May 2015 Archives
May 31
Tiling floor and walls in a small bathroom - help me do it well
I will soon be re-tiling the floor and walls of my small bathroom, after having a new subfloor installed, and old tiles removed and walls plastered. This is my first time tiling more than small mosaics for fun, and I want to hear your guidance, horror stories, and hard-learned lessons. [more inside]
Please help me change my diet
I recently gained some weight. I want to lose this weight, but I also want to fuel my body with clean energy for an active lifestyle. Please help my reconcile some feelings and plan a strategy. [more inside]
Aggressive Sales Tactic, or Understandable Common Practice?
I am shopping for a used car, and I found one which passed most of the points in my initial inspection. When I proposed meeting the owner and the car at a mechanic for a complete pre-purchase inspection--for which I offered to pay--the owner said he'd only agree to the inspection if I gave him a $500 deposit. The deposit would be non-refundable if the car passed the mechanic's pre-purchase inspection. [more inside]
Dear DR, it's confidential!
Parents keeping stuff from their doctor. I'm snitching. How do I address the letter? [more inside]
posted by mdrew at 10:19 PM PST - 23 comments
posted by mdrew at 10:19 PM PST - 23 comments
Windows 7 .iso - how do I get a legit download?
Recovery partition doesn't work, and the machine didn't come with install discs (apparently this is a thing?). I have a valid product key and a semi-working OEM Windows installation, but can't seem to find a legit copy of the system software online, just sketchy .info sites. [more inside]
posted by wnissen at 9:21 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by wnissen at 9:21 PM PST - 14 comments
Granola Glue?
I'd like to make some puffed quinoa and almond "granola" bars, but recipes I'm seeing online use dates or nut butters for a binding agent. What else can I use? [more inside]
What is this ornamental plant?
Help me identify this ornamental plant growing in front of our new house. [more inside]
posted by fremen at 8:17 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by fremen at 8:17 PM PST - 9 comments
I want to talk to people in real time. With text. On the internet.
I'm a fan of the text chat. I used to be active on local dial-up systems, and later IRC. Then somewhere along the line, about two decades ago, I pretty much quit all of that and got caught up in real life. Well, I want to go back. Only it seems like all the people I'd want to talk to online are gone. [more inside]
To sleep, perchance not to swelter nor sneeze
I have no a/c in my bedroom but a lovely crossbreeze. Complication: dust. Do HEPA filters work when windows are open? [more inside]
Best Portland, Or. nursuries for indoor succulents?
I've developed an obsession with growing succulents and am looking for one or two go-to places in Portland, Or. with the widest selection and most knowledgeable staff. [more inside]
15 Seconds of Fame
Mad Max: Fury Road has a number of colorful characters who, despite being referred to by name and being quite memorable, have just a couple of minutes or even seconds of screen time. Nobody could ever forget Jesus Quintana's three minutes from The Big Lebowski, or the five seconds they spent with Amazing Larry in Pee Wee's Big Adventure. What are some other memorable, colorful movie characters with names that spend three minutes or less on-screen total? [more inside]
posted by eschatfische at 5:17 PM PST - 75 comments
posted by eschatfische at 5:17 PM PST - 75 comments
Help me make a good Mocha!
I love mochas, but I haven't been able to perfect them at home with my espresso machine. Is there a foolproof recipe out there somewhere? [more inside]
posted by modesty.blaise at 4:37 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by modesty.blaise at 4:37 PM PST - 8 comments
What to buy in a new PC Laptop?
My neighbor's very old computer just died. He wants to know what to buy now. I don't know much at all about PCs since I've been using OS X for a few years. Maybe you can help him make a decision. [more inside]
posted by partner at 4:22 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by partner at 4:22 PM PST - 9 comments
I'm just stating a fact, not asking for something
I know this is about guess verses ask culture, but is there any way to get around it? [more inside]
posted by patheral at 3:17 PM PST - 108 comments
posted by patheral at 3:17 PM PST - 108 comments
Self-Absorbed Boyfriend
My boyfriend and I have been together 3 years, and we’ve recently reached that awful are-we-breaking-up-or-are-we-fighting-for-this moment. The main issue, as far as I see it, is that he is self-absorbed, which causes me to feel disappointed and disconnected from the relationship. [more inside]
Mom being drawn into anti-science/racist conspiracy thought please help
My mom is elderly. She and her husband support my mostly unemployed brother in his 30s. I live far away but talk to her daily. My sibling and his father are into racist, misogynistic ideas and believe the end of the world is coming. They stockpile supplies and make my mom read David Icke (anti-semitism thinly veiled as "reptile aliens" taking over the government) as well as how vaccines and GMOS are poisoning us. I tried to talk to her but she thinks what I say is hard to understand (academic language) so maybe science is hiding something. [more inside]
posted by partly squamous and partly rugose at 2:43 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by partly squamous and partly rugose at 2:43 PM PST - 14 comments
Father's Day Gift for Maker Dad (Wood/Metalworking tools)
I want to get a Father's Day gift for my dad. He makes stuff. I'm looking for a tool that 1) is for making stuff out of atoms, not bits, 2) is sui generis, supremely better than competing stuff and 3) not something that a woodworker and machinist with 4+ decades of experience already has in his shop. [more inside]
posted by sourcequench at 2:43 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by sourcequench at 2:43 PM PST - 12 comments
Weed or vegetable?
I have some new unknown plants springing up in my inherited plot. Could you help me identify some of these from the photos? I'm guessing they are about half weeds, half vegetables. [more inside]
Renting as non-desirable tenant
I’ve decided to finally move out of Madison, WI, for many reasons. I have traction now that my landlord won’t be renewing my lease, which expires in August, due to my lack of housekeeping. I’m hoping to move to Portland, OR, with Minneapolis in second. I’m aware that I’m not a desirable tenant at all for a number of reasons, and I’m trying to start strategizing now how to get an apartment of my own. More inside. [more inside]
Seasons and weather on a tidally locked planet (for a story)
I can't find any sources that really explain how they'd work to a science illiterate like me. Can anyone point me in the right direction? Even fiction will help, seeing as it's for a story of my own. [more inside]
Addressing non-dealbreaker behavior in relationships
I've had issues with being assertive about my needs in past relationships, and while I've gotten a lot better, I still have trouble deciding when and how it's best to bring up things that I don't like but are not dealbreakers. I'd like help thinking this through. [more inside]
Random car search - how thorough was it?
I got chosen for a random car search yesterday at the US/Canada border, and I have a few questions about it. [more inside]
Can a HSV1 genital outbreak mean a false positive HSV2 IGG test?
My test results say I have HSV2. I'm wondering if it's a false positive. [more inside]
SF Bay Area MD who will take a probable sleep disorder seriously?
I am looking for a SF Bay Area MD who will not wave away a probable sleep disorder as depression. [more inside]
URLs still appearing in the Chrome address bar after clearing history?
I've cleared my history, cookies, cache, etc. restarted Chrome but my history is still showing up when I type in the address bar. Any ideas why this is happening and how to fix it?
posted by jsmith78 at 12:16 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by jsmith78 at 12:16 PM PST - 9 comments
Make my hair blue!
I am going to dye my hair blue for the summer. I have dyed my hair blue before, but it rapidly became greenish and I ended up just cutting it off after a few months (I'd only dyed the part below my ears). I want it to be blue the whole time! How do I accomplish this? [more inside]
posted by goodbyewaffles at 10:52 AM PST - 18 comments
posted by goodbyewaffles at 10:52 AM PST - 18 comments
How can I create a Maya Angelou costume?
My 10 year old (Caucasian) daughter wants to participate in an end-of-school-year social studies project where she has to dress up as Maya Angelou. This is part of a class presentation on famous North Carolinians (we love to claim Dr. Angelou even though she wasn't born here), and my daughter will also give a short speech. [more inside]
posted by little mouth at 10:38 AM PST - 17 comments
posted by little mouth at 10:38 AM PST - 17 comments
I know, I know, like the internet needs another blog...
So I want to blog. But I have way too many interests that excite me, and that I'd love to explore and write about in an extensive manner. Help me narrow down (or find an intersection among) my innumerable favorite subjects so that I can write a blog that doesn't ramble. [more inside]
posted by nightrecordings at 10:20 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by nightrecordings at 10:20 AM PST - 15 comments
Band name from the 1970s...?
This is a long shot but here goes.
I am trying to remember the name of a band that would have released albums in the 1970s when I was in junior high school. [more inside]
posted by flourpot at 8:24 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by flourpot at 8:24 AM PST - 15 comments
Glue for a wooden spoon
My favorite wooden spoon is starting to crack down the middle -- right down the middle of the bowl of the spoon. Is there a food-safe glue I can use to hold it together? Any other ideas?
Nice men's suits for guys with bubble butts
I'm looking for nicer ($350-800) men's suits for guys with bubble (larger, round) butts. Currently we have them extensively tailored but are there any nicer suit brands that are cut to favor this kind of body size? We've tried bespoke with very poor results, looking for off-the-rack. [more inside]
Moving to Longuyland, need help being more specific
We are moving to Long Island and want to live within an easy commuting distance (under 30 minutes) of Melville, where my husband will be working. We'd also like to live somewhere we can walk to get a cup of coffee. [more inside]
Should I stay or should I go: volunteering edition
I volunteer for an annual event that's close to my heart, but don't fit in with my fellow volunteers. Should I go back next year or give up this part of my life? [more inside]
Please prepare me for every possible office AV situation
I often have to give presentations at offices I don't work at. There is usually some form of AV equipment available, however, the local staff often don't know how this equipment works. Cables are not necessarily plugged in where they should be (or even there at all) and there are no on-site IT staff to help out if there's a problem. What do I need to a) know and b) buy to be able to waltz into a new office, hook up the doohickeys to the whoozawhatzits and deliver a PowerPoint presentation (or show a video) with a minimum of fuss? [more inside]
posted by embrangled at 4:37 AM PST - 22 comments
posted by embrangled at 4:37 AM PST - 22 comments
Sporty lightweight robust car recommendation
I'm unironically mourning the demise of my '95 Del Sol.
Looking for a lightweight, sporty, fun, comfortable car. If everything works out, anticipating that in a year/12 months time that I'll have to do a 20-30 minute rural highway commute (on good highway). However, I'd like capability to deal with rough roads.
Please recommend me an appropriate vehicle. [more inside]
posted by porpoise at 12:22 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by porpoise at 12:22 AM PST - 19 comments
May 30
Name that actress
Who's the actress that looks like Vera Farmiga but is not her sister Taissa? [more inside]
Eldercare in-home physical therapy/massage in Montreal
My mother has an advanced form of dementia that includes severe physical deterioration. She holds parts of her body very rigid and her caregivers say she is getting increasingly stiff. I’ve been thinking that there has to be a niche for a practitioner who would come to her nursing home and administer some kind of massage that would help relax and maybe assuage the stiffness of someone who is essentially bed/chair bound. [more inside]
ShoeMe!
I'm looking for shoes to wear with this dress to a wedding this summer. [more inside]
posted by matildatakesovertheworld at 7:26 PM PST - 22 comments
posted by matildatakesovertheworld at 7:26 PM PST - 22 comments
What fly repellent do I want?
I hike a lot in Northern California. I've been getting swarmed by flies, and today several of them bit me. I'm not allergic or hugely reactive to the bites, but the constant buzzing in my ears is really annoying. What product or ingredient should I be looking for to keep the flies away? If it also repels ticks, even better. [more inside]
posted by jaguar at 7:04 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by jaguar at 7:04 PM PST - 12 comments
Help me read more horror fiction!
I don't typically read horror and I want to read more. Specific tastes inside. [more inside]
Finding Korean Orphans from 1967-1974
In the late 1960s and early '70s my mother was part of a group of women that raised funds for an orphanage in South Korea . They kept a scrapbook which includes the letters and photos that were sent to them. I am moving soon and want to pass this scrapbook on to someone who might find it meaningful (the orphanage if it still exists? one of the children? a scholar?) but am not sure who it would be appropriate to give to or how to find them.
A better boulevard
I live in Seattle. I have about 250 sq feet of boulevard in front of my new house that is kind of a mess. It's grassed, but it's rutted and uneven and there's a 2" wide by 6" deep trench between the turf and the concrete boundaries of the boulevard, so it's very difficult to mow cleanly. There are two trees planted in it -- I don't know what species -- and the mounds they're planted in contribute to the unevenness. [more inside]
posted by Sauce Trough at 5:30 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by Sauce Trough at 5:30 PM PST - 9 comments
Smoothies on the go
I've started having smoothies for breakfast but I don't know the best way to have them on the go. [more inside]
posted by shesbenevolent at 5:16 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by shesbenevolent at 5:16 PM PST - 8 comments
What vegetarian practices are most abhorrent to vegans?
I'm vegetarian, and don't eat either, but I'd certainly consider humanely-raised mutton to be much more "ethical" than, say, battery-farmed pork.
What would be the equivalent for vegans? I'm interested in adopting some vegan practices, but don't feel ready to go the whole hog yet. What changes to my lifestyle would seem most high-priority, from an ethical perspective, to someone who was vegan?
How can I prevent my full garbage can from getting really disgusting?
Someone threw lots and lots of crawfish parts in my garbage can, and it's about to get ugly in there. What should I do? [more inside]
Easiest way to find and copy all all JPEGs on a Mac to a new folder
I'd like to find and copy all image files on my MacBook Air and an external hard drive that copy them all to a new folder on the external hard drive. [more inside]
posted by ndg at 2:36 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by ndg at 2:36 PM PST - 6 comments
Your favorite non-US interview podcasts/radio shows
I love listening to interviews of interesting people! I'm especially fond of listening to such shows when they are based in a country other than the US. Please recommend me your favorite English-language interview shows from countries other than the US.
Leave me alone, crows!
Why do I keep getting attacked by crows? Can I do anything to stop it? [more inside]
Art filter: looks like a mediaeval engraving, probably not though.
So, saw this and I'm sure I recognise it, but can't remember what it is.
It's a black and white engraving style print, of a person in an elaborate bird mask which covers their shoulders (similar to a plague doctor mask but more elaborate). They have a person over their knee almost as if spanking them and they are reaching back to drive a dagger through their foot.
Any ideas?
posted by Dext at 12:37 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by Dext at 12:37 PM PST - 4 comments
Where to stay and how to get around for a three day trip to Sabah
At the tail end of our trip to Thailand we are planning to do a three day excursion to Sabah. I'd like to go to these areas: Mt. Kinabalu(not climb it, just hike around the base), the Danum Valley Conservation area, Sungai Kinabatagan and the Semporna Archipelago.
Is this overly ambitious?
Should we have a home base hotel in Kota Kinabalu or is there a better alternative?
Should we rent a car? How easy is it to get shuttles or other transport to these areas?
Any advice is appreciated thank you!
Child anxiety
Dear hive mind, I'm a 48 year old father of a 5 year old daughter. My life is pretty okay, in terms of marriage, health, work. But I cannot seem to enjoy all the good things (of which there are plenty) out of anxiousness that my child will maybe not have a great life. [more inside]
What is as old as he is?
Our friend is turning 40 - we were thinking of a 40 year old [wine,scotch,bourbon..?] as a gift. But we have no idea what to pick? [more inside]
posted by xicana63 at 11:20 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by xicana63 at 11:20 AM PST - 15 comments
Mysteries without Murder
I'm looking for great mystery novels and stories, but I'm more into puzzles than crime and I'm looking for something.. unconventional. Solving perplexing conundrums, untangling the illogical or bizarrifying the seemingly mundane-- people who find the hidden meanings and patterns behind ordinary or extraordinary chaos. Forays into the surreal, the meta, or even slightly supernatural are welcome. [more inside]
posted by Erasmouse at 11:16 AM PST - 31 comments
posted by Erasmouse at 11:16 AM PST - 31 comments
notebook/laptop recommendation
I need a new notebook, ideally $500 or less. [more inside]
Custom PC-Builders in Greater Boston Area
Hi MeFi,
I am looking for someone or a shop that does custom PC builds. I do a lot of multimedia production (video editing, motion media/rendering, audio production, etc) and I would love to give my money to a smaller shop/person versus going through Dell/HP/etc. I will gladly buy all the parts I need, I just need someone with experience to assemble it all.
I heard APC Integrated in Boston is pretty good but they can get pretty booked. Any other spots? Thanks in advance!
posted by bostonhill at 9:52 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by bostonhill at 9:52 AM PST - 7 comments
Why does yogurt make me stinky?
I love yogurt. Sadly, it is clearly linked to awful body odor. What's going on and how can I go back to enjoying my homemade granola for breakfast? [more inside]
All's Phair in Love and Chords
I've been trying to work out the chords to Liz Phair's "Shitloads of Money," a song which speaks to me in these trying times, so that I might play them on the ukulele. Some of them are eluding me. [more inside]
posted by Shmuel510 at 7:48 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by Shmuel510 at 7:48 AM PST - 8 comments
How to receive a gift that embarrasses me
My parents are about to give me an embarrassing birthday gift. Help. [more inside]
Salary Negotiaions for Internal Transfers?
I just got offered an internal transfer/quasi promotion to a different department. Yay! But that said... how do I negotiate my salary, if at all? [more inside]
How to successfully decrease social isolation as an unsocial person?
My partner and I aren't naturally social people, but we're worried about the negative health and wellbeing outcomes associated with objective social isolation (particularly as described in this NHS story). If you're a person who prefers a solitary lifestyle, and you've deliberately increased your level of social contact for similar reasons, how did you go about this, and did it work out for you? [more inside]
What are my next steps on this house?
There's a house we're interested in. It doesn't have any ductwork for the kitchen and there's no hood vent over the island cooktop. What do we do next? Can we retrofit the ducting? How do we arrange our thinking on this problem? [more inside]
posted by arabelladragon at 5:17 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by arabelladragon at 5:17 AM PST - 14 comments
I need the best - THE BEST - travel mug
I need to solve a long-running problem and buy a top-notch travel mug for coffee. I have some very specific requirements. [more inside]
posted by ryanshepard at 5:07 AM PST - 27 comments
posted by ryanshepard at 5:07 AM PST - 27 comments
Teen travel to Romania
We're sending our teenager to Romania for a week, need advice! [more inside]
posted by medarby at 4:13 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by medarby at 4:13 AM PST - 12 comments
May 29
Given these snowflakes, is my partner smoking too much?
I found out last night that my partner has been smoking pot about five nights a week, but in such small quantities that they did not think it worthwhile to mention, since I knew about and was not bothered by periodic smoking in general. I am not really drawn to drugs or alcohol, so I have no idea if this is an appropriate amount or not. Details within! [more inside]
Shipping car from Utah to CA: tips & recommendations?
Need to move my mother from SLC (Utah) to LA (CA). Don't want to risk driving her aging car on the highways in July for fear of a mechanical breakdown or worse. Moving company quoted us $900-1000 to add car to the moving experience. Uship.com finds quotes from many services who offer car transport for considerably less. Does anyone have any recommendations, particularly with car transport companies to trust (and others to avoid)? [more inside]
posted by StrawberryPie at 9:53 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by StrawberryPie at 9:53 PM PST - 7 comments
Help my 17 year old students understand post-colonialism?
My students are studying an Australian writer who engages with a revisionist version of the 'settling' of Australia. They need to write persuasive/expository/imaginative pieces about the ideas in the novel. I would like them to understand some basic post-colonialist theory. They are all around 16-18 years old, and of mixed ability. Suggestions for readings suitable for this age group? [more inside]
posted by jojobobo at 8:12 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by jojobobo at 8:12 PM PST - 6 comments
Best way to get to Dodger Stadium from Disneyland without a car
I've been trying to figure out the best way to take a side trip from Disneyland to see a Dodger game this summer, but I am at a loss. I know there's a train, but the train stops around 10pm, so that precludes night games. I can't imagine a taxi from Anaheim to Chavez Ravine would be even remotely affordable.
LA Mefites, any ideas?
rough / abraded upholstery after professional cleaning - is this normal?
We just had our couch, ottoman and thick, dense rug professionally cleaned. Now the couch and ottoman have a rough, crusty texture that the carpet guy said "will go away with use" - but they're pretty unpleasant to sit on right now. Both couch and rug look aged - like they were scraped pretty harshly.
Is this normal? I was hoping having them cleaned would lengthen their lives, not shorten them. If not, what should I look out for to select a better cleaner next time? This outfit had pretty good yelp reviews. [more inside]
How do a write a simple term sheet for a small company investment?
Can anyone point me to any information (template, etc) on a term sheet for a single round of investment in a company that has no plans to go public? [more inside]
Looking for the biggest and best battle stalemates that finally ended
So I'm looking for examples of specific evenly matched battles (with armies) where the two sides were stalemated for an extended period until something broke and tipped the battle. Any era (Civil War, WW1, Revolutionary War) is fine but not looking for wars or general movements or campaigns but specific battles. Hill 35. The Battle of Verdun. Etc.
Do you have any examples? Is there a kind of name for this kind of battle so I can search for them? And where would I look?
Acupuncture for foot pain
Have you had any success treating foot pain with acupuncture? Details inside. [more inside]
posted by chimpsonfilm at 6:51 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by chimpsonfilm at 6:51 PM PST - 11 comments
Is this business as usual or slimy business as usual?
What do you do when a prospective client makes you work hard on clarifying their goals and needs, asks to get a comprehensive bid, and then uses that bid to shop around for a lower price? [more inside]
posted by spec80 at 6:31 PM PST - 17 comments
posted by spec80 at 6:31 PM PST - 17 comments
Anyone have an idea what this rash or outbreak may be??
Anyone have an idea what this rashor outbreak may be. My Friend has this outbreak or rash right above her ankle. Has anyone had something like this or an idea of what it might be? link
Nyob zoo
In addition to "Welcome, Please Insert Your Card" messages in English, Spanish, French, Russian, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, and Japanese, my Wells Fargo ATM also displays "Nyob zoo, ntxig koj daim npav rau." Google Translate informs me that this is Hmong, but does not give me any inkling why an ATM in rural Virginia is greeting me in Hmong, a language which is considerably farther down the list of languages, ordered by number of speakers, than the other languages mentioned, and seems almost bizarrely random. What might the reason behind this be?
Examples of combination of factors causing accidents for teen driver?
I'm trying to explain why him driving his friends from the Bay Area to Tahoe is a bad idea. [more inside]
posted by morganw at 3:58 PM PST - 18 comments
posted by morganw at 3:58 PM PST - 18 comments
Why are my jeans setting off airport security?
I have a pair of American Eagle (women's) jeans that I tend to wear while traveling because they're comfortable. I think they're setting off the TSA scanners and metal detectors -- I've been pulled aside and patted down every time I wear them, and not much when I don't. My pockets are clear, and there's no egregious metal on the jeans besides the zipper and buttons. Any idea what might be happening?
Help me keep my kids clean without a bathtub.
We are in the middle of buying a house that has no bathtub - just a shower. I have two smallish children. Give me some bathing solutions, please! [more inside]
posted by meggan at 3:43 PM PST - 25 comments
posted by meggan at 3:43 PM PST - 25 comments
Vegan risotto?
