all my life. I was born male, and I have an overwhelming urge to be feminine, to be a girl. Not a snowflake, but a snowdrift inside. [more inside]
Negotiating Back Taxes Down?
So, in a nutshell here's the situation: I owe a significant amount of back taxes, and have the ability to pay - but want to see if it's possible to negotiate a lesser amount. [more inside]
No business like snow business
What are your go-to "talents" that don't require any actual talent? [more inside]
Where could one find a Jeff Hornacek jersey besides eBay?
I'm trying to grant a Christmas wish for my sweetheart. Shh! Don't tell! [more inside]
what are some popular resources for massage theapists and spa owners?
i'm just finishing up my bands latest cd, who's working title is "music for spas" (we're the house band at a resort/spa in bali) i'd like to sell it outside the resort and our shows, and in order to do that i'm going to have to promote it - mainly online as our budget is limited, but i'm willing to pay for some ads here and there if i think it will help out album reach a wider audience. tropical snowflakes inside! [more inside]
posted by messiahwannabe at 5:17 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by messiahwannabe at 5:17 PM PST - 5 comments
How do I get to the bottom of my sleep disorder?
I have a health care problem that is fairly ambiguous that deals with sleep.
Basically, roughly since puberty (i.e. beginning of high school or a little before) I have been exhausted on anything less than 10 hours of sleep, and I don't sleep more than 3 consecutive hours more than a handful of times a year (generally this means getting up to use the bathroom, sometimes it can mean full on insomnia.) [more inside]
posted by imabanana at 4:52 PM PST - 21 comments
posted by imabanana at 4:52 PM PST - 21 comments
Dates that encourage interaction with others?
I have been dating someone new and I really like spending time with him! But so far we've only hung out one-on-one. What are activities two people can do together, but which also encourage interaction with others? [more inside]
posted by figgy_finicky at 4:46 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by figgy_finicky at 4:46 PM PST - 13 comments
Ron Rosenbaum has intrigued me re: an aspect of Hitler's personality
Reading his "Explaining Hitler" a while back, Ron Rosenbaum briefly mentioned reading various explorations of Hitler's personality, one of which touched on the possibility that Hitler was not actually Hitler, but was merely 'acting like Hitler' and was very aware of the gap between real man and created monster. And I just thought he was nuts. While not overly concerned with Hitler himself, I am extremely interested in that idea: that people can be themselves, or other than themselves, or intentionally act like themselves on a long-term and global scale. I feel that way once in a while myself. It is a very hard topic to google, though (or explain, clearly), and my skills are thin. Does anyone know of this literature he referred to or anything similar? Or even what such a thing might be called? [more inside]
Unexpected TEENAGE guest for the holidays?
Both my niece (16 yrs old) and her father (my brother - 37 yrs old) conveniently "forgot" to tell me that her 18 year old boyfriend would be coming to our family Christmas. They will be staying in MY house and did not ask for permission for the boyfriend to stay, nor did they ask myself or my mother (Grandma) permission for an outsider to come to the family Christmas. The kid already has a plane ticket and I honestly don't believe it's his fault - I 100% blame my brother and my niece. So, it's sort of too late - he's coming. But what do I say to them to let them know that I am FURIOUS but it's the holidays so I'll do my bloody best to be HOSPITABLE and FUN and CHEERY but that this is seriously NOT OKAY with me? [more inside]
posted by athena2255 at 3:56 PM PST - 118 comments
posted by athena2255 at 3:56 PM PST - 118 comments
Is this a bedbug?
Recently moved into a pre-furnished room in NYC and noticed a lone dead bug on the mattress a few days ago. I hope it's not a bedbug, but I can't tell for sure. Someone look at this picture and say it isn't so! Also, that it isn't another species that will be invasive or cause an infestation. [more inside]
How did getting a dog change your life?
I have no pets and will be becoming a first time dog owner shortly. I'm interested in learning everything I can to prepare. I've read and learned most of the basics, but would love to hear more. How did going from not having a dog to having a dog change your life? I want to hear it all- what inconvenient, weird, wonderful, mundane, happy, unhappy, and most of all unexpected ways did adding a dog to your family change your life?
How do I find out if a foreign work has ever been published in English?
I am trying to find out if an Italian short story now in the public domain has ever been published in English. [more inside]
posted by millions at 3:35 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by millions at 3:35 PM PST - 5 comments
Road Trip! Suggested eats and roadside attractions?
It appears as though my wife and I will be driving from Toronto, Canada to San Diego between Christmas and New Year's because that's what life presents you with sometimes. We're on a timetable so we can't stop at every cool thing, but it would be nice to find some scenic spots and local chow that isn't Denny's. Route and other details inside. [more inside]
Can I eat this? (I'm going to anyway.)
I marinated four chicken breasts late yesterday, the recipe says to marinate for at least half an hour, but no longer than two hours. I accidentally left two breasts in the marinade overnight in the fridge. I will be cooking them for dinner tonight regardless, but should I expect a drastically different result because of the extra 12 hours in the marinade? [more inside]
posted by malibustacey9999 at 3:23 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by malibustacey9999 at 3:23 PM PST - 12 comments
Shopping around for Buddhism
I'm trying to figure out whether my local Triratna Buddhist organisation will be a fit for what I think I want from Buddhism. [more inside]
Where to buy Borges' translation of Whitman's Blades of Grass
Help me find a copy of Jorge Luis Borges translation of Whitman's Blades of Grass that I can buy. Bilingual edition a plus, but not a deal breaker. [more inside]
posted by Doroteo Arango II at 2:47 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by Doroteo Arango II at 2:47 PM PST - 7 comments
I want to Excel
Family board games for adults and little kids
This holiday season, I'm thinking about giving the gift of board games. Most of my friends (adults in their 30s - 50s) have little kids (2-6 years old). Do you have any board game recommendations for a family with kids around that age, that everyone can play together? Card games, or heck any other games are good, too. Thanks!
posted by lillygog at 1:56 PM PST - 33 comments
posted by lillygog at 1:56 PM PST - 33 comments
Personal shopper needed for some snowboots in Aisle 7 please
Say you're a hip and adorable lesbian- what snowboots would you buy? I'm trying to buy my partner a pair of snowboots for Xmas and want to find some really cute, stylish ones but am coming up short. We're in the Rockies. I just buy utilitarian boots, so I am bad at this. [more inside]
Drive w/encrypted partition will not mount w/Ubuntu
I have a portable drive w/an encrypted partition that I cannot get to mount on a laptop running Ubuntu 12.04. It is not visible to Disk Utility, either. Can anyone walk me through accessing its contents?
Not just revenge, but REVENGE.
I'm looking for stories featuring grand, visceral, over-the-top, self-indulgent revenge. Why not suggest a few? [more inside]
Home buying tools, maps, data crunching etc.
Glorious SO and I plan to buy a home in the next 18-30 months. I'd like to line up all the best tools, maps, and data to keep track of homes we've seen, neighborhoods and towns we'd consider, flood maps, commute times, train lines--really anything and everything that could inform this decision. Yes, yes, friends, colleagues and a good agent are great resources--but we want tools at this point! [more inside]
Managing fear of sex noises/PDA
How can I manage my fear of PDA and sex noises? [more inside]
Shopping for large-breasted women?
You are an average-sized woman with a disproportionately large chest. You have great bras. You look fabulous in your tops, which magically do not pull, gape, make you look skanky or fit like a giant bag. How did you learn how to dress yourself in a way that flatters you, and where are you shopping for clothes that have a chance of fitting without tailoring? [more inside]
Let's get physical...I wanna get physical...
In an AskMe that will surprise no one given its proximity to the New Year, I'm looking for cardio/workout DVDs that will have me working up a sweat in 2014! [more inside]
posted by Kitteh at 12:23 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by Kitteh at 12:23 PM PST - 11 comments
Can you help me make Starbucksy drinks at home?
I just received an espresso machine and am prone to buying $4 iced lattes every day. How can I duplicate the taste I love at home? [more inside]
The Peace Corps and Anxiety Disorders - mutually exclusive?
Does having a diagnosed anxiety disorder that requires, but is well managed by, medication, generally disqualify you from consideration for a Peace Corps post? [more inside]
Laptop? Desktop? Tablet?!!!
Please help me decide what kind of computer, and if possible what brand and model we should get. Special snowflake details inside. [more inside]
posted by Hanuman1960 at 11:17 AM PST - 21 comments
posted by Hanuman1960 at 11:17 AM PST - 21 comments
Best app for finding concerts?
I'm looking for the best way to be notified when my favorite music acts are playing near me. What is your favorite app or site to do this? [more inside]
posted by widdershins at 11:00 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by widdershins at 11:00 AM PST - 10 comments
富士山に登りたい
I’m a healthy but sedentary person. One of my greatest wishes is to climb Mt. Fuji. If I have 5 years to get ready, what should I do to prepare physically? [more inside]
posted by clearlydemon at 10:59 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by clearlydemon at 10:59 AM PST - 15 comments
Looking for a cheaper replacement for the Lo&Sons OG
I'd like something almost exactly like the Lo&Sons OG gym and travel bag — something that includes a laptop sleeve, pockets, and the additional strap to hold it on a rolling suitcase. Ideally, it would be professional-looking enough to carry to job interviews. Unfortunately, I'm also working with a graduate student budget. Any suggestions?
What are some cool American-history-related books/games/movies for kids?
Looking for a fun gift for an 8-year-old that might fuel his interest in American history (or any history) ... Any ideas? (Some specifics provided inside.) [more inside]
What is the best way to get a >500k term life insurance policy on myself
’d like to buy a 1 million dollar life insurance policy for myself to protect my family and dependents should I die unexpectedly. I already know to get a term plan and avoid the other trappings that insurances may offer. Now the question is how do I do this? More inside [more inside]
Eat it or not: Expired fish stock edition
I have two unopened jars of commercially prepared fish stock. Expiration date April 2013. I planned to make seafood bisque as part of a special dinner tonight and will seriously disappoint someone if I don't (and don't have time to buy more stock.) But food poisoning ain't festive. Eat, or forget the bisque, baby? [more inside]
posted by ladybird at 9:51 AM PST - 16 comments
posted by ladybird at 9:51 AM PST - 16 comments
Turn up the music: rent vs. buy speakers for a party
I've got a house party coming up in a couple weeks. I will be playing downloaded, not great quality mp3s from a laptop via Winamp (please assume this setup cannot be changed/improved). Should I rent a standing speaker, or buy something suitable from a store like Best Buy?
I am not looking to crank the music super loud, but it there will be dancing and I want the music heard.
Details: party to happen on main floor - open concept, approx 45 people, detached house. Minimal room for speakers. Simple set up desired. Budget - around $200. Location - Toronto
An Unelectric Boogaloo
What are some activities and technologies that I could use for a completely non-electric New Year's Eve party? [more inside]
How do I welcome two teenagers from Kazakhstan?
For Christmas my family is hosting two teenagers (~12 yrs old) from Kazakhstan. They are in town for a hockey tournament, and the place where the team is staying is closing for the nights of the 24th and 25th, so we are taking them on while other families take other members of the team.
Help us make them feel welcome while being so far away from home! [more inside]
Beyond rubber duckies: must-haves for the best baths
You love to take baths. What do have in and around your tub that makes it a great experience? Is there more to life than soap and shampoo? [more inside]
posted by Theophylactic at 9:08 AM PST - 28 comments
posted by Theophylactic at 9:08 AM PST - 28 comments
Vintage IBM keyboard (Personal Computer 5150) sends computer to a halt
I have recently acquired the keyboard for the IBM 5150 Personal Computer. It also came with a DIN-5 to PS/2 adapter, so I plugged into my desktop, and everything screeched to a halt -- typing occurred very delayed from the key presses, mouse became inoperable. Is this the keyboard, the adapter, some software incompatibility, or something else completely? [more inside]
posted by subversiveasset at 9:01 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by subversiveasset at 9:01 AM PST - 9 comments
What are some good NYC restaurants open Christmas Day?
NYC-ers: Where have you eaten dinner on Christmas Day that's awesome? Caveats: $30/person max, coming from UWS and we have a show in the Hell's Kitchen area (50th and 8th) at 8pm... [more inside]
Cheerful, intelligent anime and cartoons - dubbed or in English
My mother's health isn't so great (and it isn't, sadly, going to get much better). She still enjoys movies, however, and I'd like to get her some animated stuff. Her vision isn't strong, so subtitles are out - so these must be dubbed or from Anglophone countries. [more inside]
Where to buy yoga clothes in the UK?
Where can I buy good-quality yoga clothes in the UK? My mum wants some for Christmas and I'd love your recommendations for comfortable yoga clothes for more mature women (say 60+). Basically she doesn't want skintight leggings or any obtuse logos, etc. She'd like darker colours (although 'a little bit of colour but not too bright' is ok). Bonus if the store is online and offers shipping. Thanks!
I just want to playyyyyy!
Requesting suggestions for very cheap, decent quality Android small tablet for a 7 year old boy. [more inside]
Tell me how to ask my work whether I get paid during holiday
Just shy about it and want to minimize awkwardness [more inside]
posted by winterportage at 8:30 AM PST - 29 comments
posted by winterportage at 8:30 AM PST - 29 comments
Old-school conference calling?
Hi,
looking for a reliable service to set up cheap, flat-rate conference calls on a semi-regular basis (non-internet based). [more inside]
posted by Laura in Canada at 8:28 AM PST - 1 comment
posted by Laura in Canada at 8:28 AM PST - 1 comment
Mushy Meatballs
I'm making a cocktail-sized version of these baked chicken meatballs for a party tonight, and my meatball mixture is super mushy. (Which I now know is a feature of cooking with ground chicken...) I need help in figuring how to stiffen these things up! [more inside]
posted by hapax_legomenon at 7:59 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by hapax_legomenon at 7:59 AM PST - 19 comments
DSLR on a budget: Buy an older high-end or a newer low-end camera?
This blog post has inspired me take better photos of people without spending a fortune. For a given budget (let's say camera body less than $600) should I buy a current low-end DSLR (e.g. the Canon Rebel T5i) or watch eBay for a used higher-end DSLR from a few years ago (e.g. the Nikon D7000)? [more inside]
Fiance Met Up with Old Female Friend; Didn't Mention It. Now What?
Me: mid-40's living with teenage kid, him: mid-50's moved in with us (after several year LDR) months ago. A few days ago, he got together with an old female friend and I found out accidentally. [more inside]
Forcing a snow day -- What kid traditions do you know about?
The kids in my town (philly burbs) have certain rituals they follow to "cause" school to be canceled the next day when snow is forecast. Specifically: sleeping with a spoon under your pillow and turning your pajamas inside out. Also heard this year: flushing ice down the toilet.
I never had these growing up, and I'm wondering if it's a regional thing, a thing new to this generation, or if other superstitions exist/existed along these lines.
Almost Heavenly Ham?
Family is clamoring for "Heavenly Ham" for Christmas this year but the price per pound in our area is cost prohibitive. The few times I've tried to make the supermarket substitutes have been disappointing to say the least. Is there a secret to making a good spiral ham at home? If so, what do you look for on the label including the average price this time of year? There is wide range for these and I want to do what you're doing.
Therapist in midtown Manhattan? Software; life changes?
Are you/were you a software developer or PhD researcher who is or was having horrific career issues? Do you/did you really like your therapist? [more inside]
Make a trip to see elderly relatives, even if she caused odd mini-drama?
Should we make plans to drive several hours and stay in a hotel, after flying across the country with our young kids (who'll be ages 6.5 and 4.5) next Spring, so that they can meet my husband's elderly relatives, with whom he has always had very good relationships... that is, until his octogenarian Grandmother said something to him over the phone that caused my husband to suddenly have a strong negative/ambivalent reaction to the whole idea? [more inside]
posted by hush at 12:29 AM PST - 46 comments
posted by hush at 12:29 AM PST - 46 comments
December 15
Version of Rudolph, The Red-Nosed Reindeer with 'Callback' Lyrics
I am trying to find a good, actually any version, of Rudolph, The Red-Nosed Reindeer, with 'callback' or 'kid's addition' lyrics. For example, "They never let poor Rudolph (Rudolph)/
Join in any reindeer games (like Monopoly)". I have searched, unsuccessfully, on iTunes and Google Play, for such a version. Any recommendations? I am sure there are plenty out there but I'm just not finding any.
posted by vac2003 at 11:21 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by vac2003 at 11:21 PM PST - 8 comments
Anyone have a compilation of lax movie security guard clips?
IE: The guy is watching something funny on TV while on his security monitors there are intruders entering...etc etc
Attending the funeral. Do I send flowers also?
Usually I think of sending flowers when I won't be able to attend a funeral. I will be attending one this week, for a pretty close relative, and another relative asked me to go in on some flowers. Is it customary to send flowers even if you're attending? This is in the US.
My shoulders are up here
My manager put his hands on me in a way that felt strangely intimate. Should I be concerned, or am I reading too much into this? [more inside]
Want a (used?) PS3 - but which model?
PS4 is out, so time for me to get a PS3 and enjoy a sweet, sweet back catalogue of cheap, cheap games. But given that I also like to 'open' my consoles for media playing / emulator goodness, which new or used model should I buy? The main concern seems to be downgrading the official firmware from whatever it is now to 3.55 so that unofficial firmware can be installed. Is this easily done on all models (for example, the latest 12gb or 500gb jobs) or only older slim / fat models?
All I want for Christmas is a poem!
We are doing secret Santa exchange at work in which everyday we leave a small gift for the recipient. I want to make all my little gifts tie together using a poem. Halp? [more inside]
posted by xicana63 at 6:45 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by xicana63 at 6:45 PM PST - 3 comments
How to sync bookmarks across 2 browsers and a tablet
I'd like to like to sync bookmarks between Chrome and Firefox on a computer AND with the Android version of either Chrome or Firefox (doesn't matter which). [more inside]
In-tex ad hyperlinks
I recently purchased an Asus All-in-One computer as a replacement for my Dell XP system. The two computers are used in tandem, with the Asus used as the main monitor for the Dell. The XP unit will be used off line starting in March of 2014 and will remain in tandem so that certain XP only software can still be used. The systems are a Windows 8.1, Asus ET2411INKIB011K and a Windows XP SP3 Dell T3400 [more inside]
posted by Raybun at 6:15 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by Raybun at 6:15 PM PST - 5 comments
You're Not Lost! I Hope...
I've just spent several hours trying to find addresses and phone numbers for old friends who have relocated. Is there a standard URL to use to find different cities' white pages listings? One that doesn't want to charge me a monthly fee, that is - something that's up to date and free. Thanks, Mefites!
posted by summerstorm at 5:48 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by summerstorm at 5:48 PM PST - 7 comments
Where am I supposed to end up?
Not sure where to relocate to. Or how to even start looking.. Help? [more inside]
Getting rid of The Birds...
A bird couple (pigeons, apparently) have set up shop in the corner of my balcony and I have tried various and relatively humane methods in an attempt to drive them away. They've barely reacted. What are my next courses of action? [more inside]
Looking for a history-of-fashion art book, please!
I'm looking for a nice art book covering fashion and (particularly) hairstyles, both men's and women's, in America in the 30s, 40s, and/or 50s. This is a gift for a hairstylist, so pictures are key - the text is much less important. Price range up to $200. Thanks!
How long should I wait before refinancing my car?
How long should I wait before refinancing my car? [more inside]
posted by Evilspork at 4:40 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by Evilspork at 4:40 PM PST - 4 comments
Medical Science Question
Hello, I have a stem-cell related question which I hope someone familiar with said information can help me out with. Basically, I was wondering if it's theoretically possible to grow a brand new male reproductive organ within an existing male organ as its eventual replacement with the aid of stem cells (i.e. via stem cell injection into the organ tissue).
The cells could then differentiate into specialized organ cells which could then divide, etc.
What are your fact-based opinions about this?
Is this investing in my future or is this a stupid decision?
I've been offered to be hired where I have been a contractor. However, there is a health insurance issue that would cost me a lot of money for several months. But I would have a great retirement plan. I have nothing in savings and $100k I just consolidated in student loans, so this issue is just complicating things. [more inside]
posted by McSockerson The Great at 4:22 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by McSockerson The Great at 4:22 PM PST - 14 comments
Good train set for a 5-yr old?
Thanks for any advance help here, but want a train set that you can control via some type of remote instead of letting the train run after you turn it on. Thoughts?
Custom All Over Print hoodie sources
Where can I get two hoodies custom printed with an all over print (similar to this but without a 20 day turnaround) before Christmas? [more inside]
How to invest 25K for the short term?
So you've got $25,000 that you want to invest for 3-4 years. You're not interested in something crazy, you know nothing about the stock market, and you're financially conservative.
What is the best financial tool for this?
[I'm asking this for a friend of mine]
Thanks
What book is similar to "Number the Stars" for my 9 year old?
My nine year old just read "Number the Stars" by Lois Lowry. It is her first introduction to really high quality historical fiction. She is excited to read more books that teach her about history, but are also fun to read because they are fiction.
Do you have any ideas about historical fiction books that are excellent quality like "Number the Stars" but that are age appropriate for my nine year old?
Thank you.
I don't want to have to go to Dr. Oz or Andrew Weil for this one.
Which healthy grocery items/nutritional supplements/dietary interventions have you found to be worth the splurge, and how/why? [more inside]
posted by blue suede stockings at 3:32 PM PST - 35 comments
posted by blue suede stockings at 3:32 PM PST - 35 comments
American restaurants outside of the U.S.?
I'm an American who has done a fair amount of travel in Mexico and Europe, and in all those travels I don't remember ever coming across a non-hamburger-centric American-style restaurant*. [more inside]
Should I give my student a gift to celebrate her PhD? If so, what?
This is a gift question, but not holiday related. Still, MeFi is full of experts.... So, my first PhD student just successfully defended, and I am very proud of her. The question is whether to give her a gift, and if so, what.... [more inside]
posted by JMOZ at 3:17 PM PST - 20 comments
posted by JMOZ at 3:17 PM PST - 20 comments
You're the one, the one I see
My friend has been trying to identify this song for over 20 years. It's from the early to mid 80's. It came unlabeled on a mix tape. Google lyrics searches come up empty. SoundHound/Shazam fail. [more inside]
posted by irontech at 3:14 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by irontech at 3:14 PM PST - 4 comments
Cell phone provider in EU
We are travelling from Canada to France and Italy and would like to have our roaming charges and calls be as inexpensive as possible. Can someone recommend the best cell phone provider in the EU for both cell phone and data usage where we would buy or get the iPhone 5S SIM card?
Physics Study Guide
For my pal...What is a good physics study guide for:
a) 1st semester algebra-based college physics
b) lots of solved problems
c) without calculus.
I remember liking Schaum's in undergrad, but I seem to recall it being calculus based.
Thx Hive!
Boyfriend & I have blow out fights every so often - what's going on?
We've been together for 6 months and things have generally been lovely. But on two occasions now we've had two big fights with a similar theme. [more inside]
Is there an app for displaying multiple images on a Kindle Fire?
I would like to display 2-5 images on the screen of Kindle Fire (8.9") at the same time. What are my options? [more inside]
Is 'Cantata Mortis' an accurate Latin phrase?
Presuming it means 'song of death', do the cases match up? My latin is too rusty...
posted by Sebmojo at 1:45 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by Sebmojo at 1:45 PM PST - 2 comments
Depression vs. IUD
I've been dealing with depression for years. I can't tell if it's worse because of my birth control. Help? [more inside]
Foster Care Firsthand
I'm looking for blogs, books, articles or other materials written from the perspective of foster children or former foster children in the United States. I'm especially interested in those who aged out of foster care or who were adopted as older children/teens. [more inside]
Shipping my Purolator..."received by Barry"?
I bought something online on November 30th, and just realized that I haven't received the package yet. It turns out the company shipped by Purolator. In my tracking history it says that shipment was delivered. It was picked up by "Barry" at "shipping dock" on Dec. 13, and that it has arrived at the sorting facility at Purolator International YYZ.
I don't know Purolator at all...does that mean it's returned? I am really confused. I've received one phone call that sounds very scammy and told me to go pick up my "freight" in Etioboke (I live in downtown Toronto)...and otherwise no other information about the package. WTH is going on?
Arduino & other electronic project kits for a 10 year old boy
More gift advice needed! For a 10-year-old science geek with advanced computer and electronics skills for his age, I am looking for cool electronics project kits. He has an Arduino starter kit and has worked with that a lot. He has some soldering skills. He's into digital audio at the moment. He also has a Mac laptop and an iPad, in case it's relevant. Looking for things in the $75-150 range.
X-Files
What would cause this pattern/path to develop to and from my front door? [more inside]
posted by mazola at 12:10 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by mazola at 12:10 PM PST - 9 comments
Help shopping for camisoles
I need help finding a good camisole. I am a b-cup, 5'8", size 12, 37yo American woman. I am looking for a camisole that can replace a bra, has skinny straps, and doesn't make me feel like a sausage. Nothing too girlie or sexy.
Gift ideas for science-minded 11-year-old boy
Another gift-question, but I didn't find anything in the archives that's exactly applicable, so here goes:
I'm looking for a Christmas gift for my 11-year-old cousin. He's pretty into science and math, and according to my aunt, already has tons of toys/games/kits. So it seems like she would prefer for him not to get another one of those, but her only other suggestion was to give him "coupons" to play card/board games with me. I'd be happy to do that except frankly I'm not sure he'd actually appreciate it - fwiw we rarely see each other, and I'm ten years older and female. I'm thinking a good book might be nice, but I don't know exactly what he's already read and liked, other than the typical series like Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, Diary of a Wimpy Kid etc. Any suggestions - either lesser-known books or other options I might not have thought of? My max price range is probably $25-30 but I can be a little flexible.
Quality oil painting lessons online
I am an amateur painter. Never taken lessons, but I really enjoy it.
I am looking to improve my technique - particularly working with texture and light. My paintings are pretty flat now. I want to learn how to add depth and contour. I want to paint in a realistic style, not abstract or impressionist.
Looking for some good starting points for online videos and resources to get me to the next level.
Looking for clandestine news website about DPRK that I read about
A month or two ago I read about a network of clandestine reporters who use old cell phones to collect information inside North Korea and then publish it to the internet. What is the name of that website, and where did I see that article? [more inside]
posted by vincele at 10:23 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by vincele at 10:23 AM PST - 3 comments
Why does WeatherBug's data suck, and is there anything better?
Last night I was checking WeatherBug, the iphone app I use for weather, and it said the expected low for the night would be 25. It was also telling me that the current temperature was 18.
In the forecast for today, it predicted a high temperature of 42. Great! Snow melt! So I checked the hour-by-hour forecast to see when it would hit that high, and it didn't show anything higher than 35.
This sort of thing happens a lot, and it offends the nerd in me. So: can other apps do better, or do they all just feed off the same NOAA data? [more inside]
posted by Quisp Lover at 9:14 AM PST - 23 comments
posted by Quisp Lover at 9:14 AM PST - 23 comments
how to maintain depth as well as breadth of friendships?
I have a good life - good community, friends, lots of different communities in different interest areas as well as geographically in the town i live in. I try to maintain involvement with a lot of different communities because I feel that learning broadly from a lot of people (and a lot of different types of thinking, experiences, backgrounds) is really important. But I'm worried that the depth of my friendships may be suffering. How have some of you folks balanced broad networks (professional, personal, interest-based, geographical) with keeping them deep as well. [more inside]
posted by waylaid at 9:12 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by waylaid at 9:12 AM PST - 12 comments
Can you recommend other good movies that feature folk music?
I'm looking for movies that feature folk music in an interesting way other than the ones I've listed below (not many). I've mostly loved American and Irish folk music in the past along with some Australian bush band/string fusions but I'm pretty open-minded. [more inside]
Is the sky no longer the limit? Getting back on track in med school
I had a rough start to medical school academically. People keep telling me that if I "do well" here on out, it "shouldn't matter" in four years when I apply to the next stage in my training (residency). That's easy for them to say, but I need more perspective than that. I'm bothered that it could put a "ceiling" on what I might be able to achieve otherwise. Those who have experience with medical education and academics, please give me your thoughts! [more inside]
Pulling the plug on my LDR, because meh?
I am become rather obsessed with the idea that I want more from a relationship and might need to end this one. Should I? Details inside. [more inside]
Lego Power Functions - Trying to stay sane!
Has anyone found a reliable source for Lego Technic Power Functions builds? [more inside]
How to Handle Obnoxious, Intrusive Neighbor
Every time my new neighbor sees me, he feels the need to ask me some intrusive question or make some annoying comment about what I'm doing or my habits. I feel like he's invading my privacy and he's very aggressive. How do I handle this? [more inside]
posted by OneHermit at 7:02 AM PST - 52 comments
posted by OneHermit at 7:02 AM PST - 52 comments
I'm a grown-up, but I still don't know what I want to be...
Having spent the last year+ underemployed, I need a new direction. I've got a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, a dormant PE license, and a dead-end resume. I'm currently "working" for profits from an unprofitable mechanic shop doing brakes, radiators, and whatnot. It seems like all the engineering job listings require deep, specific experience--so I'm not qualified-- or are entry-level and I'm overqualified. [more inside]
Infinity Scarf for Men
Is it possible to wear an infinity scarf for men INSIDE of a jacket/coat? [more inside]
posted by dbirchum at 6:08 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by dbirchum at 6:08 AM PST - 12 comments
How to Platonically Ask a Guy Out
There's a guy I'm interested in getting to know better as a friend (and it's strictly as a friend, because he has a girlfriend). But I have various concerns. A whole nor'easter worth of details inside. [more inside]
Andalusian Activities?
My family and I will soon be embarking on a trip to Spain. We'll be in Seville the 19th-27th, Cordoba for a couple of days after that, and Granada until January 2nd. What's cool stuff to do in these places (we've already got Alhambra tickets), or very nearby? Is there anything associated with the current winter festivities to do? Any good restaurant recommendations?
posted by Maecenas at 5:42 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by Maecenas at 5:42 AM PST - 8 comments
Booze, bars-- it only makes sense
I have a bartender friend for whom I would really, really like to get a Married to the Sea "It's Motherfucking Booze Time" shirt (from this comic.) Where oh where do I get one now that their merch site is closed? [more inside]
posted by Because at 1:53 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by Because at 1:53 AM PST - 5 comments
December 14
Seeking style blogs by and for trans women
I am looking for style blogs by and for trans women — either single-contributor "here's what I wore today" blogs or tumblr/pinterest-type aggregators. Details within. [more inside]
posted by Now there are two. There are two _______. at 10:42 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by Now there are two. There are two _______. at 10:42 PM PST - 7 comments
Is It Better To Not Fill Up?
My car weighs 4013lbs (with me in it) and averages 17mpg on my 21.7m (roundtrip) commute.
My gas tank holds 20 gallons, but I only ever fill it up half-full. The reason I do this, is because my brain knows how heavy 4 x 2.5 gallon containers of water is, and thinks that not carrying this additional approx 60lbs of weight (1.5% of the 4013lbs) will be better for both mpg and performance (i.e. less liquid sloshing around the tank). Is my brain crazy?
posted by forallmankind at 8:19 PM PST - 24 comments
posted by forallmankind at 8:19 PM PST - 24 comments
Space abhors a vacuum, but I still want one that works
Please explain to me some things about central vacuum systems and/or steer me towards some good reference materials. I can find tons of websites by googling, but having a really hard time wading through thinly veiled advertising for real unbiased info. Especially concerning replacing the vacuum unit of a pre-installed system. [more inside]
What's a fast way to choose which new songs to download for Rock Band?
My sister and I are big fans of the Rock Band video game on XBox. They seem to be winding up the franchise though and we want to download a whack of new songs while we still can. We've already downloaded songs we know and love already. The dilemma is what to get next. It would take forever to go through the list and listen to each song. Is there a better way of narrowing down the choices?
Is there some rating system we could consult online that could tell us which songs are at least more popular than others?
Our musical interests are all over the place which makes things tougher. We like Creedence Clearwater, Pearl Jam, Sting, The Who, Bob Dylan, Queen... but as you can see these are older bands. We don't know much about the newer bands but we've liked Dover, Amy Winehouse, Stone Temple Pilots....
How can I find an inexpensive beach rental on the TX coast?
Where can retired Alaska snowbirds find a rental along the Texas gulf coast? By that I do not mean where are the nice beaches, as I know the answers to that question. I need to know HOW to find a rental by the month that includes linens, a furnished kitchen, cable, and internet. VRBO, Craigslist, airbnb, and other sources have failed. Everything I find is daily/weekly and incredibly expensive. I hope to travel from mid Jan thru mid Feb and $900 to $1100 per month seams reasonable to me. The specific location is not as important as price, and a beach view.
posted by woman at 6:27 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by woman at 6:27 PM PST - 4 comments
Seeking images of grand relief sculptures at Angkor Wat
Angkor Wat in Cambodia is perhaps the largest archaeological site in the world, and I am now fascinated by it. I am trying to learn more about the grand relief sculptures at Angkor Wat, and especially the Churning of the Sea of Milk, the Battle of Lanka, and the Battle of Kurukshetra. Unfortunately, these are so big and complex that I am having trouble finding great images of them online. Are there gigapixel photos, interactive panoramas, or other digitized versions of these available? I suspect that there are, but I cannot find any. Leads to such imagery would be greatly appreciated.
Back surgery in 5 days: What am in for?
Having back surgery on Dec. 19th. Fusion of L5-S1 with bone from pelvis and some "hardware". Doc has been great with the exception of what I'm in for in terms of post-op pain and recovery. Basically, he's told me "it varies." I do know I'll be hospitalized for at least 2 nights. [more inside]
posted by jrchaplin at 5:46 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by jrchaplin at 5:46 PM PST - 11 comments
Gift in the midst of cancer for someone you don't know well?
My beloved dog walker has been battling with cancer - and it sounds like she's losing. What can I give her and her partner as a Christmas/New Year's gift in the midst of this? [more inside]
posted by Gucky at 5:40 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by Gucky at 5:40 PM PST - 13 comments
Chest pains after vodka
I recently discovered that the morning after drinking vodka (I'm not getting drunk and this wasn't on an empty stomach), I get mild chest pains. I'm not looking for what to do: obviously I've stopped drinking vodka and will see a doctor ASAP. What I'd like to know is: have you experienced this and did you ever figure out the cause?
Athletic Sponsorship?
How does an athlete go about getting a sponsorship as an adult competitor (mid 20s) in an expensive but not popular (relative to something like basketball, ie signed/contract athlete) sport? [more inside]
Question for lawyers and law types, but not asking for legal advice
Suppose two adverse parties meet in a formal legal setting (for instance, suppose plaintiff is being deposed and defendant shows up to observe). Should the parties shake hands? Would it be rude if one of the parties doesn't want to shake hands? I certainly appreciate that the lawyers or other representatives of the parties should shake hands, but what (if any) are the customary duties of civility with respect to hand-shaking between adverse parties themselves? Is it necessary, or is a grim-but-civil "How do you do?" statement between parties enough? (Or is this simply a huge plate of beans that I'm overthinking?) I guess my own view is that there is significant tension between the basic duties of civility between any two members of society and the hostile behavior or insult that has created a lawsuit.
The most amazing tomato soup recipe I can't find
A long time ago in country far, far away, I was friends with a dude from Bangalore who ran an Indian restaurant. He had this tomato soup, and he'd never tell me the recipe. Google fails me. [more inside]
posted by colin_l at 4:33 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by colin_l at 4:33 PM PST - 12 comments
Help me get up-to-date in genetics and immunology.
Please recommend some up-to-date textbooks in genetics and immunology. [more inside]
Ripples, Ribbons, and Fudge: Help me make better ice cream.
Made a deal with an Amish neighbor to buy, among other things, a pint of heavy cream a week. As a result I've been making a lot of ice cream. I've got a few good go-to recipes, but what I want to learn about next is flavoring with ribbons and ripples. I have this excellent salt carmel ice cream recipe, for example, but the carmel seems to turn to hard candy when frozen. What's the trick to keeping ripples and ribbons from getting too hard? Are there tricks to folding in fudges and caramels in ice cream? Do added gelatins or oils help? And while you're here, what's your favorite homemade ice cream recipe? [more inside]
posted by Toekneesan at 3:41 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by Toekneesan at 3:41 PM PST - 12 comments
Hanging HEAVY stuff from my old plaster ceiling
I'm hoping to hang a heavy sliding door system from the old lath and plaster ceiling. Are bolts screwed straight up into the wood going to be enough support--or will they just pull out?
All the information I can find on sliding, barn door style systems show the rail support being screwed into a wall. But I was able to buy some ceiling brackets, so that must be "another" way. I can't bolt from above, so: am I asking for trouble screwing straight up into the wood, and expecting the bolts to support a 10-foot track and two 4x8 doors?
posted by largecorp at 3:07 PM PST - 17 comments
posted by largecorp at 3:07 PM PST - 17 comments
Independent Toyota Prius Repair in Portland, Oregon?
Does anybody have a favorite independent Toyota repair shop in Portland, Oregon? Preferably one you know to have worked on Priuses, but any recommendations / anti-recommendations welcome.
posted by spacewrench at 3:06 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by spacewrench at 3:06 PM PST - 5 comments
Knock-out nut roast
We're having a vegetarian Christmas. I love a good nut roast. There's only going to be three of us, and no one to freak out over vegetarian clichés. So I'm looking for a scene stealing nut roast recipe to be the main attraction. [more inside]
posted by Helga-woo at 3:04 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by Helga-woo at 3:04 PM PST - 13 comments
Christmas in NYC
I'm visitng NYC for the next couple days and would like to pack in some quintessential Christmastime in New York City activities. ! [more inside]
Whats wrong with my vintage audio receiver?