Halp! I am not a vegan. Someone I have a date with is, and I'm making risotto because Reasons. Small problem... [more inside]
posted by feckless fecal fear mongering at 3:05 PM PST - 30 comments
posted by feckless fecal fear mongering at 3:05 PM PST - 30 comments
Home improvement plans.
Is there an easier way to obtain quotes, even super rough ones, for home improvement projects? [more inside]
posted by furnace.heart at 2:58 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by furnace.heart at 2:58 PM PST - 7 comments
Help me help my husband buy a bicycle for his birthday
Actually, I know better than to try to buy a bicycle for him but I would like to do the research so that I can take him to a store on his birthday and say "You probably want Bike A or Bike B. Try them out and we'll get the one you like". The bicycle would be used primarily for him to bike about 5 miles work (asphalt, relatively flat with the occasional steep overpass). I am clueless - Help! [more inside]
posted by metahawk at 2:34 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by metahawk at 2:34 PM PST - 16 comments
Daughter wants to wear diapers again.
My daughter (~6) tried to sneak a diaper from her brother (~2) to wear at night. Hrmm. [more inside]
Gimme the poop on resistant starch
I have been seeing a lot of random articles about resistant starch lately, but lot of the information seems to conflict. What are the best resources for accurate information? [more inside]
Thunderbolt display or something else?
I'm looking for a monitor for my MacBook. I have a Thunderbolt at work and it is great, but the $1k price seems Apple markup priced. Is there another market comparable in price? Or is the picture and sound not really matched? It has been forever since I actually looked at a monitor. Bonus question: On OS X with a gigantic monitor how do I lock things to the left and the right as if I were using two separate monitors? I lose track of things on this monitor.
Name this cake I bought last year. It's not a "piano forte."
Last Christmas season, I went to a restaurant store and bought a cake. It was nicely wrapped, and could easily keep for several weeks. It was not a fruitcake. It definitely had cake like texture, though not light like an angel food cake. It had different flavors, like chocolate, or coffee, or raisin chocolate. It looked like some sort of a bundt cake. [more inside]
posted by ethidda at 1:05 PM PST - 17 comments
posted by ethidda at 1:05 PM PST - 17 comments
Arlanda airport to central(ish) Stockholm for a non-bankrupting price?
How can an academic friend get from Stockholm Arlanda airport, to Wittstocksgatan, Stockholm, for a reasonable price? Criteria inside. [more inside]
Traveling to the other side of the planet: pitstops?
I'm trying to plan a trip to Sri Lanka with a pit stop on the way back to California, but due to work/ family stress (nothing unmanageable) I feel like I'm getting bogged down in the details. Help, please? [more inside]
What kind of wristwatch is this woman wearing?
Today, I was looking at this photo of Yulia Tymoshenko meeting US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in Kiev in 2010, and I noticed that the woman standing next to Yulia is wearing a watch that shows two timezones with a minimalist aesthetic that I admire.
Here is an cropped photo of the watch.
Who makes it, what is it called, and how much does it cost?
Snark for dinner
I love snarky restaurant reviews. Classic example. Another. Give me your favourites.
posted by quaking fajita at 11:37 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by quaking fajita at 11:37 AM PST - 15 comments
Eco-Friendly carpet... with pets?
When we moved into our fixer-upper, the carpeting upstairs was new but obviously cheap. Over a decade later, it's atrocious, and we'd like to do the right thing environmentally as we replace it. [more inside]
Help me plan a chill Mid/Norcal vaycay!
Hivemind!,
Previously, you helped me plan a killer trip up to Joshua Tree by pointing me to Kate's Lazy Desert (A+++!). Now I've got about a week before I start a new job and the lady friend and I are looking to make our way up the Cali coast in search of the perfect chill. There are plenty of travel guides, but I always prefer a personal touch. We'll be departing from LA and happy to see anything north from there!
More inside. [more inside]
posted by GilloD at 11:09 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by GilloD at 11:09 AM PST - 8 comments
Nice cat collection you got there, shame if anything happened to it.
I have decided to acquire a new iPhone. However, I've been playing Neko Atsume, and have gotten pretty far along in collecting cats and cat-related objects. Is there a way to back up my game progress so I can pick up on the new phone where I left off instead of having to start all over? [more inside]
posted by matildaben at 10:42 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by matildaben at 10:42 AM PST - 12 comments
European History for the ignorant
I was staring at the map of Europe yesterday, and I realized that I know very little history. To start I would like to learn about the Colonial Period and the major power players there in. I seem to be ingesting a lot of podcasts and audiobooks lately so that would be perfect. To be clear, I'm looking for an introductory level work to get me started. [more inside]
posted by aeighty at 10:36 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by aeighty at 10:36 AM PST - 6 comments
What kind of intriguing questions can I ask my friends?
One of the reasons I like Facebook (don't kill me) is that it connects me with a lot of my friends near and far. For the past week, I've been posting questions that start off with "Because I'm curious…." which has resulted in a lot of great banter, but it also helps me to get to know people too. Help me come up with more questions. [more inside]
posted by HeyAllie at 9:20 AM PST - 16 comments
posted by HeyAllie at 9:20 AM PST - 16 comments
"Oh, hello. I didn't see you there."
What is the origin of this comic trope? A person turns to the camera and says something like, "Oh, hello. I didn't see you there." What was the earliest example, and is anything real being parodied? [more inside]
Should I paint my hardwood floor?
We live in an 1877 Victorian house in the UK. We're trying to do it up, but don't have a ton of money to spend. We've just painted the walls of one of our bedrooms and they look great, but the carpet in that room is ugly and in poor condition. I've taken a peak underneath and there are pine wood floors. They look in good shape but don't look like they've ever been refinished. We're thinking of taking the carpet up and painting them. [more inside]
posted by hazyjane at 8:44 AM PST - 31 comments
posted by hazyjane at 8:44 AM PST - 31 comments
Help us survive
My partner was recently injured in a traumatic accident that, miraculously, resulted only in orthopedic injuries that have him on bed rest for at least 8 weeks. The upside? I have the whole summer off the care for him. The downside? I have the whole summer off and we both might go crazy. [more inside]
posted by raspberrE at 8:43 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by raspberrE at 8:43 AM PST - 15 comments
A Catalogue of Novelties
What's your favorite online store (or other source) that puts out well-chosen lists of new stuff (books, music, or anything else) on a weekly or monthly basis? [more inside]
Fresh guajillo chiles in NYC?
I'm experimenting with hot sauce recipes and I'd like to try using fresh guajillo chiles instead of dried ones. I'll be in NYC this weekend and figure if I'm going to find them anywhere on the east coast it will be there. But where, there? [more inside]
posted by dis_integration at 8:15 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by dis_integration at 8:15 AM PST - 8 comments
Somewhere warm for the winter
My parents are embracing retirement and planning to escape Minnesota for January and February. They're not too picky about where they stay, as long as it's on the beach and the weather is warm. Complication: they're bringing the cat. [more inside]
What should I do with five thousand expiring Delta SkyMiles?
A long while ago, I enjoyed a brief flirtation with Delta, and they've sent me a reminder that my last 5,600 accumulated SkyMiles are expiring real soon, with a nudge to use them for magazine subscriptions. Is there something else I could or should I do with them? Difficulty level: Lazy. [more inside]
posted by RedOrGreen at 7:50 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by RedOrGreen at 7:50 AM PST - 8 comments
How do I meet men now?
I'm a straight, overweight but otherwise generally considered attractive, woman in her early 40's. I got out of a LTR a year and a half ago. I am more than ready to date, but having major problems finding anyone interested :( [more inside]
How to find out a business's Insurance Carrier - Arson Filter
I'm pretty sure a business I am/was professionally engaged with was burned down recently by arson. I have good evidence to suspect the new owner was involved. This is in LA. I'd rather alert the insurance company. How do I do this? [more inside]
Inspiration for the struggling artist
I'm interested in reading inspiring stories/biographies about struggling artists who overcome obstacles to create their art. What do you recommend? [more inside]
Macroeconomics book recommendation
Looking for best intuitive introduction to macroeconomics. [more inside]
posted by iliketothinknu at 6:40 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by iliketothinknu at 6:40 AM PST - 8 comments
Looking for VERY EASY Vegetarian recipes
Hi friends! I'm having some health issues and need to start eating better. However, I hate to cook. Can you give me your simplest, easiest, most delicious VEGETARIAN recipes? I'm talking on the level of like something something's chili recipe or this spinach thing from The Kitchn. [more inside]
posted by leesh at 6:37 AM PST - 32 comments
posted by leesh at 6:37 AM PST - 32 comments
Who makes the contributor profile picture cartoons for the New Yorker?
I like the cartoony contributor profile pictures in the New Yorker. link.
Who makes these? How are they made and is there a web site where you can make your own?
posted by Spumante at 6:36 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by Spumante at 6:36 AM PST - 2 comments
What is the name of this music-related song phenomenon?
Whenever I listen to an album many times in a row, I get to the point where when a song ends, I can literally hear in my head the beginning of the next song. [more inside]
Following a single pilot flying a floatplane from Oz to the UK?
He was/is following the track of the old QANTAS flying boats but I have lost the bookmark of his ongoing account of this remarkable flight. He was somewhere over India/Pakistan but now I cannot find him. Google is not helping. Help please!
posted by lungtaworld at 5:59 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by lungtaworld at 5:59 AM PST - 3 comments
help me find this puberty/sex ed website/interactive/animation
A couple/few/several years ago I saw a website/interactive/animation work about puberty/sex ed and I'm trying to find it again because it was well designed, cute and informative. Here's what I remember: [more inside]
Diving doc
A few weeks ago, may be a couple of months, I saw a trailer for a documentary on UK television that was mainly footage of a guy free diving / swimming in the sea. [more inside]
May 28
Ornithology 101: Bird locomotion - boing vs. waddle
As I sat outside enjoying the evening, I watched a small bird (a sparrow, I think?) looking for worms or seeds in the veggie patch. For some reason (maybe the wine, I dunno) the question crossed my mind: why do some birds hop (like the sparrow) and some walk/waddle (a duck, for example). [more inside]
posted by Klaxon Aoooogah at 10:24 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by Klaxon Aoooogah at 10:24 PM PST - 10 comments
Help with Overscheduling, time management and taking on too much!
I am drowning in my todo list and it is making me anxious and unable to focus on the things I need to do. I am looking for help implementing a system for dealing with all the daily tasks and responsibilities currently on my list. I make lists and schedules and cannot seem to fulfill them. I don't know if I am lazy, hiding from reality or have an unrealistic view of what one person can accomplish in a day. [more inside]
posted by absences at 9:52 PM PST - 42 comments
posted by absences at 9:52 PM PST - 42 comments
Cool bars in Shinjuku?
I'm looking for a cool or different bar in Shinjuku where three westerners would not be unwelcome. We like the Clover but I'm hoping to find another one like it for our quiver. Thank you in advance!
Royalty-free space art / photography?
Where can I find royalty free photography and art for science fiction and space? Things like black holes, worm holes, spaceships, and futuristic technology? I'm looking for something with a Weyland Industries vibe to it.
Best shoes for standing all day (8+ hours)?
I do customer-facing tech support for an eight-hour shift. Our stations have no chairs, which mean we stand for all eight hours. We have standing mats, which help (a lot!), but at the end of a shift, my feet and legs are killing me.
So, people of MeFi: what are the shoes you'd recommend for someone like me? I'm currently wearing Skechers, which are comfortable, but clearly there's got to be a better choice out there. I'm a size 11 - 11.5 wide, depending on the make of shoe. Thanks!
Should I request off work to attend a friend's wedding shower?
Last week, I received an invitation to a good friend's couple wedding shower that's happening a week from now. It happens to be on the same day that I work. I just started a new job and the company is short-staffed currently so I feel bad about requesting a day off to go to her shower. I'm reluctant about asking for a day off because I'm afraid that the manager might get mad at me. Plus, I wasn't sure if a week would be too short of a notice. Do you think I should try to request off to go to the shower or do you think it's not a big deal? [more inside]
Android filter, use my phone as personal assistant with voice commands
I would like to use my Samsung Galaxy S5 as a personal assistant for very specific functions using voice commands. Mainly I want to be able to verbally set alarms with text description for specific dates and times. Example: "Set alarm for Friday 10:30 AM to call my brother". I tried but was dissatisfied with Google Now reminders. [more inside]
posted by forthright at 7:03 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by forthright at 7:03 PM PST - 13 comments
No sound on organ?
First - I don't know anything about organs. I have figured out how to turn on this organ, a Rodgers 805b. The lights come on, all is well. Except there's no sound when I press a key. What's wrong? [more inside]
posted by wearyaswater at 6:48 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by wearyaswater at 6:48 PM PST - 6 comments
What should I know before venturing into motel management??
Asking for a friend. Please give me any anecdotes or information regarding owning or running a small motel (ten rooms or fewer). I'd like to buy and manage a motel as a business venture. The location would presumably be on the way to a popular national park. Anyone with any experience like that?
Thanks!
Options for old, dark hypertrophic scars on back/shoulders from acne?
Scars are 5-10 years old and my derm doesn't think they can be faded! Would love to wear tank tops, bikinis, etc. but hate showing these dark scars on my shoulders. [more inside]
Advice for being a locum tenens healthcare provider?
I'm an NP interested in doing locum tenens work. I am looking for more information on how this works, and any experience or advice you'd like to share. Details below the fold. [more inside]
posted by robertthebruce at 4:29 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by robertthebruce at 4:29 PM PST - 2 comments
Regulations for Exterior Lead Paint Removal in PA, US
I am looking for State regulations for exterior lead paint removal in Pennsylvania. Or if you've had lead paint removed from your house in Pennsylvania (or really any state since I think the rules are pretty similar) by a contractor certified in lead paint removal since the new rules went into effect a few years ago; I would appreciate a description of the precautions the contractor took. [more inside]
posted by DarthDuckie at 4:25 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by DarthDuckie at 4:25 PM PST - 9 comments
What are some natural remedies for adult acne?
I am a 27 year-old woman and have had acne for the past two and a half years. I have tried an oral antibiotic and two prescription creams (all very expensive and ineffective), and am looking for other routes to treatment. I am looking for any holistic remedies, such as products to use topically, and dietary and lifestyle measures. Any advice is welcome and appreciated. [more inside]
2-day camping trip tomorrow morning. Camping + Premade Food essentials?
I spontaneously decided to join a friend's 2-day camping trip - I'll be meeting them at the campsite early tomorrow morning. I'm not an avid camper, and don't want to forget anything that might be considered a no-brainer. I'd appreciate advice on any camping essentials I may be forgetting - list of what I'm planning on bringing at the moment is inside. I'd also like advice on ready-to-eat meals or meals which can be easily prepared at the campsite. [more inside]
posted by CottonCandyCapers at 3:32 PM PST - 24 comments
posted by CottonCandyCapers at 3:32 PM PST - 24 comments
Giant oak galls: what's going on?
The trees in back of my condo seem to have several oak galls, but they're way larger than the internet is describing galls (oak apples) to me. What else could they be, and/or why are they so much bigger then they're supposed to be? [more inside]
Dulce de Leche (al día siguiente)
Making homemade dulce de leche with my daughter for a Spanish class project. Need advice on how to keep, re-warm, etc. [more inside]
posted by kuanes at 2:22 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by kuanes at 2:22 PM PST - 14 comments
Smoke Pot Get Thin
I enjoy smoking pot, but I'm also trying to lose weight and the two seem incompatible. [more inside]
What kind of insect is this?
These are all over my crepe myrtles. Do i need to be worried? Sorta looks like a ladybug but not sure.
Life is Disappointing: NYC Apt edition
Due to a series of unfortunate events I'm now homeless and lost all my savings. Looking for overall advice how to rent a room in NYC and survive. [more inside]
Do I need to rip up entire bathroom floor to replace broken lead pipes
We have a small bathroom (sink, toilet, small tub) on the second floor of our house that hasn't been touched since original construction (sometime in the 1950's).
When using any of the three bathroom fixtures, water leaks through the ceiling below (just started last night after plunging the toilet).
A plumber came out, took a look and said we'd need to rip up the entire floor as the pipes are all lead and the only solution is to remove entirely and replace with something newer.
This sounds odd and expensive. Any advice/suggestions?
How To Move When Broke
Right now, my husband and I are very broke due to a few factors. One of them is my health. Moving to a more accessible location would be physically and mentally beneficial in that area. I need some help thinking through a strategy to move on limited funds. [more inside]
How can I get my side software projects off the ground?
I'm interested in developer diaries, ideas from software engineers about how they manage their personal projects, and other resources for self project management in the software space. [more inside]
posted by Kwine at 12:37 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by Kwine at 12:37 PM PST - 7 comments
Does this product exist?
My husband hates the smell and feel of any lotion or other moisturizing product I use. I hate dry skin. Help? [more inside]
posted by Meg_Murry at 12:27 PM PST - 60 comments
posted by Meg_Murry at 12:27 PM PST - 60 comments
Is my partner a narcissist? Or are we not compatible?
I'm very confused about my partner. Let's call him Robert. I'm not sure if my partner is illustrating narcissistic traits or if it is something else? Robert rarely asks about my interests, hobbies, opinions. I think he may lack listening skills and empathy skills to some degree. I think he shows care and love through action instead. He may suspect he might have Aspergers as well. I feel like Robert is always nitpicking my flaws, my goal motives, my personality, and my beliefs. Robert always seems to monopolize the conversation, making it difficult to elaborate and share my points and thoughts on the matter. [more inside]
Quick silly gift for a fun, silly friend.
I want to send a dear friend on the other side of the country [U.S.] something for his birthday (t-shirt, fridge magnet, something of that ilk) that says something along the lines of "I'm not gay but I'm fabulous." (Both of which are true.) Difficulty level: for delivery tomorrow. [more inside]
How do authors obtain permission and hi-res images of illustrations?
My dad and I are submitting a manuscript for a book on Old West history. We need not just to obtain permission to use 25 historical images but to obtain versions of the pictures that are high enough quality for print. Can any publishing experts or authors share tips on how best to undertake this task? [more inside]
posted by johngoren at 11:10 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by johngoren at 11:10 AM PST - 10 comments
FIFA-related. What's a German word or expression for...
FIFA-related. What's a German word or expression for... Sticking your head in the sand? Denial? Refusing to acknowledge events by discussing other things? Danke.
Boss is undermining friend: to tell or not?
A former colleague & friend from institution A applied for a job at institution B. She did not get the job because the current boss at institution A told the boss at institution B that she was a bad employee. This is untrue. Do I tell my friend? [more inside]
Where should we buy clothes?
My mom (60) and I (30) are looking to do some clothes shopping this weekend. Neither of us knows where to go to find what we want in person: mostly knitwear in women's 16/18. Do you know where we should go? [more inside]
Sanitizing boots post-flood
I have a pair of boots that I like (thanks to AskMe). They recently weathered a flood in which I had the singular pleasure of watching porto-potties float by like boats. I have zero regrets about replacing them if that's the best option, but would rather not do that if I can get them clean inside and out. So I'm asking for the best way to do that, or if there is a good way at all.
Two-handed hand shake?
Is there a particular culture that devised and then used this sort of handshake? [more inside]
Square these rocks
Geometric rock formations in West Virginia river. How did they form? [more inside]
What is the simplest way to equip a 7yo and 6yo to make movies?
I need a dead simple (and not too expensive) setup for an imaginative 7 year old and a technically intuitive 6 year old to shoot and edit short films. [more inside]
posted by Wavelet at 9:45 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by Wavelet at 9:45 AM PST - 7 comments
Frontier FIOS problems. Service, router, or...?
We recently moved and chose Frontier (formerly Verizon) FIOS for our Internet service since the other option was Comcast. The service is the lowest tier (50/50) but we were coming from DSL with lower speeds and it was fine so we were expecting it to be OK. And it is. Sometimes. Other times it is really slow to unusable. Like, the airport on my Mac won't even connect to the router sometimes. Sometimes it will connect but I have to wait 2-4 minutes for an URL I typed in to load. Sometimes it goes up and down, disconnectng and reconnecting our wifi devices every few minutes. And other times, like right now, it's absolutely fine. [more inside]
Remove My Fallopian Tubes?
I went to a tubal ligation consult yesterday and left ready to schedule a bilateral salpingectomy (removal of fallopian tubes). Given that I didn't know it was an option, am I crazy for considering it? [more inside]
posted by MuChao at 9:08 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by MuChao at 9:08 AM PST - 9 comments
What can I do to deal with anxiety episodes
I would describe them as mini panic attacks. I had a full blown one a couple of times about 10 years ago that were complete agony. Lately I've been feeling the same way I'd feel leading up to those attacks. [more inside]
I Have Been Gifted With A HUGE Amount of Kudzu - What Can I Do With It?
So someone gave me like a few pounds of ground kudzu root with many other herbs as well - what could I possibly be doing with all of this kudzu root? [more inside]
Which car is better?
A car with lower miles that needed many repairs or a car with higher miles that has had one owner and no issues? [more inside]
Math equation problem
Asking for a friend:
I have a question about how to work out a student's exam mark.
Unit 1 is worth 60%, Unit 2 is worth 40%. Both units are marked out of 80. For example, a student scores 67/80 on unit 1 and 69/80 on unit 2. What is their overall mark?
Thanks for any help!
posted by charlen at 5:31 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by charlen at 5:31 AM PST - 9 comments
Traveling alone for the terminally awkward
I am trying to plan a beach vacation for the end of June - help me figure out where to go and how to make the best of a solo vacation? [more inside]
posted by fox problems at 5:22 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by fox problems at 5:22 AM PST - 15 comments
What effect does fat and muscle have on bp readings?
If you have a substantial amount of fat or muscle between a blood pressure cuff and the artery it's compressing, what effect does that have on the recorded blood pressure? [more inside]
posted by sodium lights the horizon at 5:08 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by sodium lights the horizon at 5:08 AM PST - 8 comments
Surrounded by loving family . . . really?
Another morbid funeral question: Is it "understood" that when an obituary says someone died "surrounded by his/her loving family" that the mourners may or may not have been present around the deathbed? [more inside]
What's the protocol when it comes to speaking to your doctor by phone?
I feel generally disempowered when I'm around doctors so i need help knowing what's expected and appropriate. [more inside]
May 27
help with a Google-fu fail
I saw a series of lovely hand-drawn anime-esque cartoons some time ago depicting, in an incredibly sweet and moving way, a couple in a long-term relationship and all its related intimacies. No text or speech-bubbles, just images of two people being together and helping each other. There was one scene of them eating ice-cream together, watching TV, etc. The overall colour palette was warm pink/orange hues. I cannot for the life of me find this again. Turns out terms like "relationship" "happy" "love" "long-term" do not a Google search narrow. If anyone knows that I'm talking about, I would greatly appreciate a link!
Help me find the best aftermarket car backup camera / tablet interface
Mrs. Lattiboy just purchased a 2015 Kia Soul. It's the "base" model with a manual transmission and basically no bells and whistles. She is coming from a fully loaded 2013 Prius with every possible electronic option, including navigation and backup cameras.
I want to put in an aftermarket system with a decent radio, bluetooth, tablet interface, and backup cameras. She has an Android phone, if that matters. [more inside]
Will a M.A. in education be of any possible use if I ever pursue a PhD?
The M.A. isn't optional obviously if I want to continue to teach and the program is good, so that's fine.
If in the future I decide to pursue graduate level studies in something related to immunology or developmental biology, will having a Master's in a mostly unrelated field give me any leg up being admitted to a decent PhD program?
I'm guessing the answer is a straight "nope". The only thing I can think of is that a lab may look positively on a candidate with several years of formal teaching experience. [more inside]
posted by WhitenoisE at 9:59 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by WhitenoisE at 9:59 PM PST - 6 comments
Help me get what Social Security owes me.
How do I approach Social Security Administration to be awarded the money they failed to pay me? Should I request the retroactive payment?
Here is what happened. I was eligible to receive social security benefits on January 1 of this year. In fact I was eligible before that date but selected it as my starting date. [more inside]
posted by Jim_Jam at 8:41 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by Jim_Jam at 8:41 PM PST - 11 comments
Plane tickets for a kid visiting grandparents
Micropanda (4) is being shipped off to spend a week with the grandparents this summer. What's the best way to book the plane tickets? Grandma will fly him down, and I will fly him back. [more inside]
No, not *that* Ring
I know this is a long shot, but here goes: I'm looking for an audio file—more than happy to pay for it, but at this point I'm not above less conventional methods—of the song, Ring of Bright Water. Easy, right? [more inside]
posted by bricoleur at 7:58 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by bricoleur at 7:58 PM PST - 4 comments
Help me get Google Drive to connect again
I'm having the hardest time with the Google Drive desktop client on Windows 8.1. It was working fine until a few days ago then it started stalling out during a sync and giving me an "unable to connect" error. I use Drive to upload and store my photographs dumped from my camera and I'm kind of screwed for backup if I can't get Drive to upload my files. [more inside]
Are you a sighted person who can read braille?
I've been tasked to create a print design that incorporates some text in braille (I know, I know), and now I need some help with proofreading. [more inside]
posted by Faint of Butt at 7:31 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by Faint of Butt at 7:31 PM PST - 8 comments
How to delete a DUI record from the web?
A friend of a friend received a DUI in Florida in 2011. She is now working as a doctor. She has a very distinct name, and searching for her name on Google or Bing results in links to her mugshot and arrest record. For obvious reasons, she would like for this not to happen. [more inside]
If I read a copyrighted story onstage, is it infringing?
My nonprofit venue wants to do a dramatic reading of a Neil Gaiman story during a fundraiser. Is this performance a copyright problem? [more inside]
posted by emjaybee at 7:18 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by emjaybee at 7:18 PM PST - 10 comments
Cat's Eye
I had a dream recently in which a tiger's eye pendant figured prominently, which makes me curious what is the symbolic meaning of tiger's eye? [more inside]
Help me think of a name for my handmade jewelry line?
A while back I took up metalsmithing as a hobby. I mostly work with copper, silver, and brass, and create necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings, etc. I think I've reached the point where my stuff is good enough to sell (and people keep telling me I should)! Yay! But...what do I call it? [more inside]
posted by Syllables at 6:56 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by Syllables at 6:56 PM PST - 10 comments
How to combine airline miles
I don't travel enough to really have the hang of the airline miles thing. I'm planning a trip from Chicago to NYC in September with my adult daughter and would like to use what miles I have before they expire. [more inside]
posted by Joleta at 6:53 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by Joleta at 6:53 PM PST - 8 comments
Starting over in your 50s
My friend is looking to change careers and hopefully move into the nonprofit world. Is a career change possible at her age? What should she be doing? What types of positions should she be looking for? She's in her 50s and has a legal background. She can practice law and formerly worked in legal publishing, but she hasn't worked in law for decades. She's spent the last decade or so as an analyst at a financial company.
Ecuador prepaid SIM with data plan
I may need to buy a SIM for use in Vilcabamba, Ecuador. I don't need voice, only data. Movistar and Claro have similar pricing so my questions are:
a) which has better coverage in that region; and
b) can I buy the card and data plan at the Quito airport?
Can you recommend a Wordpress theme designer?
I run a website (link in my profile) about an old computer game series and I'm changing it from HTML to Wordpress. I need a one-of-a-kind Wordpress theme. [more inside]
In sickness and in strain?
How do you know when a relationship is 'tough' and 'hard work' or when it's harming you and warrants walking away? [more inside]
posted by Vrai at 5:40 PM PST - 25 comments
posted by Vrai at 5:40 PM PST - 25 comments
What to do with passport when traveling internationally?
For a long time, I have been under the impression that it was the law in (most? all?) countries that a foreign visitor must carry one's passport on or about one's person at all times while in the country. Recently, someone challenged this view, and I am having trouble finding definitive answers on the Internet, and am hoping you all can help nail this down. (I do realize that the letter of the law and actual common practice often differ, but for the purpose of this question, I am interested in the actual law, not in common practice.)
posted by Juffo-Wup at 3:49 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by Juffo-Wup at 3:49 PM PST - 14 comments
How can I tell teachers in Ontario (Canada) about a cool program?
I want a cheap/free way to do outreach to high school teachers in Ontario. I want to promote an alternative university program where they can steer students with potential but not great grades. [more inside]
how does capacitance of finger/thumb work?
I sliced my thumb in half last year. It's fine now, but touchscreens don't recognize touches using thumb. Why not? [more inside]
posted by wutangclan at 3:32 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by wutangclan at 3:32 PM PST - 2 comments
Resources for Tripod Dog
We got an emergency foster on Friday, a young Boxer who had just had a hind leg amputated. I am fully aware that she will be fine, but I can't seem to find information on what to expect through recovery. [more inside]
Give me some books about failing.
I'm hitting a rough patch in my life and really failing at something for the first time(bout to drop out of graduate school).
I'm looking for recommendations of novels or books that feature characters failing(in whatever way you define that). Not necessarily looking for feel-good/happy endings(although those are alright!). I'm more just curious about how others deal with failing + failing. Kind of a listening to sad music after a break-up thing.
For British Eyes Only
I blog on Wordpress. I'd like to make certain posts visible only to readers in certain countries. Details within. [more inside]
posted by Rinku at 1:08 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by Rinku at 1:08 PM PST - 11 comments
Why can't I get pancit by delivery?
As a Filipino-American living 1300 miles away from my mother's cooking, I would love to indulge my homesickness and eat Filipino treats in a restaurant. I live in a major metropolitan area, but can't sit down at a restaurant to eat adobo. Why is that? [more inside]
Where to have a wedding dress altered in Atlanta?
My fiancee asks:
I need to have my wedding dress altered and I'm trying to choose a place to go but having trouble finding a spot I can trust. Yelp reviews for some places are great but then there are the negative reviews that stick out and scare me away. [more inside]
Need a nice folder or binder for wedding officiant
A friend is going to officiate our wedding. We want to give her a nice folder or binder with which to hold the ceremony script. Time constraint: We need this by Monday. [more inside]
posted by vivzan at 12:38 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by vivzan at 12:38 PM PST - 7 comments
Tips for keeping a relationship healthy for a year of LDR
My girlfriend of 1.5 years will be leaving for Japan for a full year for grad school stuff very soon. I'm looking for tips for keeping things healthy while we're long distance. As always, snowflakes inside. [more inside]
Shopping for a cervical disk replacement
My girlfriend has a herniated disk in her neck, for which disk replacement seems to be the best option. Her medical insurance isn't cooperating, and so we're starting to look into private options and medical tourism. Any advice on going down that route, particularly the medical tourism route, since it seems important to find a good surgeon (and we're not quite sure how to do that abroad).
Help me find this interesting website when my Google-Fu is weak!
During my freshman year of college, I was in a class which used an interesting website as part of a lab problem. I find many references to the problem it solves, but no links to this specific website.
I kind of want to show of the ridiculousness of some of the answers this website generated. [more inside]
posted by tckma at 11:57 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by tckma at 11:57 AM PST - 2 comments
Pros and cons of owning your own cable modem?
I've got Time Warner for internet (no cable TV) and they charge $8/mo for an "Internet modem lease" (grrrr) Is it worth it to buy one outright (like this one?)? Will it be a hassle with Time Warner? [more inside]
Word similar to 'abreast' that describes walking in a line?
Walking 'abreast' means walking side-by-side. What equivalent word means walking single-file? [more inside]
posted by chudmonkey at 11:50 AM PST - 22 comments
posted by chudmonkey at 11:50 AM PST - 22 comments
Freezer Meal suggestions! Difficulty level: Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Due to busy life schedules, my family has begun cooking weekday meals in a big cooking session each weekend. We cook 'em, we freeze 'em and on worknights, we thaw 'em and we eat 'em.
There are a lots of fantastic recipes for freezer meals in cookbooks and on the interwebs, but we've got a hitch - our family has a member with Irritable Bowel Syndrome, which puts limits on what ingredients we can use. (exciting caveats and details inside!) [more inside]
posted by tabubilgirl at 11:30 AM PST - 18 comments
posted by tabubilgirl at 11:30 AM PST - 18 comments
Help identify this mystery button!
What is this mystery, military-esque metal button I found in Southport, North Carolina? [more inside]
CleanMe!
Help me be a grown up, part 342342: What are the solutions that have made a household chore significantly more convenient or less annoying for you? [more inside]
posted by peachfuzz at 10:34 AM PST - 70 comments
posted by peachfuzz at 10:34 AM PST - 70 comments
Convert a zillion .rm files to .mp4
The organization for which I work has one zillion (well, OK, maybe 40,000) videos in the Real media format. I did not create this scenario, I am only dealing with it. The videos reside on a single server, and are in multiple nested directories. I want/need to convert them to a more neutral format (I'm thinking mp4), using as little manual intervention as possible . [more inside]
posted by dirtdirt at 10:11 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by dirtdirt at 10:11 AM PST - 12 comments
The Knee Mutiny
Recently did my first 5K, which went great, except my knee got tweaked. Now it won’t go back to normal. What are some good exercises I can do to make my knee feel better and stronger? Hoping to avoid physical therapy. [more inside]
posted by silverstatue at 9:27 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by silverstatue at 9:27 AM PST - 12 comments
You can't scan this
I have a small (about 10x20cm) pencil drawing that I'd like in digital format. But this is not a job for a scanner per se - I think I need some kind of digital artist. What kind of service am I looking for? [more inside]
posted by Juso No Thankyou at 8:18 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by Juso No Thankyou at 8:18 AM PST - 8 comments
What was this yellow flowering plant in the fields outside Paris?
I flew into Charles de Gaulle Airport in May. On our descent we passed over many fields of vivid yellow flowering plants. What might those have been?
posted by komara at 8:16 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by komara at 8:16 AM PST - 14 comments
Can you ease my neurological freak-out?
I've had some very upsetting neurological symptoms last night possibly related to a medication change, and I'd like to get some input from the hive mind while I wait to talk to my doctor. Lengthy snowflake details inside... [more inside]
posted by jammer at 7:18 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by jammer at 7:18 AM PST - 12 comments
How to reach out to past employment offer
About a year ago, while still working at Company A, I interviewed for Company B. I declined the offer at the time; but they said their door is always open for me if I change my mind. How do I reach out now and try again? [more inside]
Help me to stop my son going off the rails
I'm worried about my young adult son and I need some advice to help him get out of his negative mind set and weed smoking funk, and to start living a fuller life. [more inside]
posted by blokefromipanema at 7:03 AM PST - 24 comments
posted by blokefromipanema at 7:03 AM PST - 24 comments
Can you recommend a bike shop in Minneapolis for my wife?
Hi, my wife is looking to buy a new bike and I was wondering if anyone could recommend a particular store in Minneapolis or its environs. Neither of us knows all that much about bikes and the last time she bought one it wasn't a great experience (the clerk sold her a bike that really wasn't a good fit for her needs and the people at that shop are snotty.)
Michael Winslow I am not.
Parents of Mefi, how do I calm my baby without using the only thing that calms my baby: a running water faucet? [more inside]
posted by pepper bird at 6:50 AM PST - 28 comments
posted by pepper bird at 6:50 AM PST - 28 comments
Is there a name for this shape?
What would you call the shape of the two-dimensional outline of the two stones (cabochons) circled in red in this picture? [more inside]
posted by sparklemotion at 6:48 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by sparklemotion at 6:48 AM PST - 7 comments
Was Galileo's Dad a Copernican?
I thought I read or heard somewhere that Vincenzo Galilei, the father of Galileo Galilei, was a Copernican and probably influenced his famous son (also a Copernican). I can't find any mention of the topic, however. If anyone is able to corroborate or disconfirm my memory on this I will be very grateful. Thanks in advance to anyone who gives it a whirl!
posted by airing nerdy laundry at 6:45 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by airing nerdy laundry at 6:45 AM PST - 2 comments
Credit Card Refund: They are asking for my credit card details
Is this safe? They asked for my credit card info to give me a refund and i gave them my credit card number. Now theyre asking for the expiry date in order to process the refund. Is this safe? Can they misuse this data? Can't they automatically charge it back to my account?
What "plain" vegetarian potato dish can I serve at work tomorrow?
What "plain", simple, or sauce on the side vegetarian potato dish will be good cold or reheated in a work kitchen or in a slow cooker? Serve: 15-20. Leftovers are OK. [more inside]
Scavenger trilogy by KJ Parker - TL;DR please
Basically, I want to know what happens in the Scavenger trilogy by KJ Parker, books 2 & 3, without reading them. I've read book 1. [more inside]
posted by gakiko at 4:51 AM PST - 1 comment
posted by gakiko at 4:51 AM PST - 1 comment
Spider proof my laundry
What can I add to the washing cycle to discourage spiders from hitching a ride inside via my freshly air-dried laundry? [more inside]
May 26
Not that into someone vs general relationship anxiety
I am trying to sort out my feelings. I can't tell if I am abandoning possible relationships because I am not used to being out of my comfort zone or if I am just not that interested in someone. How do I figure this out? [more inside]
posted by sabina_r at 11:41 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by sabina_r at 11:41 PM PST - 13 comments
Canadian volunteering for a year in the US for a religious nonprofit
My girlfriend and I will be volunteering at a mountain retreat center/camp in the US for a year. This retreat center is a religious nonprofit affiliated with a mainline protestant denomination and has existed since the '60s (and I have visited it many times before, as a member of that denomination). We will be paid a stipend of $550 a month each and have benefits like room & board, health and dental insurance...or at least I, as a US citizen, will get them. What does my girlfriend, as a Canadian citizen, need to provide to US immigration (specifically DHS at the border) to have the greatest chance of receiving that stipend and/or benefits? [more inside]
Hookup etiquette, campsite rule edition
I met someone several years younger than me on a hookup site. We met and I'm pretty sure he felt nervous about his performance. What else could / should I have done? [more inside]
How to cure anger and feelings of bitter entitlement?
I am middle-aged. Without going into my personal history, it is sufficient to say I feel like life is consistently, repeatedly short-changing me over time. I am not exaggerating when I say that I basically have no one available who truly cares about me on a level beyond what I can do for them because I have no social status to speak of and life consistently goes horribly awry for me. [more inside]
Making my job ADHD-friendly
How can I engineer my workflow to increase urgency, accountability, and structure? [more inside]
Best Way to enjoy Busch Stadium
I am going to Busch stadium in June for the Cardinals game and have never been there. I already have tickets- I am looking for suggestions: where should I park? and associated costs.. what is great to do before the game starts on Saturday, food suggestions-just fun things to do..Thanks!
Replacement makeup for Neutrogena's discontinued solid foundation?
I used to use Neutrogena's solid foundation makeup that contained salicylic acid, but they've discontinued it. Is there anything like it on the market now? [more inside]
Letting Go & Getting Over It
Has anyone ever made a mistake that they just can't stop replaying over and over in their head? I think that I accept the mistakes that I made and the decisions that led up to it, but I keep thinking why in the world did I have to do what I did. Every day I get up and I am thinking about the past. I made a mistake that was so big that it has permanently jeopardized my future. It's been almost two years since this problem first appeared. Some things have improved since that time but other things have gotten much worse. On a scale of 1 - 10 as far as big fuck ups go, this one would be about an 11. How do you process something like this and live with it so that you're not constantly thinking about it?
posted by nidora at 9:02 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by nidora at 9:02 PM PST - 15 comments
I want to learn how to paddleboard -- recommendations?
I am looking for a new fun activity to spend time doing this summer and decided that paddle boarding sounds like loads of fun. I live in an area where there are great lakes, large and small to paddle on. I am planning on renting and taking some lessons before making a decision to purchase or not. However, since I am pretty sure I'm going to be hooked, I want to get an idea of what I'm looking at expensewise and what experienced paddle boarders would recommend. [more inside]
How to handle child's OCD/anxiety/?
My daughter is afraid of getting sick and asks everyday about the dangers of different substance. I am unsure of how long to let this go before looking for professional help, even if just to help me not go insane over her behavior. [more inside]
posted by turtlefu at 8:21 PM PST - 18 comments
posted by turtlefu at 8:21 PM PST - 18 comments
jerseys better make me some $$$
So we've inherited these framed football jerseys and now that I've put them up for sale on Craigslist I've got potential buyers. How much is a fair price for them (with or without the frames)? [more inside]
Friends of long-haired dogs in the summertime....
What are your go-to measures of comfort for the overheated summer dog in your life? [more inside]
Looking for sarong/izar, as well as thawb or longer shirt.
Where would you suggest I look for a sarong or izar style lower garment, a longer styled shirt to match it, as well as a thawb-like robe to go over it. [more inside]
Best $100 couple's experience in the Durham/Raleigh/Chapel Hill,NC area?
My partner and I have had a lot of challenges this year and we want to do something special together outside of just the regular eat-a-nice-dinner routine. Money is tight, but we have $100 to devote to this special occasion. Things we have discussed include couples' massage classes, groupon getaways, food tours, getting tattoos, etc...but we just haven't been able to find something yet that is within budget. Got any ideas?
Help! What to cook for dinner?
I live with my 75-year-old mother, and a couple of weeks ago she decided to become vegetarian after a lifetime of being an omnivore. She is not interested in nutrition and is not going to figure out how to eat healthfully on her own, so if I want her to not die from just eating carbs all day, I need to figure this out. So many snowflakes inside! [more inside]
posted by clone boulevard at 3:57 PM PST - 46 comments
posted by clone boulevard at 3:57 PM PST - 46 comments
Is this car a good deal?
Is it worth paying over Blue Book value for a car that was just purchased from a dealer? [more inside]
How do I only get the Lime (Lemon Lime) Freezer Pops?
Is there any place on this Planet Earth where I can pick and choose the freezer pop flavors I like such as lime (lemon lime) and orange and not just get a box of "Assorted"? [more inside]
Boggled by the dinner question, edition 5,735
What are some non-soup, served-hot recipes for a pair of carnivores who currently have the diet and cooking abilities of a 12-year-old with no supervision? [more inside]
posted by We put our faith in Blast Hardcheese at 2:32 PM PST - 52 comments
posted by We put our faith in Blast Hardcheese at 2:32 PM PST - 52 comments
I would like to not wear pants.
I am looking for a new job that is telecommute. That is my only reason for leaving. How do I address in interviews since "looking for a new challenge" doesn't exactly fit? [more inside]
How is YouTube failing, exactly?
My PowerMac G5 with Dual 2.7 GHz processors, which can effortlessly edit and play 1080p60p videos in FINAL CUT STUDIO, with a 256MB nVidia 6800GT DDL and with a 100 Megabit connection to the Internet, cannot play 240p YouTube videos without resulting in choppy, crappy performance.
Is this the fault of the MAC OS X operating system, the browser (Safari or TenFourFox), something on the YouTube side, or Flash, or HTML5?
Love the Cartier LOVE bracelet, don't love the price
I love the design and thought behind the Cartier LOVE bracelet (a relatively fitted gold bangle you can just leave on), but I can't stomach paying 7 grand for one. Help me find an alt! [more inside]
posted by raw sugar at 1:56 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by raw sugar at 1:56 PM PST - 14 comments
Student - teacher relationships post graduation
I'm looking for examples of policies, laws, or other ways organizations deal with the dynamic of high school student and teacher romantic relationships immediately post-graduation, specifically on the teacher side of things. [more inside]
posted by Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug at 1:48 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug at 1:48 PM PST - 5 comments
Is dating for men easier in SF or NYC?
I'm a 30-year-old straight single guy, debating a move to either NYC or SF. Singledom has been getting tiresome (after 6+ months), and I'd be interested in knowing whether dating would be substantially better or easier in one or the other city. I'm a slightly nerdy (but by no-means super-geeky) and fairly athletic/outdoorsy highly-educated professional. In either city, I'd be living in or near the urban center. [more inside]
Realtime Whitehole List?
On behalf of my DDOS mitigation admin buddy:
Does anyone know where we could get our hands on a regularly updated list of CDN IPs? Akami don't publish an organised list, and even if they did, there's the plethora of other CDNs out there. Ideally, what we're looking for is something like CloudFlare's list of their IPs, but covering as many CDNs as possible.
posted by Kreiger at 1:07 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by Kreiger at 1:07 PM PST - 3 comments
Local dog makes bad.
My idiot dog [file photo of idiot dog] has started barking when I leave the house. His bark is LOUD. Like, super loud. This is unacceptable. I live in an apartment and there are innocent people involved who don't deserve this. [more inside]
posted by phunniemee at 1:01 PM PST - 28 comments
posted by phunniemee at 1:01 PM PST - 28 comments
Best product question: furniture pads version
We have hardwood floors and despite the use of carpets, there are now lots of scratches in areas of heavy use. We have felt pads on the legs of our stuff but the things seem to come off at every opportunity, especially on items that are moved often (dining chairs). I hate having to reapply them and I hate the stupid black felt circles that come off knocking around the floor all the time. Is there a better way? What is the absolute best pad I can buy? Most items have wooden legs but a couple are metal. Can't easily increase amount of rug converge.
Spacing between second and third child?
We have two girls, currently 3.75 and 7. We are seriously considering a third, and hope to time his or her arrival around the time our younger is 5.5.
How has a larger space between kids or sets of kids worked for you? Did the younger child or children feel a part of the older one's lives? [more inside]
How to enjoy life with a baby?
I'm looking for tips on how to have more fun during the early months of parenting a baby. [more inside]
Raccoons are veggie-stealing jerkfaces.
I started my very first vegetable garden this year! Woo! But while it hasn't been an issue yet, I am quite concerned over the likelihood that my garden will be eviscerated by animals. However, it isn't as simple as "build a fence, dummy!". [more inside]
proxy/ power for house-sitter
I am leaving on a 3 month trip next Monday. I just found out a few days ago that my condo building is planning on changing everyone's lock and issuing new keys during the time that I am gone. I'd like to designate a friend as my legal proxy ONLY in this matter. How do I do this? [more inside]
Is my boyfriend not treating me kindly?