When I play records sound only comes out of the right speaker. [more inside]
Doctor says I need to lose some weight. But I have a history of anorexia
I am currently an overweight adult and my doctor has mentioned I could drop some weight. However, I have a history of anorexia and I definitely don't want to go down that path. How to go about losing weight without triggering myself into relapse? Snowflakes inside. [more inside]
posted by AlexiaSky at 2:49 PM PST - 20 comments
posted by AlexiaSky at 2:49 PM PST - 20 comments
A movie with a kid-killing bull
I have a dim memory of seeing a movie on television in which a young person is killed by a bull after wandering into its fenced-off bull field, but I haven't had any luck searching for a film title. [more inside]
Another one of those where should we live questions- please help!
Please help me find a new love now that I have to move on- love of place. [more inside]
SoCal Costal Hotels for Overnight Getaway?
My girlfriend and I both have some time off between Christmas and New Years Day. We'd like to take a one-day roadtrip somewhere along the southern California coast, get a hotel, hang out on the beach a while, sleep, come home the next afternoon. We're located in Santa Monica, and on a pretty tight budget. Ideas for great little spots/hotels? [more inside]
posted by Alterscape at 2:18 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by Alterscape at 2:18 PM PST - 15 comments
How can I keep warm while carrying shoulder bags?
For the nth time, I can't believe I'm using my question for this, but it is making me crazy and I need help. Here's the situation: I hate coats and they hate me, but I have to find a way to stay warm outside in winter. Help me figure out what kind of warm garment won't ride up or cause my bags to slip off my shoulder when I walk outside? [more inside]
posted by fingersandtoes at 1:07 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by fingersandtoes at 1:07 PM PST - 15 comments
Identify this song please!
My son has been watching this Mario Power-Ups video, and I cannot identify the song at 1:37. Can you?
posted by 41swans at 12:15 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by 41swans at 12:15 PM PST - 5 comments
How do I know if a job is a good fit for me?
Earlier this week I started working at a flour mill driving tractor trailers, after 2 months of training at a truck driving school to obtain a CDL, and I am having doubts about this decision. [more inside]
Rice and Beans
I'd like to start preparing my meals for the workweek in a batch on Sundays, to be refrigerated and microwaved as needed. I'm looking for a specific rice and bean-based recipe (type(s) of bean, optimal ratio of rice to beans, cooking time) that's cheap and nutritionally complete. That is to say, I'd like to be able to eat this for about half of my meals in a week and remain healthy.
posted by phrontist at 11:54 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by phrontist at 11:54 AM PST - 12 comments
Sedation effect from amitriptyline, does it fade?
My neurologist has prescribed amitriptyline (Elavil) for migraine +/- sleep issues. I took the first dose, 10 mg, last night. Today I am Elmer Fudd. I have felt substantially sedated all day, and this is not ok if it stays! I'm trying to decide whether I should continue with another dose tonight, or discontinue & call the doc on Monday. Dr. Google tells me that the half-life of the drug is 10-50 h., so I'm leaning towards no.
So, if you have experience with amitriptyline - is the sedative effect an initial one that fades, or will it stay (or get worse)?
posted by Dashy at 11:17 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by Dashy at 11:17 AM PST - 12 comments
How expensive is Tokyo, REALLY?
What's a reasonable cost of living wage increase when being transferred from Toronto to Tokyo? [more inside]
Why are electrical outlets at shin height?
In my old, pre-1950s house, the outlets were in the baseboards. Today, that's against code. I've heard several reasons why: possibility of minor flooding; flammable vapors may settle near the floors; etc. But now that I know why they're not so very low anymore, my question is: why aren't they (usually) any higher than shin height? Why not eye-level? The stooping seems inconvenient enough that there must be some good practical reason to justify it.
posted by sarling at 10:42 AM PST - 18 comments
posted by sarling at 10:42 AM PST - 18 comments
Vroom vroom kitty
Does anybody out there have a recommendation for a pet stroller? [more inside]
I'm looking for the name of a kid's book series.
There was a short-lived kid's book series whose title that for the life of me I can't remember. It came out around the time that ESP McGee did. The main character had this unusual ability - he could draw anything and he had a photographic memory. The series was basically like Encyclopedia Brown, with a series of short mysteries in each volume, except that the clues to be gleaned were always hidden in the drawing. The protagonist, at the scene, always said "click" like a camera, and remembered the scene to be drawn later in his sketchbook. I mentioned this to a friend of mine and he asked me if it was Cam Jansen, who also says click, but I looked that series up and it's not her. Can anyone help? This has been haunting me for years.
posted by Sully at 9:40 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by Sully at 9:40 AM PST - 4 comments
Making a tealight/teracotta pot heater more efficient
I've gotten caught up in the hype about those upturned-terracotta-plant-pot-with-tealight-candles-underneath-heaters, so I've made one. It's doing the job and keeping the chill off, and what can I expect, really, from something heated by 4 tealights. I want to make it more efficient, though. [more inside]
posted by Solomon at 8:44 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by Solomon at 8:44 AM PST - 11 comments
Help me keep my game from being gamed
I'm developing a website where people try to be click number X (sort of like radio call-in contests) to win a prize, and am looking for advice on ways to make it harder for someone to cheat. [more inside]
posted by signal at 8:23 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by signal at 8:23 AM PST - 13 comments
How long is the "chain" of moving, when people move?
We're moving to a new house, and the people in that house are moving somewhere ... and someone is moving into our place, and probably someone is moving into the place they left...
How long, typically, is one of these "chains" of moving, which are terminated by vacancies on each end?
Best methods and resources for learning Swedish?
I have decided that one day, sooner rather than later, I should like to move to Sweden. In order to get a job there, it would probably help to learn the language. [more inside]
posted by turbid dahlia at 7:07 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by turbid dahlia at 7:07 AM PST - 11 comments
Seeking a decent psychiatrist <1 mile of Farragut North or West
Can you recommend a decent psychiatrist in DC, within a 1-mile radius of either Farragut North or Farragut West (i.e., near K Street NW)? I have Cigna, however I am willing to go out of network. Thank you in advance. [more inside]
Me and You and That Guy
I can't stand my sister's boyfriend. He's coming for Christmas. They're inseparable. Now what? [more inside]
How should I act around my girlfriend's coworker?
How should I handle social situations with my girlfriend's creepy coworker? [more inside]
How do I make peace with the stress of contributing to society?
Having a career is hard work (Duh). But I didn't know it would be this... all-consuming. How can I stay happy and stress-free when I suddenly have a tiny fraction of the "me time" I used to have? [more inside]
posted by johnpoe50 at 6:10 AM PST - 18 comments
posted by johnpoe50 at 6:10 AM PST - 18 comments
What has happened to the past perfect tense?
I've recently noticed an irritating trend in English-language writing: sections that really should be written in the past perfect tense are instead in the simple past tense. I've seen this more in American English than in British English, but that might just be confirmation bias. Is there a reason for this, for example a new style of teaching in schools or universities? And is it really new, or am I just looking for things to get annoyed about? [more inside]
posted by daisyk at 2:42 AM PST - 34 comments
posted by daisyk at 2:42 AM PST - 34 comments
2nd-degree burn: supplies for pain management and healing?
2nd-degree burns: what helped you recover from and care for yours? Any advice as I prep to leave tomorrow for a vacation where I won't have access to any big pharmacies/stores? [more inside]
Relationships - how to decide if they're worth the effort?
I haven't been in an LTR in years. I'm in my early thirties, strongly introverted and don't have many friends, so its not a surprise that I haven't met "the one" yet. Everyone I know seems to be getting married and having babies, which has prompted me to wonder if I'd like to do the same. To be honest I'm not sure if it is worth the effort of dressing up, and going on lots of dates to find a guy, and then having to maintain a relationship (I'm not good with people) or whether I should accept that I am different to the others, and just focus on being happily single.
For the singletons: did you ever consciously decide to stay single, or did it just happen? If you decided, how did you make that choice?
For the coupled-up: Have you ever considered being single long-term, and if so why did you reject that idea? Did you consciously choose to find a partner or did you just meet them by accident (e.g. online dating vs meeting when you least expected it)
Hope that all makes sense!
posted by EatMyHat at 1:22 AM PST - 29 comments
posted by EatMyHat at 1:22 AM PST - 29 comments
December 13
Would you (female) stay for a few weeks at a co-ed "share" airbnb?
It's someone's house that they turned into an exclusively-Airbnb house where several rooms are available for short to long term rent. The owner has one of the rooms, and stays there every other day or so.
If you were a young female, do you think you would be generally comfortable staying in this kind of place for a few weeks? [more inside]
Are women supposed to bring up the commitment talk?
I've been "seeing" someone for three weeks now, and he seems interested... I think... but hasn't mentioned anything regarding a relationship or exclusivity yet. Should I bring it up or wait it out? [more inside]
.io TLD for a personal/family website?
How do people generally feel toward the .io TLD for personal or family websites? I'm aware that a lot of techy startups use .io, but I'm not a startup. I know that .com is preferred overall, especially for commercial use. But what if the domain name is perfect, except for the TLD? [more inside]
posted by Kevin Sanders at 10:49 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by Kevin Sanders at 10:49 PM PST - 9 comments
Help me pick an inexpensive standing desk seat
I moved from an Aeron knock off that was beautiful and comfortable to a adjustable bar stool when I realized over time, the chair was the source of terrible back pain. So now I want to get a seat that is more ergonomic but I can't make up my mind. I want to sit erect. I want a place to put my feet if I choose. I want it to adjust up to at least 32 inches. I want the seat angle to be adjustable. All of these do that but I want to make the best decision. Here are my choices: 1, 2, 3.
I've narrowed the selection down to these three. They are in my price range and aren't too ugly. I spend a lot of time at my PC and on the phone but I don't want my back to hurt anymore.
Help Me Build a Solar System
I want to build a solar system with a decent amount of verisimilitude, and the math and physics are killing me. [more inside]
A non-white Christmas?
Are there Christmas/holiday films or TV specials that star non-white protagonists? I was watching a holiday ad for The Criterion Collection on Hulu and was nonplussed at how white the casts are for all the classic holiday films. I mean, I have a soft spot for Home Alone as a child of the Chicago suburbs, but I'd love to show nieces and nephews and cousins more than whitebread suburban holiday cheer.
Are there Christmas films featuring people of color (foreign or American) you would recommend? And if foreign, hopefully subtitled? I can poke around for Korean films, but am otherwise linguistically stuck with the English language.
posted by spamandkimchi at 9:54 PM PST - 23 comments
posted by spamandkimchi at 9:54 PM PST - 23 comments
Migration naturalisation frustration
Father: had a British passport he let expire. Grandfather: British citizen. Grandmother: married him pre-1949, automatically making her a citizen. Me: Australian national, NZ resident, wants to live in the UK. Please help me make sense of what I can apply for! [more inside]
posted by monster truck weekend at 9:45 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by monster truck weekend at 9:45 PM PST - 9 comments
A sign of the times?
I just had someone tell me that it is correct to close a letter with “Signed, [Mr. Letter Writer].” It’s the use of the word “Signed” that I find strange and just wrong. I have never in my life seen this and am having a hard time believing it is acceptable. Can anyone enlighten me?
posted by Dolley at 7:04 PM PST - 36 comments
posted by Dolley at 7:04 PM PST - 36 comments
Help me find my utopia!
Living in NYC is wearing me down...
Or maybe I'm just slowing down...
So I typed up a wish list of my dream hometown and thought I'd see whether any such place exists or even comes close to it. Ha.
I realize my list is a bit silly since it's not completely thought out but boy I'd snap out of this major funk I've been in if such an area existed! ...or comes close to it? [more inside]
Good Toyota shop in Los Angeles for maintenance and repairs
Recently moved to the South Bay area of Los Angeles County and I am looking for a good place to take my Toyota Corolla for any maintenance and repairs it may need. [more inside]
posted by jayder at 6:39 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by jayder at 6:39 PM PST - 6 comments
Preventing heartburn before a large meal
Asking for a friend: He's going out for a large meal that has given him heartburn in the past. He wants to have the meal anyway. In case it's important, it consists of a steak, potatoes and some vegetables. Is there anything he can do to stop heartburn before it comes? Non-medication options are appreciated (foods he can eat beforehand, anything behavioral, natural remedies, etc).
posted by jet_pack_in_a_can at 6:07 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by jet_pack_in_a_can at 6:07 PM PST - 14 comments
Is it best to continue my career in academia, or take a different path?
I am a 25 year old woman, and handing in my thesis tonight for a Master’s in English. I am at a crossroads in my life, and it’s making me very confused. My original plan was to go on to complete a Ph. D and become a college professor of English, while working as an adjunct instructor to gain teaching experience. But with the expense of living being what it is, as well as the student debt I’m in, I’m not sure if it’s worth it. Not only will a Doctoral program take me to greater debt, but working as an adjunct wont pay very well at all, and doesn’t come with benefits. I would need to take a handful of other part-time jobs to supplement the adjunct salary, just to pay the bills. [more inside]
How Do I Explain My Situation To my Mechanic?
I know I need some maintenance on my Volvo, I haven't kept it up perfectly, but I don't know how to ask for what I want without appearing as a complete mark to my mechanic. [more inside]
posted by Hennimore at 4:47 PM PST - 20 comments
posted by Hennimore at 4:47 PM PST - 20 comments
Where's the mess to go?
My family owns a Mazda 5, which suits our needs. However, there is stuff all over the floor. What do you do to organize the car so it's passable (i.e., kids can get to the way back without wading through books)? [more inside]
Chinese translation, please
Asking for a friend, can someone translate this chinese frame, please?
posted by jgwong at 3:50 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by jgwong at 3:50 PM PST - 2 comments
What VOIP services play well with CenturyLink DSL?
I'd like to move from using a land line to a VOIP service over my CenturyLink DSL. I'm afraid the service will suck. How can I evaluate this before committing to porting my phone number? [more inside]
posted by diode at 3:43 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by diode at 3:43 PM PST - 6 comments
Still looking for a printer.
I tried this last week but got no response, so I'm going to ask again in a somewhat more general way. I'm looking for a good photo printer that is reliable, takes lots of different paper sizes, doesn't cost a ton, and is relatively cheap to run. [more inside]
The house that no one wants, but I'm stuck with
I'm in a pickle - I own a house that I've been renting out for several years but things recently soured with the tenants and property managers and it is now vacant. Listed for sale but market is painfully slow - should I hold out for a buyer or list it for rent again? [more inside]
RC Cars/Trucks for the yard
I need recommendations for remote control trucks that will work in the yard. [more inside]
Coolest sound toys for young children?
My 1-year old niece was entranced by my bluetooth speaker last time I visited. What are some cool sound toys for kids? [more inside]
posted by wemayfreeze at 3:04 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by wemayfreeze at 3:04 PM PST - 13 comments
Need ideas for ball shaped party foods!
My friend is having a Christmas party with a ball theme. Fancy clothes, sparkly decorations... and ball shaped foods. What should I make? [more inside]
posted by youcancallmeal at 2:59 PM PST - 23 comments
posted by youcancallmeal at 2:59 PM PST - 23 comments
What to put in a picture frame for a kid?
I bought a picture frame for my 7 year old, now I don't know what to put in it. Would a kid like a photo or art or something else best? [more inside]
posted by Margalo Epps at 2:43 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by Margalo Epps at 2:43 PM PST - 14 comments
The ex is reaching out...
A few years ago, my ex started avoiding me due to his new girlfriend not being okay with us hanging out. We have a lot of mutual friends, and this created a very awkward social dynamic for the last three years. He recently reached out to me via email and I'm not sure how to respond... [more inside]
posted by ohmy at 2:41 PM PST - 32 comments
posted by ohmy at 2:41 PM PST - 32 comments
Help a Picky Traveler Plan a San Diego Trip
I'm planning a trip to San Diego in early February. Not sightseeing, just being somewhere else and getting out of the Michigan cold for a while. [more inside]
posted by still_wears_a_hat at 2:26 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by still_wears_a_hat at 2:26 PM PST - 6 comments
Dessert bar disaster
My hello dolly bars are a delicious but crumbly mess. How do I salvage them? [more inside]
posted by yawper at 1:54 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by yawper at 1:54 PM PST - 13 comments
Color-coding caramels
Where can I find colored or decorated wax paper for wrapping homemade candies? Alternate wrapping media accepted. [more inside]
posted by maryr at 1:22 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by maryr at 1:22 PM PST - 7 comments
Vintage Honda motorcycle manuals?
Incredibly-specific-gift-filter: What is/where can I get the best manual for 1977 Honda CB750Fs? [more inside]
What is going on in my mouth ?
I just discovered a hard, white, roughly quarter-inch lump in my mouth, just behind my incisors on my jaw. It is painless, and I have a dentist appointment on Tuesday, but I am curious and slightly freaking out as to what this could be. [more inside]
posted by 4ster at 12:23 PM PST - 17 comments
posted by 4ster at 12:23 PM PST - 17 comments
Suggestions on how to forget forgetting?
I have a tendency to automatically dissociate from/"forget" things that are stressful or anxiety-provoking. How can I better focus on these scary things so that I can better address and resolve them? [more inside]
posted by rhooke at 11:48 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by rhooke at 11:48 AM PST - 11 comments
Breaking the usual song structure
I've been on a massive songwriting binge recently but can't seem to break out of the Verse-Chorus- Verse-Bridge-Chorus structure. I'm looking for examples of high quality pop songs that really break that mold. What songs/songwriters can you suggest that are creative with structure in a pop context? Some examples inside: [more inside]
posted by BlerpityBloop at 11:27 AM PST - 24 comments
posted by BlerpityBloop at 11:27 AM PST - 24 comments
How to mend a broken 5+ year friendship
Friend and I had a blow out 4 months ago. We've been friends before that for 5+ years. She's ignored my previous initiatives to reach out and try to apologize and talk things out. Is there any hope? Or should I just leave this alone? [more inside]
What do I do/need to diagram images on a Mac?
How do I draw lines on a .pdf or .jpg image on a recent Apple computer? [more inside]
What do I do with "fans" on Facebook?
I'm lucky enough to be experiencing some success in my career, and people are adding me on Facebook who don't know me. I want to communicate with these people as I appreciate their support, but how do I do this in the best and safest way? [more inside]
Fun school club ideas?
I'm a high school teacher and I want to start a club for my students that's just about having fun. [more inside]
posted by figaro at 11:04 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by figaro at 11:04 AM PST - 12 comments
"This towns got secrets you can't possibly comprehend!"
It's a common trope in literature, film, etc. where somebody warns another person: "You can't possibly grasp the secret that's going on here!" Which, of course, raises a mystery that an author's got to resolve, usually anticlimactically. What are instances of stories which pay off on those juicy teasers? i.e., stories in which the thing that our protagonist "can't possibly comprehend" is in fact astonishing, unexpected, and totally rewarding for the reader? (Bonus points for avoiding cosmic horror, unnecessary violence, sexual savagery.)
posted by Rory Marinich at 10:40 AM PST - 66 comments
posted by Rory Marinich at 10:40 AM PST - 66 comments
Mama I do it! Mama you do it!
I have a 2 year old (26 months to be very precise). We have entered the phase of "I do it!", which is okay in and of itself, but a pattern is starting to appear.
He wants to, say, put on his coat himself. Great! Usually one of 2 things happens: he puts it on himself (about 10% of the time), or as soon as I hand him the coat he insists that I do it. So I start to do it, but I get a tearful "MAMA I DO IT!" He creates an impasse where I can't help him but he refuses to do what he says he wants to do. [more inside]
Help me make a kickass gourmet dinner for my parents in Baltimore/DC
I will be visiting my family in the Baltimore/DC area for the holidays. As a present I would like to make my parents a really fabulous, gourmet dinner. Please point me to the stores with the best selections of seafood, veggies, and cheese! [more inside]
Worth springing for Macbook upgrades?
Is it worth paying for the upgrades on a new Macbook Pro? [more inside]
posted by Nightman at 10:01 AM PST - 23 comments
posted by Nightman at 10:01 AM PST - 23 comments
How often do anti-depressants cause permanent sexual dysfunction?
What is the actual chance of developing permanent sexual dysfunction as a result of taking an anti-depressant--meaning that the sexual dysfunction persists for let's say a year or more after the person has stopped taking the drug? [more inside]
Small business IT Support
So my wife has a small business (5 employees, 3 in the USA and 2 in China), and I currently do IT support for them "for free". I'd like to get out of doing this for several reasons. [more inside]
What is the most ridiculous thing I can have delivered in Manhattan?
For my friend's birthday I want to send the most absurd, ostentatious thing possible to her office in New York. What is that thing? [more inside]
Master's program options for Geography/GIS undergrad
Do any of you know what my options might be as a Geography/GIS undergrad looking for Grad programs? And I guess more specifically, can you all think of any programs/occupations that use GIS to a certain extent as a supplementary tool rather than the sole tool? [more inside]
Help me find a good pattern for knitting my husband an infinity scarf
I am a fairly beginner knitter: I can knit, purl, decrease, increase, probably a few other things. I want to knit my husband an infinity scarf along the lines of this scarf in terms of size and length. Please help me figure out a really easy pattern so that I can do this without tears and drama. [more inside]
posted by Viola at 6:37 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by Viola at 6:37 AM PST - 12 comments
Calling all interior designers
We're getting our kitchen counter measured today for a new black Silestone countertop. We need to make a decision before they get here: what kind of edge bevel to use. I'm wondering if there is a consensus on a 45 degree bevel versus squared off (or squared off with a very small rounded-off edge)? We don't want it to look dated.
The counter being replaced is a simple large 8'x26"' rectangle -- no weird angles.
Thanks!
Gay travel in India: bad idea?
So the Indian Supreme Court has made gay sex illegal in India again, punishable by up to life imprisonment. Western governments are duly amending their travel warnings. But is there any realistic threat to gay foreigners? [more inside]
Someone else's grief: office edition
My boss' mother is dying. It's not about me, but: what am I not doing that I should be doing? What have I not even thought of? [more inside]
What is the equivalent of Paint for Mac?
I just got a Macbook Pro and would like to be able to draw simple diagrams with shapes and text fields. Are there any Mac programs or apps equivalent to PC's Paint?
My search online has brought up Paintbrush which appears to be a very old program. The new ones in the apps store are either really expensive or poorly reviewed if they're free.
Thanks!
posted by grak88 at 1:17 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by grak88 at 1:17 AM PST - 12 comments
Songs for those who wear their belts low
Suggest great karaoke songs, for male or female voices, in the same vocal range as Tracy Chapman? [more inside]
December 12
Surprise ball for a teenager?
What kinds of smallish or flat things can I wrap into a surprise ball that teenagers would like? [more inside]
posted by hellochula at 9:34 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by hellochula at 9:34 PM PST - 14 comments
a little twlonger
Is there some sort of online venue that's midway in concept between twitter and a blog? [more inside]
How much is my dentist upselling me on dental implant restorations?
A few months ago my dentist quoted me $6,000 for two front lateral incisor implant restorations as well as new abutments (she claims that the old abutments aren't very good.) So we're talking $6,000 for just the porcelain crowns and new abutments, as I had the surgery to put the posts in years ago. I haven't gotten a second opinion yet. Part of the problem is that I let them do the casts and make me a temporary flipper, thinking the implant restorations would only cost a grand or two, then she hit me with this estimate. I am in this fix due to a botched restoration with an extremely shady dentist about a decade ago. I would like to hear what people have been quoted for similar procedures (the restoration/crown part of the process, in the SF Bay Area) and if anyone can recommend a truly sterling dentist. [more inside]
Oops! Did I spill my crazy on you? Help me be a better online dater!
First date excitement, late-night texting, boundary-pushing, and empty promises of a second date. Drama ensues, all in the span of a few weeks. Did I bring this on myself, was this guy bad news, and how do I tell the difference in the future? [more inside]
posted by mini apple at 9:26 PM PST - 49 comments
posted by mini apple at 9:26 PM PST - 49 comments
Looking for a volunteer food prep opportunity in NYC
I'd like to put in a few dozen to a hundred hours over the next year practicing cooking large amounts of food---far too large for me to buy and eat myself. Is there a place in New York where I could volunteer a few hours each weekend doing scutwork in somebody's kitchen? More specific criteria inside. [more inside]
US Consumer Electronics Contract Manufacturing: How do I get started?
I am having issues with our overseas electronics contract manufacturer. I would like to collect proposals for domestic manufacturing, but I'm not sure where to start. At this stage, I am most concerned about assembled PCB costs. We have a critical semiconductor component that our overseas CM has sourced at well under 50% of what I can find that component at, and it's making other proposals difficult. This is for a product that will sell in the $25-$30 range, and we expect an initial order quantity of 20-50k units. I could just cold email manufacturers, but is there a better way?
Can I eat this? Expired treacle in Christmas pudding
I bought brand-new treacle today, but accidentally used the old expired tin ""BB END MAY 2012 DISPOSE OF ON EXPIRY" instead of the new one. Nothing looked strange when I used it; I only noticed what I had done when I found the new tin with the seal still on it. The Christmas pudding will have been steamed for almost 5 hours. How dangerous might it be to eat it? [more inside]
posted by sueinnyc at 4:50 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by sueinnyc at 4:50 PM PST - 9 comments
How would your fix your EMR?
Medical Professionals: If somebody gave your office $20,000 to improve your medical records systems, what would you want done? What don't you like about the way your office's system works now? What are features you do like and want to keep? [more inside]
Should I keep my resignation secret?
I sent my resignation a few days ago after several years in the company. Historically people either disappeared without a word if fired or they were requested to keep their resignation secret and announced their resignation in the very last day. I found it to be extremely uncomfortable doing that. [more inside]
My hands and wrists hurt. Help?
My hands and my wrists really hurt doing any activity that engages them, I don't see my doctor for until December 29th, and I have things I need to get done involving my hands. Looking for some ideas/short term solutions to keep functioning until I see the doc next in a couple weeks. [more inside]
posted by [insert clever name here] at 3:38 PM PST - 17 comments
posted by [insert clever name here] at 3:38 PM PST - 17 comments
Who do you hire to build a simple prototype item?
Where do I begin looking to hire a person as cheaply as possible to build a prototype for a very simple invention I thought of? It will only be for me and not to try and pitch or have made en masse. It extremely simple and involves a containment unit and timed lock but I would need to explain my idea and have somebody build a spiffy looking one. [more inside]
Is there a word for "one word", like monosyllabic means "one syllable"?
Is there a word for "one word", like monosyllabic means "one syllable"?
Migraines and hospital night shift mitigation
My friend is in nursing, working in an ER right now, and also finishing up a degree to be a nurse practitioner, with intention to work in a hospital emergency dept. She suffers from migraines, and whenever she's worked a nightshift, she's been hit with a terrible one at 3 or 4 in the morning. It seems like new hires in every position she's found are expected to take on regular night shifts, and that even later on they'll be expected to do that a few times each month. Is there any hope of getting hired in an ER at that level with a stipulation that drastically limits the number of night shifts she has to endure, or is there really no recourse other than to leave the emergency department in order to work. (In her present job, she's been doing regular 12-hour daytime shifts, which has been fine.)
My son is struggling with depression/unemployment. How to help?
My son, a late-20s college graduate, got fired from a job out-of-country and was forced to come home; he has been staying at my place (I am a single parent). I was happy to have him home and figured he would stay for a month or so then be out on his own again, but it has been 3 months with few signs of him actively job hunting. He has confided in me that he is unsure of what to do with his life, and is feeling overwhelmed and depressed. I would appreciate suggestions on how to keep him motivated on finding a job, and also ideas on how he can go about deciding on a career path. Details inside. [more inside]
Looking for a good webhost that will let me run Unix processes
I'm in need of a new webhost, and I need the following: SSH/SFTP, PHP support, ability to run background processes (namely the Unix version of Dropbox), webmail forwarding, and monthly payments. I don't need much space (1 GB would likely be plenty) or bandwidth (1 GB/mo? maybe?), and the Dropbox process is literally the only thing I would have running. What's my best, cheapest option? Thanks!
posted by reductiondesign at 2:43 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by reductiondesign at 2:43 PM PST - 16 comments
Mostly Just Bothered and Bewildered
My boyfriend internet usage is suggestive of an interest in escorts and other activities to an extent that bothers me. [more inside]
Career-switching in your 50s: Please share your experiences
I'm 52 and thinking about investing in a Masters Degree to learn computer forensics. I'd be interested to hear from people to attempted a career left-turn that late, and also from people in this field re: the feasibility of my goals. [more inside]
Where to get a REAL Santa suit?
Where to get a REAL Santa suit? I don't want a costume! I want something I can wear as I work outside in the winter, real functional clothes that happen to be red and lined with white fur. [more inside]
posted by Meatbomb at 1:32 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by Meatbomb at 1:32 PM PST - 7 comments
Allentown PA / Bethlehem PA - Indoor Playground or Children's Museum?
I need to entertain my 2.5 year old for several hours this weekend while my wife attends a bridal shower in Macungie, PA - which is right outside of Allentown PA, here's a Google Maps link of the area. Can anyone suggest an indoor playground or children's museum or something else that my kid might enjoy? Something within a 30 minute drive?
posted by exhilaration at 1:28 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by exhilaration at 1:28 PM PST - 6 comments
3D CAD for complete beginner?
I had an idea for a product. I'd like to make a few prototypes using a 3d printer. I am utterly clueless on where to start. [more inside]
Give more quitting notice during the holidays?
I'm likely going to be able to accept a new job (Yes, no resigning until I have a written offer, I know) but I am concerned about giving only 2 weeks notice during the holidays. For example, if I resigned 12/17 and my last day is 1/31, no one will be working for most of those two weeks. I supervise 6-7 other social workers and an intern; if I leave during a break I worry that they will not have A. heard about it and B. been able to sort of make any coverage plans. I know I'm not irreplaceable; I just don't want to burn bridges. [more inside]
posted by ShadePlant at 12:38 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by ShadePlant at 12:38 PM PST - 11 comments
The job market in LA
I'm making plans to move to Los Angeles and I very likely will have someone else accompanying me who is also feeling the desire to move to Los Angeles with me as well (he went with me on a week long vacation - please note the previous AskMeFi for better reference [more inside]
Therapist recommendation for OC/LA area
I need recommendation for a good therapist working in Orange County or LA. [more inside]
Help Me Overcome My Prejudice
Posting this anonymously, as this is a pretty shameful thing to fess up to. But please bear in mind that I realize this is irrational, that prejudice is born of ignorance, and that I do want to work through it. [more inside]
Do you know of any weird music/sound creation programs??
i've been scouring the web for free and weird sound generators, sequencers etc... i've found a few interesting things, and i know others exist. i will sample a few i've found below, can you share any you might've found? i would like to use this stuff for ambient/electronica music i create. :D looking for experimental and new ways of creating digital music.
highc
synth zone
tune toys
preferably for windows... :D
Thinking of moving to S. Oregon (Meford/Ashland) ... Advice?
There is a possibility I may be getting a job that would require a relocation to southern Oregon (Medford/Ashland area) With a few exceptions, I've grown up and lived almost my entire life in the Chicago area. Can you help recommend a community or neighborhood? Details inside. [more inside]
Rihanna without Rihanna
I'm doing a mix CD challenge with my friends, and want to win. [more inside]
posted by spunweb at 11:27 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by spunweb at 11:27 AM PST - 19 comments
Lorem Ipsum mug for my boss (anyone read Latin?) and gift advice.
My boss is retiring. He used to teach Latin. I made some webpage mockups a few months ago and he thought the lorem ipsum (dummy filler text) was very amusing. I'd like to get him a Lorem Ipsum coffee mug for a retirement/holiday gift. [more inside]
posted by hotelechozulu at 11:16 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by hotelechozulu at 11:16 AM PST - 15 comments
Any problems with changing brands of blood glucose meters?
I'm a person with diabetes and I have my blood glucose data going back for more than a year. If I change blood glucose meters now will I still have a basis for comparison with my old data? [more inside]
posted by Rob Rockets at 11:09 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by Rob Rockets at 11:09 AM PST - 7 comments
Cheapest site for photo or art mugs?
I have some artwork that I want to put on coffee mugs for friends. Though I see a few DIY sites, I am not sure what resin to use to hold up in microwave so would like your recommendations on commercial sites. I may eventually do bulk orders if I decide to sell so if you have any recommendations that would be different for bulk orders, I am game for those suggestions as well. Vistaprint was around $20-25 after all was said and done.
Thanks, and enjoy your weekend.
posted by snap_dragon at 11:08 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by snap_dragon at 11:08 AM PST - 9 comments
How to create short, masking url for single .html file in Dropbox?
(Sorry, I'm Internet-challenged:)
I keep a small website (essentially it's one html file) in my Dropbox folder as a minimalist way to share my various weird projects with friends. I like everything about this solution except the fact, that website's address is this ugly dl.dropbox.com/u/yadayaydaydyadyada/something/somethingelse.html
Is there a way to mask this address from showing up in browser and replace it with something more elegant and free? Or is this some next level stuff?
posted by desultory_banyan at 11:02 AM PST - 20 comments
posted by desultory_banyan at 11:02 AM PST - 20 comments
Transferring Gmail data to a new account
On Dec 31st my primary email, which I've had for almost 15 years, is converting from a free service to one with an outrageous annual fee! I need to know if there is a way to transfer all of the emails and their attachments to another email address. [more inside]
What do I need to know about filing a car insurance claim?
In November I purchased a 1985 Volkswagen Vanagon. Two days ago it was hit in the middle of the night. They drove off at the time, but came back the next morning and gave their insurance information. [more inside]
What shall I have for dinner tonight?
I'm out of ideas for something delicious and simple to cook tonight, but which does not require many ingredients. Assuming I have all the basics in my cupboard (onions, garlic, pasta, rice, potatoes, eggs, milk, herbs and spices etc) what should I make for dinner tonight? [more inside]
Send me away, please.
I left my holiday vacation planning until the last minute and I'm at my wits' end as to where I can take a warm, relaxing vacation at any time between Dec. 21st and Jan. 5th without spending my life's savings. Any ideas or frugality resources? [more inside]
Avengers inspiration: How do I get a body like a Marvel film actor?
Hello,
I'm living off savings mostly at the moment, as I concentrate on my Chinese studies. This should continue for about 1 - 2 more years.
I have some spare time at the moment, so I'd really like to improve my fitness. I have the time to commit to full time plan for a few months. [more inside]
Phoenix > Sedona > Grand Canyon?
What will the weather be like on a Phoenix > Sedona > Grand Canyon trip in early-mid February? [more inside]
Videos for the office TV?
My office has had a giant TV sitting unused for ages. Today, we got a Chromecast to plug into it to get some use out of it. What would be some things we could play that would be nice background video? [more inside]
What's the best way to prevent sports injuries?
Changing play style, preventative exercises, diet, etc? [more inside]
posted by randomnity at 9:28 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by randomnity at 9:28 AM PST - 10 comments
Put it in the fridge. No, not THAT part.
As I was leaving for work yesterday, I instructed my mother to "help yourself to the oatmeal; afterwards, put it in the downstairs fridge." This morning, as I opened the downstairs fridge, I discovered she'd put the actual slow cooker appliance into the fridge along with, instead of just, the ceramic insert with the food. Will this harm the slow cooker? [more inside]
posted by Zelos at 9:03 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by Zelos at 9:03 AM PST - 14 comments
Cover me
I want a definitive list of hit songs that were covers or written by other artists. More specifics inside. [more inside]
A pirate's favorite programming language... and mine too?
I'm a daily MATLAB user for data analysis, and fairly fluent with most toolboxes, including Parallel Computing. I know I need to learn something new, though.* (MATLAB is great for prototyping but unwieldy for real data-crunching.) I'm taking a class (Bayesian stat methods) starting in January based around R. What's the best resource to get started with R for someone like me? [more inside]
posted by supercres at 8:35 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by supercres at 8:35 AM PST - 14 comments
Bleaching teeth – no food or drink afterward, literally?
Can I bleach my teeth late afternoon or early evening, and then eat or drink later without unbleaching? [more inside]
posted by Lesser Shrew at 8:29 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by Lesser Shrew at 8:29 AM PST - 6 comments
Do I NEED a personal trainer or is there an online resource?
Want to work out to facilitate a great deal of weight loss. Currently "holiday poor" and can't afford a personal trainer, but want to maximize my workout. Member of a gym. Is there a good web site that can help me plan workout routines and give me examples of workouts to do? [more inside]
Twee
I'm looking for recommendations for twee art. You can define this as broadly as you like, and if you want to include how you are defining the word, feel free. But I am looking for art that you actually like that is nonetheless decidedly twee. [more inside]
Smart detective fiction?
What are some particularly intelligent or well-written novels in the suspense/mystery/detective fiction genre? [more inside]
Bowling shoes or tricks to make rented shoes slide?
Should I buy bowling shoes, or are there any tricks to make sure the rented shoes slide? [more inside]
posted by czytm at 8:12 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by czytm at 8:12 AM PST - 8 comments
I just got my masters in Biophysics and want to leave. Should I?
I'm in a Ph. D. program in Biophysics. I'm getting paid to be here. I've joined a lab and finished the classes, but I still have at least 2 and a half long years of research to go. I don't care for my project, I don't care for the town I'm in, and I don't even know if I care about science anymore. Finally someone noticed and I've been told I need to step up my game. [more inside]
I just want a hot shower!
We have a hot water problem and I would love to have an idea of what the problem and solution is before wasting a bunch of money on a plumber. [more inside]
Things are getting steamy - boiler exhaust safety?
New high efficiency boilers installed - great! But what exactly is in the condensate? [more inside]
posted by analog at 7:28 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by analog at 7:28 AM PST - 5 comments
SugarCRM, CiviCRM or something else?