So I've been in a relationship for 7 months now. I am 22 (female) and he is 25. The other day I got a flat tire on my way to work right after I left his house (2 miles away from his house) and called him because I wasn't sure how to change my tire. I'd never had a flat and never learned how. He seemed very irritated and told me to try to figure it out and call me if I couldn't. Should I be angry that he didn't just come help me? [more inside]
posted by anon1129 at 11:19 AM PST - 107 comments
posted by anon1129 at 11:19 AM PST - 107 comments
Hard or Soft: Parenting edition.
My husband thinks we are too hard on our son. I think he really means I'm too hard on our son. I need some perspective. [more inside]
Wanted: The Diogenes (Fitness) Club
Please help me select a new fitness activity that will push me to greatness without pushing me over the edge. Difficulty level: awkward solitude-loving INTJ. [more inside]
What saw(s) and other tools do I need to cut these notches in some 2x4s?
I am looking to build something that requires cutting 1 1/2" - 2" notches in some two by four or two by six beams. My existing set of tools could be charitably described as minimal (see within), and I'd like to do this as inexpensively as possible and still keep it safe. [more inside]
posted by Joey Buttafoucault at 10:26 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by Joey Buttafoucault at 10:26 AM PST - 12 comments
Getting to LAX for 5:30am flight
I have a 5:30am flight from LAX on a Thursday morning in July and I don't have a car. I will be in Norwalk. What are the most affordable options for getting to the airport?
Flower identification
Spotted this flower, not sure if it was planted or if it sprouted up as a weed. Can you ID? Flower is growing in Seattle, Washington. [more inside]
posted by Craig at 9:37 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by Craig at 9:37 AM PST - 3 comments
Renting a car for southern CO road trip - do I want an SUV?
I'm planning on flying into Denver and doing a solo roadtrip for a few days in southern Colorado, but I'm pretty unfamiliar with the territory. Should I get an SUV, or is that unnecessary -- especially given that I've never really driven one? (Itinerary suggestions welcome!) [more inside]
posted by veery at 9:18 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by veery at 9:18 AM PST - 13 comments
What just went screaming over my house?
I'm used to odd noises from aeroplanes flying over my house, but in the past 15 minutes, two planes have flown over much lower, much faster and a shedload noisier than usual. How can I find out what's going on?
More information: I live near Boston, in Medford. I am outside of the Class B controlled airspace for BOS. I've looked at FlightRadar24, but whatever it was didn't seem to be on there. I am not that far from Hanscom AFB, but am outside of their controlled airspace.
What contents insurance should we get as tenants in the UK?
Expats living in London, renting the ground floor flat of a house. We don't have much in the way of high-value possessions aside from laptops, TV, bike, clothing, but we should probably get them covered. Please recommend a good policy or insurance company. [more inside]
Technology in the Classroom
I'm curious about bans on technology at the college level. I've read previous threads on this topic but they predate the widespread introduction of iPads and tablets. If you're a student or instructor are there particular types of classes that ban electronics or is it more or less random based on the instructor? For "no laptop" classes are tablets allowed? [more inside]
Give me your filling, low-calorie, and somewhat cheap lunch reccos
I'd like to start eating healthier lunches, that are filling but somewhat cheap. I'm in midtown in NYC, and really don't enjoy preparing my own meals, so looking to buy it. [more inside]
posted by jourman2 at 8:30 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by jourman2 at 8:30 AM PST - 12 comments
Looking for an illustration of a house with a river in it
I'm looking for an illustration from a children's book that's probably American (at least in English) and probably from the 1980s. The illustration was of a fanciful one-story house that had water integrated into it, like a canal or a lazy river running through the house. [more inside]
Used or refurb iPhone ins/outs/what-have-yous?
I've used an iPod Touch and prepaid feature phone for years, and I'm now looking to consolidate my devices into one. I'm hoping to get a used or refurbished iPhone, and looking for some advice as to where, and potentially, what to buy. [more inside]
posted by anthom at 7:10 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by anthom at 7:10 AM PST - 7 comments
Balancing care for yourself with mental health issues of a family member
Recently my sister came over from the UK to stay with us here in Sydney for 3 weeks, and it was tough. She was extremely critical of everything down to the smallest detail and often condescending and rude. This is not my first time being treated like shit by a guest in my own home and I'd really like advice on how to stop this/react in future. [more inside]
posted by everydayanewday at 6:36 AM PST - 24 comments
posted by everydayanewday at 6:36 AM PST - 24 comments
Dealing with post-tenancy dramas
So I find myself in a bit of an awkward position with a former friend regarding a tenancy I arranged for them and having to consider what options to take. [more inside]
Name That Tune
So I was listening to top-40 radio in the car, and I heard a newish song that had either a tin whistle or recorder (or the like) as part of the hook. It's a hip-hop influenced song. The whistle appears in the middle of the verse, and it's something like a (dotted ?) quarter note and two eighth notes.
What's the song? I believe in you, MetaFilter!
posted by persona au gratin at 2:43 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by persona au gratin at 2:43 AM PST - 13 comments
May 25
Where can I find you, 1981 Depeche Mode Dance Party?
I'm listening to Depeche Mode's Photographic right now and thinking hey, wouldn't it be totally amazing if there were a club/night/party in the San Francisco Bay Area where I could go dance to this? (Also maybe: Kraftwerk's Pocket Calculator? Los Microwaves' TV In My Eye?) Does this exist anywhere? Please say it does!
How to get toddler to talk more? I know, be careful what you wish for..
My 20 month old son hardly speaks, but he understands everything. Help me encourage him to use his voice. [more inside]
N Cal camp sites with facilities and a short hike in?
My kids have expressed interest in camping, so I checked out a car camping site today, and I'm pretty sure won't work for us. (Specifically, there was loud music being played on car stereos; in general, it seemed like the very low barrier-to-entry of car camping led to a lot of noise and general trashiness.) But my girls are hiking lightweights, and honestly I'm no hero either. Where could I take them camping somewhere with (at least!) toilet facilities, and, ideally, shower facilities, that requires a hike of around an hour to get to? Special super bonus - somewhere within an hour or two of Silicon Valley? Ideally in the redwoods? Thanks!!
posted by fingersandtoes at 7:13 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by fingersandtoes at 7:13 PM PST - 11 comments
Elena Ferrante: Why no Catholic Church in the Neapolitan Novels?
Elena Ferrante's Neapolitan Novels are set in post-war Naples, and the Catholic Church shows up only peripherally, if at all. There is a wedding in the first novel, and the religious aspects of even this event are hardly acknowledged. Why might this be? [more inside]
How do I have a short-term dating relationship while on a break?
I'm sort of in a long-distance relationship that will continue to be long distance for the next three months. We have decided to open our relationship and take a break for the time being. I'm not the kind of guy that has really ever done flings or short-term dating or whatever, but it seems like that is something that maybe I should be doing now -- at least going on some dates and trying to have some fun. So, how do I do this? [more inside]
posted by J. Wilson at 4:31 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by J. Wilson at 4:31 PM PST - 15 comments
Bedtime is in 3 hours. Help me sleep tonight.
I had a terrible fight with a loved one today, and my stress levels are sky-high (to the point of nausea). At this rate, I'm not sure I'll be able to sleep tonight. Bedtime is in three hours - Please help me get to sleep. [more inside]
Help me retire my flip flops
Yes, yes, I know. Flip flops are the worst and I should be ashamed of myself. But you know what? I'm hot and they make me a little less sweaty and gross. Every second that I spend without socks makes my summer life more bearable. I believe these Reef flip flops are what I currently wear and they've served me very well, but I think it might be time to retire them to beach use only. What should I replace them with? [more inside]
A Frustrated Musician - How Do I Unleash The Demon?
All I want in life is play music with passion. It is all I ever wanted. [more inside]
Buongiorno gift for my girlfriend's Italian mother?
Tomorrow I'm meeting my girlfriend's 60 yo mother for the first time. She's Italian, lives there and is just visiting. Any ideas for a small token gift, to make a lasting good impression? [more inside]
posted by tzb at 4:09 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by tzb at 4:09 PM PST - 9 comments
Considering putting an offer on a house but need input
Please advise if this house mught be a good investment. I saw it a while back and liked a lot about it but certain factors turned me off from it. Now that it's had a price reduction i'm reconsidering if it's a worthwhile investment. I plan to live in it but resale value is important to me as I don't know how long I plan to stay and want to be able to sell it quickly without losing money. Details below [more inside]
Help me find bank wire information for the Mexican bank BanCoppel
Help me find the swift code or domestic routing code for Mexican bank called BanCoppel so I can send money to my friend in Mexico via xetrade. [more inside]
POTENTIAL PROBLEMS WITH LONG-DISTANCE LANDLORD?
I've found a very nice condo rental unit, with lots of the features on my "wish list." The big drawback is a "long-distance" landlord who is leaving me unsure about who's responsible for maintenance. [more inside]
Maybe there's an annoying-neighbor-child version of deer repellant?
I live in the back corner of an apartment building that borders on the backyards of multiple house-neighbors on the perpendicular side street to mine.
The people opposite me have elementary-age children and let them stay in the yard for hours with minimal/no supervision. The children's friends come to visit and they all get a kick out of wreaking tiny havoc directly on the other side of my apartment. I am at a loss for nipping this in the bud. Help! [more inside]
posted by cardinality at 1:47 PM PST - 48 comments
posted by cardinality at 1:47 PM PST - 48 comments
Any good videos to prepare a three year old for getting shots?
My daughter will be getting two jabs soon (second dose of MMR and 4-in-1 preschool booster). She has not needed a vaccination since since was too young to remember. Can anyone suggest any videos etc that would help her to be a little more prepared for it? I'm imagining something like an episode of a kids TV show about vaccinations but any other suggestions are welcome, e.g. books or iPad apps.
posted by tomcooke at 1:45 PM PST - 19 comments
posted by tomcooke at 1:45 PM PST - 19 comments
Menu of fine cheeses for wine and cheese party
In preparation for an overseas move, tomorrow evening I'm popping open a few bottles of wine I've carried from house to house over the years. Please recommend some fine cheeses (or other things, other than foie gras) that will go well with these wines: [more inside]
Digital camera advice? ISO simple/intuitive, plus a few other features.
I am semi-tech phobic, so am looking for an *extremely* simple digital camera for still photos. Like, think Fisher Price. On, off, focus, zoom, automatic option, click. Simplicity and an intuitive design are the most important qualities. No long instruction booklet. No tiny window or up and down arrows or similar interface that I have to navigate. More desired features after the jump. [more inside]
posted by ClaudiaCenter at 12:59 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by ClaudiaCenter at 12:59 PM PST - 11 comments
How to handle a work situation after declining an interview with a rival
I'm the Deputy Head at an international school. I was shortlisted for a Head Teacher job with a rival school in the same small town. I declined the interview but now I am apprehensive about my boss finding out. Snowflakes inside! [more inside]
Advice for 10-year-old who wants to go home
We are taking care of our neice, who is 10 years old, on our family vacation. Her mom, a single parent, needed help this week so we offered. We knew neice had some separation anxiety, but we were assured that neice was much better and excited about the trip. Unfortunately, neice has been very unhappy at certain times and last night (our first full day here) she sobbed for an hour and begged to go home. [more inside]
posted by dawg-proud at 11:38 AM PST - 21 comments
posted by dawg-proud at 11:38 AM PST - 21 comments
Other bands like ATDI
I recently remembered how much I liked At the Drive-in, especially the album Relationship of Command. Specifically I like the soft / loud dynamic in the songs, the vocal style (some screamed lyrics, but only occasionally used), the driving guitar melodies, and the choruses that lend to singing along. What would you recommend that is similar? I'm fine with recommendations from any time period.
Golfer's Vasculitis
My partner is going on a long 4-day march in July. He has developed Golfer's Vasculitis. We have an appointment with our GP, but I wanted to ask the hive if anyone has treated this successfully? [more inside]
Keeping sensitive electronics cool in a car
I'm selling almost everything I own so I can fit everything that's left into my car and travel for a while. The inside of my car can get volcanically hot at times, and I'm worried about storing my MacBook and iPad there. What can I do to keep them as cool as possible? Buy a cooler they'll fit in? Do I need to worry about condensation in that case? Any ideas would be very welcome -- thanks!
What would happen if the moon broke up?
Neal Stephenson's new novel, Seveneves, starts with the moon breaking up into seven pieces (spoilers for the first 50 pages of the book inside). [more inside]
Prague on Saturday
I'll be travelling to Prague for work later this week and will have all day Saturday to explore. Please recommend things to do. [more inside]
Daily "Mental Alertness" Quiz?
Is there a short quiz or activity whose results I can plot over time to gauge how "alert" I am? [more inside]
What are these weird things my friend found in his wall?
A friend of mine is remodeling an older home in the midwest. Masons opened up a wall and found these mystery items. The bottle has a shiny residue inside; the stopper is rubber which is completely hardened and cracked. The third thing is glass, and a mystery. Does anyone here know what they are? (Bonus points if you have any idea why they might have been put inside a wall.)
help calming an inconsolable child
My girlfriend's 5-year-old daughter has been having a really hard time. [more inside]
How do I paint a beach ball?
I want to paint a beach ball to look like Jupiter. It will spend the vast majority of its time deflated in a waterproof container in the middle of the woods. Periodically it will be taken out, inflated, looked at for a minute or two, and then put back. Is there some kind of paint or painting style that will keep the paint from cracking and peeling after repeated inflation and deflation?
posted by ErWenn at 8:53 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by ErWenn at 8:53 AM PST - 15 comments
Slow Food
What are your favorite slow cooker recipes that (a) rely on fresher ingredients instead of canned or frozen, and (b) are practical for single-person portions? Difficulty level: no beef or pork. [more inside]
posted by escape from the potato planet at 8:48 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by escape from the potato planet at 8:48 AM PST - 13 comments
Help me help my friend through addiction
A good friend has a drug problem (pain pills & xanax). He has been taking Subutex for a few weeks now and will be crashing at my place temporarily. How do I best help him through this? Tips, tricks, advice... things I should expect? [more inside]
what is this and what should i do
New Home Theatre Project(or) - 2015 Edition
Sustainable farming, professional development, and funding?
I'd like to take a certificate course course in Sustainable Farming and Foods. My employer, a non-profit, lacks the funds. How do I make this happen? [more inside]
IUD Argh!
I have a copper IUD (Paraguard) that was inserted about 1 month ago. I've been feeling absolutely terrible this past month. Pain, anxiety, discomfort - every day. I think I want to ask my doctor to remove the IUD, but I'm nervous for a few reasons (maybe because of my overall increased anxiety?) Any tips? [more inside]
Calling all small-apartment dwellers
I am moving from second tiny studio into my third tiny studio at the end of the month. One thing I have learned is that I am definitely not into having a full-size bed in my studio. [more inside]
Desserts for a crowd!
I am in charge of making dessert for an informal lunch for 50-60 people this weekend. I'm looking for delicious dessert recipes that are ideally not too labor-intensive. I am abroad and don't have access to boxed cake mixes, but otherwise have most normal ingredients (except peanut butter and blueberries). If it's something I can make the day before, even better! Thanks for your recipes.
posted by maca at 2:09 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by maca at 2:09 AM PST - 14 comments
I hate everybody else's relationships
I don't know if this is a life stage thing or a terrible personality flaw or what, but I find myself feeling contemptuous of others' relationships, even though it's 100% none of my business. I want to stop this. [more inside]
Chill Meditative Place in San Diego (Preferably with WIFI)
I want to do some computer learning/practicing/programming. I'd prefer to do so away from the distractions of home. I'd like some place with good views, minimal distractions, all in the San Diego area. A Zen garden with WIFI would be the ideal place. Starbucks is too busy, and the local library is also. Any suggestions?
May 24
Help me pair a typeface
I'm looking for a sans-serif typeface that pairs well with Monotype's Bembo Book (specimen pages). Can you recommend one?
posted by Quilford at 10:22 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by Quilford at 10:22 PM PST - 7 comments
Help me choose an American bank
I'm a Canadian who got a job in the US and is moving to New York. I need to open an account at an American bank. What's a good American bank? Any to avoid? Is there a difference or are they all the same? (Alas, for those tempted to say TD, it actually confers no advantages to those from Toronto OR the Dominion.)
A path to journalism?
I want to be a journalist, but I'm not sure how to get there from where I am now. Looking for any advice, tips, or resources anybody can offer me. [more inside]
Paying for a car that is 250 mi away
I am interested in a vehicle that is being sold by a private seller that is 3 1/2 hours away and in a different state. The asking price is $7500, which is a lot of cash to be carrying, especially after all those stories in the news about the cops being tipped off by the bank and just taking your money. [more inside]
What are some works of SFF that use extraordinarily beautiful language?
What are some works of SFF that showcase beautiful language on a par with All The King's Men, Gilead, and Raymond Chandler's detective novels? I've read plenty of SFF that has transported me, but little that's struck me as gorgeously written. Thanks!
Help me focus away from nauseating thoughts
I ate something that is against my beliefs, for the first time in my entire life (due to a miscommunication). I feel very nauseated - my thoughts focus on my body and wanting to throw up (I tried but am unable to?). Can I refocus thought away from the thing inside me? Or you know any help for nausea that is just psychosomatic? I know I did not do this on purpose, it's that I can't escape my thoughts about the physical act of chewing and swallowing it and about the animal dying for it.
How can I organize a long and messy fanfic so I can post it on AO3?
I have a fanfic that's currently in a bunch of bits and pieces in Google Docs, and I'd like to be able to consolidate them at some point, do a thorough spell-and-grammar check and decide where to make chapter breaks. Eventually the work is to be posted on Archive of Our Own. What's the best way to go about this? [more inside]
posted by SockISalmon at 8:39 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by SockISalmon at 8:39 PM PST - 6 comments
Origami paper patterns: what are these?
I'm folding a thousand origami cranes, and I'm starting to get curious about the patterns on the Japanese origami paper I'm using. I think I recognize a couple of them, but I'd like to know the significance of any you recognize: maybe they are traditional textile patterns or have other uses? Are they a certain flower, fruit, or season? Or maybe they are entirely made up for these packs of paper. [more inside]
posted by fiercecupcake at 7:33 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by fiercecupcake at 7:33 PM PST - 7 comments
Horse tracks that allow interments in the U.S.?
What horse track in the U.S. can I sprinkle or inter my father-in-law's ashes at? Santa Anita would be perfect, but any horse track would do. [more inside]
I don't want to be her suicide letter.
My long-distance partner is suicidal, and I don't know what to do. [more inside]
Best approach in random noise generation
So my go to encryption product used to be truecrypt but Drama! So what is the go to, cross platform agnostic, encryption program that can mount encrypted containers as a drive letter? [more inside]
Help me not freak out!!! (Housing edition)
I have an important deadline in the house buying process this week and I am totally freaking out about it. Perhaps someone wiser than I on mefi can help me not freak out about the upcoming deadlines and also tell me what is going on behind closed doors. [more inside]
posted by Toddles at 6:25 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by Toddles at 6:25 PM PST - 5 comments
What should we be doing about edema?
My wife is having problems with what we believe to be non-emergency fluid retention (edema?)
What should we be doing, and what type of doctor do we need? [more inside]
Should I end my relationship, and if so how?
I (26f) have been with my boyfriend (28m) for 6 years. I've always had doubts in the back of my mind and am thinking about ending things for the 3rd time in 2 years. Am I making the right decision, and how do I go about it? [more inside]
freelance corporate ethnography?
I am interested in getting into corporate ethnography/ doing ethnographic research for market research, particularly as a freelancer for now. Tell me what you know about how/who/where. [more inside]
posted by atetrachordofthree at 4:41 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by atetrachordofthree at 4:41 PM PST - 6 comments
Adidas Tobacco brown suede shoes from '70s -- anything like it?
There has never been a better men's running-style casual shoe, IMO, than the Adidas Tobacco. They were briefly reissued but are no longer available. Is there anything similar on the market? [more inside]
Dating someone for their character vs physical attraction?
How to convince oneself to make the right choice [more inside]
posted by winterportage at 4:21 PM PST - 32 comments
posted by winterportage at 4:21 PM PST - 32 comments
What can I store outside when it might get to 50 below?
I need to pack up a bunch of possessions to store for a year. What can I safely store outside in an unheated shed, given that it might get down to -50°F? [more inside]
Feel like I was hit by a virus truck
Super weird (for me) constellation of symptoms... what is going on? [more inside]
posted by easter queen at 3:07 PM PST - 18 comments
posted by easter queen at 3:07 PM PST - 18 comments
Is any large corpus of Office documents available for download?
I am looking for a large (>1000 files) corpus of real-world Office documents (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, though I wouldn't turn down Open/LibreOffice/Gnumeric/etc. formats). [more inside]
I need HIPAA compliant booking & e-record keeping for solo practice
I am a nutritionist. I am building a wordpress website and I would like to find a way to a. have clients book their own appointments seamlessly on or from my website, b. have clients pre-pay for appointments via paypal, c. keep their health information secure while easily keeping and accessing notes. d. have the whole thing be HIPAA compliant. [more inside]
Adventure Race Help!
I need help coming up with an event/obstacle for a high school adventure race/obstacle course. Details and complications inside! [more inside]
Three day professional driving courses in Africa?
I'm interested in paying for a professional driving course (2-3 days) for my Dad. He's a experienced normal driver who has done one or two super casual track days. He's interested in taking his skills to the next level, particularly doing some higher-speed track driving with an instructor. Any recommendations for what I should be searching for? Complexity level: in South Africa or Kenya. [more inside]
Why are the ribs on my crocheted hat so slim?
I was trying to make this hat, but it turned out like this. The hat in the video has the ribs bunched together, and they only show up when stretched. On the hat I created, the ribs always stand out and look stretched. I used 100% acrylic double knitting wool and a 4mm OR a 6mm hook (can't remember which).
What did I do wrong?
posted by Solomon at 12:10 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by Solomon at 12:10 PM PST - 6 comments
Is there a doctor ... er, veterinarian ... in the house?
I've got a female rat that needs to be spayed. My vet office gave me an estimate of $560. This seems way higher than I would expect (and I'm no stranger to vet bills, having taken care of many rats over the years -- but I've never done a spay). Is this a reasonable estimate, or is something wrong here? [more inside]
posted by phoenix_rising at 11:34 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by phoenix_rising at 11:34 AM PST - 14 comments
What plant?
These leaves have been sitting in water for almost a year after being included as part of a flower arrangement. They have not formed any roots in the water, but recently started growing new leaves out of some buds in the bottom of each leaf. Can you identify them? Photos: 1 2 3 . Thank you,
posted by jeto at 11:29 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by jeto at 11:29 AM PST - 5 comments
Oprah's online dreamboard gone, other free dream boards?
I had been using Oprah's free 'O board', which was a free dream or vision board. Do you know of any other free ones that are just as good and easy to use?
Variations on a Theme in Myth
I am trying to find more stories (preferably myths/folklore, but general fiction/film/etc of any time is fine) that contain a certain motif. I would also like to know if there is a term for a story that contains this kind of theme which I can only describe by example beneath the fold. Sorry I can't distill its essence, but I can answer questions if you need more precision. [more inside]
posted by mermaidcafe at 9:49 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by mermaidcafe at 9:49 AM PST - 19 comments
Too many greens
I just got a CSA box full of 6 different types of greens. Four to five pounds of fresh greens is a lot for a single person to eat in a few days! I have about 3 days to cook or eat them before they will start to spoil. While I am skilled enough in the kitchen, I don't cook greens very often so I am stumped on what to do with them. How can I prepare these so that I am not wasting food? I am looking for delicious, easy recipes that can combine as many as possible into a single dish. Details inside. [more inside]
posted by KMoney at 9:48 AM PST - 37 comments
posted by KMoney at 9:48 AM PST - 37 comments
Where can I find a phone or in person interpreter for Hakka Chinese?
I'm looking for someone to help me communicate with my Chinese grandmother who only speaks Hakka, a dialect spoken in her village in Hong Kong. Is there somewhere I could find someone to help me interpret over the phone? We are in Sydney Australia, but would be happy for help from anywhere. [more inside]
When I’m 64 - Help me age gracefully
What’s the one thing I should be doing to stay healthy as I age, keep up my energy, stay healthy and be in good health for the neither or four decades? [more inside]
Help me find funny, visually interesting, high energy music videos
My 10 year old niece and 7 year old nephew really like to watch music videos. The ones they love most are goofy, high energy, and have some type of underlying story. They are particularly into music that is danceable and visually they like bright colors and crazy costumes or interesting outfits. A few they have liked recently are Con Bro Chill and Meghan Trainor. Any suggestions for other artists they might like? [more inside]
Help me hate travel less
I particularly hate flying. I'm also not good at being in strange places, but the flying is my big concern at the moment. I have to fly in a few days and even though this is a trip for fun, that I expect to enjoy (in between the flights), I am filled with dread when I think about it. [more inside]
posted by bunderful at 8:05 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by bunderful at 8:05 AM PST - 19 comments
Custom cut in Brooklyn
Where in Brooklyn can I get a few pieces of plywood cut to specific/odd dimensions? [more inside]
Identify this home decor product line from the 70s/80s?
Can anyone help identify this design (I know it was at least used on sheets and wallpaper, if not more products)? This is a design on a product line that has since been discontinued. I'd like to know who used to sell these products and how to find them. Thanks! [more inside]
posted by dmalashock at 3:58 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by dmalashock at 3:58 AM PST - 3 comments
May 23
Companion kitty: the seekening
My adorable 7-month-old (ish) kitten Milo is not always as restful as the pictures make him seem. He has lots of energy and wants lots of play. I try to keep him entertained but I think he may need another little bundle of furry energy. I have only ever been a single-kitty household, so I have some questions. [more inside]
posted by Athanassiel at 11:12 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by Athanassiel at 11:12 PM PST - 15 comments
Career question: how to transition out of nonprofit track?
I have worked for the federal government for five years (2 on Capitol Hill and 3 in SLC) and also for a well respected local nonprofit here in Salt Lake City, UT for the past two years. I'm Associate Director and things are good. However, unless I become Exec. Director there isn't much upward mobility. Plus, I wrote another question earlier this year about avoiding burnout, which is a problem with nonprofits, long hours, small staffs, etc. What I'm saying is I can't see working in the nonprofit world long term. I don't really see myself transferring to another nonprofit in town either. [more inside]
Should I tell my partner I think I may have herpes before I get tested?
Yesterday after masturbating my penis was unusually irritated. When I looked at it under a good light, I saw several small bumps on the head that look sort of like the pictures of herpes one finds through a Google image search (if smaller and milder). I have an appointment to get tested on Tuesday. In the meantime, do I just keep my lips and pants zipped with my partner, or should I bring it up? (Bonus question: is there some other thing that this might be, given that it only became apparent after the masturbation?) [more inside]
Should I change my job, and if so, to what?
Should I change my job, and if so, to what? *Or is it a symptom of something else, and how should I address it?
I have my own office on campus, with software I require, challenging and interesting work, huge flexibility, variety, good pay (with 25% casual loading, 9% superannuation) and respect. But it's not that simple. [more inside]
posted by b33j at 9:23 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by b33j at 9:23 PM PST - 13 comments
Panic.
Husband just dumped a glass of water over the keyboard of his MacBook Air. It immediately shut itself off/ went dead. There is water dripping dripping out of the ports on the right side.
What do we do?
posted by SLC Mom at 8:40 PM PST - 36 comments
posted by SLC Mom at 8:40 PM PST - 36 comments
Name our post-wedding tour?
Mr. Arnicae and I are getting married! Because families are complicated, we're getting married solo (at a difficult to access international location) and are planning a post-wedding tour of all our main family members locations. Can you help name our post-wedding tour (for family marketing purposes)? Bonus question: Have you done this? And any advice on breaking the news and doing a wedding this way (not inviting family) for drama-reduction purposes? [more inside]
Evaluating a job offer in Silicon Valley
What questions should I ask to evalualate a job offer with salary and stock options in Silicon Valley? [more inside]
Ways to amuse a water-loving dog--without water
I'm petsitting a dog who loves to play in water, and normally when I petsit for her, water play happens and she knows to expect that from me. But drought and weather are making all of that a bad idea. Now what? [more inside]
Non-grilled barbeque sides and dessert?
We are having an open-house style barbeque on Monday. Meat and grill duties will be taken care of (along with vegan veggie dogs/burgers and salmon burgers and grilled corn) by my other half. I am not working Sunday and am thus in charge of All Other Things. Feed me some ideas that I can feed my guests. [more inside]
Should I believe a 40+ man who says he doesn't believe in marriage?
I've been dating a never-married man in his early 40s for the past few months. (I'm a decade younger.) Last night he casually mentioned that he never wants to get married and would be fine with raising kids without marriage -- just as HE was raised, as the only child of an unmarried mother. I am devastated because I am falling in love with him but cannot accept this commitment-free future. Should I get out now or endeavor to change his mind down the road? [more inside]
posted by Guinevere at 6:23 PM PST - 62 comments
posted by Guinevere at 6:23 PM PST - 62 comments
Our new cat needs help, and so do we.
We just adopted a cat from a local rescue group, primarily to keep our current cat company, since we just lost two cats to old age. But the situation is not what we expected, and not what I have ever had to deal with before, after a lifetime of cats. [more inside]
posted by kestralwing at 6:03 PM PST - 33 comments
posted by kestralwing at 6:03 PM PST - 33 comments
What typeface is used in the movie 'Kagemusha' on netflix?
What typeface is used for the English subtitles in this movie? [more inside]
How to get an envelope sent from Ohio to Texas, arriving by wed 8AM?
I'd like to have an envelope delivered to me here in Austin Texas, from Columbus Ohio, arriving by Wednesday at 8am, Fedex said they have something called "first overnight" sending tuesday, arriving by 8am Wed, but an envelope would cost 68 dollars. Any other cheaper options exist? I guess NO ONE works this sunday/monday?
Is it a good idea to add a second floor on top of a 1938 brick house?
I'm looking at a brick house built in 1938. I want to do an extensive attic conversion, basically add a second floor to the back half of the house. Is this house being brick a good thing for me, or a bad thing? Is such an old house going to be too big of a problem to add on to at all?
My son asked for an exploding cake for his birthday
I'm looking for suggestions on how to make this happen. [more inside]
posted by unstrungharp at 2:54 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by unstrungharp at 2:54 PM PST - 16 comments
Movies with studying montages for end-of-term blues
Hey, my spring term is almost over, and its been kind of brutal! But I rewatched Real Genius last night and am feeling pretty okay about things again. What are some similar movies I can stockpile for future terms? Setting should be university, or maybe something post-university with a research/impossible-thing-to-build-but-hey-they-build-it-anyway angle.
Quote by email, no written contract, work not yet done. Can I cancel?
I'm in Texas. I'm having some repairs/renovations done to my home and yard in preparation for selling it. I accepted a quote for a landscaping job by email. We set a date for the job next month. They said they'd send a contract for me to sign and that they required a deposit. I have not received the contract. I'd like to cancel the job. Can I? YANML. [more inside]
So Latin, Greek, and Old English walk into a bar...
Sometime in the last several months I found a post on a site I'd never been to before that shared a word made up by the author. [more inside]
How to remove sealer from Armstrong VCT vinyl tile?
I installed Bikini Blue vinyl floor tiles in my office. I sealed them with some kind of liquid sealer (like I was instructed to do by the hardware store). How do I remove some spilled sealer? [more inside]
What is the best way to document an intellectual experiment online?
While recently playing around with some online language translators, I wondered if it would be possible to learn a language (Latin, in this case) by only using such resources. I reasoned that, by translating from English to Latin, and vise versa, beginning with the rudiments of language, one could by trial and error, gradually learn the language. [more inside]
Is there an age when a kitten may outgrow biting?
I would like to hear from people who have had a kitten that bit past a few weeks of age and outgrew it, or never did outgrow it.
Our 7 month old kitten was found outside at around 6 weeks old and therefore missed out on some kitty socialization from his mama and siblings. He bites us (myself, husband and preteen child) regularly, sometimes drawing blood. More details below. [more inside]
posted by haunted_pomegranate at 12:42 PM PST - 20 comments
posted by haunted_pomegranate at 12:42 PM PST - 20 comments
I want to lose weight and I want to learn how to cook
... and I want to do both at the same time. Where can I find recipes for food that
- is geared towards beginners (not too much prep time, not too many ingredients)
- has calorie counts per serving/weight
- is not always red meat or grain-heavy
- and doesn't require an oven? (I only have a microwave and two heating elements.) [more inside]
Best books on medieval / early modern British history?
I'm seeking pretty much what it says on the tin: books that are about medieval and early modern British history, especially anything about Scotland, Ireland and Wales. Non-fiction preferred, well sourced fiction okay. [more inside]
posted by youcancallmeal at 11:04 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by youcancallmeal at 11:04 AM PST - 7 comments
Apple Crisp in a Smoker? Am I Crazy?
I have this pie-in-the-sky idea that I can make an apple crisp in a smoker whilst delicious meats are also cooking. The temperature would be around 220F, and I'm thinking 2.5 hours would do it. Have I wildly miscalculated? [more inside]
posted by julen at 10:59 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by julen at 10:59 AM PST - 15 comments
I can haz critical race and disability theory
How does a non-academic find interesting academic texts?
For months I've been trying to find stuff written about the intersections of systemic oppressions, namely racism, with bodies, health and disability. I feel so sure that some smart academics have written about this, but how do I find that writing? [more inside]
Suggesting Subtleties in Shinjuku
Help me find an english speaking guide to Tokyo who is not part of guide company and who will lead me into the warrens and twisted streets off the main drags. [more inside]
What can I do with this old floral comforter?
Soft and comfy, but too ratty (has a large rip) IMO to donate to a shelter.
I don't know how to sew, myself.
Putting it in the trash/landfill seems like overkill and a waste of resources.
Except for the rip, it's very serviceable.
I am in the continual process of divesting my possessions (minimalist lifestyle), and don't want to keep it myself. (I have a relative that gives me a new blanket every time she sees me -- but that's another story!)
Distance myself from an annoying work friend
I've got a coworker who I've gotten to know over the last 6ish months. He's made a big attempt to be friends. We've hung out together socially a few times. I've realized that I just can't stand his personality. I don't enjoy spending time with him. He's not a bad person. I just don't enjoy hanging out with him. [more inside]
posted by LizBoBiz at 7:31 AM PST - 22 comments
posted by LizBoBiz at 7:31 AM PST - 22 comments
What do these numbers mean, exactly?
Sometime, in front of chemical names, you will see three numbers, like this: 1,1,1 Triclorotriflouroethane. (to quote one example with which I am familiar.) What do they denote, and where can I find out more? (I realize that this may be simply a lack of Google-fu but I do have an underlying reason for needing to know.) Mefi chemists, help!
posted by pjern at 5:55 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by pjern at 5:55 AM PST - 7 comments
Let's create an award for making a silk purse out of a sow's ear.
My friend did a phenomenal job on a long-term project, working with very little. Recently another person in a similar position--except with all the support in the world--won a prestigious award for doing the same thing. I want to let my friend know how much his work is appreciated.
Let’s think of an award I can make for him--preferably something that can be assembled and mounted on a trophy base. The iconography I have in mind is Scrappy Doo, but that seems rather poor. A silk purse might look too ... testicular? Help, please!
Best Flooring Option Help for Mom
The carpet in the downstairs family room in my mom's house needs to be replaced. I'm trying to figure out the best option. [more inside]
posted by stray thoughts at 1:10 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by stray thoughts at 1:10 AM PST - 11 comments
dissertation-free research
I love research and learning, and keep running into a lot of research groups and programs that sound absolutely fascinating. However, most of them either involve getting a Masters or Ph.D., or require possession of a Ph.D. beforehand - which I do not want. Is there any way I can still get involved with these research groups that doesn't involve being responsible for an academic paper? Are there similar groups that do this kind of research work that aren't necessarily academic? [more inside]
May 22
When It Positively, Absolutely Has to Be There...Soon
Will FedEx or other package delivery services ever deliver a two day package in one day? If the capacity is there and there are other packages going in less time (one day) on the same route, would they ever fill that capacity by delivering early? [more inside]
Re-homing Bridge Books, as in the card game/duplicate bridge
My Dad is heading to hospice, and one of his passions while I was a child is bridge. He amassed a library of books - 15 linear feet or so - for this card game beginning in 70's-80's, with a few more recent titles. (Details below) [more inside]
posted by childofTethys at 9:57 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by childofTethys at 9:57 PM PST - 9 comments
Examples of myths etc about being trapped by what gives one power
Looking for examples of myths, fairy tales, or folktales about becoming trapped by that which gives one power [more inside]
posted by cotesdurhone at 7:54 PM PST - 22 comments
posted by cotesdurhone at 7:54 PM PST - 22 comments
Best Android Apps for 2.5 yo
Please recommend me your best Kindle Fire apps for a 2.5 year old who doesn't get a lot of screen time (she watches a little TV every week but doesn't play games on phone/tablet normally). I've got some Amazon credit to burn, a 3 hour flight, and a complete lack of interest in trying to guess which of the hundreds of kids apps are going to entertain her the most. I don't so much care about educational value - what will hold her attention and hopefully doesn't allow in-app purchases? She likes Daniel Tiger and Elmo but isn't familiar with any other kids programming.
What is it I actually do for a living?
I'm an administrator at an ISP. I'm not sure if I'm data entry or if I'm gaining transferrable skills. Inside are a list of tasks I perform on a daily/weekly basis... [more inside]
Chicken or the egg, graphics card version
How in heck do I install my new graphics card drivers, when AMD Catalyst recognizes my old graphics card and will only install those drivers? How in heck do I install my new graphics card drivers, when, with the new card installed, there's no video? [more inside]
posted by pH Indicating Socks at 5:57 PM PST - 26 comments
posted by pH Indicating Socks at 5:57 PM PST - 26 comments
I need you, I want you, now go away!
I effing haaaaaate sunscreen. I'm 48 yrs old and have now finally finally maybe maybe found something I can tolerate. Everything I've ever ever tried till now just makes me gross puddles of sweat. I cannot exaggerate the discomfort and unsightliness. Nothing to do with temperature. Nivea, Neutrogena, Bullfrog, Banana Boat; fancy stuff, Dermologica, Paula's Choice; lotions, creams, gels, sprays, it has always been gross gross gross. [more inside]
Clothing and shoe stores in Toronto
I'm shopping for shoes and clothes in Toronto and I am looking for outlet stores within TTC reach. I don't have a car so going to Heartland in Mississauga is a major inconvenience because I have no car. [more inside]
Housecleaner needed in L.A.
I want my 1BR apartment on L.A.'s eastside clean, and I don't want to do it myself. [more inside]
My tonsils are driving me crazy.
I've been plagued by tonsil stones (tonsilloliths) for the past few months and they are making me deeply unhappy. Have you had them and managed to get rid of them without a tonsillectomy? What did you do? [more inside]
What're the smartest ways I can handle my student loans?
I just got my MFA! Hooray! I just saw my student loans! Oh no!
Here's the skinny: I owe about $117,000 with an average interest rate of 6.5%. But! I got a great job that pays about $85k, so we'll call it even on the risk/reward front.
What're the best policies for paying back student loans? Are there tips and tricks? Things I should be doing now as opposed to later? What's the deal with refinancing? Is there such a thing as private financing (i.e., you agree to pay all my loans and then I pay you at like 3%?) for student loans?
This whole field is kind of a mystery and while I intend to pay my loans in full, I want to make sure I'm being as smart about it as possible. Given my salary and average living cost, I can afford to put in about 40k a year.
Simple appetizers that match with Lillet
I'm looking for basic snacks to serve with Lillet Blanc before a dinner party. Bonus points if they're simple and traditionally French. [more inside]
posted by kanewai at 4:29 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by kanewai at 4:29 PM PST - 12 comments
Iceland/Amsterdam Adventures
Specific Portland food recommendations
Looking for a few quick recommendations for my trip to Portland, Oregon this weekend. Ideally I am looking for places reachable by public transit, since I won't have a car.
1 - Best grilled cheese sandwich.
2 - Best dim sum.
3 - Best sushi that isn't insanely expensive.
4 - Best macaroni and cheese.
5 - Best food cart that is hopefully open for lunch on Saturdays.
Thanks!
Walking in downtown Indianapolis
I am coming to Indianapolis in June for Amerivespa. I've been trying to keep my activity levels up lately and increasing my daily steps by using a pedometer app, but riding my scooter all day is liable to put a huge dent in my totals. So I'm looking for some walking routes/advice for downtown Indianapolis. [more inside]
posted by raisingsand at 3:33 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by raisingsand at 3:33 PM PST - 5 comments
What is this dance song in an episode of Frasier?
What is the song at 1:35 in this clip from an episode of Frasier? it also appears in the It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia episode Mac and Charlie Die where Dennis and the European roomate go to the bar for a big sex party or whatever.
posted by atinna at 3:26 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by atinna at 3:26 PM PST - 2 comments
Travel advice for Houston, Texas please!
I am traveling to Houston for work soon and would like some help finding awesome things! I will have a car but not a lot of time as this is a work trip. [more inside]
posted by bile and syntax at 3:10 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by bile and syntax at 3:10 PM PST - 15 comments
Automator to download files from web that have changed since last week?
I wish to automate downloading an mp3 from a specific web directory (I have permission, and it is not password protected) each week, but only the single mp3 file that has changed since the previous week. [more inside]
posted by terrapin at 3:05 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by terrapin at 3:05 PM PST - 10 comments
Where should I buy a home in San Diego?
In a few months I will be moving to San Diego to start a (permanent, hopefully) job at UCSD. I’m beginning to look at buying a home in the area and I would love to hear some advice about where I should live. What neighborhoods would work best for me? [more inside]
Should I get my old hi-fi working again, or just use the TV's speakers?
I have a Marantz PM4001 amplifier and pair of bookshelf speakers that I've not used for months, as my new media center setup does not have analog outputs. Should I buy a digital-to-analog converter (which needs its own power supply), or should I just simplify my whole setup? (E.g. just rely on the TV's built-in speakers.) I have kind of got out of the habit of listening to music and am not sure I need this anymore. [more inside]
posted by snarfois at 2:16 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by snarfois at 2:16 PM PST - 13 comments
How to turn 2 out-of-date Master degrees into a job?
I have a MLS from 1993. I have a MS Education in Counseling from 2000. I do not have my license to practice counseling, and it is probably far too late to get it. I never used my MLS either. (My undergrad is in Religious Studies.) [more inside]
Going carless
I would like to go car-free eventually, but I can't bike and live in a city with subpar public transportation. Is this feasible? [more inside]
Identify my little houseplant!
How might a PTA association deal with a parent who is weird
This is for fiction: What might happen if a parent showed up at a PTA meeting and started making people uncomfortable by going on and on about the power of satan or some such thing. I mean, what might happen officially? [more inside]
posted by angrycat at 1:10 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by angrycat at 1:10 PM PST - 13 comments
Customer Service or Management Training That Isn't Hype
I manage customer support at an education software company. My company offers to reimburse money spend on tuition and classes, and I’m being highly encouraged to take advantage of it. I can take any kind of management class, or a class about customer service, or something in that vein (though I could probably take something a little out-of-the-box). [more inside]
Where to stay and what to do in Munich
I'm in Munich for three days this summer (around the last of week of June) and was wondering if anyone had any recommendations for hostels? I'd prefer a social atmosphere but nothing too party-oriented. Also, what are some must-see and must-do things for a short visit to Munich?
Need help making plans for my possible death
I am making plans for my loved ones in case I die. I know the coroner will take my body away, but I'm afraid there will be an awful mess left behind. How do other people handle this? I don't want my loved ones to have to clean it up. [more inside]
Alternative scientific poster designs
I'm presenting a poster at a scientific conference. I'm an old hat at this, but am tiring of the boilerplate designs that we all use. Can you point me to more minimalistic, aesthetically pleasing scientific posters? [more inside]
Updating a WordPress site?
A client asked me to update their current website, which is running on Wordpress (which I'm not super familiar with). But there doesn't seem to be a built in way to build this newer version (same number of pages, swapping out photos and text) while keeping the current one live. Is there a built in way to do this? If not, how is a Wordpress site generally revamped while keeping the current site live?
posted by Brandon Blatcher at 11:56 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by Brandon Blatcher at 11:56 AM PST - 10 comments
Operator? What do you need?
I'm in pre-production revolving around the idea of an operator - the one you see in movies and TV who relays information back to the units on the ground or hacks into systems and opens/unlocks doors, codes etc (examples such as The Matrix and Ocean's 11).
I know there are hundreds of shows/movies that features them but can you give suggest specific movies and if a series, the specific episode? I'm trying to find and analyse a collection of cool sequences or representations. Bonus points for linking the specific scenes in Youtube!
Many thanks!
I've forgotten a book. (Jack the Ripper?)
Memoryjogfilter: I have somewhat vivd memories of a tale I was told, but I can't put a pin in it for love or money. A young man pursuing vengeance in Victorian times while keeping up social appearance -- keywords may be Jack the Ripper and Neil Gaiman -- may have been audiobook or comic, or a story-within-a-story? [more inside]
posted by blueshammer at 11:03 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by blueshammer at 11:03 AM PST - 4 comments
Ultra-beginner-level interior furnishing/decorating/design advice?
I'd like my home to look well-put-together, but my interior decorating ability never advanced beyond college-dorm level. I have no idea where to start, and I'm a little overwhelmed thinking about it. I need the most basic, beginner-level, baby-steps, for-dummies advice you've got. [more inside]
Uses for an old tennis court?