We’re a new and fast growing non-profit makerspace (community workshop & art studio) that’s looking for a free CRM. We’re currently considering SugarCRM Community and CivicCRM and we’d like you to help us choose one, or tell us about others we should be considering. [more inside]
Help! Setting up an Obeya - any resources to get started?
I have been given the responsibility to set up an Obeya for one of the product lines for a Fortune 50 manufacturing company. I am having trouble locating resources to help me get started. Can anyone point me in the direction of good resources or share any experience with setting up an Obeya? I need help! Thanks!
How to put a value on free?
I run a daily free (tips appreciated) walking tour and would like some ideas on how to work out how much it is worth as a business. [more inside]
What board games are popular with the kids these days?
Yesterday, my gentleman friend brought home two cards from our community center "angel tree" - where you can buy holiday gifts for a neighborhood kid in need of some. The problem is, the cards are maddeningly opaque - they each just say the kids (boy age 13, girl age 11) want 'board games'. What should we get them? [more inside]
Finding all my annotated PDFs amongst the clutter
I have a lot of PDFs and some of them contain my notes and annotations. How can I single out the annotated files without opening them all, one by one? [more inside]
I'm starting out with "I Saw Her Standing There"
My baby's turning seventeen and I want to surprise her with a mix CD. We've been joking about Stevie Nicks' "Edge of Seventeen" which has oddly been haunting our airwaves. What can I add? She's my music geek kid so the more obscure the better. Please note the title because I can think of no better opening than "She was just seventeen, you know what I mean..."
posted by readery at 5:47 AM PST - 42 comments
posted by readery at 5:47 AM PST - 42 comments
Is there any good William Blake tourism to be had in London?
I'm headed to the UK for the first time, and would like to do some sightseeing related to William Blake. Is there anything worth seeing? I've haven't found anything apart from Poet's Corner and this very dodgy seeming walking tour. Alternatively, can anybody advise me as to which museums in the UK are best for viewing Blake's original prints?
posted by HeroZero at 5:27 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by HeroZero at 5:27 AM PST - 9 comments
CABBAGE SOUP? My favourite!!
Comforting, hearty vegetable recpies OR good veggie snacks for carrying around with me
Difficulty level: Low starch vegetables only please [more inside]
Alternatives to Movable Type
Is there an alternative to Movable Type that is a decent open source publishing blog platform that can be fully programmed to be graphically modified and inserted into a custom website? [more inside]
Harry Potter fanfic recommendations
I'm looking for good (as in well-written and canon-compliant) and preferably complete or regularly updating fics that expand the HP series. They can be prequels or sequels or depict "missing" time in between the books. [more inside]
posted by LoonyLovegood at 4:39 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by LoonyLovegood at 4:39 AM PST - 3 comments
How to have a life long close relationship with your kids ?
Recently seeing a lot of disappointment from parents/ grown children regarding their parents/ grown children. Both sides disillusioned with the difference between who they want/ need the other to be/do and who they actually are/ do. What has kept you close to your parents/ children? [more inside]
posted by oink at 4:00 AM PST - 44 comments
posted by oink at 4:00 AM PST - 44 comments
releasing counseling record to insurance? any bad impact?
In order to get reimburstment, I was requested by my insurance to provide medical record from my doctor. I'm wondering is there any bad impact in the future to release these confidentical (psychiatric)counselling histrory to insurance company?
They do not always request this. This is the first time. I do not know why they are requesting it this time. I guess maybe because I submitted the claim for several visits all together which is a large bill that they are not willing to pay?
Any my doctor is kind of tight on this saying that he had never done this before and unless I sign a release and come to pick up myself he would not do it.
His emphasis on "comfidencial" made me think about is there any bad impact if I release this to insurance company? Will it be in my public record? will I be quoted higher premium in the future? Will these be recorded as pre-existing conditions?
Does it worth it to give up reimburstment to keep record from insurance?
Thanks.
Exterminator X to the edge of panic
We're renting a mid-50s house in south Minneapolis and have an unwanted guest (mouse). Our cat decided today was a good day to try and become a hero mouser but failed miserably so we spent this morning tearing our living room apart trying to catch the mouse she captured to show us but failed to kill. We're calling the exterminator this morning to get someone out today and need to be prepared. Help us! [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 3:43 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by anonymous at 3:43 AM PST - 15 comments
Would you take the 'better' job or wait for the 'perfect' job?
I think I'm about to be offered a new job. It's the type of work I'd like to do. But it's not my 'perfect' job and it wouldn't mean a payrise. Should I wait?
. [more inside]
posted by Encipher at 2:24 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by Encipher at 2:24 AM PST - 10 comments
December 11
Who was this famous prankster?
I am looking for the name of a famous prankster, who was active perhaps in the 70s and 80s. Here is what I remember. He would dress up in a New York Yankees uniform and try to sneak into the annual team photo. I believe he was successful twice. [more inside]
posted by LarryC at 11:33 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by LarryC at 11:33 PM PST - 5 comments
bathroom difficulties...
What is happening to our bathroom drywall? [more inside]
posted by artdrectr at 10:29 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by artdrectr at 10:29 PM PST - 4 comments
Looking for a Specific Show On Nickleodeon
I was pranked about 2 months ago for a Nickleodeon TV show and I want to see if my piece actually aired. I forgot the name of the show. What I do remember is that it aired on Saturday either in the late morning or afternoon and pranks were a regular part of the programming. Any help?
posted by goalyeehah at 9:40 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by goalyeehah at 9:40 PM PST - 7 comments
A better Dappered for affordable men's streetwear.
A previous question about affordable men's style generated a recommendation for Dappered. Dappered has helped in a couple of cases, but its glib self-importance, aspirational posturing, and adolescent dating advice (from a real, live woman!) make me feel like I'm reading a 19-year-old's advice for the varsity jacket crowd. What are some alternatives that do stick to a similar, relatively sensible budget and don't descend into tedious aspirational window-shopping, as many other fashion and consumer design blogs do?
Help me source a delicious yet terribly obscure honey!
I recall with aching longing the taste of a honey that is only sourced from wild hives up in the Atlas Mountains in Morocco. Help me find it, or something like it, in the US. [more inside]
posted by Dante Riordan at 9:29 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by Dante Riordan at 9:29 PM PST - 2 comments
Please suggest a nice tv show with wizards and fancy dresses!
I'm looking for a good TV show for my parents to watch that has at least a few seasons available for streaming on Netflix. They really like medieval, wizardy, lords and ladies types of shows, and period dramas in general. Nothing too complicated or upsetting, though. [more inside]
posted by silverstatue at 7:57 PM PST - 37 comments
posted by silverstatue at 7:57 PM PST - 37 comments
Private Long Lease?
Pros and Cons of a Private Long Lease? I'm looking at property that must be purchased via this method (rather than fee simple or gov. long lease). Anyone have any pertinent information? [more inside]
MAC OSX Driver Download needed for SATA docking station.
Because the cd driver for my SATA docking station does not fit into my iMac (Mac OS X Version 10.7.5), I am on the lookout for the correct driver download. I cannot find one for MAC.
Here are links to the unit I own:
http://www.amazon.com/AGPtek-Function-Docking-Station-Offline/dp/B00C4TQJM8 and
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DZMzKJqWK8Q [more inside]
All smashed UP. How do I wake up tomorrow? Need answer fast.
Have a second gen UP, UP24/7 on order. iPhone 4s, iOS 7. [more inside]
posted by tilde at 6:12 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by tilde at 6:12 PM PST - 8 comments
How do I hire a PR agent for myself on the d/l? (Is this a dumb idea?)
I'm a professor, at a pretty good school in a non-STEM type field. I like my current gig. I would like to move up to an even better gig, in a better location. The standard m/o for such things is a) produce a lot of good research, and b) wait for people to notice it. I'm already doing a). I don't really want to wait around for b). Catch: blatant shameless self-promotion both looks icky and off-putting and signals lack of commitment to current gig.
Possible solution: hire a very discrete PR person. To do... what? Does such a thing exist, for individuals, who need attention from really specific groups of people? Or is this just a really ridiculous idea?
Gained weight or had trouble losing it on Abilify or Trazodone?
I have been on both Abilify and Trazodone for about two years and have gained about 30 pounds. Before I started both drugs two years ago I lost 20 pounds by restricting my diet without exercise. Well, I realized in the past couple of months that things needed to change as far as my weight was concerned. For the past month and a half, I have now been on a 1 hour / day elliptical machine workout plan and 1400-1600 calorie per day diet (I'm F, 5'10, 225 pounds) and I am not losing weight. One week I may lose a pound, the next, I gain a pound. I weight in once a week, on Sundays. It is very frustrating. I have fluctuated from 228 to 224 and back since I've started. Ack! [more inside]
Online English Teaching with Colingo or similar company: Yay or Nay?
I am a high school English teacher in the Midwest & I'm looking for a way to make some extra money, preferably from home. I'm also feeling a little burned out in my current position. I'm considering applying to Colingo as an online English teacher, and I have a few questions. [more inside]
Great haircut in NYC?
I want to get my hair cut, and I'd like to go to someone who can just look at me and say "This, this is what you should do with your hair," or something like that. A genius with scissors. Any recommendations for a really skilled haircutter in NYC? I don't want to pay too much more than $100, if I can help it. Thanks!
How can I fake empathy?
I just started a new job last week and am in a workplace with only one other person. She was crying the other day and it turns out her father was just diagnosed with brain cancer. [more inside]
posted by Literaryhero at 4:47 PM PST - 33 comments
posted by Literaryhero at 4:47 PM PST - 33 comments
so much for trip of a lifetime
In a few hours I'm about to board a flight that was supposed to include my girlfriend. except she broke up with me last month and now I'm flying alone and demoralized. How do I not make this trip suck more than it already does? [more inside]
"I've never met you but I love you."
What is the commercial from the 90's where a little boy says this? The best I can come up with is that it is a commercial for some type of charity, and the "plot" of the commercial is that this middle-aged guy donated and made life better for the boy. In my memory, the boy is playing with a puppy in a field, the boy says "I've never met you but I love you" in a letter to the man, and the man says "I can't tell you how that made me feel" -- kinda through tears. Any ideas what this was? Does anyone else remember it?
Jawbone or Fitbit, wake me up before you go-go (to the snooze button)
I'm strongly considering buying a Jawbone UP24 or FitBit Force specifically for the alarm/sleep tracking functions. Does anyone have any experience with either product for that purpose? Is there something else that would meet my needs better? [more inside]
Contact Lens: CIBA Vision Dailies Total 1. How is it?
Anyone tried CIBA Vision Dailies Total 1 contact lens.
How is it?
Is it easy to remove? (Read stories that it's hard to get it out)
Is it for beginners?
posted by Mountain28 at 4:16 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by Mountain28 at 4:16 PM PST - 7 comments
Christmas instrumental music
What's your favorite Christmas instrumental, classical-sounding music? [more inside]
Making programming videos
I've recently been asked to make a few programming tutorials for work. These would eventually be available to a consumer audience. Looking for good resources (and exemplar videos) for guidance. [more inside]
posted by fishhouses at 3:12 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by fishhouses at 3:12 PM PST - 4 comments
What is the slowest-growing whole number sequence?
What is the slowest-growing non-repeating, non-trivial* whole number sequence? [more inside]
posted by Eideteker at 3:00 PM PST - 28 comments
posted by Eideteker at 3:00 PM PST - 28 comments
Need a rate for .NET development for agency with pressing need
I've been approached to do some short-term project work for an agency here in New York City who is up against a tight deadline with their client, and need some advice about rates. [more inside]
What's in a name, anyway?
My husband and I are expecting our first child, a girl, due in 2 months and are having a serious naming dilemma. We are both worried about the possibility of our chosen name leading to teasing. [more inside]
I just want to be able to shake!
A while ago I bought my nephew a plush toy train with a string-wound mechanism inside that shook the toy but made no noise until the string was wound down again to the rivet opening. I know for a fact the toy was discontinued. Could you please direct me to a company which sells string-winding shaking toy mechanisms?
posted by parmanparman at 2:53 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by parmanparman at 2:53 PM PST - 6 comments
Cool toys for 3-4 year olds for immediate play?
What are some cool toys for a three and a half year old which I could open and would be really wondrous and cool immediately? He's in an astronaut phase and has a great imagination generally, but the toy does not have to be space-related.
He already has a stomp rocket, so not that, but that's a good example of the kind of immediate-fun toy I'm thinking of. Thanks.
posted by shivohum at 2:02 PM PST - 17 comments
posted by shivohum at 2:02 PM PST - 17 comments
Scotch!
I have a new friend that I care for very deeply. He really really likes scotch. I want to get him a Christmas gift that is scotch related. [more inside]
How to have beer delivered in Ukraine?
I want to thank co-workers in Dnepropetrovsk, Ukraine by sending them some high quality beer. Is there a store or service that would accept an order by credit card and deliver to their door?
Advice on bringing babies to developing countries
MeFites with experience raising or traveling with young infants as expats in developing country settings: what influenced your decision to bring your baby with you as you worked abroad? What were some challenges you faced? What were some benefits? In hindsight, do you think it was the right decision? What issues came up that you would not have expected? [more inside]
I need to find a substance with the following physical properties:
I need to find a substance that is : a) transparent over the visible or infrared, b) melts between 10 and 100 degrees C c) has modest freeze/melt expansion e)is at least a bit volatile in the liquid phase. [more inside]
posted by Nish ton at 1:23 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by Nish ton at 1:23 PM PST - 11 comments
Seeking First-person Accounts of Poverty in the United States
I have of late been reading and watching first-person accounts of poverty in the United States. The most recent being Invisible Child. I would like to continue reading stories told from the perspective (or about the perspective) of those living in poverty in the US. Books, documentaries, articles are all welcome.
posted by xingcat at 1:08 PM PST - 26 comments
posted by xingcat at 1:08 PM PST - 26 comments
Holiday party cocktail suggestions?
Hoping some of the boozier denizens of MeFi might have some good suggestions for a couple holiday cocktails. [more inside]
posted by malphigian at 12:50 PM PST - 22 comments
posted by malphigian at 12:50 PM PST - 22 comments
What are considered the DEFINITIVE versions of popular Christmas songs?
So, after decades of basically ignoring them, I'm finally getting into the spirit of enjoying classic Christmas songs. But I don't know much about them. I know many of them have been covered literally hundreds of times. As a starting point, I'd like to better understand which versions of popular Christmas songs have been MOST popular over time. [more inside]
Battle.net account hacked. Reaction: Apathy or Urgency?
I have a Diablo III license. I beat the game a couple months ago and haven't been on at all since then.
So recently I have received a few emails from Blizzard Entertainment (noreply@blizzard.com) containing links which seem legit (going to: https://us.battle.net/account/support/password-reset.html) which I (stupidly?) have ignored up until now. [more inside]
posted by Debaser626 at 10:22 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by Debaser626 at 10:22 AM PST - 7 comments
Where is the best man's scarf?
I don't want to find a good men's scarf. I want to find the best men's scarf. It should be non-wooly/scratchy, smooth to the touch, long enough and thick enough to be wrapped around the neck and draped over the front to create an insulation layer while waiting on cold train platforms and be in a "masculine" pattern/color that would suit most coats. It should also be durable and long lasting, I want a scarf you could wear without comment for 20 years and then be buried with it. Where is this scarf?
Where to find simple, clean, and stylish website templates?
I need to make two simple one-page static websites to host on my existing webhost. [more inside]
posted by entropicamericana at 9:41 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by entropicamericana at 9:41 AM PST - 7 comments
PS2 partner game for putzes
Hi. I'd like to shoot things and blow things up with my guy. We have a PS2 that's been gathering dust for years, largely due to the fact that the last time we tried to shoot things and blow things up it was a disaster. [more inside]
A way to search flights with flexible location, but inflexible days?
Is there a flight search engine that lets you say your From location, leave the To location blank and set the date? [more inside]
posted by Calicatt at 9:25 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by Calicatt at 9:25 AM PST - 6 comments
iPad browser controls stupidly opposite of those on iPhone; fixable?
I want the forward/back controls in my browser on iPad to be at the bottom of the screen, same as they are on my iPhone. I don't see any way to do this in Safari or Chrome. My thumb insists on doing it the iPhone way (and quite logically because that's where my thumb already is while holding the device). It is driving me crazy. Please tell me there's a way.
Is there a way to send typewritten Xmas letters with sentimental value?
I would like to send Christmas letters, including one to a girl I like. There's only one problem: I have terrible handwriting. It's really, really bad. I've worked on improving it my whole life, but my motor skills just can't seem to pick up on the knack of writing properly; my words honestly look like the scribbles of a child, and unless I take care are sometimes illegible to other people.
For this reason I much prefer typing things, but I feel that much of the sentimentality is lost if a letter is typed. Is there any way for me (through cool program, font, or other method) to send something that's typed that gives the same impact a written letter would? [more inside]
posted by Kamelot123 at 8:55 AM PST - 24 comments
posted by Kamelot123 at 8:55 AM PST - 24 comments
How to stop my father's rages (or at least their effect on me)?
Throughout my life, my father has had anger issues, typically directed at me. Although he isn't violent, he will become extremely (almost uncontrollably) angry whenever I do anything 'wrong'. Now that I'm an adult and no longer financially dependent on him, I want to stop this cycle. However, I'm having trouble figuring out how to do this. [more inside]
Qualifying for Medicare in WA?
I'm trying to determine if I'm eligible for Medicare in WA state, and can't get into a social services office right now. I've read the website back and front, and still can't quite figure out if I qualify due to my "household" (read: co-parent's) income. [more inside]
UK Film Streaming Search Engines
The film streaming search engine Can I Stream It? looks very useful but only covers the US. Does anyone know of a UK version? Find Any Film is similar but doesn't cover subscription services like Netflix or Lovefilm.
Best blender for $100?
I have started making smoothies in the morning, and my $30 wedding gift blender ain't cutting it anymore. I want a new one, and my budget is $100. [more inside]
posted by pyjammy at 8:24 AM PST - 23 comments
posted by pyjammy at 8:24 AM PST - 23 comments
Reasonably priced IR/thermal imaging camera
I don't need something like the Predator's thermal/IR graphics, but a thermal imaging camera seems like something that would be interesting to have/use. Except they are $800 and up. Are there any cheaper options ? [more inside]
Trying to make fetch happen...again. Movie suggestions, please.
There are a handful of movies I adore and have watched over and over: Bring It On, Clueless, Legally Blonde, Mean Girls, and, most recently, Pitch Perfect. Suggest more movies like this, please. [more inside]
Lentil Soup Mystery
Many years ago I had a fabulous lentil soup in a very nice Greek restaurant (in Greece) whose owners/chefs were Cretan, and which used many ingredients from Crete (which may or may not be pertinent to my question). This soup was very, very dark, like mahogany colored, rich but not thick, and fairly "oily" (which sounds bad, but it was heavenly), and it was soooo good. Now, all lentil soup is good, really. Mine is quite marvelous, but I've been remembering this soup for so long, and have never figured out how it acquired that color, or what ingredient(s) made it so different and special. Any ideas? [more inside]
Need an ugly holiday sweater in the east San Fernando Valley
Looking for a place to buy an ugly or garish holiday sweater somewhere in the east San Fernando Valley, to wear to an office party. Thrift stores have apparently stopped receiving them because people are saving them to wear ironically. Somewhere in the east San Fernando Valley, preferably near North Hollywood would be preferred. Also preferably not too expensive as I only plan on wearing this thing once (maybe again for our family get-together.) The uglier the better!
posted by carrolldamian at 7:11 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by carrolldamian at 7:11 AM PST - 5 comments
I need to be able to memorize several formulas for a test next week
I'm taking a numerical methods class and there are all these discretization schemes of partial differential equations named after pairs of dudes and they all are kinda the same, maybe a bit different in indexes....
I'm trying to organize it all in my head, like a frat house, with the dudes that worked on the same scheme being roommates, but it seems to be taking a long time to actually "find" a place for each scheme in their "rooms" and keeping it there in a sort of visual arrangement.
Test is no books no notes, and everything kinda of just jumbles inside my head right now.
posted by spacefire at 7:05 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by spacefire at 7:05 AM PST - 10 comments
Baltimore to Boston Road Trip: Costs?, Tips?, Anecdotes?
Hi all,
We're going to be renting a car in Baltimore around December 20th and taking it for about a week (till approximately the 27th), with the intention of driving down to Boston and back. Has anyone done the trip? Any thoughts on good local dealerships to rent a car from? What about how long it will take? Routes to avoid? General cost of tolls? Places to stop and eat lunch?
Any help is appreciated!
How do I start a goat farm?
If you were in your late twenties with no experience of farming or dairy, what would you start doing now to have a small goat farm and dairy of your own in 5 - 10 years? [more inside]
Delay in Home Closing. How do I Stop the Panic?
In appears, due to a combination of factors, we are short the necessary funds needed to close on our home purchase, scheduled for this Friday at noon. What can I do to smooth this situation over with the sellers and myriad of volunteers slated to help us move on Saturday and ease my own massive anxiety on having to delay the closing? [more inside]
posted by theBigRedKittyPurrs at 6:12 AM PST - 22 comments
posted by theBigRedKittyPurrs at 6:12 AM PST - 22 comments
Another finding a photo help button
I found this photo on a blog a few months ago.
I have been looking for a larger higher quality version and or the name of the photographer to find out if I can purchase a print.
This is what I know.
It is from West Side Story
It appears a number of times on the internet, all small pixel sizes
The photographer is NOT Ernest Hass or Phil Stern (the two photographers who were present taking photos at some stage on the production of Westside Story)
Thanks, this one baffles me. When I have time I will go to the Motion Picture Academy Library (I live in Los Angeles) and see if I can find out anything more, but until then I thought I would let Mefi rip on it!)
Finally meeting in real life; the disappointment will be palpable
There are several people I've been chatting to online for various periods of time, who I'm likely to meet on my next journey around the USA. In the case of a few, they are asking to meet up. Nothing romantic and more than friendship with any, though the level of friendship differs; in some cases it's quite strong or complex. Problem is, the prospect of finally meeting IRL repeatedly terrifies me to the point of making me feel ill. Is this kind of feeling normal or common, or not? How can I subdue it and not make myself hide, literally? [more inside]
posted by Wordshore at 5:10 AM PST - 23 comments
posted by Wordshore at 5:10 AM PST - 23 comments
getting a car ready for winter
My friend has 2 cars; a '77 Toyota sedan, and a "06 Subaru Forrester. Most of her driving is in the city and some highway. I have brought up the idea of winterizing them both; tuneups, de-icer, scraper, better wiper blades, windshield fluid, tires, more weight in the rear, sand, shovel, emergency flash, cell phone charger.......she has let me know the tires are not changing. Any ideas for making the cars, and her time in them, safer and more secure? Best battery? Oil?
Pre-school playground politics.
My son is being kind of sort of bullied at pre-school and I want to know what--if anything--I can or should do about it. [more inside]
posted by zardoz at 4:21 AM PST - 21 comments
posted by zardoz at 4:21 AM PST - 21 comments
Uplifting songs about and by women
Most of the music I listen to is by men, and about men. The songs I have from female singers are either somewhat depressing or about love. I would love to get recommendations for uplifting songs by strong women that are not about love.
Where should social media posts originate?
Greetings all,
I work for a small company that provides educational services. We are quite active on social media in an attempt to increase traffic to our main website and push up our status on Google.
We create various types of social media posts including memes and short videos. We currently post these directly onto the social media sites.
My question is whether we could better serve our website by having them originate there (our main domain) and to then link to them on FB, twitter etc.
Another idea is to embed the code from our Youtube channel onto our main webpage and to then link from social media.
Would either of these have any impact on the traffic to our main page?
December 10
What does this mysterious activity in front of a friend's house mean?
Some friends of mine are really concerned about something that happened outside their home two days ago. While they were out of the house, a neighbor says that two weird things happened... [more inside]
SF weekend = super fun weekend?
2 whirlwind days in San Francisco -- please help me figure out an itinerary! [more inside]
posted by miss_kitty_fantastico at 9:53 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by miss_kitty_fantastico at 9:53 PM PST - 14 comments
iBeacon's competition?
I'm curious where iBeacon stands, competitively speaking. They're just APIs to use Bluetooth LE, but there are a bunch of other details that I'm less aware of. [more inside]
Book recommendations for a nerdy, super smart, often silly uncle?
What newly released books would my nerdy, geeky, incredibly smart, completely rad uncle enjoy? [more inside]
Is there legal recourse for this sort of noise disturbance?
My boyfriend has been living in his townhouse for about 5 months now, and unfortunately, the townhouse is just on the other wall of this small-ish establishment that makes very loud pallet-dropping noises. It happens sporadically throughout the night and day. So it could be 6 pm, 3 am, 10 am, whatever. We are pretty sure it's whenever they get a new shipment, they start unloading them into the warehouse, and there's this huge, startling clatter of pallets being dropped. [more inside]
Uneven heat in a slow cooker?
I have a relatively new 6.5 quart crock-pot and on the I've been noticing that certain sections heat up much faster than others (it's especially noticeable on the high setting). Is this normal? [more inside]
So how much do you want to pay?
We are shopping for a new home. We think we have found a home we want to put an offer on. The thing is, we have no clue how much the mortgage payments will be. We know the taxes and insurance, but there are so many online calculators giving us very different numbers for the monthly payment. [more inside]
NYC Photo Card Printing ASAP
Where in NYC can I order a printing of 250 photo cards with the quickest turnaround? I'm talking like 24-48 hours. Can pay $$$. [more inside]
What do I need to know about buying a tent?
I would like to try camping, but I am an absolute beginner, and don't know a thing about roughing it outdoors. I guess the first thing I need to organize is shelter, so please help me: what do I need to know about buying a tent for one person?
posted by paleyellowwithorange at 6:52 PM PST - 29 comments
posted by paleyellowwithorange at 6:52 PM PST - 29 comments
2013 gift guide guide
I really like holiday gift guides, which combine the illusion of thoughtful shopping with the ruthless efficiency of the internet. It's easy to find guides from popular websites and publications, but surely there are more and weirder out there on the web. What is your favorite 2013 gift guide? What are the most interesting gift guides from blogs and niche publications? [more inside]
Streaming underwater camera
I am looking for a streaming camera intended to be permanently mounted underwater, that ideally can be viewed at anytime on your iPhone. Help? Ideally it is not insanely expensive.
Another flying-with-a-baby question
In about three weeks I will be embarking on a trip from Australia to the middle of America (solo!) with a very active 14-month-old. In an effort to stave off the anxiety that this prospect raises in me, I'm overthinking the logistics. Would love some advice on a few things. [more inside]
Where can I find an old soda keg fridge?
Where can I find a refrigerator approximately 30" tall and 12" wide, or thereabouts? Fridges of roughly these proportions used to be made for soda kegs, and I'm hoping to convert one to use for my homebrewed beer. All I want to fit inside is a single cornelius keg, which is 9" in diameter and 23" tall. [more inside]
posted by narcotizingdysfunction at 5:22 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by narcotizingdysfunction at 5:22 PM PST - 8 comments
Hope me with Housing in NoVa? Renting. Buying.
Should I get a mortgage even if all the house I can afford right now in the Northern Virginia (NoVa) area is $120k to $150k (according to two different calculators)? [more inside]
Musical ability and family influence
Musicians, how did your parents' attitudes affect your musical development? [more inside]
Unique photo gifts?
Last Christmas I gave my parents a snowglobe with a family picture inside and they flipped their shit. What non-traditional photo-object can I get them this year? [more inside]
So apparently my family is publicly bragging about our child abuse now?
So I log onto facebook for the first time in weeks today and see my brother has posted this image and my mother has "liked" it. Nothing that was done to us as kids would qualify as spanking (punched in the side of the head very often, welts on skin, bruises, dad threatening my sister with a kitchen knife, holding us off the ground by our necks, locking us in the bathroom and hitting us for half an hour for eating the wrong yoghurt from the fridge, knocked over if we ever spoke back to them etc). My brother was actually very rarely hit and it stopped altogether when mum threatened to divorce dad after he hit my brother badly one time. (No such luck for us girls though). I'm SO ANGRY right now and want to react but don't know how it would improve anything. I feel like I'm being goaded but am trapped in how I handle this, with it being a public forum all my friends can see. Please Mefi help me stay calm and do this right (even if that means doing nothing). [more inside]
posted by everydayanewday at 4:31 PM PST - 39 comments
posted by everydayanewday at 4:31 PM PST - 39 comments
Can my parents bring me a Persian rug from Iran?
(asking for a friend)
I am a US Citizen living in the US. My parents are permanent immigrants - they split their time between Iran and the US (California in case that matters). They have visited the US before and while in the US, they live with me -- their US address is the same as mine. Can they bring a Persian rug from Iran for me to keep? If so, what supporting documents will they need when entering the US at LAX? [more inside]
posted by artlung at 4:21 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by artlung at 4:21 PM PST - 6 comments
Setting up a prop kit for beauty product photographs
I am starting a blog which will feature photographs taken by my boyfriend and myself. He is a professional video cameraman and also an excellent photographer but neither of us are stylists. Can you help with some prop and set up ideas? [more inside]
What is the name for this music scale?
Trying to find if this minor scale has an actual name to it: the intervals are 1, 2, b3, #4, 5, 6, 7. In the key of C, the pitches would be C D Eb F# G A B C. I've been doing some research and the closest results I can find are either melodic minor (C D Eb F G A B) without the augmented 4th or the Hungarian minor/gypsy scale (C D Eb F# G bA B) which has a lowered sixth compared to my example. Is there a succinct scale name or mode that applies to my example, or can it only be described in terms relative to another scale? [more inside]
posted by andruwjones26 at 3:19 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by andruwjones26 at 3:19 PM PST - 14 comments
Book for a soon-to-be new mom?
My cousin's fiance will be having a baby this next spring. She loves to read and is really a fun, smart person. I'd like to get her a book as a pregnancy gift. I'd really prefer for it to be about a new mom. Suggestions? [more inside]
posted by jillithd at 2:56 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by jillithd at 2:56 PM PST - 11 comments
NY Health Exchange Plan: Oscar, Health Republic, Metroplus. Help please?
I would love the knowledge and insights of Mefites on this decision and on my top three contenders for insurance companies and their networks: Oscar, Health Republic, and Metroplus. [more inside]
Help me find an article about seeing 50% women as "mostly women"?
A few years back I remember reading an article that talked about female characters in media, specifically that a fifty-fifty split of men and women was seen as "mostly women", and a lower ratio (1/3? 1/4?) was seen as "even". I seem to recall "The Simpsons" was used as an example? Maybe it was just mentioned. Anyway, I would like to read that article again but my google-fu is failing me. Halp?
What to do with a day on the south side of Sequoia Natl Forest?
My girlfriend and I are going down to a wedding in Ontario, CA this summer, and have enough time for a day trip to Sequoia National Forest. What would you do if you only had a day? [more inside]
posted by Apropos of Something at 2:25 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by Apropos of Something at 2:25 PM PST - 5 comments
Help me stick to a healthy diet while on holiday
So I have majorly changed the way I have been eating over the past 6 months, and it seems to be working so far. (Yay!) I will be going on an all-inclusive week long vacation in Mexico with a large group of family at the end of January. They love to party and eat, and so do I, but I know that a combination of drinking a lot, eating too many carbs, and staying up late make me super tired, unhappy, and break out. I'm looking for specific strategies to stay on track while I'm at the resort. I intend to enjoy myself, but still not go overboard with the booze, and mostly try to eat well so I don't feel like crap at the end of the week. This is literally the first time in my life I have made significant progress on changing my diet and lifestyle and I don't want to fall back too much. Last time I was at a resort there was lots of food to pick from but most of it was the "standard american diet" with lots of carbs and way too few fresh veggies. What foods can I bring with me and things should I look for on menus to stay close to my healthy diet without making it too difficult to enjoy my all-inclusive vacation? [more inside]
posted by photoexplorer at 2:12 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by photoexplorer at 2:12 PM PST - 13 comments
Can I get sued in civil court if plaintiff is in a different state?
1) From what I can tell, a plaintiff can only successfully sue a defendant in another state if the defendant owns land or was in a traffic accident in that state? What if it is not a traffic matter and the defendant does not own land, but technically has an apartment lease (but not residing in said apartment)?
2 If so, what is the likely outcome in court in this situation? [more inside]
posted by WhitenoisE at 2:01 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by WhitenoisE at 2:01 PM PST - 15 comments
How to snap out of it/ concetrate on work?
What are practical tips for keeping my mind on tasks at hand rather than other things? [more inside]
How to be content again and pick myself up once more
During my studies I've dragged myself into some sort of downward spiral: falling behind multiple times but still managing to pick myself up, only to find myself struggling even more. I've now arrived at a point where I feel completely broken and depressed. I need to find a way to start off again without feeling overwhelmed by everything else that still needs to, or can be done. I seems the only way to regain control is if I could be as carefree as I was as a freshman. [more inside]
Er..so my Kickstarter funded in 2 days and doubled in 7. Now what?
I began a Kickstarter last week and it exploded, reaching its funding goals in 2 days, 6 hours. I've started adding stretch goals like mad, but I'd like to use the overwhelming response to get some media attention. How do I do that? [more inside]
posted by sdis at 1:50 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by sdis at 1:50 PM PST - 10 comments
Should I apologize to my girlfriends parents for not moving in with her?
My girlfriend and I were due to move in together (rental). I pulled to plug with a week to go. To rescue the relationship my girlfriend says I must first apologise to her parents. [more inside]
posted by JIMSMITH2000 at 1:24 PM PST - 71 comments
posted by JIMSMITH2000 at 1:24 PM PST - 71 comments
need suggestions for fun gifts for my mom to play with Christmas morning
I'm looking for a fun gift for my mom, specifically one that she'd be excited to play with on Christmas morning. You know how when you were a kid there was always that one present you couldn't WAIT to play with? That's what I'm looking for. My mom is 52, likes puzzles and games (we were a big board game family growing up), is not tech-savvy at all but does have a Nintendo DS. I'll probably get a game or two for her but I'm wondering if anyone has any other neat suggestions. [more inside]
Is this unethical doctor behavior?
Sorry in advance for the moderate dose of TMI... if IUDs and lady doctors eek you out, read no further. [more inside]
How long for lab results for blood tests?
Specifically these tests: Anti-SM, Anti-dsDNA, and ANA. I've heard that it can take up to 4 weeks and I don't believe it and also I've bugged my doctor's office so much that I would rather ask the hivemind before calling them again. Grrrr this is driving me CRAZY. Blood was drawn on 12/3. When do you think I'll get the results? (you can assume that my doctor will contact me pretty much immediately upon getting the results herself)
Taking frozen cookie dough on a cross country trip - bad idea?
I'm planning to spend Christmas at the family home, but apparently the task of Christmas baking falls to me when I get there. I was hoping to get started early and wondered if I could make these icebox-style gingersnaps, and tuck the frozen cookie dough logs into a ziplock bag in my suitcase. Gate to gate is roughly nine hours, though at this time of year, it seems best to consider potential weather delays too.
posted by peppermind at 12:33 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by peppermind at 12:33 PM PST - 16 comments
Is there a term for this particular male singing style?
I'm wondering if there's a word or standard definition for the kind of male song vocals expressed in songs like Bob Seger's "Like A Rock" and NewSong's "The Christmas Shoes". [more inside]
posted by Mo' Money Moe Bandy at 12:29 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by Mo' Money Moe Bandy at 12:29 PM PST - 4 comments
Women's coat warm as Canada Goose, but not Canada Goose. And stylish.
I love to walk to and from work, all year long, and this requires a warm coat. My current coat doesn't keep me as reliably toasty as I'd like. I want something as warm as a Canada Goose coat, but I don't want that brand - i want something that every second person (in toronto) isn't already wearing, and that is (if possible) slightly more urban/stylish/flattering, and less sporty/functional looking. In particular, i really don't want a big logo/badge on it, as all Canada Goose coats do. I absolutely want a down-filled coat, though. (I've never seen a wool coat that is anywhere near as warm as down.) Bonus points for something available at a retail store in Toronto (or possibly NYC, which i visit occasionally), and that costs $700 or less.
Movies: Please suggest examples of this specialized flashback technique
I am looking for movies where a conversation is happening and someone is asked a question. But, instead of hearing the answer, the movie cuts away and continues with the story. At some later point in the movie, however, there is a flashback returning to that moment and we now hear what was said next. [more inside]
Where can I buy reasonably-priced narrow-ruled notebooks online?
This question has been nagging me for years. In college I used to love Roaring Spring 9 x 11" narrow-ruled notebooks, which the bookstore had at a reasonable price ($3 each or something like that?). Since then I've never been able to find any full-sized narrow-ruled (narrower than college-ruled) notebooks anywhere, either in office supply stores or online. I see that Amazon has exactly what I want, but at the prohibitive price of $61 per notebook (!!). Does anybody have any suggestions of where to buy 9" x 11" narrow-ruled notebooks? Preferably online, but I'm prepared to go to a (Bay Area) office supply store if necessary.
posted by crazy with stars at 11:32 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by crazy with stars at 11:32 AM PST - 13 comments
Resources for learning advanced Adobe Captivate development
I am trying to become my department's expert on Adobe Captivate. I am looking for resources (books, blogs, tutorials, etc.) in order to move beyond the "basic user" level. Examples of the kinds of things I am trying to learn below. [more inside]
When do I move on to the next stage to eliminate the panic?
I've been on 20mg of citalopram (Celexa) for about 10 days and I actually feel worse. At what point should I start CBT OR at what point should I complain to my GP? [more inside]
Looking for fairy tale book, read in the mid-1970s.
Children's book filter: Am thinking it was Sleeping Beauty, though it may have been Rapunzel or some other fairy tale with a wicked queen and a princess. [more inside]
posted by Melismata at 11:11 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by Melismata at 11:11 AM PST - 4 comments
How can I match my girlfriend in X-rated talk?
Ladies, please help an out-of-practice man talk dirty to a new girlfriend who wants to be more verbal in bed. [more inside]
I know who I’d talk to, if only I could
How do you deal with the death of a good friend? [more inside]
Videos won't stream in Firefox
Videos suddenly won't stream in Firefox (though they will in Chrome). I'm running OS X 10.9. I've reinstalled Firefox and updated it to 26.0, reinstalled Flash Player, cleared the cache, and updated AdBlock. Is there a problem with MIME that I can repair? What else might fix this problem?
Evidently, I'd rather have mangled cuticles than sticky hands.
I live in a cold, dry climate and have cold, dry hands. I dislike stopping work to apply lotion, because then I have to sit and wait for my hands to dry enough that I don't gunk up my laptop. A trivial problem for sure, but does anyone have any ideas for particular products or methods for moisturizing hands in a way that doesn't make them sticky and lotiony?
Assigning Chords to the Garageband Timeline?
Is it possible to assign chords to each bar on the GarageBand timeline, so that when I'm recording a Guitar track GarageBand displays the Chord changes? [more inside]
Library and Museum Digital Projects
I am on a team at a public library and we are looking at what we can do to expand our digital presence. I have looked at websites like the Smithsonian and Library of Congress and I am looking for suggestions of other institutions that are trying new things online.
What brand(s) are these coat(s)?
I'd like to find out what brand(s) of coat(s) Kyle Maclachlan is wearing in this and this photo, it's for a film noir project. Any idea?
posted by omar.a at 10:02 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by omar.a at 10:02 AM PST - 3 comments
Where are the books (paperback fiction) with pirates as the characters?
Do they even exist in any substantial numbers? [more inside]
I don't get this French joke
A colleague of mine brought some candy back from France, and there are silly jokes written on the inside of the wrappers. Most of them are cute enough, but there's one that uses a word that I don't know and can't find a definition for. Is it just a nonsense word? [more inside]
posted by spielzebub at 9:30 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by spielzebub at 9:30 AM PST - 8 comments
What is normal when shipping furniture by freight?
I think this situation is crazy, but maybe it's par for the course. [more inside]
posted by pocketfullofrye at 9:15 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by pocketfullofrye at 9:15 AM PST - 7 comments
secret-ish art adventures
on the hunt for international art destinations -- ones that are off the beaten path, and maybe even require some adventure to find? [more inside]
Multiracial fairy tales?
I am looking for kids books that depict fairies that aren't all white. Sometimes, one can find some variation in hair color - but little in the way of anything that doesn't look classically european.
I am mainly looking for books for little kids, Dr. Seuss reading level.
What's a good Cleveland based activity to give as a gift?
What non-obvious membership or tickets should I get my cousin who lives in Cleveland? [more inside]
posted by Mrs. Pterodactyl at 8:59 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by Mrs. Pterodactyl at 8:59 AM PST - 11 comments
Health insurance conundrum
I am totally paralyzed with indecision about the health insurance options I have at work this coming year. Halp! High deductible plan with an HSA vs tried-and-true HMO. [more inside]
posted by banjo_and_the_pork at 8:52 AM PST - 32 comments
posted by banjo_and_the_pork at 8:52 AM PST - 32 comments
Good places to buy men's gloves in midtown and the lower east side
What are some good places in Midtown and the Lower East Side to find men's winter gloves? I work in Midtown and want to hunt for some on my way home to Brooklyn this evening. [more inside]
Catkies
I want these cookie cutters. Where can I find them? I am in Canada, but could have things shipped to the US or to Ireland easily.
posted by jeather at 8:36 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by jeather at 8:36 AM PST - 7 comments
What's your favorite unconventional pizza?
So! We have a Baking Steel*, and a great crust recipe, and have pretty much mastered the basic process of making pizza. We're throwing a pizza party for some friends on the 21st, and now I need some interesting pizza topping ideas that go beyond the usual mozzarella, sausage, pepperoni, mushroom variety. [more inside]
posted by shiu mai baby at 8:21 AM PST - 68 comments
posted by shiu mai baby at 8:21 AM PST - 68 comments
Your crisis is not my crisis, except it is
Every time I commit to leaving my current job, something goes nuclear, and it falls on me. I'm sick of it. What is the best way to handle a current boss planning drastic future plans around you, while you've just interviewed for your dream job? Snowflakes inside. [more inside]
iTunes iPhone filter: Changing default from iTunes Radio
So ever since the new iTunes version came out for iPhone, when you open it up, it starts at the radio screen. Not "Now Playing" or even "Songs." It opens to the thing that doesn't work with my usage plan and I have to change it back. Every. Single. Time. So It's an annoyance. The question is, is there ANY way to change it short of jailbreaking the thing?
Updating to HD Album Artwork: Best free, painless software solution
Looking for a slick way to update the album artwork for a large (>150gb) music library on a PC. The key here is updating to HD album artwork. My smartphone has a really high res screen and most artwork looks awful on it. What's the easiest, most painless way to do this (for free!)? [more inside]
More like Minecraft & KSP
What should I get for my 12 year old boy who loves Minecraft and KSP? [more inside]
How do I create a Share Certificate template?
Looking at the this blank Share Certificate, how would I create a template to print information in the areas I've x'ed on the scan? I'm using a Brother laser printer if that matters, and I have access to Office 2013 and Acrobat Writer.
Thanks.
posted by gman at 5:09 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by gman at 5:09 AM PST - 3 comments
Paying brokerage fees during tenancy? (Somerville edition)
Renting in Somerville, MA and property management is telling me I have to pay an extra $600 brokerage fees on top of rental increase to add a tenant to my lease off-cycle. Is this normal? [more inside]
posted by danapiper at 4:29 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by danapiper at 4:29 AM PST - 8 comments
How can I keep up to date with the startup world?
As a programmer, I try to keep up to date with the tech world - including startups. Unfortunately, sometimes a site or app grows to huge proportions (ie. PInterest or Snapchat) and I have no idea that it exists. I know that there are a ton of blogs such as Techcrunch, Mashable, The Next Web and ReadWriteWeb, but these blogs are far too noisy for me as they all seem to run several posts per day.
So I'd really love to find a site that focuses on those startups that are gaining significant traction. Or, I'd love to find a site where you can view what startups are getting hot, based on some metric such as people's votes. I know there's http://www.reddit.com/r/startups, but most of the posts are about the process of creating a startup.
So what's a good site for keeping updated on startups that isn't too noisy?
posted by casebash at 1:33 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by casebash at 1:33 AM PST - 7 comments
Retroactively deducting a business expense?
I've recently started working on a couple of software projects that I hope will generate income in 2014. I'd like to form an LLC, but I'll probably end up doing that closer to completion since it's so expensive. Because my old laptop just wasn't up to snuff for development work anymore, I decided to purchase a new laptop a few weeks ago. Now I'm worried that I may have missed out on a sizable tax deduction. Assuming I can't take the laptop off my taxes in 2013 (no LLC, no revenue), is there any way I'll be able to deduct a purchase made in 2013 as a business expense in 2014?
December 9
Small gift ideas for friend with newborn
A friend's first child arrived yesterday, and I'll be seeing him this weekend. Ideas for a small, useful gift? [more inside]
posted by zeri at 9:54 PM PST - 36 comments
posted by zeri at 9:54 PM PST - 36 comments
How can a science/tech graduate get work to help developing countries
I’m an undergraduate chemical engineering student about graduate next semester, trying to figure out what to do next. I’ve always been interested in global development issues, and I wanted to get ideas on how I could get involved in this area, possibly using my background in science/technology in a useful way. [more inside]
Privacy concerns about the Abilify savings card
I was just prescribed Abilify by my pdoc, and as it is really crazy expensive he gave me an Abilify Savings Card, apparently given out by the pharmaceutical company who makes it to allow people who's insurance doesn't sufficiently cover it to buy it anyway. That's fine, but the third party company who runs the card (Otsuka) makes you sign a contract which says that they can share your information with any company they are working with. That sounds to me like any company who wants to buy your information. Is this normal? Acceptable? What are the risks associated with this? [more inside]
how much detail need one give about their sexual history?
In my past, I was very experimental. Now I'm wondering how much of that I'm obligated to tell my SO. [more inside]
Strange Women Lying in Ponds Distributing Swords Is Right Out
Other than right of conquest or inheritance, how does one become a king? I'm particularly interested in people who became kings by election or acclaim. Historical examples, please! [more inside]
But ... I thought you loved me
I'm one of 25,000 or so people who lost their homes in a recent natural disaster. The silence from (some) people I thought were my tribe is deafening. How do I move past/heal from this? [more inside]
What are some good online tutorials/resources for making art?
In particular, I'm interested in videos or other tutorials related to making collages, stencils (for street art) and screen printing. My equipment at home is pretty rudimentary, especially when it comes to screen printing, so techniques that are more DIY than super sophisticated are appreciated. I'm very interested in tutorials that take a specific work of art and show how it was made with steps along the way. Thanks!
What are my options for using my Turkish lamp in the U.S.?
I bought a lamp from a 220V part of the world and brought it back to the U.S. I'd like some advice on the easiest way to use it here. [more inside]
posted by Paul the Octopus at 5:49 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by Paul the Octopus at 5:49 PM PST - 8 comments
Fabric identification assistance requested!
Can you help me identify or diy-ify this fabric? [more inside]
posted by ghostbikes at 5:38 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by ghostbikes at 5:38 PM PST - 5 comments
Making friends in Los Angeles
Making friends in Los Angeles [more inside]
Maybe we could turn it into a Zentangle?
As a Christmas present, I bought my 10-year-old daughter a 23 and Me kit. Shortly after it arrived, I received an email stating they would no longer provide health-related information and offering a refund. Should I take the refund (which would inactivate the kit) or go ahead with it? [more inside]
posted by jeoc at 5:19 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by jeoc at 5:19 PM PST - 16 comments
Do Karma and FreedomPop use the same wireless network(s)?
I actually have a FreedomPop Wifi hotspot, but it doesn't work in some places that I'd like it to.. so recently, I've heard about Karma, which sounds very similar, but when I check the Karma wireless coverage maps it seems to cover the areas I need it to... but it looks like FreedomPop and Karma both use Sprint's network? However, Sprint has a few different networks, and I think its Clearwire might not be used by my FreedomPop device? Do I have this right? Anyone with better knowledge of Sprint's MVNOs?
posted by mhh5 at 4:53 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by mhh5 at 4:53 PM PST - 2 comments
How do I authenticate and sell baseball memorabilia?
A couple of years ago I met Joe Torre, totally outside of a baseball context. He graciously gave me two signed baseballs, with no fanfare, just reached into his pockets and came out with two balls wrapped in tissue paper saying, "Want some balls?" Well, yes, of course I wanted them, and I took them home and socked them away thinking that someday—maybe when he was inducted to the baseball hall of fame—I would sell them. Well, Joe's been voted in, and I'd like to explore the best way to put my memorabilia on the market. I'm curious how to go about that. [more inside]
Parkinson's disease, depression, and "weird feeling" while showering.
My mom was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in April, and also has major depressive disorder. She says that showering causes her to feel "unbearably bad" and gets very agitated (wringing her hands and pacing in the bathroom) when she is forced to shower. Does anyone know if this could be related to Parkinson's? It seems like more than the lack of hygiene that sometimes accompanies major depression. [more inside]
posted by odayoday at 3:52 PM PST - 25 comments
posted by odayoday at 3:52 PM PST - 25 comments
How to support friend, untangle my issues, and set proper boundaries?
One of my best friends disclosed to me over the summer regarding a long-held secret that involves his sexuality in relation to physical identity, gender-expression, and self-esteem vis-a-vis body-dysphoria issues. I am trying to be supportive, but am afraid I've failed and become more of an enabler in the process. I feel like I'm being pressured to be his therapist & could use some advice re: how to proceed. Snowflakes apply; more inside. [more inside]
What are some "open source" or "free-to-print" games?
Card Against Humanity is famously available as a PDF to download and print your own copy of the game for free. What are some other games that do this as well? I love the idea of a library of games that we can build ourselves, customize as we wish, etc, etc.
Where to find a print of an old British beer ad?
I recently stumbled across a fantastic ad in a book about WWII-era advertising artist Ashley Havinden. I would love to find a print of it, but even my advanced Google-fu is not providing any leads. [more inside]
posted by lovetragedy at 3:10 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by lovetragedy at 3:10 PM PST - 4 comments
Memory book/gift for a new grandmother
My friend is having her first child, late in life. This will be her mother's only grandchild and I would like to get a gift for her. They are a nontraditional family, however. The grandmother was a single, unmarried mom and her daughter will be as well. The grandmother likes to journal, and ideally I'd like to get a memory book for her, but all the ones I've found geared to grandmothers ask tons of questions about the grandfather, the wedding, the marriage, the baby's father, etc. Can anyone recommend a suitable memory book or a place where I can get a custom one made for a family that fits this description? Short of that, what are other great gifts for a new grandmother (she will be living with the mom and will help raise the child)?
posted by megancita at 2:08 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by megancita at 2:08 PM PST - 4 comments
Am I totally inept, or just misinformed?
At a rather advanced age, I decided to give video games a try. I bought a used version of the original Half-Life, and was immediately lost. I didn't know how to get my HEV suit on. And I would never have figured out that I had to go to my locker to charge it. Then I found some online instructions, and the problem was solved. My question: Does anyone tackle a game like this without instructions? Or do games normally come with instructions? I'm from a family of map-reading illiterates, and I have no geolocation sense at all. Is this the problem? Or is it normal to be lost without some step-by-step help?
posted by markcmyers at 1:44 PM PST - 38 comments
posted by markcmyers at 1:44 PM PST - 38 comments
.... But I don't want to share by email....
My Nexus 4 phone (running Android 4.4) has started insisting that when I want to share a page via Chrome, I HAVE to do it via email.
I've tried resetting defaults in Chrome and email, and uninstalling the updates, but it still keeps insisting if I want to share, I have to do it via email - whereas before, it'd allow me to decide which service to share to.
Any idea what else I can do ?!
posted by almostwitty at 1:34 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by almostwitty at 1:34 PM PST - 4 comments
Do I need to re-prime my walls before painting?
It's been a while since I primed my dining room walls, and I'm not sure if I need to re-prime my walls before painting. Advice paint experts? [more inside]
What to do about a difficult roommate part II
This happened before. Since then there have been multiple recurrences of shouting/aggressive talking, door-slamming, and general verbal and nonverbal weirdness. My other roommates are open to asking her to find somewhere else to live, but seem to be looking to me. We have a house meeting tonight and I was asked if I want to bring this up. I'm... uncomfortable and also in finals and then leaving for a number of weeks. What should I do, and how should I do it? [more inside]
I choo-choose you! To be the train car most likely to let me live!
In two of this year's notable high-speed train derailments--Compostella in Spain in July and the New York Metro North crash on Sunday--the train driver survived, but many of the passengers and crew, who were presumably in cars further back from the engine car, did not. Is there any data from any safety board (NTSB or similar in other countries) that suggests any particular train cars are more safe than others in the event of a derailment? [more inside]
Help me find plain white linen kitchen towels!
I need to find some nice, plain white linen kitchen towels for a gift. Can anyone tell me where to find these in the Mpls/St. Paul area or online in the US? Amazon has a listing for smaller, "guest"-type towels (12" wide), but I'm looking for something a bit bigger. Something similar to this, but without stripes.
I've tried Macy's, Williams Sonoma, Crate and Barrel, Kitchen Window, Amazon, eBay...and can't find anything that is (flax) linen AND plain white.
Help!
posted by mefireader at 12:28 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by mefireader at 12:28 PM PST - 6 comments
Can/Should I rebuild trust in an LDR? How difficult might that be?
I broke up with my LDR significant other ("SO") because of SO's emotional affair, which SO concealed from me. Is my regret and doubt for breaking up with SO a signal to reconcile or a natural part of the loss? [more inside]
Questions for my mother
As a holiday gift for my mother, a friend of mine suggested buying a nice journal and writing a different question every few pages, so that my mother could fill it out and eventually give it back. I need some help coming up with questions to write. [more inside]
Sourcing Spanish language materials in California
I am traveling to California for the holidays, and I am slowly learning Spanish. I'd like to use this trip to motivate my learning. [more inside]
posted by wingless_angel at 10:36 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by wingless_angel at 10:36 AM PST - 5 comments
I want to see fast food diagrams.
I really like those diagram posters they put up in fast food restaurants that show you the proper order of burger toppings, or the correct distribution of pepperoni slices per pizza. I'd like to see more of them, but Google is failing me. Maybe I just don't know the proper name for them. Surely somebody has a Tumblr of these or something, right? Ideally they'd include retro ones that go back a few decades. C'mon, hive mind, show me some taco assembly diagrams!
posted by Faint of Butt at 10:28 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by Faint of Butt at 10:28 AM PST - 11 comments
Looking for refills for my pens, from korea .38mm, Hello Kitty
So I LOVE my Hello Kitty pens. They are super fine and .38mm, I know that there has to be somewhere online where I can buy refills- I have gone to morningglory, and jetpens. No luck. thanks.
I hate to keep buying new pens when I can get ink refills.
Help me find this pen!
I received a pen from one of the attorneys in my office. It's awesome and I want more, but I don't know what kind it is! [more inside]
posted by Lucinda at 10:24 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by Lucinda at 10:24 AM PST - 4 comments
How I made my first million?
About 10 years ago I inherited my grandmas small fortune of paper and coin currency she amassed during the 70's and 80's while visiting nearly 100 world countries. The shoebox-collection contains maybe 200 coins and 100 paper notes, and some of them are really quite impressive! I've been lugging this box around for years and the time has come to finally part with it (sorry grandma).
I'm not a coin collector and really don't know much about any of it, but with the help of a few books I researched a handful of coins and notes only to find out they're not worth diddly (<$1, if that). I have a feeling most of the collection is like this except for a few gold Rand coins and some notes that were previously appraised.
Hivemind: what are some ways to liquidate my collection?
Hit me with your best appetizer cookbook and/or best appetizer recipes.
My bestest friends host a New Year's Eve party each year with the caveat that everyone bring an appetizer they've never made before to share. It's great fun and each year we've found a new favorite recipe and one that gets scrapped into the garbage after the first taste.
That said, I'd love to bring them an appetizer cookbook as a thank you for hosting AND bring the best damn appetizer ever. Cookbooks with great appetizer sections are okay, but I'd prefer a full-on appetizer cookbook recommendation. No restrictions to ethnicity or ingredients. Thanks!
Posters chock-full of charts
I need to design a poster for my research project, and the majority of the content will likely be in the form of simple charts / diagrams / conceptual maps. I'm looking for examples of well-design posters that have multiple charts (ideally 2x2s). [more inside]
Really Good Newsletters?
Maybe I am just old-school, but I really enjoy getting well-curated newsletters in my e-mail inbox. My favorite is NextDraft, and I also enjoy Harper's Weekly Review, The Quartz Daily Briefing, and Quora's newsletter (that is apparently customized to my activity on their site). What do you look forward to seeing in your inbox on a regular basis?
iPhone in Paris (Xmas 2013 edition)
Which French mobile SIM should I get for my one week in Paris later this month? [more inside]
posted by jindc at 8:24 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by jindc at 8:24 AM PST - 6 comments
Inspiration and Direction for Christmas Crafting Requested!!
I got a wooden crate like this one to do a craft project for my father for Christmas. He got a record player for his birthday and is starting a record collection all over again and needs something to contain them in. I figured I could make something neat and personal out of a wood crate, but I need help with the details, or ideas for what to do with it. [more inside]
Help picking NCLEX review flashcards.
My fiancee is graduating with her BSN, and is taking the NCLEX in two months. What flashcards should I buy her? [more inside]
posted by MisantropicPainforest at 8:05 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by MisantropicPainforest at 8:05 AM PST - 2 comments
Please help me fix my bathtub
We had our bathroom completely renovated 2 years ago. A couple of issues have gradually developed, that I don't think are serious enough to call in the contractor to repair, and I'm happy to do the work myself if it's easy enough, so I'm looking for advice on how best to proceed. [more inside]
posted by valleys at 7:43 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by valleys at 7:43 AM PST - 10 comments
Tips for a new teen crafter?
What should me 14-y.o. daughter know about starting a small hobby/business of making and selling crafts? Specifics inside. [more inside]
posted by wenestvedt at 7:40 AM PST - 21 comments
posted by wenestvedt at 7:40 AM PST - 21 comments
Halp! The grout is setting too fast.
Started a mosiac project and now I need the grout to stop setting. [more inside]
Warmest underlayer to wear with dresses in winter
Looking for a really warm underlayer for dresses for when I cannot bulk up on sweaters.. merino slip? [more inside]
Book about AI and the end of civilisation?
Within the last two years I read an article which mentioned an academic who was writing a book about things that could possibly cause the end of civilisation. I would love to find that book. [more inside]
posted by StephenF at 6:31 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by StephenF at 6:31 AM PST - 8 comments
Best diamond ring consignment in Toronto?
Anybody had a good experience selling a diamond engagement ring on consignment in Toronto? Or if you've got quite a lot of knowledge on the subject, is there a better way to maximize the price of one? [more inside]
An engaging history of Deadwood, South Dakota?
My dad loved the series Deadwood. He also loves biography and historical non-fiction books. I would like to give him an interesting history of Deadwood for Christmas but not necessarily one connected with the show (which seems to be most of them). Any recommendations?
Custom-made Women's Dresses?
I know exactly what I want, but I haven't been able to find it. Have any mefites used any online custom women's clothiers?
posted by Maisie at 5:53 AM PST - 16 comments
posted by Maisie at 5:53 AM PST - 16 comments
What's a reliable way to unlock an iPhone 4 myself?
I know about the AT&T device unlock form, but is there a reliable way to unlock an iPhone 4 myself without waiting for AT&T to respond? Although it is an AT&T phone, it has been a few years since we've been AT&T customers, so the PIN I entered in the form may not be correct, and this is a time-sensitive matter. [more inside]
posted by ignignokt at 4:57 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by ignignokt at 4:57 AM PST - 14 comments
What should I do with this leather jacket?
In October or November of 2012 I bought a badass leather jacket. I've never worn it. Help me decide what to do with it! [more inside]
December 8
What's the Quran equivalent of "My Utmost For His Highest"?
I have a family member who is interested in Islam and wants to read the Quran. I want to get him a devotional study companion. He's not a convert (yet?) but wants to learn more, explore a little, and maybe start up a discussion group with others. Assuming my friend is totally new to Islam and wants a non-technical, relatively easy read, can you suggest a good one, ideally with a Kindle edition? I am open to other suggestions if you have a better Quran companion in mind.
Time management & entrepreneurship
Recently, I became a full time entrepreneur. I am still struggling trying to have my product/ business up and running. Meanwhile a lot of friends are hitting me up asking to discuss their own ideas with me, ask me for career advice.
Because i met them before i became an technology entrepreneur, they somewhat lack the understanding that the situation has changed enormously for me and that I can't meet them for brunch and lunch or have drinks discussing some vague ideas on which they themselves are not going to spend even one dollar pursuing. I often decline requests to meet saying I am too busy. But this is starting to get old. Is this an integral part of entrepreneurship? That one is going to lose some friendships due to the lack of time?
These are nice people, so I don't wish to be curt with them. Please help me message this in a manner that reflects my reality as well as is not damaging to our relationship. Are there any best practices other entrepreneurs use in judging collaboration requests and passing on them without damaging the relationship?
posted by gadget_gal at 10:44 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by gadget_gal at 10:44 PM PST - 11 comments
Any reason not to put a stainless steel crown on my 3-year-old's tooth?
We learned from our dentist that our 3-year-old has enamel hypoplasia, serious enough that they want to put a stainless-steel crown on her molar. I tend to trust our dentist, who we've been with for years, but I wonder: should I have any concern about nickel and other metals leeching into the tooth itself, possibly causing sensitivities down the line, as this paper suggests? Or should we just go ahead and do this? Set my mind at ease, MeFi dentists and/or people with teeth!
Need strategies for job search as a single mother
I'm a single mom of an 8 month old and need to get back to work. I am an attorney, and most jobs I am qualified for require much more than 40 hours/week. I'm flummoxed on how to handle this during the job search process. How can I (delicately) make sure that a particular job will allow me to get home in time pick up my daughter from day care, etc.? [more inside]
posted by argyle dreams at 8:26 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by argyle dreams at 8:26 PM PST - 14 comments
My new wireless router and one of my computers isn't getting along. Why?
One of my computers connects to the Internet just fine using the wireless router but the other computer only intermittently connects with more than 1 or 2 mbps. This computer connects normally when I connect using an ethernet cable. [more inside]
Monster-Themed PC Football Game from the '90s
I'm trying to remember the name of an early '90s DOS-based football game which featured various horror movie-type monsters instead of human players. And it's not Mutant League Football. [more inside]
posted by hiteleven at 6:50 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by hiteleven at 6:50 PM PST - 5 comments
Data Analyses That Don't Reply On P-Scores?
Long story short, I am a researcher who vehemently disagrees with the reliance on p-values to define significance.
I am looking for fields of data analysis that place less emphasis on p-values. Is there such a thing?
Legal marijuana! Yay! Nooooo!
I live in a place where marijuana is about to become available in storefronts. And I'm very very nervous. [more inside]
What Salary.com IT job category am I, really?
So my annual review will be coming up in a few months. My job title is "Software Support Engineer." I'm making something in the 30-40k range, which is a good amount for someone with as little experience as I've got (I just started in IT about 2 years ago.) Prepping for my annual review, I bought one of those Salary.com employer salary survey reports. Median pay listed for a "Software Support Engineer I" is $63k! Am I underpaid, or am I really a "Technical Support Representative II" or whatever, and just have a cool job-title? [more inside]
posted by UrbanEye at 6:10 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by UrbanEye at 6:10 PM PST - 16 comments
What is an actual "dealbreaker" when it comes to relationships?
I met a wonderful man.
He is kind, loving, smart, generous, funny, encouraging and we have unbeatable chemistry and honest communication.
On one hand, I'm trying to be in the moment and enjoy this process (about six weeks in now). On the other hand, I'm thinking about the future.
I'm a firm believer in gut instincts. When I hit it off with someone, it's often instant and has lead to some long and meaningful relationships.
I also have a bad habit of overlooking issues. I've never ended a relationship.
We have a great time when we're together and see one another often (5-6 times a week). Things have progressed really quickly and I feel confident in what we've established in terms of labels and exclusivity. I have no doubt of how he feels about me, nor of how I feel about him.
But.
He is in a very precarious financial and living situation. He's a freelancer who often goes weeks with very little/no money. He's helping friends with their business, so as of now has a free place to stay, but that too is a potentially temporary agreement. He has no interest in taking a job just for a paycheck. [more inside]
Wikimedia Image Deletion for non-Wikimedia/Wikipedia users
Talk to me like I'm stupid about requesting removal of my own images from Wikimedia Commons. [more inside]
Fun, food-related events in Paris over the next two weeks?
A friend of mine is going to Paris, France in the next two weeks to visit family. He's fine with figuring out the touristy stuff, but is wondering if there are any food-related events going on.. i.e. openings, festivals, cooking shows, etc, that maybe locals would know about? Or, maybe to know where to look for such things?
Winter driving precautions in Chicago?
I just moved to Evanston, IL from North Carolina. It snowed about an inch today, and unlike what I'm used to, everything didn't shut down in panic. What do I need to know in order to make my driving commute a safe one? [more inside]
How do I bury this? Or shouldn't I?
I haven't had a remotely sane romance for 10 years or so and have taken big chunks of time out from it all (sometimes involuntarily) and spent a lot of time reflecting and in therapy. I rekindled an old friendship with a male friend a while back and we have grown quite close. I always found him quite attractive though when we originally worked together he was married and I was dating, so it was a no go. [more inside]
8yo throws up whenever he gets a common cold. Anything to be done?
8yo throws up for 2-3 consecutive days when he first gets a common cold. You're not my doctor, but is this really a normal thing? [more inside]
Things to do with my Vitamix in the winter
I loved making green smoothies with my new Vitamix over the summer. Now that it's cold, my it has been sitting idle. What can I make in the winter? [more inside]
Shared budget app for iPhone?
I am looking for an iPhone app that will allow two users to track their spending for a shared budget. [more inside]
Cost of a New York City misdemeanor prosecution?
An activist performance artist is currently facing a year in jail for a 15 minute protest in a New York bank; the Manhattan District Attorney’s is charging him and his choir director with “riot in the second degree, menacing in the third degree, unlawful assembly, and two counts of disorderly conduct”. The case is well publicized and has first amendment issues; I’m curious about its economic implications. How much money will New York City spend bringing this case to trial? What if the trial goes past the one hearing? How much does it cost to jail someone for a year? Courtroom use; judge and prosecutor time; trials for other crimes having to start later, appeals: added up, what do these parts of a misdemeanor prosecution cost NYC in cash money?
posted by Haere at 3:21 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by Haere at 3:21 PM PST - 7 comments
Who can carry around a handgun in California?
My father recently bought a pistol in California. Can I take it to the range by myself, i.e. without my father coming with me? [more inside]
posted by Geppp at 2:55 PM PST - 1 comment
posted by Geppp at 2:55 PM PST - 1 comment
I might finally come to be worth something to society! Maybe...?
Hi Mefites. I'll be starting an online medical coding and billing course in January ( given by the AAPC), after graduating from a relatively well respected state school with a psychology BA in May and finding out far too late in the game that it would leave me with nil in terms of job prospects. After building up quite a bit of credit card debt and deciding that man cannot live on Hulu and Facebook alone, as I've been doing for six months, I decided to look into opportunities that required relatively little training to get started with, and happened upon medical billing, something that seems to fit me quite well. I'm tempering my enthusiasm however, because no amount of Googling seems to give me a clear sense of my path once the course is over. Help? [more inside]
Why is Subway so miserly with the black olives?
Subway puts such a comically small amount of black olives on their sandwiches and salads (even if you ask for extra, or "a bunch"), and so consistently, that it could only be due to a policy of the chain borne of some solid business reason. But I can't imagine what that would be. The obvious possibility is that black olives cost more than the other toppings, but I think they'd have to cost WAY more to justify this, and in my experience black olives don't cost a whole lot. Thoughts?
Power Problems
I just moved into a new room in a shared house, only to quickly realize none of the outlets in my room (except for one) is 3-Pronged. Until an electrician comes in to update it, how can I hook up my computer equipment safely? [more inside]
posted by hellojed at 2:43 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by hellojed at 2:43 PM PST - 15 comments
Seinfeld Trivia for All
Help me come up with topics or ideas for a Seinfeld trivia contest! [more inside]
posted by Jaelma24 at 2:39 PM PST - 18 comments
posted by Jaelma24 at 2:39 PM PST - 18 comments
African Trickster story
Years ago a friend had a great collection of Anansi stories and distinctly remember one bizarre story that we told and re-told. I have failed to find the specific story or the collection/website it was from. [more inside]
We may not pay Satan reverence, but we can at least respect his talents.
Thief-kings and tricksters: more of this character archetype, please! [more inside]
A good, legit place to buy new sheet music?
I just got back from watching Disney's new musical "Frozen" and I want to buy the sheet music for "Let It Go", the great song by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez. I did the google, but I'm not sure if the sites that come up are legit. Before I enter my credit-card numbers, is there a definitive legit site where I can do this?
posted by math at 1:43 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by math at 1:43 PM PST - 4 comments
Can I buy my parents' house in a way that makes financial sense?
My parents have always struggled financially, living under crippling debt and never able to have an income able to match the bills, the biggest of which is their mortgage. I hate to see how difficult this situation is for my dad, and I want to help out for the sake of his stress level, and also because once he retires in a few years the math truly does not work out in their favor. I've been thinking of buying some land anyway, so I'm wondering if there is any feasible way to make this work for both my parents and me. [more inside]
Looking for a good/high-quality print-maker in the Willamette Valley
Hi MetaFilter! I'm looking for a good printer-maker in the Willamette Valley, Oregon region. Anywhere from Eugene to Portland proper, but a shop than can produce high-quality prints (preferably something along the line of the new Giclée printing process, but not necessarily Giclée prints). [more inside]
What's the best, easiest way to clean my toys and action figures?
What's the best, easiest way to clean my toys and action figures? [more inside]
Where do you find the best online deals for all-things-electronic?
From a previous AskMefi post dated 2006, I've re-discovered Newegg, Slick Deals, Hot Deals, Woot, Tech Bargains, and Spendfish. It's been almost 8 years since the post, though, so I'm sure I'm out of the loop. Google is great for aggregating these sites, but I'm not sure about their quality (i.e. deal-awesomeness) from a simple search. Can you tell me what I'm missing? Thanks in advance!!
posted by onecircleaday at 12:35 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by onecircleaday at 12:35 PM PST - 14 comments
You can't say shit on the radio, right?
What rules/laws/regulations actually come into play when deciding which words are allowed on broadcast radio/TV in the US? [more inside]
Recommendations for Asian wedding hair/makeup stylist in NY/NJ?
Does anyone have a recommendation for a hair & makeup artist (for my wedding/wedding party) who both a) has experience with Asian hair/makeup, and b) doesn't cost a zillion dollars? [more inside]
How can I encourage my dog to pee .. cold weather edition
So, it's been around -30c (-22f) daytime with windchill of -40c (-40f) and my shih tzu is protesting. This is his first winter in these temps. He is puppy pad trained, but will not use the pads during the day. For five days he has been relieving himself only at night (on training pad), and I am worried he will do damage to his health. [more inside]
posted by batikrose at 11:33 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by batikrose at 11:33 AM PST - 9 comments
Good "homestyle" restaurant in Zurich?
I'm looking for a good homestyle restaurant in Zurich. By "homestyle" I mean good examples of local cuisine. The typical websites (tripadvisor, urbanspoon) haven't been particularly helpful. Cost doesn't matter. Bonus points for links to menus!
posted by Philosopher Dirtbike at 11:31 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by Philosopher Dirtbike at 11:31 AM PST - 6 comments
Best long-form interviewers ever? Podcast, TV, etc
What long-form interviewers would be great ones to study and internalize? I've got my own list (Cavett, Rose, Maron, etc) but curious as to what you think.
Big Dummy no more!
This is a question about the musician Quincy Jones. [more inside]
posted by jason's_planet at 11:18 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by jason's_planet at 11:18 AM PST - 10 comments
Redoing a garden. In winter. In Switzerland.
We moved to Zurich earlier this year. Our apartment has a couple of balconies, both with raised gardens around the edges. When we moved in, they had been untouched for months and are full of scrubby things and stumps. I want to spend winter (while the ground isn't frozen) cleaning them out for spring, as well as preparing the rest of the garden for potentially heavy snow. [more inside]
posted by tracicle at 10:54 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by tracicle at 10:54 AM PST - 7 comments
Where can I find a pair of boots like these in NY?
Help! I live in Brooklyn and I need to have a pair of lace up boots like these or these on my feet by the end of the day. Where can I find some? Doesn't need to be this specific brand, just this type of lace-up boot that you see young women wearing everywhere. Even better if they're slightly beaten up. I'm willing to venture to Manhattan.
Budget: must be less than 250.
Should I pay my boyfriend to do chores around the house?
Should I pay my boyfriend to do chores around the house and work as a “stay at home dad”?
As a high earning, divorced mom, I met my current boyfriend, a great and kind person, who I love very much. We mostly have same values but our backgrounds are very different.
Would really appreciate some input, as this situation is complex! More details! [more inside]
Looking for app/website to keep restaurant lists.
I'm looking for an app/web site to track restaurants where I want to eat. Requirements: Keeps a list of restaurants where I'd like to eat. Allows me to move them to "liked it" (so I'll remember to eat there again) or "didn't like it" (so I won't) lists after I've eaten there. Needs to have some sort of mapping function so if we're in the neighborhood and hungry, I can say "Oh, hey, we've been meaning to eat at [x, y, z] places. Which would you like to try?" [more inside]
posted by immlass at 9:44 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by immlass at 9:44 AM PST - 9 comments
Whither the beard wrangler?
TV shows and movies frequently feature characters with five o'clock shadows or a day or so worth of beard growth. Given that production schedules often require long shooting days, how do they keep a five o'clock shadow from looking like 8 am the next morning? How are actor's beards kept at the couple of days growth look when a sixteen hour shooting day could easily have them well on their way to looking like one of the Boston Red Sox? [more inside]
posted by DirtyOldTown at 9:25 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by DirtyOldTown at 9:25 AM PST - 8 comments
Looking for a documentary on African military ritual strangeness...
Heard about this documentary from an anthropology student, but she didn't know the name of it... Back in the colonial days (20th C) of African holdings, some European military would depart their bases yearly and allow the African soldiers to take over. The African soldiers would dress as the Europeans and re-enact their modes of life and work, but in some kind of ritualized parody. [more inside]
posted by artof.mulata at 9:16 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by artof.mulata at 9:16 AM PST - 8 comments
Vacuum packing and mason jars questions
I recently got a FoodSaver (vacuum packing device). I have a couple questions about accessorizing it with mason jars. [more inside]
How to get past overwhelming feelings of guilt and anxiety?
As long as I can remember, I have experienced extreme guilt, embarrassment, and anxiety about simply relaxing and living life for myself. I have an anxiety disorder, so these feelings are to be expected somewhat, but they’re incredibly uncomfortable and affect my daily life. Snowstorm inside. [more inside]
Running 36v Xmas lights on 24v transformer
We've lost the original transformer for our Christmas lights, will there be any problems with running on a differently rated transformer? Lights are LEDs and both lights and transformer are rated at 1 amp.