I am considering purchasing a river-front house that is on a few acres in Cottage Country, Ontario. One of those acres is taken up by a Tennis Court (okay, it is probably not a whole acre by itself but it is really, really big). The court has floodlights, is fenced about twenty feet high on three sides (surrounded by a mature forest on those sides so I assume it was to keep the balls in) and appears to be in good condition - still used by the current owner, actually. Buuuut, *I* will never play tennis and I know my yoga-loving but anti-sport school-age children would never use it either. However, I don't want to rip it up and then find out a few years from now I could have re-used the space/materials in a useful way. Some vague ideas we have thrown around: set up a trampoline (no need to mow under it), erect an above-ground pool, have local punk bands play on it to an audience on the hillside overlooking the court, build a yurt for yoga, put bunkies on it for visitors (the property is large, the house is small)...is there anything obvious I am missing?
posted by saucysault at 9:18 AM PST - 31 comments
posted by saucysault at 9:18 AM PST - 31 comments
(preferably print-outable) resources for a budding electrical technician
So I managed to get myself a job in a busy factory as an electrically biased maintanance man and need resources to help me become more up to scratch with what im dealing with. [more inside]
I have to lay people off (while hiring). Help me be a good human.
I am a new boss at a small company and our business model recently changed. I have to hire about 10 new people — and layoff about 10 current staffers. The moves are to bring on the new skills we need for this new era.
How can I do this kindly, respectfully, and in a way that sets up the team members who are staying with us for success after this rough period? [more inside]
posted by amoeba at 9:05 AM PST - 29 comments
posted by amoeba at 9:05 AM PST - 29 comments
What would Peggy Olson wear in her '40s?
I am a mid-thirties woman whose professional style is currently somewhat girlish (think this, this, this, this). As I move into my '40s, are there looks that keep this "feel" but in more age-appropriate ways? [more inside]
Creative wedding word play - Show me what you've got!
I'm an uncreative person. I'm seeking some of your imaginative love related word play for two wedding items. [more inside]
posted by JenThePro at 8:45 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by JenThePro at 8:45 AM PST - 8 comments
So, we're having a baby
It's too early to share with parents, friends, and colleagues, but just the right time to open up to a bunch of internet strangers. Mrs. BJW and I are 9 weeks pregnant. (YAY!!) I would like to ask the hive for help finding 2 things: First, a website that I saw referenced here but can no longer find. Second, the current best "What to Expect" book out there. [more inside]
posted by bluejayway at 8:38 AM PST - 24 comments
posted by bluejayway at 8:38 AM PST - 24 comments
I asked him to leave. He left. Now I'm crushed.
I'll try to keep this brief. My boyfriend and I have been together for over 2 years. In this time, I found out he was a recovering alcoholic. I didn't know this until months into our relationship. After dating 15 months, we moved into together. That's when the fun starts... [more inside]
Walking while flipping out
I have recurring episodes of social anxiety that are making it difficult for me to move around effectively, let alone make plans and follow through with them. Passing people on the sidewalk I feel anxious that I will be making them uncomfortable if I walk too close behind, or pass them too fast, or look at them or avoid looking at them... I realize this makes me show anxious body language which in turn makes others genuinely uncomfortable, starting a vicious cycle. [more inside]
How does it work if you don't have a water meter?
Article in the Washington Post today says that Sacramento is just now installing water meters for its homes and businesses. How is that possible? Without a meter, how would they know how much your bill should be? [more inside]
Apple troubles, please help!
I have 2 problems with my apple devices. Can you help? I am not tech savvy and its not a good time for me to replace devices. 1) I just upgraded my software on my Ipad 2 and now the safari is so slow its unusable- is there anything I can do? I have done all the standard things like delete apps and stop excess things running and done a hard reset. Can I downgrade back to IOs 7? That's the last time it ran well. 2) My safari on my Iphone 5 has started getting pop up ads that force open my app store right when I am in the middle of reading. Again, I feel like I have tried everything, I even reset all my settings. Tried to block the websites. What can I do? [more inside]
posted by catspajammies at 2:34 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by catspajammies at 2:34 AM PST - 11 comments
Name that film
What's the film that the clip at 36/37s in this ILM show-reel is from? (Guy in front of army throws sword into the ground and it sets on fire)
posted by fearfulsymmetry at 2:27 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by fearfulsymmetry at 2:27 AM PST - 2 comments
Busywork is just too busy
Calling all workplace psychologists: is it better to grumble or pretend to be cheerful? [more inside]
posted by superfish at 12:39 AM PST - 39 comments
posted by superfish at 12:39 AM PST - 39 comments
May 21
Word 2008 suddenly not working on Yosemite Mac
Word 2008 has stopped opening on my mid-2012 Macbook Pro, running Yosemite 10.10.3. Just bounces a couple times in the dock and then hangs; Microsoft Error Reporting hangs too. [more inside]
Damn, that's pretty confused.
Help me complete this sentence in a fun way. "She's more confused than a...." [more inside]
posted by np312 at 11:01 PM PST - 29 comments
posted by np312 at 11:01 PM PST - 29 comments
Does anyone round here own a cat?
On the off chance that someone round here has some experience with cats and cat appliances, I have some questions.... [more inside]
Wondering about the brand or origin of a tea infuser
I picked up this beautiful infuser-pot at a thrift store a few months ago and I can't find any information about who made it online. [more inside]
posted by onehundredand80 at 9:37 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by onehundredand80 at 9:37 PM PST - 6 comments
Custom 3D printed cookie cutters, from scratch
I want to learn to design my own custom 3D printed cookie cutters. (Yes, I know there are shops and websites that can do all or part of the job, but I want to start from scratch.) What programs do I need? Where do I start?
WANTED: NSA Bangers/CVS Bangers
SoundCloud took these tracks down, that I know for sure. But I made the mistake of not downloading them when I had the chance. Does anyone know where I might be able to find them?
Historical Flights
I need to know how you would get from Los Angeles to Cape Cod via Plane on July 9, 1975, or a couple of days before.
posted by PinkMoose at 8:21 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by PinkMoose at 8:21 PM PST - 3 comments
How does a person get an invite to Waffles.fm?
Do I have to play the text adventure game on their home page? Is there an iRC channel at which I can ask nicely? Hidden page? Is there another site I'd be happier at instead?
Family abandon me when I was at my lowest point. Should I cut them off?
My mother passed away last year of April and as a result I had a mental breakdown. I wasn't myself..I had overwhelming grief and I was in a deep depression. Mind you I was in a deep depression and calling out for help..my family abandon and basically treated me like a black sheep. [more inside]
posted by TheBronxGirl at 7:46 PM PST - 31 comments
posted by TheBronxGirl at 7:46 PM PST - 31 comments
how concerned should I be about my neighbor?
I'm a 30ish female who lives alone (well, with an little old dog) in a small studio house, in a semi-urban residential area of LA's eastside. The other day, I was out walking my dog and got into a unsettling conversation with my across-the-street-neighbor – a registered sex offender, turns out. I'm not afraid, exactly, but I really have no idea how to assess the risk of living alone across the street from this guy. (Potentially triggering.) [more inside]
Itty Bitty Ditty Committee costumes
On the Bob's Burgers episode called "Itty Bitty Ditty Committee", what were the kids' band costumes supposed to look like? Here's a picture. In fanfare, filthy light thief linked to more pictures in this comment. The costumes look so familiar but I can't figure out who they're supposed to look like. Or are they just funny costumes and not referencing anything?
Shine some light on my sidelight
I've recently moved into a house with a sidelight - you know, those narrow windows right next to the front door. I can't for the life of me, however, find a stylish window treatment for it. Halp! [more inside]
Cardboard boxes?
I previously had access to chemical supply boxes, which made for excellent moving boxes. They're 15" x 15" x 17", with 1/4" thick double wall sides. The bottoms are glued, they have hand holes (some staggered for ergonomics), and they can hold an incredible amount of heavy stuff. I can't get new ones any more, so I'm wondering about sources for similar boxes. [more inside]
posted by vibratory manner of working at 6:37 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by vibratory manner of working at 6:37 PM PST - 8 comments
Talk to me about a future disaster world.
Ideas for what the world might look like in 50-200 years? Specifically looking for doom-and-gloom speculation, but based on some semblance of evidence or realistic projections. [more inside]
Great hollywood films made by women?
What are some great movies from the 80's and 90's that were either directed by or written by women? [more inside]
How do you organize bottle feeding on the go?
What is your setup for bottle-feeding your infant on the go? We are interested in things like - How do you keep the leftover formula from spoiling, what does your on-the-go kit look like, how do you keep things clean, how do you heat up the bottle (or do you?) when you are out for the day, or at the park, or wherever. We have a 3 week-old who needs to be partially bottle fed but we are struggling with how to get outside and not starve him out, and not end up throwing away most of a bottle of formula. [more inside]
Brown spots from sun damage on my face; can I get rid of them?
I'm female, mid-fifties, white (English/Irish background) and in the last few years, amid other signs of aging, I've developed brown spots on my cheeks and jaw (perhaps from sun exposure while travelling in the Middle East many years ago; I've never sunbathed). I'm working on aging gracefully, but the blotchiness does bother me. Are there products or treatments that will help to reduce the spots or, happy thought, make them go away entirely? I've seen ads for various creams and serums; can I trust that they will actually be effective? Any recommendations?
How can I get cheap used comics for a craft program?
I want to do a découpage program with cut-up comic books at my library.
Where should I look in Brooklyn or Manhattan for cheap used comics, and are there other sources I should be looking at? Is it worth it to get a random lot from eBay? [more inside]
posted by Jeanne at 2:29 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by Jeanne at 2:29 PM PST - 10 comments
something extravagant?
I received an unexpected $700. I want to use for super frivolous spending, and buy something that I wouldn't purchase within my normal budget. What should it be? [more inside]
posted by aaanastasia at 2:13 PM PST - 55 comments
posted by aaanastasia at 2:13 PM PST - 55 comments
You're my ex-boyfriend. How would you want to find out I'm engaged?
My (current) boyfriend (fiancé!) proposed to me very recently and we've been letting our family and friends know at our own pace. I'm very fond of my ex-boyfriend and I want him to find out in the least weird or awkward way. What is that? [more inside]
Protocol for raffles
I work at a small music school where we hold raffles at fairs for a big giveaway. We pick the winner fairly and proceed to contact others who participated by offering a free lesson. I'd like to contact non winners only after the winner has claimed their prize but it was suggested to contact everyone regardless if the winner claims prize. What's the best protocol when dealing with raffle giveaways?
posted by InterestedInKnowing at 1:54 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by InterestedInKnowing at 1:54 PM PST - 3 comments
Your favorite uses for gochugaru
Thanks to an ordering snafu we’re now the proud owners of a giant one-pound bag of gochugaru Korean red chili flakes instead of the small container we thought we were getting. What can we do with it beyond kimchi? [more inside]
Training as a noun
When did people start saying "a training" to mean "a training session/workshop/meeting/program/etc"? What dialect of English did training-as-a-noun originate in? How did it spread?
NosebleedFilter
Have you ever had your nose "packed" due to a nosebleed? How long did they leave the packing in? While the packing was in, did you have pain that was not manageable with Tylenol? What restrictions did you have after removal? (Could you have, for example, driven yourself home? How about driven a car for three hours?)
posted by anastasiav at 12:59 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by anastasiav at 12:59 PM PST - 8 comments
Help me get over a three-night stand
I had an unexpectedly emotionally intimate experience with someone impossible about a month ago, and I can't seem to move past it. Help me process the aftermath? [more inside]
Help me choose a work laptop - MacBook Air or Lenovo X1 Carbon
At work they are giving us new laptops to replace battered ancient ones. There are two choices: MacBook Air or Lenovo X1 Carbon. Which should I choose? [more inside]
Fiddle with the keys of the keyed fiddle
OK, I realise this is pretty niche, but I may get a surprise. Can you help me find more intense music played on the nyckelharpa? [more inside]
Men's Jacket ID
I recently saw a men's jacket in a photo on the Ebay home page and I am wondering if anybody can help identify it. [more inside]
How to deal with hostile, but passive-aggressive, coworker?
I recently took some disability-related work accomodations and time off. This pissed off a coworker of mine, who doesn't think I should get accomodations for a disability she doesn't think is that serious. Since then, she's been treating me badly at work and taking passive-aggressive action against me. What do I do? [more inside]
posted by corb at 11:30 AM PST - 34 comments
posted by corb at 11:30 AM PST - 34 comments
Burgled on Tuesday. Still can't leave the house.
I was burgled on Tuesday while I was away all day. There is a high likelihood one of my neighbors was involved, and it is a certainty that other neighbors saw what was happening and did nothing about it. I've filed the police report, called the credit agencies, I'm checking Craigslist. But psychologically I am a mess--mainly, I can't convince myself to leave the house and get on with my life. [more inside]
Not too sweet yogurt
While I enjoy Chobanis and other greek-style yogurt cups, they're little sugar bombs. And plain is a little too plain for me. Recommend me a brand of yogurt that is less sweet (lower sugar but not artificially sweetened) and comes in single-serve cups. [more inside]
posted by aimedwander at 10:48 AM PST - 42 comments
posted by aimedwander at 10:48 AM PST - 42 comments
What used to be an ok amount of alcohol now is not. Help!
I've been through a lot of changes lately and one of them has been losing 40 lbs. I love beer and socializing. And another change is being more social and putting myself out there. But the combination of eating less and weighing less has put a dent in my ability to deal with alcohol. I end up slightly more drunk and a lot more hungover
How do I continue to enjoy the things I love without it affecting me so much? [more inside]
posted by Ironmouth at 10:18 AM PST - 35 comments
posted by Ironmouth at 10:18 AM PST - 35 comments
Can I outline my black tattoo with white to good effect?
I'm interested in recommendations for tattoo artists who are experienced in white tattoo work. I live in the Boston area, but I regularly travel to San Francisco, Austin, and Atlanta, so recommendations there are also welcome, and if there's someone especially awesome in other places, I could make a fun trip out of this project. [more inside]
posted by spindrifter at 9:20 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by spindrifter at 9:20 AM PST - 10 comments
Something like Foobar2000 for mac?
I'm looking for an audio player for my Mac. I really like Foobar2000 on windows, but sadly it's PC only. [more inside]
What are the best kid-friendly couch multiplayer games for PS4?
We're having a friend and his nine-year-old son over for videogame night. We have a PS3 and PS4 and access to four controllers for both. What are some fun and (liberally speaking) age-appropriate local multiplayer games I should have available? We have Diablo III, which is fun in a grindy dungeon-crawler way, but maybe too oriented to long-term play. I just downloaded Towerfall: Ascension, which looks like a hoot. We also have Lego Marvel Super Heroes. Should I try to get anything else? [more inside]
posted by Mothlight at 8:43 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by Mothlight at 8:43 AM PST - 11 comments
I would like to stop feeling and living like this.
How does a constant hypochondriac and anxiety sufferer just live and feel like a regular person? [more inside]
"Staging" for and hosting an all ages backyard party
My wife and I will be hosting a backyard party soon. I'm putting down fresh mulch this weekend and we're dead heading the spent spring flowers. I've cleaned up the weeds and bastard maple volunteers. What else should we go to be good backyard hosts? [more inside]
Words and their lesser-known meanings
Help me find very common words with secondary, uncommon definitions. [more inside]
What is best in source control / Document control
I'm looking for a replacement source control system. We use Plastic SCM at the moment to do document control (which includes, but isn't limited to code), but the terms for plastic are changing soon, so it'll be too expensive for us. Can you recommend a (ideally like for like) replacement that can handle large binaries?
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 6:58 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 6:58 AM PST - 7 comments
Weight and Watch
I'm a fairly healthy 29 year old male. About three weeks ago, I grew tired of constant comments from friends and acquaintances about how much weight I'd put on over the past few years, and decided to do something about it. [more inside]
Best Salons in lower Manhattan/Brooklyn for a Woman's Undercut?
I'm looking for hair stylists/salon recommendations in Brooklyn or lower Manhattan that would be a good place to get an undercut. [more inside]
Travelling to Mainland Greece May 2015 - Grexit?
Are economic woes/strikes in Greece likely to disrupt my holiday plans next week? [more inside]
posted by Hugobaron at 3:21 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by Hugobaron at 3:21 AM PST - 5 comments
Lull me to sleep
I'm putting together a playlist to doze off to most nights. Downtempo probably goes without saying, piano is a plus, vocals are acceptable, and I don't want to lean too much on the ambient genre. Suggestions? [more inside]
May 20
Crochet Emergency - Travel Edition
Crocheters, I'm on vacation and really, truly want to get this yarn as my souvenir. I can't remember my Ravelry password, and the site isn't sending me a reset email. Will you please suggest some google-able patterns so I can make sure I get enough? It seems to be light worsted, with a 4mm hook. My skill level is intermediate. Děkuji!
posted by 1066 at 11:55 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by 1066 at 11:55 PM PST - 6 comments
What kind of bird is this? (Photo within)
I need help identifying this bird. A fried took the photo while traveling in Texas a few days ago. The bird was seen in the urban area of Dallas, TX.
Thanks!
posted by amf at 11:24 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by amf at 11:24 PM PST - 8 comments
How to hire a private detective / investigator?
I need to hire a private a PI to do a criminal investigation and background check. I have no experience with this and don't know how. [more inside]
How to use a word processor in 1987
In the mid-late 80s, Dad brought home a computer. It ran DOS and it had MS Works on it. I played with it a lot and was particularly delighted with an introduction to word processing I saw on it. Using a very basic graphic representation of a typewriter, it explained how a word processor is different, being able to backspace, insert text, and so forth. How can I see that tutorial again? [more inside]
How do I install Unix stuff on my mac?!?
So I found this wonderful program unix program, that needs to be installed and used on my macbook (yosemite).
OMG. How do you install stuff like this?!? [more inside]
Where can I learn flower arranging in Brooklyn?
I'm looking to gift someone who loves flowers with a class on flower arranging and design – a 1-3 hour class like one of these. Personal experiences if you have them; I'd prefer Brooklyn, ideally not more than 20-30 minutes by train or car from Crown Heights.
How can I get texts from my iPhone-using co-workers?
I used to have an iPhone. Now I have an Amazon Fire phone. I really like it...the problem is, I'm not getting texts from my co-workers' iPhones. [more inside]
posted by christinetheslp at 7:19 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by christinetheslp at 7:19 PM PST - 9 comments
Three notes and a chord. Get out of my head!
Please help me identify this musical trill/riff/thingy. I know three notes and a chord. It's been stuck in my head for days. I'll detail everything I can think of that may help. [more inside]
posted by cmyk at 6:12 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by cmyk at 6:12 PM PST - 16 comments
is my Keane print offensive/racist?
I recently received this print and my husband (who bought it for me off a wishlist) isn't sure we should hang it in the main room because we have a service provider who visits every couple weeks who is black. [more inside]
posted by vanishing girl at 6:08 PM PST - 37 comments
posted by vanishing girl at 6:08 PM PST - 37 comments
Feminine women's clothing at fair price?
ISO a women's clothing retailer (with shop-online availability) that sells clothes with really nice feminine detailing and such and isn't any more than lower-mid-range in terms of pricing. [more inside]
Weed or veggie
New gardener inherited a plot, asking for help to identify seedlings. Which weeds or vegetables are these? (album link inside) [more inside]
How long is it ok to take antibiotics and can you retake them?
I have a cavity and my dentist prescribed me a week of antibiotics to take every 6 hours to keep it from getting worse. I ran out of the antibiotics last week. [more inside]
Tell me about your post-work rituals.
I'd like to develop a post-work habit or ritual for as soon as I arrive home. Something that will send a signal to my brain that "work is over, and now you're home." What habits, rituals or environmental changes have worked well for you?
posted by nightrecordings at 4:58 PM PST - 39 comments
posted by nightrecordings at 4:58 PM PST - 39 comments
What to do about a nasty email sent to the wrong person?
My mentally ill mother likes to send me super mean emails every once in a while, which I don't usually reply to. I just discovered today that she has accidentally been sending emails to a random person with a similar email address to mine. I'm not sure what, if anything, I should do about it. [more inside]
posted by thelaze at 4:50 PM PST - 28 comments
posted by thelaze at 4:50 PM PST - 28 comments
Should I follow up on a job interview?
Don't want to bother the recruiter, but at a loss for what to do [more inside]
my accent is not so good (what rhymes with orange?)
Was going to paint the baby's room orange, now realize that it's TOO orange. So now we have an orange accent wall. What goes with orange? I fear I've painted myself into a corner... [more inside]
posted by St. Peepsburg at 3:44 PM PST - 33 comments
posted by St. Peepsburg at 3:44 PM PST - 33 comments
Santa Fe, Portland, and ?
Three overeducated, artsy young liberals are searching for a reasonably affordable small-to-mid-sized city to move to—someplace with a vibrant arts and/or academic community. We're seriously considering Portland, OR and Santa Fe, NM, which both offer the atmosphere and cost of living we're looking for. But which other cities should we consider? [more inside]
Oh my god I'm finally going to Japan!
After years of wanting to, I finally bought tickets to go to Japan this summer! (Eeeeeee!!!) I'll be flying into Tokyo and I'm already planning to get tickets for the Shinkansen to travel to Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima. Can you help me figure out great places to see, delicious things to eat, special keepsakes to bring home, and how to deal with logistics while I'm there? [more inside]
posted by chatongriffes at 3:31 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by chatongriffes at 3:31 PM PST - 15 comments
Wedding Dance Floor Playlists
Big Band/Motown/Modern Dance songs needed. More info and examples after the jump. [more inside]
How to temporarily put a parking sticker on a car
My workplace demands a permanent sticker in the back windshield of all cars on the premises. I hate having stickers on my car. The rules state the sticker cannot be taped, etc. but held by its adhesive.
Can anyone help me brainstorm a hack to make this sticker look like it's put right on the windshield, but have it actually on in such a way that I can put it on before work and take it off after?
Need help locating an example of a VAT stamp
What does a customs stamp look like on a VAT refund form? [more inside]
Book Recommendations - Greek Mythology Themed
My 12 year old daughter is ready to move past her Warrior Cats Series. She's very much interested in Greek Mythology. Her reading level is that of a college student. [more inside]
posted by myselfasme at 3:00 PM PST - 25 comments
posted by myselfasme at 3:00 PM PST - 25 comments
Trust issues...
..I got em.
What can I do about it?? [more inside]
posted by otterboxdefender at 2:46 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by otterboxdefender at 2:46 PM PST - 14 comments
How To Talk About Being Potentially Unwell
I have been living with a chronic health condition for twenty years. Next weekend I am celebrating a friend's forthcoming nuptials at a weekend retreat. This involves spending a lot of time in the company of strangers - unfortunately my condition has flared up recently which means I'll have to tell these strangers that a) I may become unwell and b) how to deal with me if I become unwell.
Help me figure out how to deal with this without committing any social faux-pas. [more inside]
posted by kariebookish at 2:30 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by kariebookish at 2:30 PM PST - 15 comments
Psychological studies on trigger warnings
I was just told that trigger warnings are either useless or do more arm, without any citations. Do you know any serious study that either proves or disproves this hypothesis?
posted by francesca too at 2:25 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by francesca too at 2:25 PM PST - 4 comments
Trying to remember name of Mac 2D animation program from 1985
I can't remember much about it but I'm trying to remember the name of a Classic Mac-era program that let you create animations in the black-and-white style of Dark Castle. It came with a demo that scrolled and had funny stuff happening in it.
posted by johngoren at 2:15 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by johngoren at 2:15 PM PST - 9 comments
Help Me Find Dining Chairs That Tie My Rooms Together
I inherited a table that is at odds with my style and the style of my furniture, but I'm keeping. I want to get some dining chairs that tie the room together. Help me find some? [more inside]
How do I get my notes back?