Help me find out where I can purchase this lamp -- Please!
To summarize I had people over and someone accidentally broke the lamp. I am staying in a rental and it is not my lamp. PLEASE can someone provide a link where I can buy this lamp? I would REALLY appreciate it! Here is the lamp.
December 7
Do you read Qing dynasty era Chinese characters? Read these, pls!
This is a calligraphy banner with a colophon on a Chinese ink landscape painting on silk. I don't know the date, but I'm assuming it's Qing. The painting is a vertical scroll - mountain, houses, river beneath - with two or three sets of scene-setting characters.
What does this say? Any date? Thanks!
posted by heigh-hothederryo at 9:40 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by heigh-hothederryo at 9:40 PM PST - 5 comments
What's the cheapest and easiest way to get a business's credit report?
What's the cheapest and easiest way to get a business's credit report? It's my business (USA corporation.) I'm mainly interested in the overall score and the list of items affecting the score more than the details of each item.
What is this YA scifi/fantasy book?
Probably released in the 80s, orange red cover (hardback) with a picture of a treaded vehicle in an underground cavern. It's quite a long book that chronicles the adventures of a group of boys in a reform school who are forced to journey (via a large treaded vehicle) into an underground land to recover a magic artifact that the faculty of the reform school want to possess. The underground adventure is the middle portion of the book, the beginning describes life at the school and the third act takes place after they recover the artifact and escape the school. [more inside]
This turkey noodle soup is kind of... sweet.
I'm looking for advice on balancing out the sweet and savory flavors of homemade soup, without resorting to the evil of celery. [more inside]
posted by Space Kitty at 8:18 PM PST - 23 comments
posted by Space Kitty at 8:18 PM PST - 23 comments
Good (free) resources for overcoming sexual/emotional abuse?
How to heal after living with a sex addict? I am looking for good sources of personal empowerment concerning sexuality (female) and possibly examples of men who actually love deeply and see sex as an expression of love as well as passion...any leads? [more inside]
What is the best standee vendor?
I want to get Kirk, Spock, and McCoy in cardboard standing incarnations for decor/gift (OS). What is the best vendor to buy these from? There seem to be a lot of places selling them online and I don't know if there is a difference in quality or service. Have you bought a life size cardboard cutout before, who was the vendor, and what was your experience like?
Taking care of 2 babies without someone's head exploding?
When I got pregnant, my brother and sister-in-law immediately offered SIL as our daycare provider as she'd be at home with their baby anyway. Sweet! Now I'm 2 months from going back to work, however, and she's getting (understandable) cold feet about the idea of caring for 2 babies at the same time. Not sweet. :( Looking for suggestions on how our families can make this work, because trying to figure out a different daycare/nanny option in the next 2 months is giving me hives (plus I'd love for my son to be cared for by family if possible). Wall o' relevant details inside... [more inside]
posted by laeren at 7:21 PM PST - 32 comments
posted by laeren at 7:21 PM PST - 32 comments
Trying to find a restaurant with dishes named after government orgs?
I remember hearing about a restaurant with dishes named after city organizations. For example, the "department of sanitation sandwich" or the "FDNY sandwich." It is probably in NYC. It may have shut down. Can you help me find this restaurant?
posted by yaymukund at 7:13 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by yaymukund at 7:13 PM PST - 5 comments
How safe is ~5:00 AM in Lakeview, Chicago waiting for a bus?
This is pretty last minute, but I'm visiting Chicago tomorrow for a short period of time, and need to catch an early train back home the next day (it leaves Union Station at 6:00 AM). I'll be in Lake View and/or apparently Boys Town that night/morning. Particularly around the intersection of Halsted & Addison. I have two bus choices (151 and 8) to go from there to Union Station. 1) Should this area be safe after 4:30 AM to be waiting around for a bus for 10-20 minutes? 2) Do you have any experiences with either bus being on time this early? 3) Bus 8 actually doesn't drop me off right at Union Station, so how safe should the area around Union Station be around 5:30 AM? For what it's worth, I'm a guy, but I don't have any city living experience, and am definitely not threatening looking. (Also: I'm aware of the bus tracker web app, but my phone can't access it, so I can't just wait inside where I'll be until the bus is nearby) Thanks!
My, what big eyes you have
Having trouble with a visiting relative, do I confront or just avoid? [more inside]
posted by readygo at 5:07 PM PST - 36 comments
posted by readygo at 5:07 PM PST - 36 comments
I know nothing about babies -- except that I'm going to have one.
In just about five and a half months, I'm going to be having my first child. Super exciting -- except I have absolutely no idea how all this works and I don't know where to begin. Help me! [more inside]
Why am I experiencing so many new sexual problems in my early 30's?
I've been dating my girlfriend for about two years and we've been living together (with her five year old son) for about four months. Over the last six months or so, I've had several new sexual problems that I've never experienced before. I ejaculate very quickly after penetration, my refractory period is so long that I'm basically "one and done," and my libido has decreased. I'm still very attracted to my girlfriend, and she can still turn me on, but I also have more days when I'd be perfectly happy to cuddle up and watch a movie instead of having sex, which is completely unlike how I felt a year or so ago.
I'm not THAT old, and all the other parts of my relationship are going extremely well. Why am I experiencing these problems, and what can I do to solve them? [more inside]
The broken elbow and hip playlist
Need some music while I'm recovering from my broken elbow and hip. [more inside]
How did my knife get pitted?
Decent paring knife emerges from bleach-soap-water presoak with pitting corrosion. WTF? [more inside]
Healthy comfort food recipes?
This week we'll be embarking on a complicated task at work that will take about two days. The last time we did a couple of us brought junk food snacks, but two of the women in our group are perpetually dieting and spent the day looking longingly at the food, and then seeming very regretful when they eventually ate it. That makes me sad. I'd like to bring some food that they wouldn't feel bad about eating. [more inside]
posted by christinetheslp at 3:29 PM PST - 24 comments
posted by christinetheslp at 3:29 PM PST - 24 comments
What's it say?
Please help me date and translate this lowball glass. I can't tell if the characters are from another language, or if they're symbols, or both. One looks like a music note, one is the Rx symbol, and others are familiar too, but I can't put my finger on them. What does it say? [more inside]
posted by mudpuppie at 3:13 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by mudpuppie at 3:13 PM PST - 7 comments
Cold Weather Preparation Gifts
My family is moving from a warm (hot) climate to a colder one in a couple of months. I would like to get my heat-loving husband a fun Christmas gift to prepare him for a snowier habitat. Any ideas?
Orange segment recipes.
I like making candied orange peels. This leaves me with 1-2 oranges worth of orange segments, but 95% of orange recipes are about zest or juice, or require way too many oranges (eg. marmalade, and previous similar questions). Do you have any recipes that only uses the flesh of an orange, and which is cooked or baked?
Fat chance?
Mincemeat intervention: What kind of fat did I just buy at the butcher, and can I use it in place of suet? [more inside]
posted by Mrs. Rattery at 2:48 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by Mrs. Rattery at 2:48 PM PST - 13 comments
Cuckoo cuckoo?
My girlfriend just read and deeply enjoyed The Cuckoo's Calling by Robert Galbraith (J.K. Rowling). She is not a regular reader of detective fiction. Can you recommend other books she might like? [more inside]
Feeling impatient with my impatience.
I am impatient. Not with standing in line or waiting for my name to be called (I actually don't mind that), but with life. I cannot sustain a practice of "living in the moment". If you know how to be patient and wait through the unknown for your life to unfold, please mentor me through this! I'm desperately tired of being this way. [more inside]
Help with cutting a gent's hair
Lady here, whose boyfriend wants her to cut his hair. I'm OK with this, especially since I think I can be more creative with it than the typical old barbers he goes to, but I've never done it before. Tips & tricks? Some snowflakes within. [more inside]
posted by Miss T.Horn at 2:09 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by Miss T.Horn at 2:09 PM PST - 9 comments
Ten Thumbs, All Brown
Perennial, beautiful flowers that attract hummingbirds, in hanging baskets, that would thrive in Los Angeles, California, Southern exposure, full sun 5-6 hours - is there such a thing in the plant kingdom? [more inside]
Logo no-go?
I'm designing a logo that will incorporate five letter C's, either with the gaps facing inward (like a flower, like this) or out (like a star, roughly like this). The thing is, I know I've seen other examples of each of these shapes before and I want to avoid copying something already trademarked... but I honestly can't remember what they are and am having trouble searching. Can anyone point me to ones you're familiar with?
posted by psoas at 1:55 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by psoas at 1:55 PM PST - 5 comments
What will college expect me to pay as a parent's partner?
What is a college financial aid office likely to ask me to contribute, if I am living with one of the student’s parents and have income and assets greater than either parent? [more inside]
Understated holiday cards
I love shutterfly and tinyprints but this year I'm thinking I'd prefer to send a holiday card that is a little more understated or traditional--what do I do? [more inside]
posted by juliagulia at 1:12 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by juliagulia at 1:12 PM PST - 5 comments
Yet another "what camera to get" question
I'm going on a long, once in a lifetime trip, I have a hodgepodge of older gear and some reasonable skills. Please share your opinion about what video enabled camera to get. [more inside]
It's Not You, It's Me: Landlord Edition
What are some best practices for dealing with landlords? Alternately, please tell me I'm over-reacting. Snowflakes inside. [more inside]
Readings for parents about kids' healthy/responsible use of technology
Some friends and I would like to create (and work through) a reading list of current, thoughtful, thought provoking, but non-alarmist articles and/or books on helping kids create a healthy relationship with technology. The immediate focus is on elementary and middle school kids, but we'd expand it for general thought-provoking material on topic. [more inside]
posted by cocoagirl at 12:10 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by cocoagirl at 12:10 PM PST - 3 comments
HATE HATE HATE new Yahoo mail
I have been using yahoo mail for at least 15 years. I liked it, worked just fine for me. The new format (which only showed up on my desktop; my i-pad's yahoo mail format has not changed) is frustrating, annoying, and not to my liking at all). Is there any way to go back to the old format? What (free) email server is most like the "old" Yahoo mail? I know everyone has their own favorite e-mail provider--what YOU like or YOU are used to. I know that G-Mail is probably the most popular provider these days, but I am not looking to be sold on your personal fave--I just want to know which provider is the most like the OLD yahoo, which is what I personally liked and was used to. I would particularly like to hear from former Yahoo users who switched to something else after this recent change (or, wishful thinking: figured out a way to use the old format). Thanks!
posted by Lylo at 11:59 AM PST - 18 comments
posted by Lylo at 11:59 AM PST - 18 comments
Saucesplosion: How do I best clean this hot sauce or ketchup off fabric?
In what is probably the strangest cleaning issue I've had to date, a seemingly inexplicable,* large glob of hot sauce (or maybe ketchup? hard to tell) found its way onto the floor of our bedroom. What's worse is that it was under several bags of clean laundry that had been brought up from the laundry room a few days ago. What's even worse than that is that I lifted those laundry bags up and put them on my bed where I was going to sort and fold the laundry. So, now we have sauce 1) on the wooden floor, 2) on my bedsheets in small amounts, 3) potentially on some of the clothes that were in the laundry bags, and 4) in thick globs on the exterior of all of our laundry bags (this is the one I'm least sure how to deal with). Help me! [more inside]
Can I re-use chlorhexidine mouthwash?
Will the bacterial properties still be effective? [more inside]
posted by ragtimepiano at 10:55 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by ragtimepiano at 10:55 AM PST - 14 comments
Your experiences with Seroquel withdrawal
I do have a call in to my clinic's emergency on-call dr and my therapist and have talked to 2 pharmacists but wanted to get other people's experiences w/this. While I am diagnosed with severe mental illness (Bipolar II, GAD, PTSD, ADD, sleep disorder) and I take a lot of medications for it (Viibryd 40 mg, Abilify 10 mg, Clonazepam 2-4 mg, Adderall 35 mg), I've been on Seroquel 100 mg just for sleep for at least a year now. That is the only reason it was prescribed to me, and I'd tried Ambien, Trazodone, and Sonata as well for sleep with no luck. I was able to start falling asleep w/o the Seroquel last week so decided to see if I could go off it. I asked my doctor Tuesday and she said it was fine but not to be afraid to take it if I couldn't sleep. She didn't mention anything about withdrawal, but I have been feeling awful every day since with no energy, no appetite. (More info in extended area.) [more inside]
Big storage on a budget
Can I use my old PC as external storage for my Mac? What do I need to do? [more inside]
Could you tell me who she is?
"Fantasy abandoned by reason produces impossible monsters: united with her, she is the mother of the arts and the origin of their marvels." This is the full epigraph for caprichio No 43., "The Sleep of Reason Produces Monsters" by Goya. Who is she? Who is the mother of the arts? If she means "fantasy",who unites with her? I'm confused with this English sentence.
posted by mizukko at 9:08 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by mizukko at 9:08 AM PST - 14 comments
My iPhone doesn't do well in the cold. What can I do?
I bought my iPhone last February. During what remained of that Winter, I would take it with me when cross-country skiing, walking outside, or taking the bus to work. It seemed to operate just fine, as had my prior phone which was a Samsung. This Winter, however, the cold weather seems to be seriously affecting the phone's battery life. The battery drains quickly when I'm outside and sometimes suddenly goes from 20% or more to dead. Today, I went out skiing with the phone. I was listening to a podcast and using an exercise app to track my speed and distance. When I started out the phone had 55%, but it died after only 10 minutes. The temperature was -10F/-23C. I've also had it drain quickly after waiting to catch the bus.
Is there anything I can do to solve this problem and continue to use the phone in the Winter? Is this something the folks at the Genius bar can help with? Should I create some sort of insulated pouch for the phone? I realize that temperature can affect batteries, but I'm surprised because I didn't have this problem other winters. I know I've taken phones out in colder weather than today without such a sudden failure.
Why is SUMIF function not working when data is formatted as a table?
I am developing a sales lead sheet. I have on the B column a drop down list for the sales status (complete, no sale, and follow up). On the A column I have a dollar amount for the sales lead. Originally, I used the SUMIF function to add only the "follow up" figures referenced from Column B to track the dollar amount of outstanding leads. I then thought to convert my sheet into a table to make sorting easier, but now the SUMIF function is returning a value of zero. What did I miss? Thanks much!
How can I just be myself?
I feel like I have very different (by society's standards) sides to me... and I don't know how to truly be myself in either one. [more inside]
[Santa Filter] Help me find this super-generic toy
My toddler loves watching train videos on YouTube, and this morning we ran across this one, featuring a kid playing with his new toy train, purchased in "Chinatown". Toddler has now expressed a deep desire to have Santa leave one of those under the tree. I *think* I've IDed that train as the Kids Athority High-Speed Train Set, but no one on the Internet seems to sell it. So, I turn to you, my friends in the green - any thoughts on how someone who's not really near any random Chinatown might acquire one of these in time to have Santa drop it off?
posted by hanov3r at 8:08 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by hanov3r at 8:08 AM PST - 4 comments
How do I learn to sew clothing without ready-made patterns?
I'm just beginning to learn to sew, but I'd like to start by drafting from basic instructions, understanding how a 2 dimensional piece of fabric becomes a garment to fit a three dimensional body, being a little bit creative from the very beginning. One reason I don't want to use patterns is because the cost of buying them is prohibitive. But I also just don't feel inspired to go that way. What do you think? Ideas, resources, books? Anything to lead me step by step into the process of drafting and sewing clothing? [more inside]
How can my cooking be less smoky?
Whenever I cook, my apartment fills with smoke. How do I prevent this? [more inside]
posted by jtajta at 6:24 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by jtajta at 6:24 AM PST - 19 comments
Can you help me make the Great Native American Novel reading list?
I like to learn about different places and cultures by reading fiction set in those places and with characters from those cultures. Can you recommend to me a contemporary novel about American Indians? I'm particularly interested in books about Native American communities in the continental US. [more inside]
Caviar of the Month club?
I'd like to get a relative a "caviar of the month club" subscription--probably for only three or four months, due to cost. Do you have any experience in this and can you recommend a place? Google turns up a number of options, but I know nothing about caviar, and I don't want to choose some fly-by-night operation that will send a tin of shoe polish every month...
Getting "taller" through yoga?
I have read on the internet many times that you can gain a few inches in "height" from doing yoga.
How exactly does this happen? (Just spine getting straighter, and me standing with better posture?)
Are there any actual measurements done on a sample of people before and after months of yoga to compare their height differential?
What is actually a reasonable expectation for an "increase in height"?
If my goal is yoga for height increase, which poses are the best to do?
Thanks
posted by crawltopslow at 5:11 AM PST - 21 comments
posted by crawltopslow at 5:11 AM PST - 21 comments
Merry Cats-mas to us!
After a five-month break (our sweet kitty died on Bastille Day), aerosolkid and I are getting a cat (my choice) and a kitten (his choice) the day after Christmas. I want to make sure that they'll each be receptive to the other before we bring them home.
I've begun volunteering at the shelter where we'll go, so can spend some extended time with the cats that I like. I currently have my eyes on a particular cat; I put a kitten to his nose one time and he didn't care, but I suspect there's more that I should do. I know how to introduce cats once they're home, but I'd like to have an expectation of success before we get that far. If you've adopted two non-bonded cats at the same time, how did you make sure they'd get along?
Vista-enabling in London's Southbank?
On the South bank of the Thames in 2002 (and maybe still there), there was a structure, like a piece of public art, in which you could place your body and it would support you at a slight angle, enabling a wonderful view while totally relaxed. It was a tilted section of a cylinder, made of dark metal. Does anyone remember/know of this? An image, location, or name of the artist would be wonderful!
posted by indecision at 4:35 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by indecision at 4:35 AM PST - 3 comments
December 6
Help me find a good exteranl hard drive
The current external hard drive I have is "WD' brand that I got at best buy and I'm not happy with it. I am looking for a external hard drive that is easy to use for someone not that great with computers and I can back up my computer with it, that has the ability to be encrypted, is reliable, is ideally available locally at a place like best buy, must have a metal case, not a plastic one (the one I have now heats up and smells like burning plastic) Also bonus points if it has a fan in it. I have a PC not a mac, so it should be for a PC. Also I am not sure if I want to but one of those large external hard drives you leave attached or the smaller pocket sized one so any pro's and con's of both would be great.
Should I/am I ready to buy a place?
I thought I wasn't ready to buy a place, but with all the advice I've been getting from everyone, I wonder if I should. [more inside]
Songfilter: YouTube edition
Hi Metafilter! Can you ID the song used as background music in this video for me? I was unsuccessful at Googling it based on the (Spanish?) lyrics. The only phrases I can clearly make out are "esta no voy a perder" and the oft-repeated "Oye!"
Happily Never After?
I am a little worried that my current S.O.'s behavior is a sign that he is cheating on me. [more inside]
Elderly mother's finances. Help.
I've written before about my elderly mom's dementia. This is less about her memory problems (and mine dealing with them) and more about a sticky financial situation she's in, thanks to my stepsister. You are not my lawyer, but legal advice would be welcome. Prepare for flurries, inside. [more inside]
posted by caryatid at 7:53 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by caryatid at 7:53 PM PST - 6 comments
How do you cope with an utterly draining person who you can't avoid?
For various reasons, I'm in currently in a domestic situation with a family member who is really, really draining. This person has quite a few traits that seem narcissistic/borderline/non-respectful of boundaries. [more inside]
posted by SpecialSpaghettiBowl at 7:06 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by SpecialSpaghettiBowl at 7:06 PM PST - 13 comments
iPad puzzles and games for a 20-month-old
Flying in the face of scientists' warnings, my wife and I allow our child to play with the iPad from time to time. She's outgrown most of the apps she previously played with -- does anyone have any recommendations for good puzzle, games, and educational apps that would be age-appropriate and interesting for a twenty-month-old? Thanks.
posted by gerryblog at 6:18 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by gerryblog at 6:18 PM PST - 11 comments
Samsung Smart TV + Streaming French News = Quandry
Hello. Ever since the cable company discontinued French news programming in our area, my mother has been desperate to stream a French news program (20 heures) to the Samsung UN32EH5300 Smart TV I recently purchased for my dad. [more inside]
posted by xiaolongbao at 6:06 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by xiaolongbao at 6:06 PM PST - 8 comments
The Person or The Illness
A person that I know to be selfish, arrogant, materialistic, stuck-up and combative, has recently been diagnosed bi-polar. How much of 'them' is them and how much is illness? Can treatment reveal them to be a considerate & pleasant person?
posted by jacanj at 6:05 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by jacanj at 6:05 PM PST - 12 comments
Would u be offended if ur friend didn't tell what their business idea is
If your good friend told you they are trying to start a new business, but they don't want to tell you what kind of business, would you be offended? [more inside]
Five days in May
Help me plan the best trip ever to the Grand Canyon? [more inside]
posted by ohsnapdragon at 6:00 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by ohsnapdragon at 6:00 PM PST - 6 comments
Vet Now or Vet Tomorrow
Should we go to an emergency vet tonight, or can it wait until tomorrow? [more inside]
Dog is an aggressive chewer, can you please recommend me some toys?
My dog is an aggressive chewer or she has OCD - the jury is still out. Even the "aggressive" chewer toys are ripped to shreds within minutes to hours because of her chewing styles. Help me with toys please! [more inside]
posted by lpcxa0 at 4:24 PM PST - 21 comments
posted by lpcxa0 at 4:24 PM PST - 21 comments
First time pc build : SATA-2 versus SATA-3 connection conundrum
What drives can/can't be connected (and in what order) to SATA-2 and SATA-3 motherboard ports? [more inside]
posted by peacay at 4:19 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by peacay at 4:19 PM PST - 5 comments
The Gothic Industrial
Please recommend movies, books and video games that feature broken-down factories, derelict space-age laboratories, and modern ruins of all kinds as a primary setting. If there's something supernatural going on in there, so much the better. Examples within. [more inside]
Does my very small business need a lawyer?
This question made me wonder if I need to do any legal stuff for my small business. [more inside]
posted by BlahLaLa at 3:59 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by BlahLaLa at 3:59 PM PST - 13 comments
What is it like to work for an international exchange student company?
Anyone have experience working as a coordinator/host family recruiter for a international exchange student company like this one, International Experience? [more inside]
Socks for Ladies
Continuing secret Santa filter: I'd like to buy socks in team colors for my secret Santa: Orioles, Ravens and the Maryland Terrapins. I know that she likes knee-high styles, as I've seen her wear them before. Aside from just searching for that on Amazon I'm not sure what to look for in terms of quality and comfort. Altogether I'd like to spend around $30 for all three. Physical retail locations would also be appreciated.
Postural problems; should I be forcing my shoulders back or not?
I was recently diagnosed with shoulder instability/thoracic outlet syndrome/shoulder impingement syndrome stemming from a lifetime of computer with forward head and rounded shoulders posture. I have been working on exercises to help strengthen my back muscles, and have also been stretching my neck and chest. One problem I cannot get a straight answer on, However, is knowing whether to keep my shoulders pulled back in everyday life or not. Can anyone share with me evidence of the benefits of squared shoulders, or anecdotes of their experiences with keeping their shoulders held back on a daily basis? [more inside]
posted by Thanquol180 at 3:00 PM PST - 21 comments
posted by Thanquol180 at 3:00 PM PST - 21 comments
How to have a great time in New Orleans?
I’m travelling with my significant other to New Orleans between December 29th and January 3rd, so we are looking for recommendations (food, bars, entertainment, etc.) Specific details and questions below the fold! [more inside]
posted by turniphead at 2:58 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by turniphead at 2:58 PM PST - 6 comments
Where does copying begin?
Images of a work incredibly similar to one made by my partner have been published and we do not know if there is a copyright infringement or what to do. [more inside]
Rock/indie piano for a jazz musician?
I'm playing for a wedding in a few days and I've just been giving the song requests, one of them is Jason Mraz "I won't give up". I'm not really proficient in how to take something like this and give it a nice (in the style of the song) piano treatment. [more inside]
How to register a company name and if under LLC or Corporation?
Hello, I am currently developing a small food business. I am interested in selling my food on weekends at outdoor markets across the city. I think this is a good way for me to get my feet off the ground and see how people respond to my product. What I can't quite figure out is if it is too soon to start thinking about registering the company name and logo? If so, would I register my small business as a LLC business or corporation? I am a bit confused. Would someone be able to help? Thank you!
Looking for a small printer for a portable photo booth
I'm putting together a portable photo booth and would like recommendations on a fast, reliable, cheap-to-run, portable printer that will do photo strips. [more inside]
How can I create digital choropleth maps of Ireland?
Does anyone know if gis data for irish townlands, parishes, and/or electoral districts is available? If not, would it be possible to draw a vector map and then somehow connect each region on the map to data on a spreadsheet? I can always color the hundreds of little pieces by hand, but I thought I'd check if there was an easier way, maybe in cartodb or processing. Note: I am not a programmer. Thanks! [more inside]
Talking kitty toy that says "I'm hungry"
My five year old has asked Santa for a toy kitty with soft fur that says "I'm hungry" in a tiny voice. [more inside]
posted by waving at 12:13 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by waving at 12:13 PM PST - 9 comments
Community referrals for a Realtor in Saint Paul.
I am assisting family members as they work to move out and sell their condo in Saint Paul, MN. We are looking for a local, reputable Realtor to manage the selling process. Can any MeFites provide a firsthand referral for a Realtor you had an excellent experience using? Also, what dangers or warning signs should we look out for as we navigate this process?
posted by BigLankyBastard at 12:13 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by BigLankyBastard at 12:13 PM PST - 3 comments
I'm having trouble seeing photo previews in the backend of foto database
Hi, my company has an online photo database I normally login with Chrome to view. I can't see any of the image preview thumbnails today for some reason and it's making me crazy. I've tried some different things and I'm out of ideas. Maybe you can help? [more inside]
posted by rabu at 12:12 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by rabu at 12:12 PM PST - 6 comments
Was I slandered, or am I just paranoid?
I recently got the opportunity to apply for a cherry job that would have solved a lot of my current problems, but I seem to have blown it. I'm wondering if a bad employer reference might have done me in? [more inside]
Basically I'm looking for a hard treat or chew toy for humans.
Over Thanksgiving I discovered I really enjoy chewing on cinnamon sticks. The only problem is they can get brittle pretty fast, leading to a mouthful of fragments and a really unpleasant explosion of cinnamon in my mouth. So! I thought I can't be the only person that likes this... [more inside]
I need to work on dexterity/fine motor skills in my non-dominant hand.
I have herniated discs in my neck that have resulted in some nerve issues in my left arm, with my hand as the latest victim. Specifically the last three fingers on my left hand have not been 100% lately. [more inside]
posted by elizardbits at 11:40 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by elizardbits at 11:40 AM PST - 13 comments
The Memory of Love (no, not the book)
I can't remember my emotions. I can't remember being in love, for example. I have an intellectual memory of the fact that I was once in love, but I can't recall the feeling anymore like I was able to a year ago. [more inside]
posted by Enchanting Grasshopper at 11:25 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by Enchanting Grasshopper at 11:25 AM PST - 12 comments
How can I learn to wait to deal with stuff?
When I have tension or conflict with others, I get fixated on solving the problem immediately. This doesn't allow me or the person I'm having the trouble with to have time to think about things and deal with them logically and calmly. How can I learn to wait to resolve issues? [more inside]
posted by sockermom at 10:58 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by sockermom at 10:58 AM PST - 12 comments
Advice on putting live edge wood on a kitchen bar counter?
I'm remodeling my kitchen and have had an island built that is 2-level. The main counter is granite and the second 'bar' level for people to hang out at on bar stools is as yet undefined.
I'm looking for some advice about what kind of surface I can put on the second level. I'm very interested in wood and was thinking 'live edge'. It would be about 24" x 72".
Is this something best purchased from a supplier or is it a moderately DIY project from a tree cut by a tree service? Difficult to maintain? Easy enough to find? Suppliers north of Boston?
Thanks!
Travelling in an Aircast. Help make this easy!
Official diagnoses is Peroneal Tendinitis and I was given The Boot to wear for two weeks (only off in the shower and while driving). I am full weight bearing. I have a special family trip to NYC planned for next week. I'm concerned I'm going to slow my family down or be a burden. Please give me tips to get around easy and also (MOST IMPORTANT) to keep my little foot warm and toasty! [more inside]
Big Apple Juice: where's a good French cider selection in NYC?
I'm looking for a merchant in NYC who sells a good selection of French sparkling hard dry ciders (from Normandy and Brittany). Also great if said merchant has more diverse hard cider options (UK or Scandinavian etc.) [more inside]
posted by spitbull at 9:29 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by spitbull at 9:29 AM PST - 14 comments
Help me find Picard's travel bag from Star Trek: TNG
I'd love to find a bag similar to the one used by Picard and Starfleet officers for my boyfriend for Christmas. Image inside, with more details... [more inside]
Social Media Marketing
Traditional marketing says blanket your market with repetitious ads for the new people who haven't seen it. I have a project I want to promote and attract attention to. Although I won't send out a tweet or a post every minute, should I make repetitious posts on Social Media too? Is there a good balance?
What tabletop games are good for 2-6 people in their 20s?
In our house, we frequently spend evenings hanging out and doing low-key group activities, like playing video games (or D&D), watching TV, or just talking and listening to music. Frequently, we find ourselves at a lull, seeking something new to do when we don't feel like putting on Netflix.
I'm looking for games that we can set up, teach people, and play quickly with a varying number of people at varying levels of sobriety. (more inside) [more inside]
posted by 4th number at 9:04 AM PST - 70 comments
posted by 4th number at 9:04 AM PST - 70 comments
NYC around NYE. Difficulty level : Teen
Bluetapdole (who is 13) and I will be visiting NYC for a week in late december, early january. Help us make it a great, interesting trip. [more inside]
posted by bluefrog at 8:57 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by bluefrog at 8:57 AM PST - 5 comments
To oDesk or not to oDesk?
I'm interested in trying to make $25k/year using oDesk as a full time job (as a web frontend dev) . Does anyone have experience using oDesk, and does this seem reasonable to you based on that? [more inside]
Finding a gym partner in unique circumstances
I have a lot of trouble getting motivated to go to the gym and staying motivated once I'm there. I need a gym partner, but snowflake details are making it difficult. [more inside]
posted by nickhb at 8:25 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by nickhb at 8:25 AM PST - 9 comments
Best grown up gift subscriptions for the Holidays?
Please help me find grown up, monthly, gift subscriptions... [more inside]
posted by pearlybob at 8:24 AM PST - 21 comments
posted by pearlybob at 8:24 AM PST - 21 comments
Another MFA Creative Writing question
What can I do to make myself a strong MFA CW candidate? [more inside]
Applying For a Job Through a College Classmate
A college classmate who I didn't know well/at all is a recruiter at a company with an open position I'd like to apply for. What's the best way to approach this? [more inside]
How do people research and learn out stocks and other investments?
I have a bit of discretionary money (1k). Rather than just letting it sit in a bank account earning basically no interest, I am opting to dip my toes in to the world of stocks, options, investing, etc. Other than buying shares in a company I am already aware of and think is going to do well in the future (which isn't always that simple, I know), how do people independently (ie. not via a broker) research and learn about other stocks and worthy investments? [more inside]
When, where, how and whether to complain about these job interviews?
I've interviewed twice now for academic jobs at my current institution. Both times during the interview it came out that they were considering me for a different job, one that I hadn't applied for (in both cases two jobs were advertised at the same time). I really hate this practice for reasons below, but is this just me, or is it actually inappropriate? And if the latter, who should I complain to? I am thinking of HR - there was an HR representative present at the interview. [more inside]
Oatmeal toppings?
After a long run of greek yogurt + topping breakfasts, the cold weather has shifted our morning meal into oatmeal mode. What are your favorite toppings for hot cereal? [more inside]
Woman's long dress coat
Help me find a Christmas present for girlfriend. [more inside]
posted by falsedmitri at 5:56 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by falsedmitri at 5:56 AM PST - 12 comments
One of these things is not like the other
What is the difference between making excuses for someone's behavior and understanding where they are coming from? I don't have anything in particular in mind. I just see that phrase a lot on here and have heard it a lot. [more inside]
Best leather men's belt for under $100?
I need suggestions for a durable leather men's belt under $100.
My dad is one of those difficult to shop for people because he buys what he needs or wants himself. Last night, he mentioned that he did need a new belt. He also said that he had already replaced his belt once this year, but they always seemed to crack & need replacing often. He wears a separate belt to work, so this would just be for time off. [more inside]
posted by needlegrrl at 3:12 AM PST - 27 comments
posted by needlegrrl at 3:12 AM PST - 27 comments
Spies Like USB
I won a camera pen similar to this one. I don't have any meetings I need to spy on. Is there anything interesting or useful I can do with it?
What should I do after graduation? Confused MIS major
I'm graduating in the spring and have done well enough in my classes, but I don't feel like I really know how to *do* anything. Give me some direction? [more inside]
posted by revi at 1:42 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by revi at 1:42 AM PST - 10 comments
Recommendations for non-group non-driver Iceland stuff to do
Mr LyzzyBee and I will be honeymooning in Iceland, probably in June, as we found out that the buses don't run until then. We will be there for a week to 10 days. Special snowflake details: (1) We don't drive, so we won't be hiring a car. Much information assumes we are doing that. (2) We are on our honeymoon, so we don't want to go on a week-long trip with other people! [more inside]
December 5
Not a book club, but a book-of-the-month club?
My grandmother loves the kinds of paperback best sellers that are commonly for sale at airports. Danielle Steel, Nora Roberts, Nicholas Sparks, etc. I'm not very familiar with these authors or others like them, but I know that she would enjoy getting whatever the latest book by these kinds of authors as soon as it comes out. For Christmas I would like to sign her up for a subscription service, if something like this exists, that would mail her the newest novel in this category as soon as it comes out, or around once a month, or some such.
I think she would enjoy the fun of looking forward to a monthly delivery and not knowing what book will be inside. Is there a service like this that exists, that would make for a good gift? [more inside]
posted by pgswim at 11:52 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by pgswim at 11:52 PM PST - 6 comments
Mazatlan, Mexico - Who Can Connect Me With People Interested in Autism?
I'll be in Mazatlan for five days in January. If there is a local group interested in autism, I would like to offer to speak to them.
I searched the web for autism "groups" but couldn't find anything for a local autism group/parent group like I could find in the United States.
Do you know an autism group or a contact with the education department that you can suggest to me?
Thanks.
Disclaimer stuff:
My fee for talking would be no money, just a suggestion for a good restaurant.
I'm not trying to build my ego, just offering a chance to talk to people about autism. I do that regularly in my day job and it doesn't matter where I go, when I say that I'm an autism specialist everyone has questions. If I can offer some answers, that's good. I make my living as a specialist in autism and have for 25 years.
I don't speak Spanish but am used to working with interpreters.
Help identifying this jazzy classical adaptation?
A jazzy choral Bach adaptation -- who is the artist and what's the album name? [more inside]
posted by treepour at 10:32 PM PST - 1 comment
posted by treepour at 10:32 PM PST - 1 comment
I'm not sure how to go into an upcoming job negotiation.
Hi!
I was just offered a job and will go in to negotiate the details of my employment.
I'll be working for a company based in a European country that is trying to expand into the U.S. It's a sales position that will have me travelling around the northeast selling their product in specialty stores. [more inside]
Looking for power outlets I can install in a headboard I'm building
I'm building a headboard and want to install power outlets. I like this little round pod that seems designed for my purpose with three plugs and two USB ports - but it is significantly more than I'd planned to spend. It also flips over, which I don't need. I've been hunting around for other similar things that don't flip at a more economical price but haven't found anything. Any insights from those with superior google-fu? Thank you!
Hot meals for the night shift worker
I work nights in a facility that does not have refrigerators available for employees. I have a 7-cup electric tea kettle at my desk, and there are microwaves available in the break area next to my office. What simple meals can I prepare at my desk or in the microwaves with a minimum of hassle? I'm getting a little tired of ramen. [more inside]
Seeking Team Canada / Finland / USA hockey shirts for tiny tot
I have a two year old niece. Her mom is American, her pop is Finnish, and her auntie biscotti is Canadian. I wanted to send her tiny little versions of the TEAM SUOMI and Team Canada and maybe Team USA hockey jerseys because (a) OMG the cute and (b) so her parents can dress her appropriately for Sochi. I can't find them, except for old versions of the US one. But I refuse to believe that Canadians and Finns do not want to dress their tiny tots in hockey paraphernalia, so I have to think these are out there somewhere. Can someone help me? My Finnish is limited to race drivers and the word "lansigootansmanpystykorva" so I can't really search on Finnish sites.
posted by ROU_Xenophobe at 9:02 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by ROU_Xenophobe at 9:02 PM PST - 5 comments
Get this earworm out of my head! (and onto my ipod)
I have a piece of a song stuck in my head and it's apparently not enough for google to be of any use. It's an 80's or 90's song, with a guy's voice sort of chanting "ooh ma ma way" in an african-y sounding way with a heavy bass line. I feel like it was used a lot in soundtracks to represent a journey or something like that, because it reminds me of solsbury hill. if anyone can name this song, i know it's you lovely mefites.
posted by carlypennylane at 7:21 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by carlypennylane at 7:21 PM PST - 8 comments
Please help me find a comfortable and cool looking office chair in NYC.
Please offer suggestions for interesting places to shop for office chairs in Brooklyn or Manhattan. Have not had luck with Staples and the like along the lines of durability. Willing to drop some dough, as this is me seat for the lion's share of my week. Any thoughts?
posted by digiFramph at 7:09 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by digiFramph at 7:09 PM PST - 5 comments
Why won't this NASA site load properly?
Last week, I started getting errors whenever I tried to access the NASA Technical Reports Server from Chrome. And after a few days of it working just fine in Safari, it started doing the damn thing in that browser as well. What's going on here? [more inside]
posted by Narrative Priorities at 6:32 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by Narrative Priorities at 6:32 PM PST - 2 comments
Help negotiating a salary for a sky-rocketing US/Euro e-commerce site!
Hello! I've landed an interview for a management position at a fairly big e-commerce site, whose growth in the last couple of years has exploded and is still growing. I'll be interviewing for a position at the European headquarters (Germany), although the company is US-based. I need help asking for a salary that's both competitive and fair! [more inside]
How to continue when you feel you're falling behind every day?
I'm in my mid 30s and feel like life has passed me by and it's too late to fix it. Looking for help on handling the situation so it doesn't consume me. Lot's inside. [more inside]
Video game recommendation?
I'd like to get my dad a PC video game for Christmas, and I'm looking for suggestions. [more inside]
She was from *********
What's it called when authors put ****** in place of place names or character names? [more inside]
Getting Auto Body Work Done
Will just cleaning up a section on the quarter panel of my bumper look horrible in comparison to the rest of the car? [more inside]
What's the best PMB (private mailbox service) in SF?
I'd like to find an alternative to my current private mailbox setup. It's expensive, open limited hours, and service has not been stellar. The one I have now uses a street address instead of a PO Box, which I like. Also ARE THERE ANY STARTUPS TEARING UP THE PRIVATE MAILBOX SPACE. (I know about Outbox but that seems to require a home mailbox, which I'm trying to avoid.) Thanks.
How do I make these balls into balls?!
I am currently making this recipe for chocolate-covered peanut butter balls.
Despite following the instructions to the letter, I cannot get these damn things to cohere in any way. What should I add to turn this delicious sugary peanut butter mush into the delicious little round balls it is SUPPOSED to be?
Not a very experienced or intuitive baker, so I can't tell whether it should be more dry or more wet or what. It's very...gooey.
Added frustration: I did the exact same thing yesterday and it worked perfectly, but apparently baking is like insanity in that you do the same thing over and over, expecting different results. Help please!
posted by like_a_friend at 4:27 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by like_a_friend at 4:27 PM PST - 14 comments
Frozen food for hungry hummingbirds
Hungry birds have not flown south. [more inside]
The job that pays vs. the job that stays
Should I quit my lucrative but VERY temporary job to take a job that pays worse, but is permanent, and better in several more ways? [more inside]
posted by tippy at 4:04 PM PST - 29 comments
posted by tippy at 4:04 PM PST - 29 comments
Daycare and oversight of 10-15 toddlers: what level of service to expect
My wife and I have our 2-year-old son in a daycare program that, for the most part, seems pretty good. There was even a recent parent-teacher conference, which seemed pretty great for a daycare facility. But when I picked him up today, he was chewing staples. Two-year-olds put things in their mouths, and it's hard to watch each and every kid in a room of 10-15 toddlers, so how much should we expect from this daycare, or any daycare for that matter? [more inside]
How do I (try again to) get my money?
Back in 2007 in San Francisco I was assaulted and had to have some not insignificant reconstructive surgery as a result. The cops were cops and declined to press charges because the guy lived a couple counties over even though I had multiple witnesses. I had a great (friend of a friend) pro bono lawyer who got me a civil judgement (in default) to the tune of $300k. However I've never seen a dime. The guy held no property on record and didn't even have a steady job with a paycheck from which I could garnish his wages. Clearly some time has passed and I'd like advice about looking into this again and seeing if I could actually get my hands on any of this money. I'd like to not bother my original lawyer as she did great by me, but made it clear that she had taken the case as far as she could. I know, YANML and YANAL, etc.
posted by matt_od at 3:16 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by matt_od at 3:16 PM PST - 15 comments
How to get books in classroom quantities for cheap?
I'm looking to get 25 to 50 copies of a certain hardback book that was published in 2000. It's the Spanish "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," and it retails for $13 on Amazon. How can I get them closer to wholesale price? [more inside]
posted by wnissen at 3:13 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by wnissen at 3:13 PM PST - 6 comments
Soft Desserts: Portable, Non-Chilled & Impressive
I'll be attending a holiday party and said I'd bring a dessert. There are a few specifications. [more inside]
What Happens at Lumberjack Spa Day?
Due to penury/everyone already having everything they could want in life, I was going to go with homemade beauty products this year for the family gift exchange, Ladies will be receiving bath bombs, in various scents and colors. The men I'm related too wouldn't know what to do with a bath bomb if it...well, fizzed at them. What manly products - salves, oils, creams - could I easily make at home? Or what kinds of unisex self care will male-type folks happily use? [more inside]
posted by theweasel at 2:51 PM PST - 19 comments
posted by theweasel at 2:51 PM PST - 19 comments
Monorail track lighting troubleshooting
My monorail track lighting stopped working. All of the lamps work if I push a little on one of the lampshades (making better contact with the track or something?) but only for as long as I'm pushing. I have already tried removing all the lamps from the railing, cleaning the railing and the contacts of the lamps, and making sure they are all screwed on as tightly as possible, as well as making sure the thingees that hold up the track are all screwed in as tightly as possible also. What should I be trying next? Thank you!
Go Ask Metafilter
Having finished, and loved, The Good House by Ann Leary, I'm interested in other novels where addictions, problems, obsessions or bad habits affect the (unreliable?) narrator as part of their character rather than the main plot theme. [more inside]
Drug questions - should I ask GP or pharmacist?
I just started seeing a rheumatologist for my ankylosing spondylitis. She suggested a long term NSAID rather than just taking ibuprofen as I had been doing. She prescribed two options: diclofenac, which I tried, and Indomethacin, which I have not yet tried. I have questions about the new drug before I start it but my rheumatologist won't be able to respond for about a month. Should I see my family doctor or a pharmacist with questions about the new meds? Are either likely to be really familiar with a random medication?
posted by Naib at 1:38 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by Naib at 1:38 PM PST - 12 comments
Russian Cursive
Where can I see numbered diagrams for handwriting each Cyrillic letter?
posted by slowlikemolasses at 12:53 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by slowlikemolasses at 12:53 PM PST - 2 comments
Is there a name for this (old-school) radio station song modification?
Back when radio stations were limited to AM/FM (no satellite, etc) I recall several occasions when individual stations in my area would alter a song if it suited their call letters. For example, WDRQ was referred as "the Q", and whenever they played Rod Stewart's "Maggie May" and got to the line "...or steal my daddy's cue" they'd stutter-repeat the word "cue" so it sounded like "Q-Q-Q". They would do the same with Brownsville Station's "Smoking in the Boys Room" ("the noon bell rings, you know that's my cue"). In a similar vein, whenever CKLW played "Fire" by the Pointer Sisters, in the line "I'm riding in your car, you turn on the radio" the word "radio" was replaced by the call letters "CKLW."
Is there any specific industry term for this practice? (And, if it's not too chat-filter-y, did stations in your area do this with particular songs?)
posted by Oriole Adams at 12:49 PM PST - 21 comments
posted by Oriole Adams at 12:49 PM PST - 21 comments
Where can I bulk-download NBA box scores and stats?
I'm looking for every box score my favorite NBA team played in for this year and last. Where can I go to download this data? [more inside]
WebTV (AKA MSN TV) replacement? (with complications)
So, my parents (in their 80s), like many older folks, lost internet connection when Microsoft shut down the former WebTV service in September. It was a perfect solution for them and it seems nothing has emerged to satisfactorily replace it, but we have special problems since they can only get dial-up in their rural US location, and cellular coverage is spotty and complicated. Plus I'm on a different continent (and not so good at that end of computer literacy anyway – especially since things work a bit differently where I am). Still, I'd like to know what replacement solutions people have come up with among those of you who have dealt with a similar problem, especially if you can't be on hand to address ongoing problems that might pop up. [more inside]
Headband Hell
Trying to keep bad hair under control throughout the work day without looking like I'm 12. Help? [more inside]
posted by gohabsgo at 12:20 PM PST - 21 comments
posted by gohabsgo at 12:20 PM PST - 21 comments
Looking for a spy camera to deal with harassment from coworker
I work at a very small company, no HR or process of accountability. It's basically myself, the coworker, and the boss. The coworker is someone who's been with the company for over 40 years, and we absolutely need his abilities for the company to function, so there's no chance of his being fired or seriously punished. I've voiced complaints to the boss, threatened to quit, but nothing really changes. However, I have a feeling that my boss either doesn't totally believe me, or thinks that I'm being oversensitive. If I had video evidence of my coworker in the act, I think something effective would be done (for instance, he may decide that I could work from home on most days, which is something we have loosely discussed in the past). [more inside]
posted by Sine_Agraphia at 12:06 PM PST - 37 comments
posted by Sine_Agraphia at 12:06 PM PST - 37 comments
Flashcard software for Mac that uses text files via Dropbox
I'm looking for flashcard software for my Mac, with several caveats. I'd like to create the decks as text files and sync them with Dropbox, like you can with Flashcards Deluxe. If there's a Mac app that will use the same files as Flashcards Deluxe, that would be perfect. Thanks!
Savory treats for a holiday cookie plate
Our family always comes together to make cookie plates and this year I want to bake something savory that could easily fit on a cookie plate. I'm thinking some kind of crackers or cheesey somethings...or spiced nuts? Lend me your recipes! [more inside]
Why should/shouldn't I switch to cyanogenmod
I’m thinking about installing cyanogenmod on my samsung galaxy s3 ( SPH-L710 ) phone. Does anyone have experience with cyanogenmod on this phone or a similar model? [more inside]
Oral surgery and braces or wait-and-see?
I need help deciding whether to opt for oral surgery and braces for my child, or to take a wait-and-see approach. [more inside]
More recent nonfiction about pharmaceutical drugs
I love reading nonfiction about pharmaceutical drugs, their development, use, methods of action, etc. What's out there lately that I should read? Recent books I've read inside. [more inside]
Knot helping
Muscle pain in my back and chest is making day-to-day activities painful. Help me get rid of it. [more inside]
Renting my condo
I have owned a condo apartment for five years. I do not have a mortgage. My parents gave me the money to pay for it cash, and I pay them back at a rate $800 a month, no interest. The condo was not a gift as I'm fully expected to repay my parents. I suppose the "gift" was a loan with no interest. I want to move out and rent my place out. More details inside. [more inside]
posted by ohmy at 9:53 AM PST - 21 comments
posted by ohmy at 9:53 AM PST - 21 comments
Blog post needle in a hay stack - satire about photo equipment
Help me find a satirical blog post I read a couple years ago? It was in "answer" to a beginner asking what camera he should buy, although the beginner was an example of the typical entry-level photographer. [more inside]
posted by litnerd at 9:49 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by litnerd at 9:49 AM PST - 4 comments
ADD + unemployed: help me develop coping habits without medication.
I am pushing 30, and find myself unemployed for the first time in my life. I am staying at my parents' house for the time being until I sort things out, which has been a godsend. I have ADD/anxiety, and believe that deeply ingrained bad habits sprouting from these two conditions have been hijacking my life, with my unemployment being just a recent example. Has anyone been in a similar boat? How have you been able to replace your bad habits with better ones? I cannot let my life collapse to this point again. Details inside. [more inside]
In which I attempt to mitigate the anticipated disaster.
I have an iphone. Today I will be getting a MotoX. I don't really know a lot about smartphones in general or Android in general (or hell, even ios really) except that I assume there are going to be a few hiccups in the transition. Help me avoid those hiccups! [more inside]
posted by phunniemee at 9:26 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by phunniemee at 9:26 AM PST - 6 comments
12 Months of Something
What's the most unique niche (but still nice-looking) calendar you've seen for 2014? [more inside]
posted by troika at 9:09 AM PST - 26 comments
posted by troika at 9:09 AM PST - 26 comments
Editing Results of Evernote's Web Clipper
Evernote's web-clipper is super convenient, but creates clippings in a non-standard format making them tickly to edit and often unreadable when exported into HTML (e.g. for sharing). Any tips for quickly/efficiently stripping off some of the style/formatting kludge? [more inside]
posted by Quisp Lover at 8:49 AM PST - 17 comments
posted by Quisp Lover at 8:49 AM PST - 17 comments
Help me navigate my anxiety over life changes good and bad
Hello, folks. My overthinking tendencies are working overtime as I try to navigate the next few months of my life (job/apartment change, travel?) amidst the fallout of the last few months of my life (end of long term relationship). I can't tell if I'm biting off more than I can chew or if I'm just standing in my own way. [more inside]
posted by fingers_of_fire at 8:48 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by fingers_of_fire at 8:48 AM PST - 7 comments
eBay user since 2011 with feedback of 1 just paid for my item. ship it?
I sold a piece of electronics equipment on eBay for $130. The winning bidder, who has been a registered user of eBay since 2011, has a feedback rating of 1. The buyer promptly paid via Paypal. I dont see any indication that the buyer's shipping address is PayPal confirmed. eBay says I'm eligible for 'seller protection'. Should I ship it? [more inside]
posted by neilkod at 8:43 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by neilkod at 8:43 AM PST - 11 comments
Finding the right bralette for a C cup.
Hi ladies, I have searched the internet high and low and I am at a loss!
I am looking for something similar to the Commando Tulip bralette to wear under blouses for work. The caveats are:
Can't show nipples (knocks out the Tulip).
Looking for long line so I can tuck my shirts into skirts without wearing a cami underneath (too much bulk).
Some kind of support - I'm a 34C cup.
No lace cups (texture shows through most blouses).
Must be nude color.
Can anyone help me find a solution? I'm not sure why this has proved to be so challenging!
The elusive угаалтуур
What is the proper English name for, and where might I find for purchase, a plastic over-sink water-rationing reservoir that looks like this? [more inside]
the Trulias and Zillows in Europe are ? (please fill in!)
Buying a home in Europe two part question: 1) Where can I buy a home or apartment for up to 10,000 dollars (if possible)? 2) Please fill in for any European country you know, what the Trulia/Zillow of that country is. Thanks!
How should I interpret these instructions to cut a pear into "petals"?
Help me interpret a baffling description of how to cut poached pears into six "petals", leaving a core to be filled with frangipane. [more inside]
posted by metaBugs at 8:07 AM PST - 16 comments
posted by metaBugs at 8:07 AM PST - 16 comments
Shipping fees refund: what is reasonable?
An Amazon.com seller failed to deliver on time, and is now quibbling about refunding shipping costs. Am I being unreasonable? [more inside]
posted by ohcanireally at 7:34 AM PST - 17 comments
posted by ohcanireally at 7:34 AM PST - 17 comments
Books for an 8 year old boy?
My knowledge of kids' books has an epic gap between "Where the Wild Things Are" and "Harry Potter". I want to buy a couple books for an 8 year old boy. His mom says, "He likes Geronimo Stilton and Flat Stanley; specifically books that mention Japan and/or ninjas." I know he likes Star Wars too. Any suggestions? Thanks!
posted by skycrashesdown at 7:22 AM PST - 26 comments
posted by skycrashesdown at 7:22 AM PST - 26 comments
Strong-willed Child Will Not Go To School
At out wits' end - we have a very smart, very angry, very sad, strong-willed 6 year old who has decided that he is going to sleep until Christmas and that he is not going to school ever. Flurries of special snowflake details inside. [more inside]
Budget MP3 player for use w/Ubuntu / Banshee?
I need a moderately priced, durable MP3 player that I can dump selected tracks / podcasts from my Banshee library into for my commute. Ideally, I'd like to spend less than $100.
Any advice will be appreciated - I've been trying for 6 months to get Linux and my iPod to play together reliably, and I'm throwing in the towel.
posted by ryanshepard at 6:57 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by ryanshepard at 6:57 AM PST - 7 comments
Reliable sources of corrective financial advice in South Carolina?
My in-laws in South Carolina, who don't have a stellar history with money, are facing some challenges that are really restricting their circumstances. They're not against cleaning up their act in terms of budgeting and being smarter about money, but don't really have a head for it. What's the best way to help from a distance? [more inside]
posted by Shepherd at 6:45 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by Shepherd at 6:45 AM PST - 8 comments
I need a good copy of this photo of Neil Young
At some point in the mid-late 80's, someone snapped a pic of Neil Young wearing an Antone's nightclub shirt. The only version I can find on the internet is very low res & without attribution. [more inside]
posted by Devils Rancher at 6:44 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by Devils Rancher at 6:44 AM PST - 3 comments
Estimating the cost of lithium batteries for a future electric car
How might I estimate how much lithium batteries will cost in a decade? I would like to do an electric car project, but I cannot afford the batteries I would want to use. [more inside]
How does Leslie Knope do it??
How to 'fake it' and keep faking it/how to be more high-energy in social interactions [more inside]
posted by dinosaurprincess at 4:49 AM PST - 17 comments
posted by dinosaurprincess at 4:49 AM PST - 17 comments
December 4
Dealing with an eBay delinquent
I use eBay sparingly, and this time I appear to have a fraudulent bidder that won my auction. It seems like there's a bunch of steps that have to be done on the right days to handle this correctly... and that there's multiple values for "correctly". Help! [more inside]
posted by rouftop at 9:54 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by rouftop at 9:54 PM PST - 8 comments
Not quite a perinatologist - high risk neuro-pregnancy speciality?
I want a second opinion on getting pregnant, but don't know who to ask as my diagnosis came from a rheumatologist and gynaecologist team, while my neurologist had previously said somewhat differently, that I could not risk another pregnancy. I don't know whether to look for another team diagnosis or if there is a specialist for my particular case. [more inside]
posted by kittypaw at 9:51 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by kittypaw at 9:51 PM PST - 11 comments
Am I dressing dreadfully wrong?
I read this other AskMe that basically turned into a 50+ answer pile-on about wearing sneakers with a blazer, and now I'm worried that I too am doing something dreadfully wrong by mixing solid button-up shirts and dark wool trousers with big clompy Doctor Martens oxfords, a red nylon messenger bag and nylon windbreaker. Also, sometimes (okay, lots of times) I have a red bicycle helmet hanging from my bag. Could the hive mind explain exactly how dorky I look, and why? I'm not sure I care to change, but I would at least like to understand my options and their consequences, and make my self-presentation a deliberate choice instead of a clueless accident. [more inside]
Trying to find an old CRPG
I am trying to find this PC game I remember playing as a kid (mid-late 80's). It was maybe EGA era, definitely at least CGA. Me and a friend believe the name of it was something like "Destiny". It was a north/east/south/west/look kind of game with RPG elements. I don't remember a ton about it, except that we really enjoyed it, and never completed it because it was corrupted when we got to the end. One of the striking images I have is a green venus fly-trap like creature, with eyes on stalks. As you fought it and did damage, you would lop eyes off, and ichor would ooze out. (These were still images no animation, but updates throughout battles). I also remember something about a fountain and gems at the bottom of it as well (yeah, real specific I know!). I believe the end involved orcs and a throne or a crown, but it's getting real hazy at this time. If you have any recollection of this game, I'd love to hear about it, to prove that me and my childhood friend are not having group hallucinations, and to maybe track it down and play again.
Looking for books on the Golden Age of Hollywood (1927 - 1940)
I'm looking for some non-fiction, anecdote-filled book recommendations covering the first ten to fifteen years of the sound-era studio system. Particularly those which focus on the activities of the studio personnel themselves (the writers, producers, crew, moguls), rather than the stars. Anything interesting on the poverty row studios would also be great.
Where to find Taylor ham/pork roll in NYC?
I need to know once and for all: where can I find Taylor ham (or pork roll, depending on where you're from) in New York City? [more inside]
64 bit CPU info?
I was trying to confirm my cpu information by typing in "grep flags /proc/cpuinfo".
My Cpu is core i5 540M, supposed to be 64 bit I assume since I have 64bit win7 installed.
However, the output is:
flags : fpu vme de pse tsc msr pae mce cx8 apic sep mtrr pge mca cmov pat pse36 clflush dts acpi mmx fxsr sse sse2 ss ht tm pbe pni dtes64 monitor ds_cpl vmx smx est tm2 ssse3 cx16 xtpr pdcm sse4_1 sse4_2 popcnt aes lahf_lm
It does not has "lm" in it, and according to the sayings online, 64 bit cpu should has this flag.
So what exactly is going on here? Is my cpu 64 bit or not? what's wrong with that command?
posted by pack2themoon at 8:21 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by pack2themoon at 8:21 PM PST - 3 comments
No sane person would expect me to work here anymore, right?
So, I have only been working at this new job two months, but now I need to leave. For, I think, reasons no sane person would object to. But it's only been two months and the last job was also brief, although again for very excusable reasons. Help me phrase a cover letter? [more inside]
posted by Sequence at 7:30 PM PST - 22 comments
posted by Sequence at 7:30 PM PST - 22 comments
This is New Jersey... there are bound to be tacky Christmas lights.
A friend and I live in Newark and Kearny, NJ, respectively, and go to school in Madison. We're both dating Brits who are captivated by the (relatively mundane) Christmas lights displays we've seen just driving around so far. Where's somewhere nearby we can go where we can show them ridiculously tacky Christmas lights, ideally set to music or something equally ridiculous? I've found mention of a house in Morristown online but was wondering if there was anything else, or any neighborhoods that tend to all go all out.
Does What I Want Even Exist?
I'm looking for a web service that is a little bit of Pinterest, Evernote, and Google Reader. Does this service exist? [more inside]
Vegetarian casserole cookbook
Is there a vegetarian casserole cookbook? Have you used it? Do you love it? What is it called? [more inside]
what do to with fancy beer bottles
I've got some heavy, fancy beer bottles, like this, at home. Throwing them out is a waste, and there is no deposit. What can I do with them?
posted by the man of twists and turns at 7:01 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by the man of twists and turns at 7:01 PM PST - 11 comments
What to buy the serious yet funny boss who doesn't like suck-ups?
I'm looking for an understated but nice ($20-30 or nice homemade items) gift for a boss who's hosting an in-home holiday party (so it will be for husband and wife). Boss is both quite serious and funny and not a fan of anything that appears to be obsequious. [more inside]
posted by trandolph at 6:58 PM PST - 17 comments
posted by trandolph at 6:58 PM PST - 17 comments
The Lingo Show, Across the Pond?
My daughter loves the BBC Kids show The Lingo Show, in which bugs from different countries teach a little bit of their language. She's only seen bits and pieces on YouTube. Is there any legitimate way I can get her full episodes of the show?
posted by musofire at 6:54 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by musofire at 6:54 PM PST - 4 comments
Horrific Holidays!
I seem to remember a couple of years ago there was a post on the blue about a Northern European Yule spirit that would fish the bad children out of their houses using a meat hook, and either flay them, eat them, or both. Does this ring a bell to you? [more inside]
Map Tool to Create an Area based on Commute Times
Are there any online mapping tools that given a starting address and a starting time and a maximum time spent commuting will draw a border enclosing the area you could drive to in typical traffic at that time? The idea is if I want to live within 45 minutes of work I would give it my work address, the time I normally leave work to go home at night, and the maximum time I'm willing to spend on my typical commute and it would draw a boarder the encloses the area in which I'd be looking to find a home, knowing any other neighborhood/address would be outside my maximum commute time. [more inside]
Watchful waiting for dog's ACL injury?
Our 40 pound terrier mix injured her ACL yesterday and is badly limping. The vet's advice is ambiguous. I'd like to hear from people whose dogs have had ACL injuries, or people who know more about it than I do. [more inside]
JobFilter: help me choose
Choice 1. Tech startup - smart people, legitimate prospects, lots of autonomy, good upside, exciting work. Choice 2. Young but growing company - #5 with a bullet in their industry, much lower risk, 15% higher pay, potentially boring work [more inside]
Cashmere, Silk and Beetroot
[Stainremovalfilter]
Spilled some delicious beet juice on my aqua blue sweater. It's silk and cashmere. [more inside]
posted by travelwithcats at 5:49 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by travelwithcats at 5:49 PM PST - 3 comments
Wise to replace slightly frayed seatbelt with used one from junkyard?
2002 saab with 100,000 miles in generally good condition has a frayed driver's seat belt. To prevent further degradation, I covered the edge of the belt with duct tape. Frayed section conforms roughly in size to the concavity visible on the duct tape.
Trusty mechanic quotes $175 + around $75 to install a junk yard replacement. This includes the entire assembly; trusty mechanic says they generally don't work well if you just replace the belt. A new belt and assembly is $475+ installation.
I will have the opportunity to inspect the junk yard part before giving the go-ahead.
Here's the question: assuming that it looks ok, am I better off from a safety stand-point with the used one of unknown history that in theory could be almost twenty years old or should I stick with my slightly frayed belt of known history (I bought the car new)? I know you are not my safety engineer!
Thanks
Games for an Alzheimer's patient
My dad has been recently diagnosed with Alzheimer's. For many years, our family has played games when we get together and my mom and dad played games among themselves often; they especially enjoyed cribbage. My mom tells me my dad can't play that anymore because he can't sustain the concentration over the course of the game. I'd like to get Dad a game for Christmas that he can play with my mom, or with my mom and sister, who also lives in the town my parents live. It would have to be simpler than cribbage, but ideally something you could still play over and over with enjoyment. I found an earlier question about gifts for Alzheimer's patients and also some resources online for that general question--but haven't found any suggestions for games specifically.
posted by layceepee at 5:18 PM PST - 24 comments
posted by layceepee at 5:18 PM PST - 24 comments
Creative ways to spruce up an apartment kitchen floor
I rent an apartment with a water-damaged kitchen floor. The flooring has permanent stains on it that I want to hide. The landlord won't pay for the full-scale subfloor repair that would be necessary to renovate it nicely. I thought we could just paper it over with a new layer of vinyl flooring but a workman took one look at it and said he couldn't work with such a damaged floor, without a major renovation. I wonder what the best cheap way would be to just hide the stains and make the kitchen look civilized? [more inside]
Help me close the door on this infatuation..
I act like an idiot around this person. I need to stop and salvage my dignity. [more inside]
I'm not doing a cigar and Red Sox tickets four years in a row.
You are an early 30s guy's guy, fairly athletic, dry sense of humor, loyal, taciturn, not much of a reader, likes sports, slightly acerbic comedies and HBO dramas. What am I getting you for Christmas? Budget: $75 -$100, roughly. [more inside]
Are there any adult fiction writers for guys anymore?
I want to become a reader again, but my latest trip to the bookstore made me sad. Ignoring the fact that it was hard to find fiction books amidst the tablets, the toys, and the teen fiction section, I found an assortment of 'chicklit', Tom Clancy, Steven King, Dean Koontz and an assortment of right-wing survivalist fiction. I want to find something that isn't David Sedaris. I want to find something that isn't non-fiction. I want to find something that isn't ... isn't this...
Aren't there any great under-the-radar-haven't-been-overhyped-into-michael-crichton-yet authors? Or is this it... have I reached the end of an appreciation of fiction and I am now condemned to purgatory with nonfiction and biographies? Help! [more inside]
Help me ship!
I have sold a small bunch of prints and have made the foolish choice to distribute them myself. I have questions about shipping from Canada and hope you might have some experiences... [more inside]
How to make the first "in-law" get-together as pleasant as possible?
My fiance's parents are finally meeting my parents and I am vaguely sick with anticipatory worry. [more inside]
posted by lovableiago at 3:44 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by lovableiago at 3:44 PM PST - 15 comments
Chinese water torture. In Chinese.
Looking for terms or phrases that refer to or describe a repetitive, monotonous action that leads to frustration, boredom...and that particularly suggests annoyance from the one observing said action towards the offending person / act. Humorous, biting, slightly offensive...all accepted. Specific language requested: Chinese. [more inside]
How can I make spices the most packable?
My brother is a vagabond ski-bum, who lives in a tree house in the summer, cooks on a camp stove, and lives off of oatmeal, rice and beans, ramen, cans of tuna, and PB+Js. He does not like "owning things."
I'm going to civilize him a little bit by sending him a selection of spices for Christmas. BUT they need to be able to kept in a backpack or in a shoebox or something, take up very little space and weight. Any suggestions on A. How to package them? and B) Which herbs and spices you think I MUST INCLUDE? [more inside]
posted by Grandysaur at 3:23 PM PST - 25 comments
posted by Grandysaur at 3:23 PM PST - 25 comments
First car, newbie buyer. Help me make sure I don't get a bad deal!
So I just started a new job and need a car soon. I've never bought one before, and while I've had advice from friends I want to widen my information sources a bit. Complications, budget and other sundry details after the break... [more inside]
New relationship anxiety - age gap
I'm feeling a little queasy about the sexual preferences of my new boyfriend. I'm in my early 20's, he is almost 40, and I look a little younger than I am. I'm just worried he likes really young girls, just doesn't want to admit it to me. I love him, but I wouldn't be comfortable getting older with someone whose sexuality seems focused on youth.
Although, he says he is most attracted to women in their late 20's and early 30's, cares more about monogamy and love than physical beauty, etc. - so that's good. I still have concerns...
Besides seeming to have a particular interest in 'teen' porn where the girls look underage, I saw a VLC media file with the title indicating underage teen porn. It was under the 'recent' files in windows, but when clicked on the file no longer exists. He says he wouldn't seek that out, isn't sure where it came from, that he just downloads zip files of porn in bulk.
I understand men are going to be attracted to younger women and even teen girls, but I'd rather be with someone who didn't seek it out to that extent. Makes me wonder how much attraction they'd lose for me when I become 'old.' Thoughts?
Lifeless in Palo Alto.
Six months ago I moved from Maryland to the Bay Area to start a new life in tech. I knew no one here before moving. The weather here is wonderful. I live and work in Palo Alto at a startup-y job with long hours. I am often pretty dang miserable outside of work. How can I have more fun day to day? [more inside]
Career advice/resources for autistic adults: go!
Recently I have had to come to terms with the fact that 1) I am somewhere on the autistic spectrum and 2) I am working in a field that is not ever going to be very accommodating for me. Advice and pointers needed; secret spices, more info and toy inside. [more inside]
I'd like to cook up a batch of Breaking Bad recaps.
Hello, people of 2013! I come from 2008, where my partner and I have been enjoying the first season of Breaking Bad! I am in search of smart, well-written recaps of the show. [more inside]
Is my wifi router blocking images from Facebook?
I recently replaced a couple of old LinkSys WRT54G routers running DD-WRT in my home with a couple of couple of D-Link DIR-615 routers that I got as refurbs from woot.com. I bought these because the old machines only did 802.11 B/G whereas nearly everyone in the house now has a device that has 802.11 N capability.
All seems well to me, but my wife and younger daughter consistently complain that they now frequently are unable to display some images from Facebook, and that this began to occur precisely at the time that I put these new routers in. [more inside]
Living in Las Vegas
I'm moving to Las Vegas for a few years. I have a lot of experience living in tourist towns and dens of vice, but I've never lived in the desert. (I've been more of an ocean person.)
Tell me what I need to know to get up to speed as a local in Las Vegas, Nevada, and the desert. What, from a local's point of view, separates Las Vegas from other cities? What did you wish someone had told you before you moved there? [more inside]
Can I eat this: doomed (?) cheese and aged meat edition
Yesterday I bought:
A block of cream havarti.
A chorizo panino, mozz rolled with chorizo and pepponcini.
A role of mozz and soppressata.
This is like my food Holy Trinity, my food boyfriend in three parts. And how did I treat this wealth of goodness? Well, I stuffed it into my backpack at 12PM, remembered the next day at 7:00 AM and stuck them in the fridge and prayed for their meaty cheesy souls. [more inside]
iTunes Replacement?
What is the best open-source iTunes alternative in 2013? Details inside. [more inside]
Finding the fastest wall charger for my cell phone
What specs do I need to look at to find the fastest cell phone charger? [more inside]
posted by n81acc at 12:47 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by n81acc at 12:47 PM PST - 7 comments
First Wedding Dance- Not-Slow Edition
My fiancee and I are getting married in April and we're planning to do our first dance to be sort of a last dance (after the parent dances) that kicks off the dance/party portion of the evening. Our dancing will be "fast", a reflection of our fun-loving personalities (and reflection that we met at a bar, dancing), perfect for a fairly rowdy crowd (but safe for all ages), and not requiring anything new to learn. .
Have you done or seen something like this? What tips do you have? [more inside]
posted by sandmanwv at 12:33 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by sandmanwv at 12:33 PM PST - 11 comments
Looking for party/finger-food recipes that use eggs
Due to a series of odd events, I find myself in possession of several cartons of eggs, way more than I will be able to eat over the next week or so. Coincidentally, I will be going to a party on Friday and have agreed to contribute to the "finger-food only" buffet. I have a decent recipe for basic deviled eggs, but what else can I make that can be picked up and eaten without the use of utensils?
I'm a decent intermediate cook, and have access to most ingredients. Both savory or sweet suggestions would be most welcome, as would recipes that don't particularly "feature" the eggs, so long as they get used up. Bonus points for things that can be made today or tomorrow and served on Friday night, although I will have most of the day on Friday to cook if necessary.
posted by rpfields at 12:25 PM PST - 27 comments
posted by rpfields at 12:25 PM PST - 27 comments
What is my job, and how much should I get paid?
I am doing a freelance job where I translate, write, and design. How do I find out what my market value is? Is there a handy googleable title for what I'm doing? [more inside]
posted by Pwoink at 12:17 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by Pwoink at 12:17 PM PST - 7 comments
Salary negotiation moving from non-profit to for profit company?
Hi everyone-
I have a friend who is close to an offer at for-profit company in NYC, but his background is in non-profit. He wants to ask for a salary in the range that his research shows is a fair for his experience level and the industry standard. However, this amount is nearly $25,000 higher than his current non-profit salary, and he is afraid that revealing his salary history will not allow him to negotiate a fair rate. Does anyone have advice or has been through a similar transition themselves? Thank you in advance for your assistance.
-FH
Help me find a vaguely remembered, possibly imagined, cookbook?
I could have sworn I once saw a cookbook which was less about recipes and more about learning to create your own recipes. Cannot find it anywhere, though! [more inside]
posted by AmandaA at 12:08 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by AmandaA at 12:08 PM PST - 7 comments
Recommendations for New Orleans?
I'm going to New Orleans in a few days to cover a conference for a client. I will be going a half day early and staying an extra ~2 days more. I have limited time to do research, and do plan to go through the archives and NYT recommendation article. However, I was hoping to dig up any recommendations as to other things to see/check out when I'm there, and this seems to be an easy way to do so. [more inside]
posted by Wolfster at 12:00 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by Wolfster at 12:00 PM PST - 9 comments
Night running in Seattle - tracks and trails?
Now that the deep dark winter is upon Seattle, I'm looking for suggestions of where the best nighttime running is. Specifically, I'm looking for 400m tracks that are (1) open to the public and (2) lit at night. I'd also be interested in hearing about good streets or trails to run on that are well-lit (or even semi-lit) and not too sketchy. [more inside]
posted by bepe at 11:57 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by bepe at 11:57 AM PST - 11 comments
How do I comfort a friend who just saw a dog get hit by a car and die?
One of my best friends had the unfortunate luck of having a front row seat to the violent death of a dog last night. She is inconsolable. Is there any way to help her process the experience? [more inside]
posted by amycup at 11:49 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by amycup at 11:49 AM PST - 19 comments
Moving to LA
I've just recently come back from a week-long vacation to Los Angeles where I got to stay with my aunt and we had a great time seeing things and visiting places. The weather was amazing and I realistically thought it was the best vacation I have ever been on. She really wants me to move there. [more inside]
Spa with private hot tubs in NYC
Spa with private hot tubs in NYC? Looking for an equivalent to Watercourse Way in Palo Alto, CA, which rents out private rooms to individuals or small groups that feature hot tubs and showers.
Flat fish tank
Are flat fish tanks ok...for fish? [more inside]
dealing with a roommate/ assertiveness 2.0
I like my roommate, but I don't like some of the things she does. I suck at being assertive. We've only been living together for a short while so I'd like to set some boundaries while it's still early. [more inside]
Men's Fashion: How to rock the blazer and jeans look?
My husband would like to do the blazer and jeans look occasionally so I would like to get him a blazer but I'm not sure whether that will suffice. He only wears non-sneaker shoes when he has to and his sneakers are definitely more athletic style than just casual shoe style. And I'm not sure that his jeans are nice enough to pull off this look. Help? [more inside]
Where to find exotic chocolate in San Diego/Los Angeles
This winter I'll be going to a holiday party to which I'll need to bring the most exotic chocolate I can find. Apparently some guests to this party start their search for exotic goods six months in advance because of reasons, but as I am new to this universe I'd like to at least attempt to bring something of note now that I've been allowed to join the inner circle as it were. Where in San Diego, Orange County, or Los Angeles could I get delicious but intriguing chocolate? [more inside]
posted by These Birds of a Feather at 11:17 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by These Birds of a Feather at 11:17 AM PST - 12 comments
Where do I donate women's plus size clothing in northern NJ?
I have a bunch of plus size women's clothing to donate in northern New Jersey. Which local organizations I should contact? [more inside]
Looking for tools to teach HTML to a 4th grader
I offered to mentor a friend's kids in HTML and I'm looking for teaching tools that would be accessible to elementary-aged children. Free is ideal, but doesn't have to be if it's really excellent. [more inside]
Photograph with one spot of red
Looking for a photograph I once saw: rural winter scene, nearly monochrome — the farm fences and whatnot were black wood — but with one spot of colour, something red in the hands of someone walking in the centre of the scene. [more inside]
Can you identify this doll/ornament/statue?