So, I have a standard Notes app on my iPhone and iPad. Lots of problems lately with reading/deleting mail on both, particularly with Yahoo!, so I deleted my Yahoo! and Gmail accounts and downloaded the particular apps for each instead. Then I made a note in the Notes app and to my dismay saw that most of my notes had disappeared. I googled this and learned that the Notes app may have assigned my notes to the email accounts I deleted (why?) but searching those online email accounts has only uncovered some, not all, my missing notes. iCloud doesn't have them either.
Are they gone forever, hive mind? Can you think of something I've missed?
posted by bearwife at 1:02 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by bearwife at 1:02 PM PST - 9 comments
Rent discount = bad marketing strategy?
I'm thinking of offering a temporary discount on rent to get someone to take over my less-than-ideal room in an awesome apartment--is this a viable marketing strategy or will such an unorthodox move scare off potential renters? [more inside]
posted by peakes at 1:00 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by peakes at 1:00 PM PST - 10 comments
What do I need to know about walking?
I am planning on going on a week-long walking tour in Vermont in July. I know almost nothing about the practical aspects of such a trip. What should I know about taking care of my feet and body, what to bring, and what not to bring? What else should I know? [more inside]
posted by zenja72 at 12:42 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by zenja72 at 12:42 PM PST - 14 comments
I don't understand economics of Amtrak and USPS. How do we value them?
Aren't they both congressionally mandated? How did this come about? They are not private, Congress sets the rules (like Saturday mail delivery) Isn't this like standing on someone's feet and asking why don't you run faster?
Where is the line between a private business operating for profit; and a government /public service that may benefit society? Is that benefit a 'profit'?
Can braces move molars forward in the mouth?
Any orthodontists around? My tooth needs to be extracted (second to last molar on the bottom jaw; right side). and I would like to avoid an implant if possible and would like to replace it with my own teeth instead by moving my back molar forward. [more inside]
Gift ideas for boss
My boss's birthday is coming up and our small team always gives gifts. I am struggling with what to buy her. I know her well, but I don't want something too personal. Here is some background:
We work in mental health crisis. She also lives on a hobby farm where she takes in animals who are in crisis (sick, dying, or on their way to the slaughter house) and has a heart of gold. She loves her chickens and horses. She is a soon to be empty nester. She also enjoys cooking and baking. So far, my only thought is a magazine subscription to the Modern Farmer, but I am not 100% on it.
Any thoughts or suggestions?
Rump Shaker
I bought a 2lb choice rump roast on deep discount that needs to be cooked today - how should i cook it? I googled around some but the cooking temps start at 200 and go up to 400, so i don't know who to trust. Note, I'll be cooking for a diabetic so I won't be doing a layer of potatoes or added tomato sauce or any other carb loaded options like that.
Ex responded to text & apologized, but then asked me not to reply back
Both of us are in our late 20's. Not sure if it is relevant to anyone, but he was a Scorpio, and I a Cancer/Gemini cusp, ( I am into astrology and so I feel signs have some importance.) We were together for a few months, and it was very up and down, sometimes on again/off again, however there were strong feelings there for a majority of the time, We were at the point of talking about our future, saying I love you,etc. and Well, it ended pretty badly between us... [more inside]
Trans and/or non-binary vampires?
After this great thread on the Blue about books with non-binary and gender-fluid characters, I'm looking for books that feature non-binary, genderqueer, and/or trans characters -- who are also vampires. I'm aware of three novels with such characters, which I will list in smalltext after the jump. [more inside]
posted by daisyk at 10:36 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by daisyk at 10:36 AM PST - 6 comments
How to not stress my injured ribs, large chest edition
I have multiple injured ribs on my left side. All instructions on how to care for them involve avoiding weight and stress on them, and not binding them. How the heck do I do this with a J cup??? [more inside]
posted by Gneisskate at 10:34 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by Gneisskate at 10:34 AM PST - 15 comments
Does this movie sweater exist in real life?
I'm looking for a sweater similar to (the same as?) this sweater worn by Kenny in the Tom Ford movie A Single Man. Specifically, an ethereal men's sweater that conveys all the innocence of youth but still makes you want to reach out and grab it. Or maybe just a soft, fuzzy men's sweater in a light color. [more inside]
posted by peacebone at 10:07 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by peacebone at 10:07 AM PST - 12 comments
We need a (Jewish) baby girl name!
I thought we had locked down the girl name for our baby due next month (Lila) but my husband is having cold feet. We are stuck! Please help. [more inside]
Can I convert Feliway plug-in diffuser liquid to a spray?
I bought a lot of Feliway plug-in diffuser refills but this morning the diffuser started smoking, which I've since learned is a very common occurrence. Can I take the liquid and dilute it to use as a spray, or is there something dangerous about it?
posted by acidic at 9:36 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by acidic at 9:36 AM PST - 2 comments
ADHD diagnosis for an adult woman in NYC?
I know that there's stuff on this before, but I didn't pull it, for obvious reasons. [more inside]
Could you help me pick out a new computer, please?
I would like to buy a new desktop computer that can handle Adobe Creative Suite, some data / statistical analysis software, and a little gaming. Could you help me figure out what to buy and/or direct me to other resources that might guide me to the right computer? [more inside]
posted by cimton at 9:08 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by cimton at 9:08 AM PST - 15 comments
Moving to Nashville short term on short notice
Need advice for short term housing in Nashville starting June 1. [more inside]
Identify this (throat) singer!
A while ago I came across this video of Tuvan throat singers. What is this song, and the singer? It fascinates me.
Which LED under-cabinet lights?
What kitchen (or elsewhere) LED under-cabinet lights have you used? Were they good or bad? Do you wish you'd done it differently? [more inside]
posted by wenestvedt at 8:00 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by wenestvedt at 8:00 AM PST - 9 comments
What are some mind tricks to use while running to keep my mind occupied?
I've been running and there is a certain level of boredom that creeps up. It's become a lot better as my endurance has increased but I am still looking for some strategies and mind-tricks to keep me engaged in running. [more inside]
posted by RapcityinBlue at 7:33 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by RapcityinBlue at 7:33 AM PST - 19 comments
I have the parachute; when do I jump?
I have my own business, but I can't work with my business partner much longer. For various reasons, my exit plans keep shifting back. [more inside]
Should I ask my uncle about his Big Secret car crash from 50 years ago?
This AskMe from 2010 is me. When I wrote that, I had just heard about a car crash my uncle was allegedly in when he was in his early 20s, where he was driving and a passenger died. I never asked about the crash and a newspaper search didn't pull anything up at the time. But I recently stumbled upon an old newspaper article that confirmed it. I don't know what to do, or not do, with this information. He has never even hinted about anything like this. [more inside]
Stop popping up when I'm about to switch the tab!
A growing number of websites these days will detect when the cursor moves off of the website up to the tab bar, and pop up a message trying to get the user to stay/sign up for their newsletter/etc. How do I block this from happening? [more inside]
posted by Gordafarin at 6:53 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by Gordafarin at 6:53 AM PST - 15 comments
Book Suggestion for 16-year-old Manga, GoT-loving Girl
Need a book rec for a sixteen year old girl who reads manga and Game of Thrones, loves Miyazaki movies and Japanese culture. Extra context inside. [more inside]
Getting A Tow-Hold
Rather than driving a minivan and a big pickup to a distant destination, what are the pros and cons of just towing the minivan by the big pickup? [more inside]
posted by AzraelBrown at 6:29 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by AzraelBrown at 6:29 AM PST - 5 comments
Childhood Reading - Making Up for Lost Time
Help me experience the reading I missed out on as a child. [more inside]
Steel drums/Pop Music
Can you help? I'm looking for songs released from 2000 to now that use either steel drums or steel drums sounds on a synth or similar. I'm mostly looking for songs in pop genres where the steel drum is not a common sound or instrument, although I'm not going to turn down any recommendations. Any language is fine.
I'm not losing weight on a ketogenic diet this time around. What gives?
A low-carb, ketogenic diet has ALWAYS worked for me. Until now. After 6 weeks AND introducing exercise into the mix, the scale isn't budging. What gives? [more inside]
Tankers
Why is it that trucks,railway cars even your cig lighter are cylindrical.
Is it something to do with the flammable contents?
Facebook post about a child with untreated medical problem...
Someone I don't know posted something to a private Facebook group I'm in about their two year old with a medical problem (Phenylketonuria) going untreated. Permanent brain damage could result... probably already has, sadly, and it will get worse the longer she goes without treatment.
I'm haunted by the thought of this poor little girl. Is there anything I can or should do at this point? [more inside]
posted by OnceUponATime at 3:25 AM PST - 18 comments
posted by OnceUponATime at 3:25 AM PST - 18 comments
10-6/3 = First Class Honors
Basically, I need help with a really simple math problem. [more inside]
posted by Chorus at 2:16 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by Chorus at 2:16 AM PST - 4 comments
May 19
Song called "Man With the X-Ray Eyes"?
Trying to find a song, released between 1988 and 1992, called "The Man With the X-Ray Eyes", or "Man With the X-Ray Eyes", or something like that. [more inside]
Windows 8 Premier Opinion malware: how to completely nuke?
My brand new Windows 8 installation somehow picked up Premier Opinion, which seems to be an old piece of malware making a comeback. I've started a cleanup but want to make sure I'm completely thorough. [more inside]
posted by maudlin at 11:28 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by maudlin at 11:28 PM PST - 6 comments
Good Lord Please Make My Butt Itch Go Away
My butt itches constantly. Mostly at night but during the day as well. I'm tired of it and want it to stop once and for all. What can I do? [more inside]
Please help me figure out what to do with the rest of my life.
I'm at a point in my life where progress has stopped and I need to make some decisions about how to move forward. I can't keep doing what I've been doing and I could use some advice on new things to try. Difficulty level: late 30s emotional wreck in need of new direction. As ever, special snowflake details and apologetic wall of text inside. [more inside]
When is a person missing?
It's 1:30 AM, well after my roommate typically comes home, and she's not here. I wouldn't typically worry, except she also hasn't come by to feed/walk her dog, which I've never known her to do. At what point do I do something and is there anything other than calling the police that I could do? [more inside]
Recommend books on enchancing poetry and short story craftmanship?
I'm trying to find some valuable works of advice to improve my craftsmanship on writing poetry and short stories. If you can recommend any advice books, poetry, novels, and short stories that can help contribute to better writing in the genre of: science fiction, southern Gothic literature, classic literature, modernism, and modern ligature works, that would be most appreciated. [more inside]
Trying to Find a Movie
I've seen "find that vaguely remember movie magic" happen here before with only the slightest of clues, so here goes. My wife and I watched a movie back in 2001. I'd say it came out within five years prior to that date. [more inside]
posted by SpacemanStix at 8:54 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by SpacemanStix at 8:54 PM PST - 3 comments
Short notice one-person vacation: what do?
I have unexpectedly received a week off work from June 13th to the 21st. Please tell me where and how to vacation alone. [more inside]
Stuck in Denver airport overnight. Advice?
Getting through the night at the airport. Advice welcome.
posted by harrietthespy at 7:25 PM PST - 21 comments
posted by harrietthespy at 7:25 PM PST - 21 comments
Home buying & appraisal
Does the lot size play a significant role in home appraisal? [more inside]
Help me have a productive summer and fall garden
My second year of square foot gardening has been extremely successful so far, after a disappointing first year. The productive spring had given me momentum and motivation - help me keep it going. [more inside]
What are these valves in my utility closet (water heater & HVAC unit)
I recently moved into a new Condo, only to realize I have no idea what any of the dials/knobs/valves (I'm sure there's a correct term here) do. Looking for help identifying what they may do. [more inside]
posted by jmd82 at 6:55 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by jmd82 at 6:55 PM PST - 15 comments
So that was trippy, and scary
I took some cannabis earlier (it's legal here) and weird physical things happened. Is this normal? Should I mark this as another medicine I cannot take? [more inside]
posted by patheral at 6:35 PM PST - 22 comments
posted by patheral at 6:35 PM PST - 22 comments
Not another strapless white cream puff!
I'm looking for an alternative wedding dress-- something that doesn't feel like a white princess costume, but also doesn't feel like a 100% rejection of all things wedding, like a purple silk jumpsuit. [more inside]
How to find the source of a mystery email
How do I find out the origin of an automatic reply that does not appear to originate from the actual email address I sent the message to? [more inside]
posted by amapolaroja at 4:57 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by amapolaroja at 4:57 PM PST - 9 comments
Waltz identification
The main melody goes something like G# A G# F# D# G# (the last G# is lower), which is then repeated several times transposed to different notes. What is this piece?
posted by dilaudid at 4:49 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by dilaudid at 4:49 PM PST - 2 comments
Please reinforce my favorite quote
My favorite quote is, "[God has] hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children." I'm looking for art, literature, and quotes with the same idea. [more inside]
posted by cmcmcm at 4:13 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by cmcmcm at 4:13 PM PST - 12 comments
Display program output, require password for keyboard (Microsoft)
We've got some computers that run monitoring software that we'd like to remain visible. We also want to lock these computers so they require a password if someone wants to use the keyboard/mouse. Turning on the lock screen satisfies the second requirement, but not the first. Turning it off satisfies the first, but not the second... Does anyone know of anything that will do what we want?
work schedule and long weekends
I work Sunday-Thursday. This is a relatively new schedule for me and something just came up that made me curious about how people handle this kind of schedule. In the US many holidays are set so they happen on Mondays. This gives most people a three day weekend. But as someone who works Sunday-Thursday, it just gives me a single day off during my work week. I've been told that Friday holidays can be shifted to the Thursday or the Sunday that bracket the holiday. A coworker works Tuesday-Saturday and when there's a Monday holiday, he takes it on Tuesday.
If you've had a similar schedule, how were holidays handled?
Name me some really cool princesses?
I'm putting together a book for a very little girl who is going through a princess phase, hoping to expand her idea of who a princess can be - e.g., "Here's Princess Sophie - she worked for the World Childhood Foundation." Most of the lists of favorite princesses are Disney characters, and others are too specific to an era or kingdom. I realize that this project is subject to criticism, but I'm thinking of it as a "Yes, and..." contribution to her enthusiasm. Can you name me some good role model princesses?
posted by mmiddle at 2:07 PM PST - 31 comments
posted by mmiddle at 2:07 PM PST - 31 comments
What's a nature-y hotel that's a short flight from Los Angeles?
Trying to take a short trip with two toddlers where they can get knee-deep in nature - forests, lakes, whatever. Ideally it's a nice, high-end hotel that's family friendly, a short flight (we'd like to go beyond the road trip radius) from LA. Any suggestions? Maybe somewhere outside of Portland?
How does my company know I used duplicate passwords?
I started a new job last week, which involved registering for a bunch of different tools and services (email, internal tools, ticket tracking system, project management stuff, etc.). Since I needed access to those before I got a chance to set up a password manager, I used a couple duplicate passwords so I could remember them (they were strong passwords, but they fit a pattern that I can remember). Shortly after I signed into a site with one of the passwords I was also using on another site, I got an email from IT saying they'd noticed I'd used duplicate passwords and to change them ASAP. How did they know? [more inside]
Document translation Services for the Green Card process.
Does anybody on the green know of an individual or company that can translate documents from Spanish to English for green card immigration purposes. The form states that "a full English translation that the translator has certified is correct, and by the translators certification that they are comptent to translate foreign language into English" is needed. Nothing specific on what certification.
posted by Coffee Bean at 1:24 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by Coffee Bean at 1:24 PM PST - 8 comments
Do wineries discard the first four harvests of newly planted vines?
I cannot remember exactly where I heard this claim made, and of which wineries and wine-producing regions. I've searched Google in vain! Any confirmation, particularly from a credible published or primary source, would be very satisfying. On the one hand, maybe this is a rare practice — or, on the other, perhaps so commonplace that vintners deem it too obvious to mention?
posted by alexandermatheson at 1:12 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by alexandermatheson at 1:12 PM PST - 10 comments
Honest auto mechanic in Olympa, WA
My mother lives in Olympia, WA, drives a Honda Fit, and says she needs to get her brakes checked (among whatever else). She also thinks every mechanic is out to scam her. Please give me some recommendations that I can pass on to her. [more inside]
How does a relatively new to US sports fan become more in the know?
I'm English. I have lived in the US since 2009. I am a big baseball and football fan. I know quite a bit about my teams and the seasons I've seen since moving here but nothing before that. [more inside]
posted by shesbenevolent at 1:07 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by shesbenevolent at 1:07 PM PST - 10 comments
What is this Chinese website?
When I click on the 'Manage Account' button in the Account settings menu in my copy of Word 365, it launches a new web page - stores.office.com - where I can then log-in to my account. All straightforward. But at the same time a separate tab is also launched for the site www.59e.com, which is all in Chinese. What is this? I'm in the UK, using Firefox.
Pocket Projectors: latest and greatest
I've had no luck finding a pocket projector with 1200 ANSI lumens and Bluetooth. Does it exist? If not, what do you love to use when you travel that comes close?
How to help a trans teen when we're friends with his parents?
We're friends with a family with a possibly trans teen, and the parents don't seem to be taking it seriously (e.g., not using his preferred pronoun). What, if anything, could we do to help? [more inside]
The night never questions the stars when they appear.
I was listening to a mix tape and THIS BIT was included. It has a nice bit of spoken word that googles no real results. [more inside]
Cross Border Inheritance?
I'm supposed to inherit some Berkshire Hathaway shares currently in a US Fidelity fund. Catch: I'm a Canadian resident US citizen. Fidelity wants to transfer the shares to a Fidelity account, but won't let me establish an account because I'm Canadian resident. Will another US brokerage allow me to establish a US account, or do I need a Canadian brokerage? And if so, are there any ramifications I should be aware of?
Help me make an awesome playlist for an elementary school field day
Help me make the ultimate school field day playlist! [more inside]
posted by rossination at 10:00 AM PST - 18 comments
posted by rossination at 10:00 AM PST - 18 comments
Best way to hook up speakers to sound card?
I have these speakers: link. I have a pc monitor with 2 hdmi and one vga. My ps4/xbox one are connected to the hdmi ports and my pc is vga. The speakers are hooked up directly to the monitor so that sound works for everything. I bought a xonar dg for the sole purpose of getting rid of the hiss from the onboard crap in the pc I have. I was wondering what the best way to hook up the speakers are? The speakers themselves have a headphone output so I just plug my headphones into them rather than on a case by case basis of whatever console I'm using. I just don't want to ruin my headphones in the process. 99% of the time I'm just watching youtube or listening to a podcast while playing a game of fifa so i don't feel like upgrading speakers right now. Headphones are hd 558 if that helps at all. Should i just hook up unused sony studio monitors to the back of pc and call it a day?
Help finding a career counselor or coach in San Francisco
Suggestions for career counselors specializing helping professionals with advanced degrees set off on the right path. We live in San Francisco, obviously a city with a lot of options but also a lot very bright people competing for interesting opportunities? [more inside]
Should I start YNAB now, wait for sale, or wait until after I move?
I've been looking over YNAB (You Need A Budget) and it looks like a good next step for me financially speaking. I am not sure if right now is the best time to start however. I may be seriously overthinking this plate of beans. [more inside]
posted by Julnyes at 8:50 AM PST - 16 comments
posted by Julnyes at 8:50 AM PST - 16 comments
Falling all over myself. Please make it stop.
I've been clumsy, non-athletic, rhythmless my entire life. I'd like that to change. [more inside]
posted by nubianinthedesert at 8:36 AM PST - 33 comments
posted by nubianinthedesert at 8:36 AM PST - 33 comments
Evolution, squished squirrels and cars
This came up in conversation, and now I'm wondering: has a little over a century of cars squishing squirrels made an evolutionary difference in their behavior? Or to put it another way: does that century of cars hitting squirrels that can zigzag better than their cousins that run in straight lines mean that automobile drivers are forcing an evolutionary selection in favor of the straight-runners? [more inside]
posted by easily confused at 8:24 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by easily confused at 8:24 AM PST - 11 comments
Remind me of the title and author of a science fiction short story
The story followed an alcoholic ex military leader as he tried to reach the control room (head) of a giant humanoid robot so large that it housed an entire civilization. That's about all I remember.
I believe it was written by an author generally known for more literary fiction rather than SF.
posted by 256 at 8:03 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by 256 at 8:03 AM PST - 2 comments
summer skincare and haircare protection
Active women: how do you keep your hair and skin healthy and undamaged from sweat and sun? [more inside]
Should I take up the cello?
Am I too, ahem, old, to learn new tricks? [more inside]
Any advice before I take the cat to the vet a third time for sneezing?
My cat is sneezing a lot after two courses of antibiotics and I'm unsure how to proceed, given that I don't entirely trust the veterinary practice I use in terms of pushing for expensive tests and treatments. Could the cat just have allergies? Do I just need to suck it up and go to this vet again? [more inside]
posted by microcarpetus at 7:05 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by microcarpetus at 7:05 AM PST - 13 comments
Impressionism, gardening, biography, art
Looking for biographical material about Claude Monet. Want to know something about his inner life, not so much his place in art history. I want to know about his ideas about gardening, life, love and family. Not much out there I can find.
Tips on using GMail for Work?
I'm using gmail for work and while I've used gmail for years for personal things, I hate it for work. I liked having a dedicated app (Outlook) that didn't get lost in 5,000 tabs I had open. Also, the whole meeting/calendar experience takes more clicks than Outlook does. I must be doing this wrong, is there an app or something that helps ease this? From my understanding using Outlook with Gmail over IMAP isn't a great experience so I've shied away from that. I'm on OS X if that matters.
Mortgage repayment
Why would someone not pay off their mortgage? [more inside]
posted by gorcha at 6:23 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by gorcha at 6:23 AM PST - 14 comments
I need help with Building Insurance details for UK Leasehold property
I recently bought a flat in the UK and am a little confused by the Buildings Insurance policy taken out by the freeholder. I'm a first time buyer so this is all new to me. Can you help me? [more inside]
Job interviews, no offers and dealing with negative judgment from others
I've been job searching for almost a year. I have had several interviews and have yet to come up with an offer. Family members are starting to assume something is wrong with me. How can I keep plugging while trying to explain it may not be as easy as they think? [more inside]
San Diego Vacation
I would like to take my wife and two kids ( 4 & 6 ) to the San Diego Zoo. Outside of that, what else is awesome to do in San Diego? We will rent a car. We will be going sometime in July. Where should we stay? Give me all the cool things we should do during a 5 day period.
Where are the OTHER self defense items?
Whether or not you agree, guns and knives, and even pepper spray, are a hot button issue in the realm of self defense. Some states don't permit them, some areas are incredibly restrictive regarding type, and certain businesses or buildings won't allow them on the premises. Not to mention the social stigmas of everyone and their mother who will take issue with whatever you use.