There is a doll/ornament/statue in this poor quality picture that I'd very much like to identify. The only clues I have is that it's likely Asian, possibly Japanese, Korean or Chinese. Any ideas?
posted by merocet at 8:40 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by merocet at 8:40 AM PST - 9 comments
Bay Area Apartments: Explain like I'm 5
I have a job offer in San Francisco. I understand that renting there is more difficult than it's ever been. My requirements are: I want to be able to walk + bike + BART/Bus to work, which is around South Beach.
Other than that, I am cool with East Bay, South, whatever. I could swing $2500-ish a month, but that is an upper boundary.
Tell me about neighborhoods, tell me whether there exist "apartment headhunters" who could reliably do this for me, school me thoroughly.
Thank you in advance.
DIY Dog Training disaster? Can we raise a well behaved dog on our own?
Partner and I are first time dog owners getting our puppy this January. Some unfortunate circumstances have come up and now we may need to change our plans for dog training and I need to know if that is ok or not? [more inside]
What lab tests should I get?
I'm changing from Kaiser to a PPO plan starting next year, so I'd like to take advantage of the lab tests that Kaiser offers before the end of the year. [more inside]
Help me upgrade PHP on my MacOS X so I can run xDebug!
I want to upgrade the native version of PHP on my Macbook running MacOS X and I am not having much luck. Snowflakes inside... [more inside]
posted by dukes909 at 7:54 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by dukes909 at 7:54 AM PST - 19 comments
wireless charging or other fix for galaxy s3 with bad usb connection?
my galaxy s3's usb charging port is loose with every cord I have, and only works in certain positions, (and charges slowly even then) so I'm looking into alternatives, including Qi charging or repairing the port. Advice needed. [more inside]
posted by gryftir at 7:52 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by gryftir at 7:52 AM PST - 4 comments
Friend is looking for a long-lost book
Help my friend out. She's trying to identify a book she read in the past, based on the Norse myth of Fenrir - but set in modern times, with a boy as the protagonist. Strange things begin to happen to the boy, and an old man tells him to "Look for things that aren't there." Ring any bells? Friend's description of the book can be found within. [more inside]
Airport Express help!
I have an Airport Express base station - the older one not new (around 2009) version. Recently got a new iMac with with latest version of OSx and no longer see the the option under the sound button (top right corner of screen) to choose to either play with local speakers or speakers (or both) associated Airport Express base. When I go to settings - sound - output, I can see the the local speakers and the Airport Express but it says the selected device (Express) has no output controls. It used to be an option with any playback on any application. How to remedy? I can use my iphone (using iOS 6 not 7) to play on the airport express speakers. The only thing that seems to pickup the base is Itunes but other programs are not picking it up and I use Pandora, Spotify, Rhapsody, etc.. If I manually go in under the settings - sound - output I can click on Airport Express and it will play but not both sets of speakers. We like whole house music.
Why do I get headaches when I wear my hair down?
I have barely shoulder length hair which I typically wear down at work or when I'm out. After several hours, I sometimes get a headache which is immediately alleviated by putting my hair up (I'd say I get a headache after leaving my hair down about 20% of the time). Why is this happening? [more inside]
What kind of Lionel train set should we get? (Caveat: no kids, 2 cats)
My husband, who grew up with Lionel trains, would like to get a new set for the holidays. We have a 1 bedroom apartment, so we're not doing an entire set up. We have no kids, so it doesn't have to be Thomas, but I'm at a loss between O-Gauge and G-Gauge and all the different options! Does anyone have advice? [more inside]
Which car should I keep?
I own two cars. I need only one. But which one? Both are very reliable and always have had regularly scheduled maintenance. Their resale values are both tiny. Overall I am not partial to either one. So tell me which one I should keep in the driveway. Most importantly, tell me WHY. [more inside]
posted by Longtime Listener at 7:00 AM PST - 30 comments
posted by Longtime Listener at 7:00 AM PST - 30 comments
Help me crunch numbers...forever
What are some potential career paths for someone who loves doing data analysis? What can I be doing right now to build my skills and experience? [more inside]
posted by capricorn at 6:26 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by capricorn at 6:26 AM PST - 19 comments
Your IBS/Migraine Cooking Mission, should you choose to accept it!
Help me come up with new recipes! My partner has a VERY restricted diet... he has IBS and Migranes...It will be easier for me to tell you what he CAN eat, so here we go: Cauliflower, Carrots, broccoli, Swede, sour cream, butter and oils, garlic, stocks, mushrooms, pasta, rice, barley, pastry, tomatoes, corn, sweet potato, and courgette/zucchini and most meat- plus salmon and chicken.... and I can use a lot of herbs (but no paprika, chili or anything hot)... [more inside]
I want to buy five stocks and hold them. What's the cheapest way?
I have 3,000 and I want to buy four or five stocks and hold them for the next ten or more years. What's the cheapest way to buy these four or five stocks. [more inside]
What stuff do I use on my newly blue hair?
Yesterday i dyed my hair blue underneath my regular blonde. I am normally very low maintenance, like wash and go, and didn't really think through how to take care of it.
Looking for specific suggestions on products I can pick up today or order online that will keep the blue as blue as possible. Should I try dry shampoos? I honestly have just been using aussie shampoo since the 80s, so trying to find a new product seems oversized.
I was told to keep the blonde and blue separate when I wash my hair, like put the blue in a ponytail, wash the blonde and put conditioner on it, and then wash the blue. If anyone has managed to do this, tips for this also welcome.
Calling all pro shoppers!
I'm looking for this dress, because it screams out to me and encapsulates my personality. My issue is that I have no idea how to find it or something similar....
Need Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill Accountant to explain IRS issue...STAT!
Can anyone recommend a good 'affordable' accountant that could reach out to the IRS and get the straight scoop on an IRS mishap (on my part mostly) from 2007-2008? Would like to get this straightened out as soon as possible. [more inside]
How to tackle multiple large personal projects?
I need some advice on getting things done. I have several large personal projects I've been trying to work on for a long time, but I am having trouble making even the smallest dent in each. [more inside]
posted by Brittanie at 5:20 AM PST - 17 comments
posted by Brittanie at 5:20 AM PST - 17 comments
Looking for creative, collaborative games
I'm looking for games that have an element of creativity and can be just as fun played without a real winner. For example, games like Encore (a singing game), Telestrations (a drawing game), or Apples to Apples/Cards Against Humanity. All of those games can be played to win, but the real fun is in the game itself. While I'd definitely be interested in games that don't require any supplies (ie charades) I'm really looking for fun stuff to give as gifts.
Jetstream Ballpoint Pen Suggestions
Looking for suggestions for pen bodies for Jetstream Ballpoint Pen refills. [more inside]
posted by dbirchum at 4:19 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by dbirchum at 4:19 AM PST - 3 comments
I know it used to be a convent, but...
My soon-to-be-wife and I will be in San Juan, PR, this weekend, staying at El Convento. The photos on the web site seem to indicate it's not very laid-back in terms of dress, but hotel reviews I've read haven't mentioned anything about how dressy or casual the place is. Can anyone provide some firsthand knowledge?
Bonus restaurant recommendations are welcome, too.
posted by emelenjr at 3:24 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by emelenjr at 3:24 AM PST - 11 comments
What are some good films for slumber parties?
MeFites, can you furnish me with the names of some films that are (1) generally upbeat (2) visually pretty (3) not hard to follow plotwise (4) able to put people at ease, help them relax. They can be comedies or dramas or whatever. Animation is fine; live action is fine. [more inside]
Where can I create a free online journal with prompts that I create?
I'm trying to steer myself toward some daily routines beyond just human maintenance and sustenance. I don't have any ultimate goals to achieve, it's more about daily practice and keeping myself focused on "keepin' on keepin' on" in a few areas that are important to me but that I tend to neglect.
I can't find quite what I'm looking for with Google. I can best describe what I want by describing how I would do it on paper:
(1)Create a question form with a list of questions and some space to respond essay-style to each question.
(For myself the questions would be something like "How was your meditation today?" "What new thing did you create today?" "What artist did you read about today?")
(2)Photocopy this form 100 times or so.
(3)Fill out one form each day.
Is there a free site where I can do this online, or should I just create it on paper with some photocopies in a three-ring binder?
posted by cellura p at 2:50 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by cellura p at 2:50 AM PST - 7 comments
What Boston area Quaker meeting is best for my sister?
My sister is interested in attending an unprogrammed Quaker meeting in the Boston area, and she'd like some suggestions about which ones might be best for her. The friendlier, the better, as she is new to Quakerism and somewhat shy. She is in her mid-thirties, but seems younger. Bonus points for materials that are helpful for introducing newcomers to Quakerism. She lives in Watertown but has a car and could attend anywhere in the Boston.
December 3
Toddler Bedtime Books
Looking for recommendations for books about bedtime or ending with the character(s) asleep. My not-quite-two-year-old seems to actively get much sleepier when we read bedtime orientated books. Goodnight Little Bear and Goodnight Moon have both worked to help calm him down for bedtime, and I'd like a bit more variety in my night time book repertoire. [more inside]
Fulfill a childhood craving for this specific fountain pen
I'm looking for a specific fountain pen that was very common in German schools in the mid-90s. Can you help? [more inside]
Vegan scotchmallows?
My sister is on a very restricted diet to help out her immune system. No milk, no eggs, rare if ever gluten. Her favorite sometimes treat is See's Scotchmallows (milk or dark chocolate, honey marshmallow, and caramel) and she is looking for an alternative. I've googled around and looked at Etsy and some favorite vegan places, but I am not seeing anything that looks good. I thought maybe the the Vosges version, but it is made on the same equipment with milk.
Does anything have any recommendations or something else that might help her miss them less?
Thank you in advance.
If I like reading The Last Psychiatrist, what else would I like?
I love the Last Psychiatrist. I don't agree with everything she writes--but I like a lot of things about her. I like that she combines deep knowledge with hand-wavey speculation. I like that she's a fearless contrarian. I like that she's funny. I want to read more writing about society, science, the arts, whatever, that's as toothy as the stuff she does. This can be in book, magazine, or blog format. Where do I go?
Short girl, short waist, hips. Teach me to dress like an adult.
I have a hard-to-fit body. What clothes flatter a short girl who is not actually petite? [more inside]
posted by catesbie at 8:41 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by catesbie at 8:41 PM PST - 12 comments
help me find a nice woman's wallet
I'm having a hard time finding a nice leather wallet. [more inside]
How tall can my Christmas tree be and fit on my sedan roof?
We have very high ceilings in our apartment and can get a tall tree, but we would like to avoid renting a truck and I don't think any of our nearby friends have the type of vehicle that would be better. If we must, we will further investigate those options or delivery or whatever, but first I want to rule out using my own car. I've never transported anything on my own roof and I have no rack but I know trees get home this way all the time. I'm happy to go nuts tying it down as long as we're being safe. I know there's a weight limit listed for my car. What's the practical/legal length limit and what is it based on (roof, car length)?
posted by zizania at 7:00 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by zizania at 7:00 PM PST - 10 comments
need help surviving the worst breakup I've had
I just got dumped by my partner. It was the best relationship I've ever been in. I feel like my life is falling apart. Please advise. [more inside]
I need a name for this bureaucratic phenomena
Here's the background: I'm working on a project that will make it easier to issue state and federal permits for certain traditional indigenous land uses here in Hawai`i. There are already 17 federal and state permits, for example, that cultural practitioners need to secure in order to restore a native fishpond. We intend to streamline this. We have a lot of both community and political support, and a lot of people want to help out to make it successful. [more inside]
posted by kanewai at 6:39 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by kanewai at 6:39 PM PST - 12 comments
My Timeshare Albatross
The timeshare market is awful, and due to new financial emergencies, I absolutely cannot afford to pay rising maintenance fees and assessments on a very nice 1 bedroom timeshare I own on Paradise Island in the Bahamas.
Donate for a Cause does not want my timeshare, and I've been listing it on ebay for almost a year now, with the price ranging from $.01 to $99. I've offered to pay the transfer fees. No takers. I've contacted various charities and NOBODY wants this condo.
I've checked into TUG and it appears there are no reputable resellers.
The developer will not buy my property back.
I don't owe any money on the place, it's just the annual fees. There are no fees for the 2 weeks per year when I'm there, but I can't afford the maintenance and assessment any more.
How do I get rid of this thing??? I owe it until 2035 and I can't afford it any more.
And suffice it to say that I've asked and nobody I know and nobody in my family wants this place.
Best radiant/oil heater?
My apartment doesn't have central heating, and space heaters aren't doing the job. It never gets below freezing here, but does get pretty chilly (maybe 40ish at the lowest) after dark. I have a couple of space heaters, but they don't really heat the full space (two rooms, about 300 sq. feet each), and so I'm left with just sitting right in front of the heater, so there's hot air blowing right on me, which is uncomfortable and dries out my skin like crazy. A friend recommended a radiant or oil heater, but didn't know a lot of specifics. Has anyone used these? Are they better than the type of space heater that just blows out hot air? And, do you have any recommendations for specific brands?
Is there a way to fill my prescription (ADHD) without the usual hassle?
I have to take 60 grams of Dexedrine every day. I get monthly prescriptions (no refills allowed) and every month it's a nightmare to get them filled. Is there a way I can avoid this? [more inside]
posted by Tarumba at 6:16 PM PST - 32 comments
posted by Tarumba at 6:16 PM PST - 32 comments
Daily Failures In Hydration
I am a grown-ass woman who fails utterly at hydrating herself. I would love any and all suggestions to help me drink more water regularly. [more inside]
posted by Aquifer at 6:05 PM PST - 49 comments
posted by Aquifer at 6:05 PM PST - 49 comments
Help me remember a TV comedy show from the 1970's...
Hi Metafilter,
I am trying to remember a north american TV show from around 1977-1980, scant details inside... [more inside]
posted by thermonuclear.jive.turkey at 5:52 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by thermonuclear.jive.turkey at 5:52 PM PST - 4 comments
Surgeons: What are you looking for in a midlevel? Interview help.
I have an interview this week - last minute - with a surgeon. I'm a newly graduated midlevel provider with minimal OR experience but I really, really want to get some. This physician is, at least what I've been told since the screening on the phone with his assistant, willing to train the right person. What might he be looking for if he's willing to train a new person? [more inside]
I'm want to give her a sugar rush, not rush her to the ER
My awesome niece, age 12, will be visiting for Christmas, and I'd like to make some homemade treats she can eat. Difficulty level: multiple severe food allergies. [more inside]
Web based option for Active Sync / Exchange email reading?
My company uses Exchange for email. Since they block POP and IMAP access for security reasons, I cannot use Gmail (or Google Apps) to read my email. They do support Active Sync, so Apple Mail and Outlook both work fine. I would prefer a web based option, as close to gmail as possible. Are there any other options out there for me? [more inside]
posted by kdern at 3:11 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by kdern at 3:11 PM PST - 7 comments
Help find me some cool pics for our office!
My boss has mentioned some pictures of cells and - specifically - microbiomes he has seen which are super colorful and would be cool to blow up and put on our walls. My google search is failing, and I am only finding images that look like sour-patch gummy worms. Anyone know of good websites where we can buy cool, science-y pictures of microorganisms?
posted by lil' ears at 2:51 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by lil' ears at 2:51 PM PST - 7 comments
Outsource Art/Logo design for non-profit?
I am helping a non-profit veterans group, and they need a logo. A really simple logo. I am particularly clueless about all things commercial art, but did I hear somewhere about an online marketplace sort of like Etsy, where you can post a requirement, and artists from around the world can bid on the job? This would be a really simple drawing-- basically a wildcat wearing a communications helmet. Uncomplicated line art, black and white that could be used on posters and business cards. I have almost no budget for this, so I'm hoping there is a way to connect with an artist who is just starting out or something. Any recommendations for how to proceed? Thanks for all of your advice, and, although I hate this phrase, please consider me to be the proverbial four-year-old for this subject.
Boston at Christmastime
What are Christmas-y things to do in Boston during the month of December? [more inside]
Instinct doesn't appear to be working in this case
Please help us get an adorable seven week old (possibly developmentally delayed?) kitten litter trained so that he can go to his new home. [more inside]
I need a link that articulates email spoofing
I have a aunt-in-law who has been forwarding me junk emails she has received from a random email address with my name as the title. I've tried to explain to her that this is likely a junk from her computer's infection, not mine.
Can someone send me a link that explains how that works in a simple way for someone of her limited understanding?
posted by miss tea at 2:27 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by miss tea at 2:27 PM PST - 10 comments
I'd do all the right things if I only had the energy for it!
This was me last year. Nothings's changed. [more inside]
posted by nubianinthedesert at 2:22 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by nubianinthedesert at 2:22 PM PST - 16 comments
The Best Boxers
Find me some awesome men's boxers. Snowflake details follow... [more inside]
Document-Oriented Database for Non-Programmers?
Is there such a thing as a Document-Oriented Database for Non-Programmers? I've been searching the web for several days and I'm quite confused so I thought to post here. [more inside]
Trouble with Filemaker 7
Working on an old version of Filemaker Pro (7) in Windows, I created an alias (shortcut) of the main database, opened it and lost everything. Help? [more inside]
Recourse with bad eyeglasses prescription
My optometrist wrote me an unwearable prescription. What recourse do I have? [more inside]
posted by enn at 1:30 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by enn at 1:30 PM PST - 12 comments
How do I get a wedding corsage in Miami on short notice?
Looking for ideas to get a corsage for the bride and a boutonniere for the groom on short notice in Miami. These will be for a casual wedding ceremony on Thursday late afternoon (2 days from now). They don't have to be fancy, but it would be nice to have good quality flowers and for them to be well made.
posted by theory at 1:14 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by theory at 1:14 PM PST - 6 comments
New relationship - advice on meeting her child for the first time?
Never had children of my own - how do I handle meeting a new partner's child for the first time? [more inside]
posted by de void at 1:14 PM PST - 18 comments
posted by de void at 1:14 PM PST - 18 comments
"Jo, your one beauty!"
Is selling or donating my hair worthwhile, or should I just get a damn haircut like normal people? [more inside]
Where in Los Angeles can I go to try wine and cheese pairings?
For Christmas I'd like to take my husband to somewhere (a restaurant? wine shop? cheese shop?) where someone can sit down with us and teach us about (and let us sample) wine and cheese pairings. Is there anywhere like that in the North Hollywood area? [more inside]
posted by McPuppington the Third at 12:45 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by McPuppington the Third at 12:45 PM PST - 6 comments
I've got money to spend, does someone sell what I want?
I'm looking for a high resolution frameable photo of the "Fly DC Jets" sign in Long Beach, CA. Details inside. [more inside]
Where to get dinner near the Barclays Center? Or even not-so-near?
We're going to a show at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn on Friday night and are looking for a great place to eat dinner at beforehand. [more inside]
posted by ldthomps at 12:20 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by ldthomps at 12:20 PM PST - 14 comments
Guns in the jungle around 1920?
I'm writing a story and I need to know any difficulties an army might have keeping guns in a jungle environment around the 1900s to 1920s. I know nothing about guns. [more inside]
posted by Nattie at 12:12 PM PST - 19 comments
posted by Nattie at 12:12 PM PST - 19 comments
I need a review or overview of nursing quality indicator systems.
I am on the hunt for a review, overview, listing of, or any other compilation of sorts that you may find explaining all the different American quality indicator systems in health care, specifically nursing if you're that good. AHRQ, ANA, NDNQI, .... but a more inclusive list and description of all their individual quality outcome management recommendations. I've been searching for days and haven't really found exactly what I need or want. Thanks!
posted by acertainseason at 11:52 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by acertainseason at 11:52 AM PST - 5 comments
How do I figure out age appropriate comic book/media (ages 9-11)?
I have a niece and two nephews. As the one among my siblings who's into comic book culture, my brothers have started asking me for input and recommendations for the kids, and I'm finding myself having some trouble. A lot of superhero comics may or may not be age appropriate and I also worry about some of the weird sexist subtext in a lot of stuff. I am asking this partially for input in picking Christmas gifts, but also in order to be a better family resource. [more inside]
Hacked Instagram account; can my friend get justice?
A fellow aspiring entrepreneur and friend of mine is in desperate need of help. Time is of the essence!
Here's the story:
Two years ago he created his own business that sells custom hand-made clothes and products. He owns a website and is on all of the normal social media. One of his most effective tools to connect with customers is through instagram. He's worked hard over the years to develop a fan base of over 27K followers. Mysteriously, last night this account was hacked. They changed the password, hacked the business email, and have taken control of the brand. This account is the business' main source of revenue and advertisement.
Although he's trademarked the company and taken all the normal preventative measures, the admin. at instagram claims there's nothing they can do to help. Assuming this is true, what are his available options?
Essentially, my friend's ship just got hijacked by some evil bastards and he's going to need a seal team to get it back. [more inside]
I want to sleep less, without turning into a zombie.
Is there any realistic way to train your body to need less sleep? Or any tricks to have better energy levels and brain activity if I just provide my body with less sleep? [more inside]
Can you help me understand Bitcoin?
I don't understand what Bitcoin is. Please try to describe what they are to me in the simplest terms possible. I'm afraid that I don't understand how computers work well enough to understand Bitcoin. If this is true, I want to figure out where I need to fill in my knowledge gaps.
I know that Bitcoin is a virtual currency, but what IS a bitcoin? What are the adjectives that describe this noun?
I need a simple Sirius XM radio set-up that doesn't create clutter
For Christmas, I want to get my mom some sort of Sirius XM radio set-up for her kitchen/house. My options as I see it are 1) finding an elusive under-the-cabinet radio 2) finding a way to get a radio that won't be in the way 3) or getting a sound system or something. I need some help. Details on my mom and what I am looking for below. Thanks in advance! [more inside]
An Ogre by any other name ...
Yet another asking for a friend book recommendation. Looking for teen / older tween books that are based in/around Florida, punny, humor-wordplay, fantasy based, not that usual go-to-guy. [more inside]
To BCC3 Control Board, or not to BCC3 Control Board
A question regarding an impending attempt to replace the control board in our furnace myself. Extenuating circumstances: Approaching Arctic Cold Front. [more inside]
A total 180
Why does 3ds Max flip my camera 180 degrees when I open a file on another machine? [more inside]
Documentaries about Africa
Seeking viewing suggestions for African documentaries. [more inside]
posted by morganannie at 9:44 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by morganannie at 9:44 AM PST - 13 comments
What's a good birthday-party-hosting bar in Toronto?
I'm turning 29 this month. Hooray! Fortunately, I've just moved much closer to downtown Toronto. Unfortunately, my apartment is now too small to host a birthday party. I'm looking for a good bar to host a come-and-go sort of informal party on Sunday, December 15th. [more inside]
posted by ilana at 9:43 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by ilana at 9:43 AM PST - 8 comments
Need a map editor that will let me overlay aerial photographs and more?
Hi there,
I am interested in balloon mapping an area of London. I want to host the resulting map online but I also want to contextualise it by placing it on top of for instance, a Google satellite map like this. I also want to be able to annotate it with text and photographs taken from the ground. Are there any programmes or online editors that will let me do this?
Thanks.
Audio analysis software: where can I download a reputable program?
I'd be interested in downloading a program which allows me to see a visual analysis of the soundwaves within an audio file. [more inside]
Pies Please
It's cold and dark in the UK winter and I wish to feast on warming, comforting savoury pies. Can you share your favourite vegetarian recipes please? Fussy eating details below. [more inside]
posted by billiebee at 9:03 AM PST - 30 comments
posted by billiebee at 9:03 AM PST - 30 comments
Social media for antisocial Luddites
All of the communications and marketing jobs I've been applying for lately have required experience posting to social media. In my personal life, I've avoided having anything to do with Facebook, Twitter and so forth, and I'm wondering how I can quickly get up to speed on these things. All I need is to be able to convince a potential employer that I can effectively promote them on social media, without ever having done this as part of my job responsibilities. How to accomplish this? [more inside]
posted by silly me at 9:03 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by silly me at 9:03 AM PST - 15 comments
Do I need a new Blu-ray player?
I have a Panasonic Blu-ray player. It is probably 5-6 years old.
Lately I notice the picture quality on some older standard DVDs (Six feet under season 1 for example) don't look good. They either look grainy/pixelated/not crisp.
The other problem that I have is that Blu-rays take foreeeeeeever to load. The new season of Mad Men must take 5 minutes at least. It does look great once it gets started.
I am not an overly tech savvy person. I don't know if I need to update firmware (or how to do it for that matter). I would rather have something that either doesn't require it or does it automatically. I do have a brand new Samsung smart hd tv. I am using HDMI cables.
Is there a way/is it worth updating or trying to "fix" It seems that players are so inexpensive that perhaps I should just purchase a new one. Would this solve the problem? Do todays units update themselves like I believe that my tv does? I see that some come with wi-fi included. Some are smart. I don't know what the advantage to those features are. I don't care about 3D. Is HDMI still the standard?
Would it be advantageous to stick with Samsung?
Thank you in advance
the one left behind
I've been seeing a lot of stories from people who left their relationships so that they can go on to be better versions of themselves, because they felt their ex held them back. Is there anything from the perspective of the ex that got left behind? [more inside]
Neighbor's toilet water is leaking into my home. Landlord doesn't care.
Brown water from the apartment upstairs occasionally leaks into my apartment and its light fixtures. The landlord and super won't fix the plumbing until that tenant moves out. What can I do about this? Withhold rent? Break my lease? Something else? I understand that YANML, but some help with NYC tenants rights would be good right now. [more inside]
Nerd seeks RSI-savvy Seattle physical medicine MD for L&I appeal
Can you recommend a Seattle physical medicine doctor who can help me with my bad hands and my L&I claim? [more inside]
It's not the size, but what you do with it that counts...
Did Voltaire or some other enlightenment writer say something like "precision in aiming artillery matters more than the size of the shells"?
posted by wobdev at 8:30 AM PST - 1 comment
posted by wobdev at 8:30 AM PST - 1 comment
New computer desktop prank
I am setting up a work associates new computer and decided to have some fun with it. I’ve added a theme and desktop slide show featuring things like William Shatner, clowns, Captain Picard, Duck Dynasty, among other silly things. How do I lock a desktop background slideshow in Windows 7 other than with group policies? [more inside]
Can I please have a dog AND a relationship?
I recently moved in with my partner and my 5 year old dog is making it difficult for him to sleep. My 15 lb dog has always slept in my bed, but his snoring and shifting during the night is keeping my partner awake. We've tried keeping the dog out of the bedroom, but he usually wakes up in the middle of the night and cries or scratches at the bedroom door. My partner wants to put the dog in a crate at night, far enough away that we won't hear him. I feel like this is cruel and don't want to do this. Although he is crate trained, I've rarely put him in his crate overnight, or for any long periods. Am I wrong about this? Any ideas for how we can live together in harmony?
What are these halogen bulbs from a traffic light?
I have a UK traffic light head with 3 halogen bulbs (12V AC). The bulbs it came with are just like G4 12V halogen bulbs, except that the legs are fractionally thicker. It seems like they are not G4 bulbs -- so what are they? [more inside]
posted by richb at 8:16 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by richb at 8:16 AM PST - 5 comments
How to annotate and insert images into PDF on an iPad?
I use goodreader to grade papers and am very happy with the interface. However, I would like to be able to insert image files into the PDFs and goodreader doesn't support this. [more inside]
posted by Cuke at 8:14 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by Cuke at 8:14 AM PST - 6 comments
How to negotiate salary mid-career?
I am interviewing for a new job. I'm a mid-career professional with 15 years of experience in my field. I've made the second round of interviews at three different organizations. I expect a job offer from at least one, possibly two of these places. I have NO IDEA how to negotiate a salary offer when it comes, and most of the advice I've found is geared to new college graduates, not people with more experience. How do I do this? [more inside]
Colorblindness Coping: Colorblindness & Windows 7
The nut of the question/problem is this: When I use high-contrast mode in Windows 7, people are receiving emails from me where the text is blank. Is this because windows 7 changes the font to white for me to see it, and then emails that same font to users who have white backgrounds? How can I fix this?
I really don't want to ask for special software accommodation at work. I'm private and would really rather just fix it on my own and move on. Snowflakes abound inside. [more inside]
Hunting a Specific YouTube Fair-Use Case
I'm looking for a specific YouTube video, involved in a Fair-Use copyright case, that had been taken down and some months later allowed to reposted after having been approved by courts as transformative. It involved using two different movie-industry film footage segments that, when interspersed with each other, created a new conversation between two characters of different fictional universes. [more inside]
posted by Quarter Pincher at 7:56 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by Quarter Pincher at 7:56 AM PST - 2 comments
Looking for Mac OS X Course Management/Homework software recommendations
I'm looking for recommendations for software that I can use to manage my schoolwork (college) that runs on Mac OS X and preferably syncs to my iPhone and iPad as well. [more inside]
One Music Library to Rule Them All
I currently use approximately four+ computers with all major OS'es (Mac, Windows, Linux-Ubuntu) between work and home. Plus an Ipod Classic for portable music listening. Problem is keeping my music library up to date on all machines, or synced together. If I create a playlist, or change ratings, genre, etc. the results also aren't propagated to the other machines. On Windows and Mac I've been using Itunes but I'm not necessarily tied to it, but it does work on 2 of the 3 OS'es.
Any suggestions?
There are some previous similar questions, but all look several years old.
Elbow joint very sore, any ways to speed up the healing process?
Didn't touch a DSLR for months, then this past weekend, went to photograph a festival going stage to stage carrying heavy lenses for ~8 hours a day. Just tired the next day. But the following day, can barely move my right arm. [more inside]
Mystery Metal
Can anyone identify the function of these brackets? They're part of a Lionel model train set. [more inside]
posted by backseatpilot at 5:51 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by backseatpilot at 5:51 AM PST - 9 comments
A Job Offer with a Fee?
I just received a job offer yesterday at the place of business that I temp at. It requires that I stay there for at least one year, or else I must pay a fee. I like the thought of having full-time work with benefits and am very thankful, but I don't feel that I fit in the city I'm in currently and didn't see myself staying for another year. But I have to be careful about any risks I take with leaving my job because I don't have a family (as they were abusive) or anyone to rely on financially should things go south. Is this a good deal? Should I take this job? [more inside]
posted by independence under the radar at 5:39 AM PST - 28 comments
posted by independence under the radar at 5:39 AM PST - 28 comments
Secure Acapulco Delivery for 2-kilo passport? Fedex, DHL or ...?
My mother, who is getting on in years, lives in Acapulco and needs to apply for a Taiwan visitor visa (not a landing visa, which is automatic for US citizens). The problem is finding a secure way to send the passport to either Mexico City or Houston. Fedex has no office in Acapulco. DHL does have an office there, but their unhelpful web pages do not inspire confidence, and my inquiry about "prepaid envelopes" and pickup options to "mail a US passport" was answered with a slightly brain-dead request: "we need ur document weight and ur document outer package size." Seriously, has the US (or any other country) ever isssued an A3-size 2-kilo passports?
My question: Is there any QUICK & SECURE way (avoiding DHL if possible) to send a passport plus a prepaid return envelope from Acapulco to Mexico City or Houston, Texas? Note that I am not in Mexico: I need to find a quick and easy solution for my Mom, who cannot get around easily.
posted by juifenasie at 5:39 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by juifenasie at 5:39 AM PST - 6 comments
Software / sites for creating product pitch videos?
I'm looking to create a short video (~30 seconds), to explain and promote a smartphone app/game. Both time and budget are quite limited. [more inside]
Re-Installation of Macbook G4 - Help Me Restore it to Glory
So gifted with Macbook G4 - from way back. It never booted up properly as per previous owners. Sometimes yes, sometimes no. S [more inside]
December 2
Why are my ballet flats wearing out so quickly at the back of the heel?
My ballet flats seem to wear out at the back of one heel well before the sole goes. Why is this happening, and how can I stop it? [more inside]
Sweater dresses!
I love the look of empire-waisted sweater dresses, tights, and boots for winter. Help me find some nice sweater dresses! [more inside]
Help me find a graph I've lost!
I've been doing research involving the treatment of musicians under repressive regimes. A while back I found a graph that had a list of countries, and for each country listed the number of musicians killed, tortured, abducted, assaulted etc. in a certain period of time. But I've lost this graph!! Can you help me relocate it? [more inside]
Hairbrush recommendations, please!
I have thick, between wavy and curly, longish hair that comes to about mid-upper-arm. I have used the same plastic cushion brush for over a decade (yes, I wash it) and have been fine with it. I recently read about ionic and ceramic brushes and am curious: is there a demonstrably better brush for my type of hair? [more inside]
another round of Name My Dog
I have a new retired greyhound, and have utterly failed to come up with a new name for him. Please help! [more inside]
Am I prediabetic?
Should I be concerned about my recent lab results? [more inside]
Is there any emprical evidence of pee-pee dance efficacy?
Are there any published scientific studies of whether the 'pee-pee' dance is actually useful in either delaying urination onset or alleviating discomfort?
posted by srboisvert at 7:28 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by srboisvert at 7:28 PM PST - 4 comments
Is it irresponsible for me to keep my cell phone on 'silent' at night?
Here's the thing: I don't have a land-line.
Over Thanksgiving, my mother got upset at the thought that she couldn't reach me late at night if there were some kind of emergency - the dreaded "3 am phone call." I understand her worry, but I'm feeling very resistant to the idea of keeping the phone on at night. In part, this because I know that most of the calls I'll get will just be annoying and unwanted (I have a fairly severe telemarketing issue) but I think there is also a kind of psychological resistance. I'm a slave to my phone already for all these hours of the day, and it feels good to know it won't be bothering me while I'm sleeping. I'm reluctant to give that up. Can you help me sort through these issues? [more inside]
posted by pretentious illiterate at 7:11 PM PST - 79 comments
posted by pretentious illiterate at 7:11 PM PST - 79 comments
The best way to handle a car accident insurance claim against my policy?
Hopefully, this won't be an expensive lesson in car insurance practices, but I lent my car to a teenager... and she got into an accident. [more inside]
posted by lostguy at 7:02 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by lostguy at 7:02 PM PST - 8 comments
Living for myself
I need to learn how to live for myself first, and not place so much of my self-worth on how people I'm dating view me. Please help. [more inside]
posted by New Old User at 6:50 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by New Old User at 6:50 PM PST - 12 comments
Friend of friend tells a blatant lie. What do I do?
A good friend of a good friend is going around telling a very blatant lie. The problem is that the lie is about a petty topic. I am disturbed by the fact that she is telling a blatant lie regardless of the topic, don't understand why she keeps telling it, and really don't enjoy humoring someone who is clearly lying. However I will seem petty if I object to it. What do I do? [more inside]
Do you have any tips to help a child with memorization?
I would love any tips or tricks with memorization that you could share. My son, who is nine years old, is a sweet, smart little kid who just can't seem to memorize. He does, indeed, seem to have a poor memory, and often appears to forget trips we go on, or movies we have seen, etcetera. I always attributed this to the dreaminess of a gifted child.
But now that he is in fourth grade, he is struggling to learn. Multiplication facts, State Capitals, you name it -- he just can't seem to get the hang of it. We have tried flash cards, songs, writing things down repeatedly, simple mnemonics. I'm out of ideas, especially since memorization was always super simple for me, and the key to whatever academic success I had as a kid.
His standardized test scores are super high, and I do think he is trying. I'm not a tiger mom by any means, I just hate to see him so frustrated. What memorization tools am I overlooking?
Can you recommend a basic "drawing package" of art supplies?
I was fortunate enough to score a portable camera Lucida via this Kickstarter project. It is a Christmas present for my crafty SO.
I want to supplement the tool with a package of basic art supplies: paper, pencils, pastels, water colors. Nothing too advanced, just enough to allow him to explore his possible interest in the (very cool) equipment.
I've searched such kits but am kind of overwhelmed by the hundreds of choices, and would appreciate some guidance. [more inside]
NYC for the socially anxious
I have moderate-to-severe social anxiety which I'm trying to overcome on my own by exposure therapy. My big goal for this year was to take the train into Manhattan alone. I need your suggestions on what to do once I get there (and any tips about the places I already know I want to visit). [more inside]
Therapist recommendation in San Diego (Sorrento Valley)
Hi all. I need a recommendation for a therapist in the Sorrento Valley area (or thereabouts) of San Diego. [more inside]
Looking for a shared checklist/todo list thingdoo.
I have a little project that I'd like to make a little website for. Does not have to be fancy. This could be a WordPress module, a standalone website, or something else. Here's what I need: a checklist where multiple people can maintain, over time, their own version of a single list of items todo/completed. I have looked but I'm not finding what I want. [more inside]
1080p vs 4k Tv's and Blue Ray Technology
What's the maximum tv size that a blue ray would look crisp on for a 1080p tv and for 4k tv respectively?
posted by MechEng at 4:47 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by MechEng at 4:47 PM PST - 13 comments
Tofu Scramble!
I always have trouble finding good things to eat for breakfast, but I suddenly remembered tofu scramble! Lots of protein, not sweet, can be made ahead, and capable of many variations. Perfect.
So please tell me, what's your favorite version? [more inside]
Her Husband Already Got her Twin Peaks
So I need help with Christmas shopping for my awesome sister.
I got her hooked on Battlestar Galactica when pregnant with Baby #1
I got her hooked on Doctor Who when pregnant with Baby #2
I got her hooked on The State Within last Christmas
I need a new DVD series to get her started on with Baby #3 and Christmas. [more inside]
High-DPI Linux?
I have a Yoga 2 Pro, freshly purchased, with an insanely high resolution screen (3800 x 1800). I generally run Xubuntu in a VM alongside windows, but I'm struggling to make it truly workable. What is the state of the art in resolution independence when it comes to Linux? What window manager should I be looking at, are there guides and tweaks etc.? [more inside]
How to fix unresponsive Maxtor OneTouch external harddrive?
My Maxtor OneTouch 4 Plus external hard drive is no longer recognized by my computer. What should I do? (Besides cry) [more inside]
posted by gagoumot at 3:10 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by gagoumot at 3:10 PM PST - 8 comments
The most efficient way to kill ivy growing on the side of a house?
Hello,
I've got a mass of ivy leaves growing along the side of my house, digging its way into the brick and poking through windows at some points. The ivy is growing from a "bed" with a couple of other plants (my terminology may be off, I'm not much of the gardening type). I want this ivy to die. The other plants that are growing near it are acceptable collateral damage.
What I'm looking for is basically the chemical equivalent of a flamethrower. I'd like to buy something I can dump all over the roots and then come back a few days later to find all of the ivy growing on the side of my house dead.
Best Whiskey for a Toddler?
I'd like to get a nice bottle of whiskey (whisky?) for my son to open in about eighteen years when he turns twenty-one. [more inside]
posted by GatorDavid at 2:46 PM PST - 27 comments
posted by GatorDavid at 2:46 PM PST - 27 comments
How do I safely implement this one-off home electr(on)ics project?
How do I safely and (pretty) cheaply implement this one-off home electrics / electronics project? I have a low-wattage controller that will drive a high-wattage load having to do with the heating of water. I already have a GFCI extension cord that will stand between EVERYTHING and the wall outlet. The main complicating factor is that this is a single, custom-built thing so I need to use off the shelf pieces for a housing, etc. [more inside]
Can compounding pharmacies lower doses?
My partner infrequently takes medicine that was originally prescribed overseas. The USA version of the pill is too high a dose for them. Is it possible to obtain a lower dose from a US compounding pharmacy, and how does that work? [more inside]
How do hormones influence behavior in men and women?
I am interested in what hormonal differences exist between men and women and what effect this has on behavior. I don't have the biology background to be able to handle a textbook. This is a contentious area, so I'm only interested in claims or resources that are well referenced - not unsupported pop-sci or ideological claims. My level of detail would be an extended blog post or article, rather than a book
What to do with a December Sunday in Miami?
Due to random business trip scheduling, I will have a full Sunday to myself in Miami in early December. What can't-miss things should I do, see, eat, and bring home with me? Alternately, is there some great cafe or bar for me to hang out at with my AlphaSmart and write? Special snowflake details inside! [more inside]
posted by rednikki at 1:55 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by rednikki at 1:55 PM PST - 6 comments
Looking for those inkless, perforating library stamps.
Sometimes, one of the first pages of a library book will bear an identifying stamp made of perforations punched through by a special tool. This practice seems to have disappeared, and Googling for it has only frustrated me. What is the tool called and where can I find one? [more inside]
posted by viewofdelft at 1:34 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by viewofdelft at 1:34 PM PST - 10 comments
Help me win the office dessert bake-off
Our office is having a dessert bake-off on the 17th. I need to supply a baked good that will allow 20-30 people to taste it (sample sizes, not necessarily full servings). Have you won an office bake-off? What did you make? Please supply your BEST winningest recipes. [more inside]
posted by juniperesque at 1:31 PM PST - 28 comments
posted by juniperesque at 1:31 PM PST - 28 comments
CD/DVD Jewel Cases? Why is this so hard.
Amtrak - Xmas travel from NYC to DC with infant and luggage
Questions on Christmas Amtrak travel from NYC to D.C (how busy and what's the deal with luggage?) for a small family who has never traveled Amtrak before. [more inside]
posted by inflatablekiwi at 12:40 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by inflatablekiwi at 12:40 PM PST - 15 comments
English language movies featuring France or French
Looking for movie recommendations that feature French scenes, spoken French is good too. [more inside]
Tell me about your experience buying an iPad for an elderly person
My mom, who recently sold her home and moved into senior housing, has expressed interest in owning some sort of computing device. She's basically computer illiterate, has never been on the internet, and has trouble using my TV remote control sometimes. Am I crazy to even consider getting her an iPad? [more inside]
Toronto trip data plan only
I will be visiting toronto during christmas/new years and would like to have a prepaid data plan. What is the cheapest/best carrier for data sim while in toronto. Minutes matter less since i will be using phone primarily as directions, trip advisor etc .
similar to this question but reversed
Samsung galaxy s3 tmobile lte version phone if that matters.
Also great places to go in toronto during later christmas/new years timeframe is also helpful
posted by radsqd at 12:19 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by radsqd at 12:19 PM PST - 3 comments
Visiting Peru?
My wife and I would love to plan a trip to Peru in 2014, but I'm reticent to try and do it on my own because I know nothing. Can you recommend a site or a travel agent (oh yes) or anything that can help us nail this down? I really want it to be a good trip and my ignorance makes that problematic.
Painting question-- two colors, uneven surfaces -- paint up or down?
I'm painting a wall dark blue and re-doing the ceiling in white. The place where wall and ceiling meet is very uneven, and I'd like a nice clean line between the two. This seems to be a pretty common problem, and the standard solution seems to be creating a neat line somewhere other than the actual wall-ceiling joint. But some say paint the wall color up a bit onto the ceiling and some say paint the ceiling color down a bit onto the wall. Given the colors I'm dealing with, which will look better?
posted by neroli at 12:09 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by neroli at 12:09 PM PST - 15 comments
The nicest flatcap... in the world!
Looking to give my dad the nicest tweed or wool/cashmere flatcap money can buy. I'm talking about "By Special Appointment to HRH..." level of nice-ness, not "Kangol makes some pretty slick lids" level of niceness. [more inside]
posted by Admiral Haddock at 12:08 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by Admiral Haddock at 12:08 PM PST - 10 comments
I'd actually like a little LESS variety in life, thank you very much.
I need some direction toward living a life with more depth and less breadth, less quantity and more quality. Any tips, recommendations or resources you know of would be most appreciated. [more inside]
posted by Jess the Mess at 12:03 PM PST - 27 comments
posted by Jess the Mess at 12:03 PM PST - 27 comments
Homebuying and Homeselling fiasco...snowflake details inside.
Can you offer some advice on how my wife and I might recover some funds spent to satisfy a lender's requirement prior to denying the loan of the buyer, or how we might be able to continue with the purchase of a new home we're in contract for? [more inside]
posted by drewski at 12:01 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by drewski at 12:01 PM PST - 8 comments
What is the best way to present a gift of a family vacation?
My mother in law is retiring this month and my husband and I want to take the whole family to Cancun for a week to celebrate. How can I present this gift effectively and beautifully? [more inside]
posted by tealcake at 11:48 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by tealcake at 11:48 AM PST - 11 comments
Help me name the things I have made
MeFites, you did such a good job of coming up with a name for the last blog I launched that I'm back again asking you to help me name the next blog I want to kickstart soonish. [more inside]
How do I stay warm at a Denver Broncos game?
We're going to a Broncos game in Denver this Sunday. I've never been to an NFL game, nor to Denver - how should we dress? [more inside]
posted by timetoevolve at 11:39 AM PST - 16 comments
posted by timetoevolve at 11:39 AM PST - 16 comments
How to display 300+ GPX cycling routes over a Google Maps base layer
GPX Visualization on Google Maps: I have 300+ GPX files of bike rides that I'd like to be able to link to somehow over a Google Maps base layer, visually approximating this. This is related to my previous AskMe about cycling every road in a town; I need to visualize what roads I have/haven't ridden, and link that progress to a blog. Would like it to be as low-weight as possible; the 300 (uncompressed) GPX files amount to 100+mb currently (route+track+waypoints) and is only getting larger -- vanilla GMaps doesn't play nice with that many files. Much more information inside... [more inside]
How to self-publish a book that is out of print
A friend authored a niche book that was published by a major publishing house and sold very well. It's out of print, but used copies sell on Amazon for many times the original price. People in the field very much want to buy copies of the book, and the author is interested in having it released again. What advice do you have for self-publishing this book? [more inside]
Quality cargo sweats for women?
My girlfriend was amazed that my sweatpants have cargo pockets. She bemoans the fact that women's sweatpants usually have zero or fewer pockets. She would love a pair like mine in a more feminine cut. I'd like to find some to give her at Christmas. They will mostly be used as loungewear so I don't think I want to go the "fashion sweats" route that cost upwards of $80, but at the same time I'm sure she will wear them out occasionally when running errands so I don't want them poorly made. I think this style is close to what she likes, but with more pockets.
Features she desires: POCKETS, no elastic ankles, prefer no logos/names, warm - prefer a thicker material than the thin jersey type. She is more on the petite side if that matters for selection.
I am in the US (Wisconsin) and can order online or buy brick and mortar. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
posted by JJtheJetPlane at 11:20 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by JJtheJetPlane at 11:20 AM PST - 6 comments
Good Idea or Recipe For Hell?
I am going into my last semester of college, and I have signed up to take Calculus III, three years after taking Calc II. This may be a great idea or a terrible one. [more inside]
posted by DRoll at 11:11 AM PST - 17 comments
posted by DRoll at 11:11 AM PST - 17 comments
How not to pay extra fee to see the "nutcracker ballet" show
I am going to buy six tickets for Bay Pointe ballet's nutcracker show in San Mateo, CA. If I buy tickets on their website. I need to pay $15.5 for fees. I wonder if anybody knows if I can save those fees when I go to their box office in San Mateo to buy tickets directly. I was not successful when calling them to find out the answer.
Which e-cigarette is best for my sister?
My sister wants/needs to stop smoking, so she's requested an e-cigarette for Christmas. But she's overwhelmed with choices and doesn't know which one she wants, other than that her doctor recommended she get one with no nicotine. And I know next to nothing about real cigarettes, let alone electronic ones, so I don't know where to begin looking. Can you suggest a good one? What even makes a "good" e-cigarette?
posted by rhiannonstone at 10:13 AM PST - 23 comments
posted by rhiannonstone at 10:13 AM PST - 23 comments
I need to send an email to ~1500 people. How do I do it?
I'm launching a Kickstarter campaign tomorrow, and I have around 1500 people to email. How do I do this simply? I'd like the emails to come from my personal gmail address (and not DONOTREPLY@Mail1000.com or something), and if possible, I'd like to customize the emails such that they refer to each person by name (I have everyone in an excel file at the moment). If relevant for potential software/plugin solutions, I have a Mac and a Wordpress site on a good server.
posted by sdis at 10:10 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by sdis at 10:10 AM PST - 13 comments
iOS development convention recommendations?
I'm an iOS developer, and I'm trying to schedule and budget for technical conferences next year. I've been to WWDC a few times, and will likely try to get tickets again in 2014. I'll probably also attend a CocoaConf. Other than that, can anyone recommend iOS-related conferences or classes they've found valuable and fun. In the US or Canada is preferable, but Europe is not out of the question.
posted by pheide at 10:01 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by pheide at 10:01 AM PST - 2 comments
X-Files TV show trivia
Does anyone know what the complex coffee drink is that either Scully or Mulder orders? I know I've seen it on t-shirts before and it's kind of an inside joke for fans. I'm not sure which character orders it unfortunately. I'm trying to make this a gift for a fan of the show. Thanks!
Counter-typosquatting techniques?
Do large companies systematically register domains that would result from URL typos? If so, how do they go about it? [more inside]
posted by Etrigan at 9:59 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by Etrigan at 9:59 AM PST - 2 comments
(Translation help, please) Help me play this game I bought in Chinatown
I picked up a game of Chinese checkers (yes, I know they aren't really Chinese) to play with my family over the holidays and it came with a bonus game inside (photos here). The problem is, I have no idea what the directions say. It looks like a variant of "Sorry". We would love to give it a try, if anyone could translate or has played this before. Thanks!
posted by halseyaa at 9:56 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by halseyaa at 9:56 AM PST - 2 comments
MASS Employment Filter: Know your Rights!
My, under 10 employee company just hired a new receptionist in Massachusetts. She has been with us for 2 weeks, week two was out for 2.5 days with the flu. Today starts week 4, and she just informed the president that she is pregnant.
Do we have any recourse?
Appropriate to Include my Expected Pay Raise in 2014 Budget?
I'm in the process of writing a budget for my department for 2014. I've just been given a title bump with the promise that a pay raise will be coming when cash allows.
Should I include my expected pay raise in the 2014 budget as a line item for my salary? I haven't been told what it is, but I have a good idea what it should be.
posted by grubby at 9:49 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by grubby at 9:49 AM PST - 5 comments
Wanted: Savvy retirement advice for a struggling youth
If I live until retirement age, I don't want to be broke. I am 24 and I want to start saving for retirement now, but I’m unsure how to go about it. I’ve heard good things about Vanguard, but I’m looking for some personal anecdotes and solid advice on how to go about this. [more inside]
Where to move, for nice weather and maximal big city feel, yet low rent?
I'm choosing a place to move to. I'm single and mostly unconstrained, except by my finances, my personal preferences, and the boundaries of the United States. My heart votes San Francisco, but my bank account strenuously disagrees. Also, even though I'm from Iowa and am therefore accustomed to a wide range of temperatures, I happen to be depressed at the moment and so I must have sun and warmth. For the moment I'm stuck in a suburban apartment complex surrounded by highways, in a New England state that is becoming increasingly wintry. This is my nightmare. My finances are somewhat flexible, and I don't know exactly what I can afford, but for the purpose of this question, let's say I'm absolutely unwilling to pay more rent than $700 per month--and on top of that, I require a living space to myself, with no roommates. On the scale between nightmare and downtown San Francisco, how close to the latter can I get? [more inside]
posted by Koray at 9:14 AM PST - 52 comments
posted by Koray at 9:14 AM PST - 52 comments
Using a Moto G as my traveling phone
Motorola is selling the Moto G unlocked for $179 as I understand it. If I get the 'global GSM' option is it pretty easy to buy SIMs for the phone throughout Europe and Asia? Where does one get SIMs for the phone? [more inside]
Elves. In. Spaaace.
My D&D 3.5 campaign is going to space! Help it get there. [more inside]
Creative Gifts for Beach Bums
My parents love the beach. What beach gear can I give them that they don't already have? [more inside]
Persistent insomnia - sleep hygiene advice
I have always had intermittent insomnia, but in the last week I have not been able to get to sleep every night without 3-4 hours of tossing and turning. My body is now physically exhausted (droopy eyes, drowsiness etc) but I still can't sleep. [more inside]
posted by pikeandshield at 8:28 AM PST - 21 comments
posted by pikeandshield at 8:28 AM PST - 21 comments
What to do about significant other's unstable brother?
My partner's brother, after a lifetime of instability, seems to be getting worse and has recently made threats against my partner and one of the parents. My partner and the parent don't seem that worried; I take this very seriously. What can I do? [more inside]
How To Make A Lousy Milestone Birthday Better?
I have a milestone birthday coming up soon and my situation is pretty rough, any suggestions to make an unpleasant situation a little more palatable? [more inside]
Put me in a holiday pickle!
I'd like to make a variety of customized, delicious pickles to give as gifts to family members this Xmas. Share your favourite recipes and best practices, please! [more inside]
Need to upgrade my Christmas CD collection. Recommend your favorite!
Need more Christmas music. Too busy to list what I already have, so just list whatever CD is your favorite. I like everything--every genre imaginable, except rap.
Thanks!
posted by luvmywife at 7:27 AM PST - 56 comments
posted by luvmywife at 7:27 AM PST - 56 comments
Which phone should I get? Galaxy S4 (Active?) or Lumia 1020?
Please help me choose between the phones based on my list of pros and cons between each. [more inside]
posted by never.was.and.never.will.be. at 7:27 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by never.was.and.never.will.be. at 7:27 AM PST - 7 comments
Copy Several Filenames to Clipboard
I'd like to be able to highlight several files, right click and have the option to copy the filenames to the clipboard. Before upgrading to Windows 7, I had a utility that allowed me to do this, but I don't remember the name of it.
posted by Proginoskes at 6:59 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by Proginoskes at 6:59 AM PST - 9 comments
Why does my Macbook think it is in Alaska?
I just noticed that the clock on my Macbook Pro (running 10.9) is wrong, and when I went into Settings to see what is going on, I realized in the automatic time zone setting that my Macbook thinks it is in Alaska. Also, when I look up my computer in Find My iPhone, it too shows it being in Alaska. I am in Virginia. I have never been to Alaska. What is going on?
How do I respond to this?
I just received a probably inappropriate and drunken, certainly meddling message on FB from someone I don't know, but who has connections to my family. [more inside]
posted by RedEmma at 6:21 AM PST - 25 comments
posted by RedEmma at 6:21 AM PST - 25 comments
Which version of Vista for game-playing in Boot Camp?
I'm a late adaptor. After much happy gaming in Windows XP (via Boot Camp on my Mac), I am finally getting around to Vista-only games like Assassin's Creed III. So it's time to take the plunge and buy a copy of Vista on eBay. But which version? 64-bit or 32-bit? Service pack 1, 2, or 3? Starter, basic, or ultimate? Home or business? As somebody who isn't well-versed in Windows to begin with, I'm finding the choice a little overwhelming.
I will be using Windows exclusively for gaming and don't care about any other features. Also, note that Windows Vista is the latest Windows my 2006 Mac Pro will support, so unfortunately "Skip straight to Windows 7 or 8" isn't an option. [more inside]
Help me stop downloading music from the cloud
I have all this music on my iPhone. But when I go to play it, it has to download it from the cloud first. Although the playlists are there, nothing is actually being stored on the phone. So it takes ages and chews through lots of data when I just want to play a song. How do I get rid of all this cloud nonsense and just store old-fashioned music files on my iPhone? (Relevant: I have iTunes Match switched *off* in Settings -> Music on my iPhone.)
How do you solve a problem like Maria? Without singing?
I'm trying to find the song "Maria" (How do you solve a problem like Maria) from The Sound of Music, but without the vocal track. I've written personalised lyrics for a friend and want to sing the song with (hopefully) the original music and my vocals over the top. Can it be done? [more inside]
posted by twirlypen at 12:55 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by twirlypen at 12:55 AM PST - 3 comments
Wordpress membership plug in advice needed.
Hello all,
We are a small language instruction company with an idea to make some extra revenue and promote our own website.
We want to create a wordpress membership site that users can subscribe to with daily dripped content.
My question is whether it's a good idea to integrate this into our existing website or should it have it's own domain. And are there any technical problems that could arise from the integration idea?
Any ideas would be greatly appreciated
December 1
ID this short film: Man visits a nearly empty diner during a holiday
From vague memories, I seem to recall the main character was a white man with brown hair who was in his 30's. He visits a nearly empty diner and has a religious discussion with the proprietor. Circa 1980-1990. [more inside]
"RA-1, Channel One. Special Service Air Channel."
Rockford, IL: So, I made this recording of a mysterious telephone loop in 1991... [more inside]
posted by mykescipark at 10:45 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by mykescipark at 10:45 PM PST - 6 comments
Which Film Critic is known for his advice on how to watch films?
I remember a discussion somewhere about some famous film critic and their widely admired advice about how to watch a movie intelligently. I don't think this was advice about how to become a critic or how to watch a movie and then write about it, I think it was more of a primer on how to gain from the experience and how to evaluate a film for yourself.
Any help identifying this would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks,
Blake
What is this story about religious differences?
I’m trying to find a short story I read a long time ago, but google is coming up short. The story is about two strangers who meet on the road and begin talking. Through a series of questions and answers, they discover that they are both Christians, both Protestants, both from the same denomination, both from the same branch of that particular denomination, etc etc.
It keeps going on this way, with the strangers discovering that they belong to the same increasingly obscure religious sect. With each new discovery, they become more friendly and excited.
At the end of the story, they realize there is one small difference between them (something like one belongs to the parish across the street from the other), at which point the strangers hate each other and nearly come to blows.
What is this story, and where does it come from?
posted by helloimjohnnycash at 7:46 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by helloimjohnnycash at 7:46 PM PST - 10 comments
How do I bring a product to market?
I have a device that I have "invented". It's a simple mechanical heating device with a specific application in the beverage industry. I know how to build it, but how do I actually bring it to market? [more inside]
Starting Strength forever...
Can the Starting Strength program be my only strength program? [more inside]
posted by VTX at 7:17 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by VTX at 7:17 PM PST - 9 comments
How and where do I go about starting the divorce process?
I'm not yet sure I want to go that route, but I want to be informed and prepared just in case. Kids grew up expatriate, spouse recently moved them back without informing me or asking my permission, spouse has no job (supported by spouse's parent). I'm reading online that if there's a divorce and I act early, I'm more likely to get full (or at least fuller) custody. But where do I file? [more inside]
Sophisticated But Comfortable Casual Shoes?
I have a Zappos gift card. What should I buy that's stylish, casual, and comfortable? [more inside]
Help me find (the right) puppies in NYC
We would like to get a puppy. Special snowflake details mean we need to find a good breed not just overall but for our circumstances, and for the love of god, someone who sells them. I have been scouring the internet for some time and can find nothing useful because of the noise. [more inside]
posted by corb at 6:07 PM PST - 66 comments
posted by corb at 6:07 PM PST - 66 comments
My closest friend is mentally unwell and in love with me. Help.
I share a house with my oldest and closest friend, and I have found out that he is in love with me and feels intense heartache and jealousy when I date. He is deeply depressed and emotionally dependent on me. We are both late 20s guys and I am straight. I don't know how to deal with this. [more inside]
Sh!t or get off the pot - Pooping in the presence of others
I, female age 35, cannot poop when others are in the house or when other people are in a public bathroom. (And I loathe even going in a public bathroom.) This means that when there are houseguests, I end up constipated. I have recently been in travel situations with one other person and I end up spending the whole trip constipated. It is even worse with a newer dating partner. What can I do to relax and poop? [more inside]
Learning long distance
Tips and tidbits about learning more about the neighbors before purchasing a home? [more inside]
posted by MayNicholas at 5:49 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by MayNicholas at 5:49 PM PST - 16 comments
These things give me the feels
I've got a handful of things that make me feel emotional, happy, silly, cheerful, optimistic, and I'm trying to figure out (a) what they have in common and (b) what other things I might enjoy. [more inside]
Smokin' Hot (chili)
I have a basic cooking question. Big pot of chili -- too much heat. It probably has something to do with the amount of ridiculously hot peppers we put in it. We have no tomato products and are down to bullion cubes and beer. How can I make this edible, quickly?
posted by cedar at 5:10 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by cedar at 5:10 PM PST - 10 comments
Examples of a sense of play in public spaces?
I'm looking for examples, ideally with pictures, of public spaces that foster a sense of play, whimsy, imagination, etc. [more inside]
Ambiguous not-dating friendship
How should I interpret this man's behaviour?
I met a guy on OkCupid. I'm confused by his behaviour and would appreciate some, any, insights from the Hive Mind. [more inside]
What are some examples of field trips in movie/TV plots?
I'm trying to think of some examples of field trips to art museums in movies or sitcom plots. Any come to mind (art museums specifically, not science-related field trips, etc)? I'm not having much luck with Google...
posted by three_red_balloons at 4:54 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by three_red_balloons at 4:54 PM PST - 12 comments
Interesting and Tasty Liqueur Under $25
What would be the most interesting, attractive, and tasty liqueur I could buy or make my father as a Christmas present? [more inside]
Helping friends deal with a pet death
My friends’ cat died yesterday. How can I help them? [more inside]
What do we need to know before we build our house?
We are preparing to build a house. We've been doing this for many months, have talked to architects, contractors, and our city's planning and building department, and we still have lots of questions. Lend us some expertise on foundations, design, and construction? [more inside]
What are good resources for intermediate metalworking?
MetalFilter: I can measure, chop, & weld. What's next? I took a class in metalworking (metal furniture fabrication) and came out of it with some cool projects: a frame for hanging an art print, a metal storage crate, a sculpture that spins. I'd like to take the class again (mostly for open access to the metal shop).
But before I do, I'd like to go in with more direction, a bigger vocabulary, and plans for what I want to build. I have no previous mechanical / shop experience, so it's all still pretty new to me. But here's what I'd like to know more about: [more inside]
posted by inkytea at 3:27 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by inkytea at 3:27 PM PST - 3 comments
Documentary about German Memorials - "Please, no more memorials"
Do any of you know of a documentary about a Holocaust survivor who makes trips to Germany to tell children and public officials, "Please, no more memorials"? [more inside]
Cable internet slows drastically at night. What can I do?
Four days ago, my Comcast cable internet service began slowing down in the evenings. I know this is normal behavior for cable service, since bandwidth is shared within communities. However, my usual 25 Mbps has slowed to somewhere between 1 and 4 Mbps after 5 PM, with the occasional 20 (very rare). I've seen it as low as 300 Kbps. I checked last night at 2 AM and it was clocking in at 50, which is what I pay for. What can I do? [more inside]
Small, hideable, motion activated HD camera with built in DVR?
Car was broken into last night, and again I wondered why I can't seem to find a small HD camera and DVR combo that can be hidden in my car. [more inside]
Hard clamshell eyeglass case with a pocket clip.
Can you help me find a clamshell eyeglass case with a pocket clip? [more inside]
posted by IndigoRain at 2:41 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by IndigoRain at 2:41 PM PST - 2 comments
Where can I find a backpack that won't make my dresses ride up?
Help me find a dress-friendly backpack [more inside]
posted by so much modern time at 2:41 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by so much modern time at 2:41 PM PST - 6 comments
How to be more assertive in turning down social events?
Asking for my son, who has confided in me. I am unsure of the best way to proceed, so I am turning to the hivemind. My son needs help in assertively turning down social events that he would not like to attend. Details inside. [more inside]
How to avoid pregnancy questions on my wife's upcoming business trip?
My wife is very early into her first pregnancy (4/5 weeks). We are very excited and nervous and overjoyed and terrified. We also know it's extremely early, and as such at the moment we aren't telling anyone anything (not even family or close friends), other than her doctor. The issue is that my wife is going on a business trip soon for 4 days, during which time her small group of coworkers (including her boss) will be going out every night for dinner and drinks. My wife is typically a social drinker (glass of wine or a cocktail), and with no typical excuses available like, say, being the designated driver, it will be noticeable with her small group when she's the only one to decline a drink every night. [more inside]
Please help me practice good hygiene when it comes to iPhoto and iPhones
I have an iPhone. I use iPhoto on a MacBook. What settings for iCloud, Photo Stream, iTunes, etc will stop the frustrating situation I find myself in? [more inside]
Nutcracker in Europe
A friend of mine would like to see a production of the Nutcracker ballet in Europe this weekend... where should she go? She is a serious ballet dancer but not familiar with companies outside of Russia (which is out of the question due to visa restrictions). Assume price and logistics of travel are no concern within Europe. What ballet companies put on a great performance? Can one procure tickets to a "sold out" ballet? [more inside]
Apartment Hunting, Jersey City Neighborhoods
I'm a single female looking for a studio or one-bedroom apartment in Jersey City. My big concerns are: 1) safety, 2) affordability, and 3) ease of access to the city.
Based on my preliminary research and a couple of apartment viewings, it seems nearly impossible to get all 3. I look at affordable apartments, then look up directions to my office and various activities in the city. I know that the official directions don't allow for things like the extra, non-Jersey transit busses that sometimes run frequently; however, I'm not aware of any way to research where the extra busses run.
Specifically, there's a great apartment near Lincoln park, but if google directions are to be believed it will take me over an hour to get home from my weeknight meetings in midtown, which is highly undesirable.
I've been defining "affordable" as 1200 or less, but I'm beginning to think I will have to adjust that in order to get the convenience. What advice can you give me about safe and convenient neighborhoods in Jersey City?
[Asking on behalf of friend.]
Xmas Gift for a ballerina?
Need to buy a gift for 13 year old niece Ballerina. Have already gone the route of DVDs of her favorite stars. Thoughts?
Are lust and loneliness always bad counselors?
I (30) am occasionally tutoring a girl (20) who seems to have some (undiagnosed) learning disability. Yesterday, she dropped me some hints that she might be attracted to me. I find her physically attractive too, but I realize that, on paper, we are not a good match. The differences in terms of education and prospects are considerable. She is a dropout trying to return to high school, she also assists her sister at a modest beauty parlor, I am a nerdy graduate student. As a long-time single, it is probably mainly lust and loneliness which is encouraging me to consider suggesting meeting outside tutoring time. [more inside]
Billing almost a year after the fact.
I neglected to bill a client for a project I completed in January 2013. Once I realized I was late in billing, my failure to do so in a timely way has felt dreadful and embarrassing and worse and worse in my mind. So, yeah. I've continued to avoid it. [more inside]
Roomba? I hardly know 'a!
I have a cat. My girlfriend is allergic to cats (previously). I'd like to get a Roomba, since we've noticed that regular vacuuming with my HEPA-filter vacuum helps a lot. The theory here is "set robot to vacuum at 9am, come home at 7pm to cleaner apartment (with dust settled, since the roomba ran at 9am, not 7pm). [more inside]
posted by Alterscape at 12:08 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by Alterscape at 12:08 PM PST - 9 comments
Hinge issues
Can I fix a noise problem with these covered hinges just by oiling them? [more inside]
posted by Countess Elena at 12:03 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by Countess Elena at 12:03 PM PST - 9 comments
Where should i start with Captain America and Thor?
Recently i've been getting into marvel comics more, more specifically Thor and Captain America. I've almost finished vol. 1 of Thor:The Mighty Avenger that basically talks about him and Jane and i'm really enjoying it so far. I think they only have 3 trades for that so after i finish that series where should i go from there?
As for Captain America i've never read any of it, but i think i'd like to start out with something newer that gets into his orgins first and then going from there.
I wouldn't mind reading any of the other Avengers as well like Hawkeye, Black Widow, Hulk, and Iron man but i don't know where to start with any of those either. But if anyone has some ideas i'd really appreciate it!
Where can expats save/invest money in Canada?
Where can expats save/invest money in Canada? The bank's interest rate is so low. Please tell me there is a better way to invest my money! [more inside]
Will we be able to clean off "nie wieder bohren" adhesive?
Our rental apartment has a tile-covered shower but no built-in curtain rod. Right now we are making do with a spring tension rod that collapses at the lightest touch. I am considering purchasing the Rotator Rod and installing it with the No-Drilling Required Adapters for Hard Surfaces that uses the "nie wieder bohren" semi-permanent adhesive to attach. I am concerned it might be difficult to remove when we move out of the apartment months or years later. Do you have any experiences or advice that might inform this decision?
Where should I get my news online?
I'm tired of partisan news and I'm tired of headlines designed to get clicks, not to inform readers. Is there anywhere left to just get the news? I'm in the U.S. but want to get both U.S. and World news and prefer articles to videos.
How would one up one's chances of being in on the next Bitcoin?
If you put a couple of hundred dollars into Bitcoins before they took off, you'd have made a pretty penny by now. Most of us didn't because, for one thing, most of us had never heard of virtual currencies before Bitcoin hit the big time. There must be similar cheap, long-shot speculations floating around now that hardly anyone's heard of. I realize no one on MeFi is going to be able to tell me what the next Bitcoin is going to be, but where might one go looking for it? What websites, blogs etc. should I be reading to have a better shot at being in early on the Next Big Thing?
NYT Sunday Crossword: other puzzles of similar difficulty/style?
For years, my dad has enjoyed the New York Times Sunday crossword puzzle. Now that he's retired, he has a lot more free time and I think he's running out of his backlog of these puzzles. He likes the larger size of the Sunday, so I doubt he'd be as interested in the weekday puzzles.
For those of you who regularly solve the NYT Sunday, are there puzzles you find just as challenging? [more inside]
posted by pourtant at 10:52 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by pourtant at 10:52 AM PST - 12 comments
Best place to take an improv class in NYC for a nonactor?
I'd like to take an improv class for various reasons unrelated to acting -- to think better on my feet, to be more spontaneous, less shy in groups, etc. I live in NYC where I suspect even an intro class will be filled with experienced actor types. This is fine, I guess, but I wonder if anyone can recommend a place where regular people like me might be in the mix. I'm also in my 40s, which makes me feel like I'll be too old, but I'll hopefully get over that soon enough. Thanks for any ideas.
How do I make sure my iPhone isn't a brick in India(prepaid SIM plans)?
I'm going to be travelling to India soon and I wanted to get a prepaid cellular connection for my iPhone to avoid roaming charges and for internet access.
What's the cheapest/best prepaid connection in India (going to be travelling around South India)? Is there some way I can buy it in the US so I can have cellular access from when I immediately arrive? [more inside]
Best petite women's wool coat for $150
My father has generously offered to buy me a new coat, and would like to spend $150. I am the type who will dither endlessly about this type of decision, so please help me locate the best coat available for that amount. [more inside]
About Me
I'm working on a new website for my professional activity. There will be a bio page, as well as a blog section. Can anyone suggest possible titles/headings for these sections that would be more original than "About Me" and "Blog"? [more inside]
posted by Paris Elk at 9:55 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by Paris Elk at 9:55 AM PST - 11 comments
Help me find the most obscure Eric Satie gift possible
I want to get a truly special gift for someone who loves the music of Eric Satie. Where can I find the most hard-to-find or most amazing recordings? [more inside]
How can I buy my own defaulted loan at a low price?
Back when the bank sold my Line-Of-Credit to a collection agency it was 16K, now the collection agency says it's 27K which I know is phony interest-rate bullshit. It's been five years. How can I buy it back for much less than 16K, say, 8K? [more inside]
posted by shipbreaker at 9:25 AM PST - 16 comments
posted by shipbreaker at 9:25 AM PST - 16 comments
Also I will send toothpicks
DIY Gift Filter: Give me your best homemade candied/flavored popcorn recipes that last long enough to be suitable for mailing. [more inside]
posted by EmpressCallipygos at 9:02 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by EmpressCallipygos at 9:02 AM PST - 5 comments
Fictional bitcoin novel?
Can you help me identify this novel, set in a London of the future and centring on the investigation of an organisation producing a digital currency? [more inside]
posted by melisande at 8:52 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by melisande at 8:52 AM PST - 5 comments
What are good fashion choices for an overweight male?
I am a 29-year old, 230 lb male, living just outside of Toronto. I would really like to update my wardrobe but feel completely lost. I have tried looking up various stores and so on to see if any of their product catches my imagination, but it mostly seems tailored toward people who are in excellent shape, and I am tired of putting off looking good until I lose weight. [more inside]
Thinking of buying a few Litecoins - Where to get started?
Bitcoin's younger brother Litecoin has been on the rise lately, and I'd like to purchase a couple - not more than a few, I'd just like to try my hand at cryptocoin-trading.
Anyone here that has been through the process and can offer me a step-by-step way to trade? What are the most reputable exchanges? Is there an easy way of getting money onto one of these sites so that the coins can be purchased? Am I out of my gourd for considering purchasing even a small amount? I've had a look on reddit, but there is so much conflicting information that it can get a little overwhelming. [more inside]
received an invalid gift card
I received an invalid gift card as a present and I'm not sure what I should do, if anything. [more inside]
Who or what was David Miliband referring to in PMQs?
During Prime Minister's Questions on the 20th November, David Miliband launched into a tirade about certain people who have funded the Conservatives. After listing a bunch of dodgy dealers, he says "and they're just the people I can talk about in this house". What did he mean? [more inside]
posted by derbs at 6:35 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by derbs at 6:35 AM PST - 8 comments
Help me find a smallish plain white china butter dish!
I'm trying to replace a broken plain white china butter dish. I thought I'd have many to chose from, and I do, but they're all large and rounded rather than delicate and angular like the original. This would be a reasonable approximation if it weren't so big; the original must be about 7"x3". It shouldn't have any ornamentation, but I'd accept a handle. Can you help?
posted by magicbus at 6:11 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by magicbus at 6:11 AM PST - 9 comments
Statistical analysis help for a survey
I have 50+ responses from large companies for a survey that I've written which has approximately 100 questions. There is no other data that can be linked to this survey. I need to know what I can do with these results and how to do it. [more inside]
Can I get my 11 month old to sleep through the night?
Very sleep deprived mom here at my wit's end, hoping you can help with strategy. Tried many different things without success. Baby wakes up 3-7 times a night to nurse back to sleep, has never slept through the night. Should we night wean? Sleep train? How to do this without too much pain and stress on either of us. Scared to sleep train, but really really really tired. [more inside]
Need Pens in Sydney - Help (Wedding Invite Disaster Version)
Where can I buy pens in Sydney, and/or who has a wide variety of pens (gel pens, paint pens, that sort of thing)? I am working on my sister's wedding invitations and am rather pressed for time... I am especially interested in the Sakura Souffle pens, if you know of anyone who carries them. [more inside]
posted by jrobin276 at 4:03 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by jrobin276 at 4:03 AM PST - 3 comments
Help me overshare less!
Although I am quite introverted, I have a tendency to overshare. I don't think my behavior is beyond the realm of normal-- nobody has ever indicated to me that I made them uncomfortable. Still, I would like to be more able to keep my struggles, emotions, thoughts, and frustrations more contained. Sometimes when I am really frustrated or confused about something, I will find a moderately close friend to vent to, but then later on have some mild feelings of "maybe they didn't really need to know that about me..." [more inside]
moving an iPod to a different user on a Macbook... hope me?
iDeviceFilter: I'm hoping to move my son's iPod syncing from the admin user on a Macbook to his own user on the same computer, so that his syncing is then done separately in his user's iTunes.
Can you walk me through this to abate my fear of cancelling-by-misunderstood-sync, please?
My hands are always sweaty/sticky. What can I do??
My hands are always sweaty/sticky. What can I do to keep my keyboards/mouse/things I touch clean? [more inside]
Life insurance for a healthy 27 yo: medical exam or no?
I currently pay $19.90 a month for term life insurance (and had some medical tests done for it, beforehand). But I can get life insurance for cheaper from other equally reputable companies ... but without a medical exam. I want to switch over, but I am worried that it might be the wrong decision. [more inside]