I am not asking about guns, knives, and pepper spray, all three of which I've already researched laws and possibilities of, and _may_ decide to obtain at some point.
I'm asking, where are the websites and reviews for OTHER self defense items? [more inside]
Super-lightweight android apps?
I am about to try and put a jellybean rom on a 2010 cellphone presently running android 1.6. An updated version of android isn't going to change the hardware though, so I need the lightest apps available. Or perhaps it's even better to not upgrade and there are markets with old versions of software or new software for old OS verisons? Join me inside please. [more inside]
Online apps that require CC to be on file to use.
How do I protect my credit card on apps that require it to be on file to use like Uber, Amazon or Walmart? [more inside]
posted by BillyAnne at 2:57 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by BillyAnne at 2:57 AM PST - 15 comments
Cookbook Reviews: what would you want to read?
I've been put in charge of the cookbook section at my Library, and I've been asked to do something interesting to promote them. I was thinking of creating a tumblr or Instagram-style blog to show them off. Please help me figure out how best to do this. [more inside]
Help me feel closer to my mother
I have an intense, complex relationship with my mother, and it's stressing me out. Snowflakes inside. [more inside]
May 18
Moving a carfull of stuff between US cities - without driving it myself
I am moving cities, and need to get my stuff (small furniture and some boxes) to a city 3-4 hours drive away, but without driving it myself or asking a friend to drive me. How? [more inside]
posted by une_heure_pleine at 11:53 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by une_heure_pleine at 11:53 PM PST - 14 comments
What makes a good sink?
I have lived with lots of sinks. And I've treated them all basically the same. And sometimes the sink slowly clogs until it barely drains at all, and sometimes it doesn't. Even two sinks with the same, uhhh, drain hole (?) will act differently. Why could this be? [more inside]
I'm DESPERATE--HOW do fed employees get interviews?
I am desperate for answers at this point. I've paid nearly a thousand dollars to have my resume customized for the [AWFUL] USAJobs website. I have worked in the federal government for ten years now, for two different agencies. But I have been absolutely STALLED the past 2.5 years in a job from hell. (I am currently in an organization in which EVERYONE is jumping ship, literally every week someone else has gotten a job. It feels like we are on the Titanic. We were basically told the organization has no future and if we want any type of promotion, we will need to find new jobs. Hence, people are swimming away for dear life. The rest of us are DYING here!)
This question is for anyone who is familiar with the USAJobs website and has obtained some measure of success with utilizing it in your career. [more inside]
posted by GeniPalm at 9:30 PM PST - 23 comments
posted by GeniPalm at 9:30 PM PST - 23 comments
Paper Savings Bonds are hard to find!
Remember when you could walk into a bank and purchase a Series EE savings bond? As I'm discovering, the US Treasury no longer issues paper Series EE bonds, and has gone fully online. [more inside]
posted by kensch at 8:34 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by kensch at 8:34 PM PST - 6 comments
What are standard ways I should take care of my Honda Civic?
What maintenance do you recommend at different milestones for my 2014 Honda Civic? For example, oil change, tire rotations, have timing belt checked, clean air filter, etc?
What should I be checking on and repairing myself, vs solely having the dealership/mechanic do?
They could be things I need to do weekly, or every few thousand miles. [more inside]
Why is this device shorting out my power?
Why would using an American electrical device on European voltage cause it to short out circuits at home when I plug it in again after coming home to the US? [more inside]
Travel tips and itinerary ideas for Quebec?
I'm driving through Quebec on vacation the first week of June, and would love some general travel tips, ideas, and itinerary advice in exploring the Eastern Townships, Quebec City, and Montreal, for someone who's never been 'round those parts. [more inside]
posted by NikitaNikita at 6:49 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by NikitaNikita at 6:49 PM PST - 13 comments
Silver or gold charm bracelet?
I have a necklace with three pendants and I'd like to move two onto a charm bracelet and add more charms rather than overload the necklace. The necklace and pendants are yellow gold but I mostly wear silver, brass, gold or costume. I can't have anything that scratches easily and I want something that will last a decade. Can I mix metals, should I get silver, 14K gold, gold-plated, that Pandora thing advertised everywhere? I hear my granny shrieking "Don't mix metals!"
Flower gardening 101
How do I garden? More precisely...how do renovate/set up a perennial bed and get it looking good for next month, not just next summer? It's time to do something about the horrible parking strip/hell strip out front and I'm not sure how to execute when it's a total mess, some things are already blooming, and I want it to be not-crappy looking basically as soon as I'm done. [more inside]
What are your favorite pie-iron recipes?
What is there beyond white bread 'n' pie filling? Or white bread 'n' Nutella, or white bread 'n' cheddar... Please help me take my pie-iron cooking to the next level. [more inside]
Touristing in Toronto?
I have a business trip to Toronto the first week of June. I've never been, and will only have about three days with some of them occupied by work but my nights free and most likely one full day to myself. Any suggestions about things to do or see? [more inside]
posted by PussKillian at 5:14 PM PST - 20 comments
posted by PussKillian at 5:14 PM PST - 20 comments
Name this podcast
Please help me come up with a name for my new podcast. Details inside. [more inside]
Volunteer work for loners
Posting for a friend: What kind of volunteer work can a solitary type do in five hours a week that will make the world a better place without requiring a lot of social interaction? [more inside]
Mixed signals from a guy - Is he still interested in me?
A couple of months ago, I met this guy (22 yo) through a mutual friend at a dinner party. Let's call him Josh. We seemed to click well. He didn't ask for my number but he added me on Facebook and started messaging me everyday for about 2 weeks. At the time, he was living in a different city so he didn't ask me out but he did suggest that I should come hang out with him and the mutual friend again. Our convo was mostly about school (nothing flirtatious). I sensed that he ended the convo because we ran out of things to talk about. [more inside]
How long is too long to wait for my custom bicycle?
On January 15th of this year I emailed a custom bike builder to enquire about him building me a custom track bike. I was told his current lead time was 8 - 10 weeks. Two days later, on the 17th, I stopped by his shop and ordered the bike and paid a $1000 deposit. It's now been over 17 weeks and I have not received the bike. [more inside]
Disconnecting my laptop from browser history at work
Hi everybody. I'm not very computer literate, so please bear with me as I'm counting on your indulgence. For whatever reason, using Google Chrome as my default browser on my personal laptop (MacBook Pro, by the off-chance it matters) has resulted in a situation wherein my personal searches wind up on my "History" when I use Google Chrome at work (different computer). I most certainly never chose that. While I have nothing to hide per se, I don't appreciate this breach of privacy, and haven't been able to figure out how to undo that. If I have to simply stop using Google Chrome I'll do so, but is there another way? Thanks in advance.
Birkenstock Repair?
I have some old Birkenstocks where the leather is in good condition (it could use a light cleaning), but the soles and cork need to be replaced. Does anyone have recommendations for Birkenstock repair shops that I can mail my shoes to that do good work at a fair price? [more inside]
Moving home after year abroad - am I making the right decision?
In a few months I will move home - but how can I know this is right for me? [more inside]
writing workshops: how do they work?
I'm about to travel out of town to attend a two-day writing workshop hosted by one of my favorite authors/idols, but I have no idea what writing workshops are like or what anyone actually does at them. Writers of MeFi, can you help me figure out what to expect? [more inside]
Whats this grotesque figure in old painting in Berlin?
I came across this painting (the right hand of the three) in St Marienkirche, in the middle of Berlin. The bottom right hand corner has a negroid grotesque figure that beggars belief. Does anyone know who painted this, and when?
posted by stonepharisee at 1:24 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by stonepharisee at 1:24 PM PST - 10 comments
Should we move to Portland OR despite the impending "Big" Earthquake?
We have loose plans to move up to Portland, OR later this year and "live happily ever after". Except last night I stumbled upon some articles abut the "Big" Earthquake and now I'm questioning EVERYTHING. Am I crazy? Have you been in a similar situation? What did you do? [more inside]
Addressing the need for me-time in a LDR
My GF and I are currently long distance, though only for a short while longer. We're planning for me to visit her at the end of the month for four days. Due to manic work commitments and sickness, I was looking forward to having this (long) weekend to myself, but my GF has said that my not coming to visit has made her feel "not nurtured." I don't know how to address this in an adult fashion; advice is welcome (snowflakes abound…) [more inside]
posted by six sided sock at 12:43 PM PST - 42 comments
posted by six sided sock at 12:43 PM PST - 42 comments
Recommend us stuff to read in Spain, about Spain.
tau_ceti and I are leaving for a vacation in Spain this week, hitting Madrid/Basque Country/Barcelona. We're looking for recommendations of stuff to read on our Kindles about the history, culture, geology, etc of regions we might be driving through. Ideas? [more inside]
Help name my genealogy website?
I'm putting together a genealogy website. Half of it is about my personal family history so my own relatives can look at it. The other half is about genealogy research itself, things of interest to other genealogists in general. I'd like a cool, fairly unique name for this website. Maybe a phrase? Any clever suggestions? Thanks!
What to do next?
What are some alternative career paths for a person with experience in early childhood education? [more inside]
Keeping Stock
Often when I find an item of clothing that I like, by the time I wear it out and want to replace it the company has stopped selling it. I've adapted by going back and buying additional pieces but this is a hassle and I can't always afford to buy five pairs of jeans at once. I'd rather just patronize stores/brands that are known for longevity. Can folks suggest places to shop? [more inside]
Which fancy restaurant on Orcas Island - New Leaf vs Ship Bay
I'm trying to pick a fine dining restaurant on Orcas Island for my best friend's 50th birthday. It looks like the top options are The Inn at Ship Bay Restaurant and the New Leaf restaurant at the Outlook Inn. They both get great reviews on Yelp and TripAdvisor, and they both have great views, and I need help choosing. [more inside]
Tonight on Frontline: A Bedtime Story Just For You
Putting on Frontline and listening to Will Lyman narrate is my favorite way to fall asleep. But, seeing as how the show is not intended to lull me to sleep, there are sometimes parts where Will Lyman has to stop speaking and noises or a non-mellifluous person cut in. Clearly I need something more suitable. [more inside]
posted by Monochrome at 11:01 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by Monochrome at 11:01 AM PST - 10 comments
Atlanta MeFites: Contractor recommendations required!
I know the green isn't necessarily awesome at local stuff like this, but i've posted elsewhere and thought it couldn't hurt.
The lovely pourtant and I are about to purchase a home in Grant Park that needs some renovations. After dealing with dudebro inspectors, we've both had enough of the "women, theyre secretly in control and a handful, amirite??" awfulness and are hoping to find some women-owned businesses to give our money to instead. [more inside]
Finding if a trial happened in Mass.
A thing happened in my neighborhood and the police arrested a person as a result. My neighbors have spotted the arrestee on the streets and are assuming he's been paroled. But I can't find out what actually happened. [more inside]
posted by mkb at 10:49 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by mkb at 10:49 AM PST - 5 comments
Interesting Book Design Ideas
I want to create a short chapbook of some of my science fiction short stories to sell at an upcoming convention. What are some interesting, eye-catching design ideas that will make the book stand out? [more inside]
posted by Prunesquallor at 10:21 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by Prunesquallor at 10:21 AM PST - 4 comments
Short, emotionally-mixed poems/lyrics needed
A colleague and I are starting some new research in which we are interested in whether we can influence people's interpretation of emotionally-mixed music and language. We easily found music of mixed emotional tone (studied in the article linked here; paywalled, but I can share if anyone is interested), but it's been far harder to find mixed-emotion language that meets our constraints. More details follow. [more inside]
What to do about seemingly not justified negative gut feelings?
Are gut feelings ever wrong? I’m currently struggling with the decision about where to go to graduate school. I thought I'd found a pretty good option, but now I’m having inexplicably bad gut feelings about it. However, I can find nothing wrong with the option and there’s no obvious better alternative. I don’t want to randomly just pull out because I “have a bad feeling about it.” What is a rational person to do? [more inside]
Optimal time for Bay Area apt hunting for a July 1 move-in?
I'll be flying out for 7-10 days in June to help my fiance find an apartment for us in the Bay Area, most likely Mountain View-ish. We're hoping for a July 1 lease, although we have enough flexibility to go a few days in either direction. Does it make more sense for me to be there May 29 - June 8 (last weekend of May and first weekend of June) or June 4 - June 15 (first two weekends of June) or some other set of dates? [more inside]
Wanted: laws that support citizen science data collection
Apparently a new law passed in Wyoming last week. Called The Data Trespass Bill, the bill seems to be a ban on citizen science in the state.I'm looking for examples of any laws that specifically support or encourage citizen science data collection. Thanks! [more inside]
House Painting Movie Montage?
My husband and I are painting our new house, and I feel like I'm stuck in a romantic comedy, with the montage including the happy couple painting a room or the house. Of course, my husband has no idea what I'm talking about, and I can't remember any specific movies that have this scene. Can anyone point me to a movie with a montage including the couple painting their new house together?
posted by freshwater at 8:14 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by freshwater at 8:14 AM PST - 9 comments
Hairless patches on the back of cat's neck
My cat has been getting these small hairless patches on the back of her neck. Any ideas on what's causing them and how serious they are? [more inside]
Why is the one title by an out-of-print writer so much more expensive?
I grew up in a home where post-colonial literature got a lot of discussion and now I want to read one of the books I remember my sisters talking about. The book is My Bones and My Flute by Edgar Mittelholzer, a Guyanese writer with a respectable amount of books published but who struggled to earn a living by writing. His books are out-of-print but reasonably available (example Abe Books) except for My Bones and My Flute which is going for silly.money. My question is why? [more inside]
Kid friendly high protein low sugar breakfasts.... without eggs.
I'm trying to nudge the kids (4.5 and 18 months) towards lower sugar/processed carb breakfasts. Protein is good, fat is fine, we're not counting calories - one's majorly underweight and the other's a toddler. "Nutritionally dense" is what we're aiming for. But there are snowflakes. Always with the snowflakes. [more inside]
An app to send "Help/SOS" alerts to the app's network or community?
Looking for a solution for a small group so that we could download an app and join the app's community and then in an emergency, for example, push an SOS button and all of the people in the community would get an alert on their phones (if they're connected of course) of the emergency. I know there are solutions similar to this but my app searching skills are failing me. [more inside]
posted by HopStopDon'tShop at 5:53 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by HopStopDon'tShop at 5:53 AM PST - 6 comments
How to find someone to share a workshop space with?
A friend and I have tracked down a workshop space to rent out. It's bit bigger than we need for the two of us (we're just hobbyists) and our tools (we don't have loads yet, but some). Ideally we'd like to setup a small scale makers' lab for woodworking. Share the rent, share ideas, share tools. [more inside]
Adolphe Willette - Onbekend
While visiting the wonderful Kattenkabinet in Amsterdam, myself and my friend were captivated by Onbekend by Adolphe Willette. Back home, and I cannot find anything online about this picture, in which a huge black cat looms over a panicked townscape. Does anyone know anything about this painting? What's going on in it?
posted by sarahdal at 5:35 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by sarahdal at 5:35 AM PST - 9 comments
I like my life, but I don't like myself
I'm a woman in my thirties, very happily married, in an interesting career. I love my partner, friends, and home. I have been treated for depression fairly successfully. So why do I feel like such a loser? [more inside]
posted by lilpinksockpuppet at 4:16 AM PST - 18 comments
posted by lilpinksockpuppet at 4:16 AM PST - 18 comments
Can you tell me anything about this old song?
My mother learnt a song from her (now deceased) mother, but we don't know anything about it other than the lyrics. I've found a few traces on Google, but can you help me track down any more information? [more inside]
Ceiling falling apart: safe to breathe?
Pieces of the ceiling in my top floor apartment fell apart, throwing a great deal of what looks like dust or sand into the air. The ceiling is made of plaster, but doesn't have the "popcorn" texture I have heard is bad. Is it likely that breathing this dust is unsafe, e.g. could it contain asbestos? [more inside]
posted by Known Weasel at 2:00 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by Known Weasel at 2:00 AM PST - 2 comments
May 17
Post-Apocalyptic Sci Fi for My Hurt Guy
I am looking for post-apocalyptic sci fi books for my husband. He is currently convalescing from a back injury, and when Husband is bored, Wife suffers. [more inside]
Help me waste a week in New England
I'm attending a conference in Maine in about a fortnight, which is a real treat since I'm coming all the way from Australia. After it's done I've got about a week of leisure - the only proviso is that I have to fly home out of Boston. I like interesting food, cultural / history stuff, and especially "Weird America". I'm probably gonna try to visit Wilhelm Reich's laboratory in Maine, but what else should I do with my free time? I'll have to rely on public transport to get around. I've already spent quite a bit of time in NYC but I'm certainly not averse to visiting again.
Good German-language movies from the 50s or 60s?
There are a lot of old German movies on youtube, like this, from the 50s and 60s. I like to watch them, but quality seems to be highly variable, and I don't know much enough about German cinema of the time to know which are highly thought of. Can anyone recommend some that are definitely worth watching, for whatever reason? All genres are okay, subtitles not required, later decades okay too, if they are on youtube.
Termites in the house "whoop whoop"
Got subterranean termites in a single wall in my home. [more inside]
Help us upgrade our iPhones?
It's time to upgrade our iPhones and I feel that I lack a PhD in rocket science or whatever is required to decipher AT&T's policies and get the best deal. Help? [more inside]
Night of the Creeps meets Wrath of Khan, in my apartment
How do I keep slugs out of my apartment and how do I find the ones that are already here and how do I keep from LOSING MY MIND because this is so gross. [more inside]
posted by silverstatue at 6:37 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by silverstatue at 6:37 PM PST - 16 comments
One Week In Japan...
At the beginning of August work is sending me to Tokyo for a week, for the first time ever, so my wife is coming out and we're going to steal another week away from the family to have a break. What to do for that extra week when you've never visited Japan before? [more inside]
What to do and eat in Chattanooga
Planning to spend a long weekend in Chattanooga, TN in June. What should I eat? What should I do? I'm particularly interested in your recommendations for restaurants -- what is the Husk of Chattanooga? [more inside]
What is the risk that I have passed HIV to my boyfriend?
Three weeks ago I drunkenly cheated on my boyfriend with a stranger. I'm a gay man, I was the bottom and we didn't use a condom. During the next 2 weeks I stupidly tried to forget about the incident and continued having unprotected sex with my boyfriend. He is a circumcised top. What kind of risk does he face? [more inside]
How do I transition to a freelance IT career?
What IT/computer-based fields offer a viable opportunity for someone who is handy with technology to freelance from home and earn a living wage? I'm interested in fields for which the skills can be learned independently or without going through years of formal education. [more inside]
Novels that are re-tellings of other stories
I'm looking for novels that are re-tellings of other stories, such as Wicked for the Wizard of Oz or A Thousand Acres for King Lear. Can you name some? [more inside]
How do you preserve tabs on forum posts?
I am on a forum on proboards and when I post to it, it strips out the tabs so everything is left-aligned. I tried a search and replace and changed them to 4 spaces but it still left-aligned everything, which gives it a "wall of text" appearance. Is there any way to preserve the tabs?
posted by marienbad at 4:48 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by marienbad at 4:48 PM PST - 6 comments
You love your oven. Tell me about your oven.
I want to replace my range/oven. Tell me what I should get. [more inside]
posted by fingersandtoes at 4:48 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by fingersandtoes at 4:48 PM PST - 13 comments
Looking for good dark sky parks; difficulty level: mixed-race couple.
My wife and I would love to visit a dark sky park in the U.S. (doesn't matter if there's an observatory attached to it). [more inside]
What gift to buy for graduation from seminary?
A close friend of many, many years is graduating from seminary soon, and I would like to buy a nice little gift, maybe $50-100. I'd prefer something that lasts and could be used or seen regularly for some time. Complication: I am not a Christian and would not be at all confident in my ability to pick out anything he would use as a minister. [more inside]
posted by dilettante at 4:12 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by dilettante at 4:12 PM PST - 16 comments
Dating in New York City, places to go, things to see and do
Sometimes people invite me on a first or second date and then insist that I suggest a place to go or a thing to do. What are some fun/interesting/free/inexpensive things to do in Brooklyn and Manhattan south of ...say the 70s east or west side? Budget conscious is important because the concept of "who invited" gets murky in this situation, and I make sure to always be prepared to pay for anything I have suggested. So pizza suggestions are good. Steaks are not. [more inside]
Bringing an out of state car to New York
In a month or so, I will be buying a used car from a relative in a far away state to bring to New York state (not city). What do I need to do to be in compliance with the law, regarding insurance and registration? I already have a NY state license.
posted by ocherdraco at 3:02 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by ocherdraco at 3:02 PM PST - 5 comments
My little brother is driving me madder
Hi, for the past week my little brother has been get on my nerves so much. And it's been getting worse and worse. If we play around, he doesn't know when to stop and has to get yelled at by out parents. He just turned 12 and I'm 20. I'm getting sick of this, and our parents are telling us to work it out ourselves. But it doesn't work. [more inside]
posted by starlybri at 2:10 PM PST - 25 comments
posted by starlybri at 2:10 PM PST - 25 comments
How to Avoid Becoming Grizzly Man Sequel
Is backcountry camping for a novice solo backpacker a bad idea in Denali? Details inside. [more inside]
posted by Pantalaimon at 1:34 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by Pantalaimon at 1:34 PM PST - 10 comments
What is another way to tell an adult you are proud of them?
My husband works very hard and does amazing things. When he has an accomplishment, I have a hard time thinking of something to say other than "I'm proud of you" but I think that sounds so patronizing, fake, and parental. [more inside]
posted by ForeverDcember at 1:29 PM PST - 27 comments
posted by ForeverDcember at 1:29 PM PST - 27 comments
Two random questions about Game of Thrones (possible spoilers)
Two random questions about Game of Thrones (possible spoilers) [more inside]
How to donate shoes so that they'll be given away rather than sold?
I have managed to accumulate (over time and several bad buying decisions) three pairs of quality-make men's shoes of different types, all in nearly-new condition, that I don't want or can't wear, and I'd like them to go to someone who could really use them. The thing they have in common is each has a non-obvious flaw that would cause buyer's regret in anyone who actually paid money for them, so Goodwill is out. [more inside]
posted by George_Spiggott at 12:14 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by George_Spiggott at 12:14 PM PST - 15 comments
How do I find a non-scamming person/company who does SEO?
I have a small law practice. I would like to hire someone to help me with my Search Engine Optimization. I did so once, and it became apparent rather quickly that there was some sort of scam going on. I wound up feeling that I had been ripped off (among other things, that company would not cancel my account and kept billing me long after I gave them notice of my intent to cancel). [more inside]
Does a non-sketchy extension exist
Looking for recommendations for a video download extension for Firefox that won't a) inject ads into the stream, or b) track every site I visit. [more inside]
Statistics on rocket launch postponements
I'm taking the nephew to Cape Canaveral for the scheduled June 19th Falcon launch and am trying to evaluate the chances of the launch actually happening that day. Obviously acts of god can't be predicted (although time of year could matter) but mechanical failures tend to follow some patterns. So, is there a canonical list somewhere of every rocket launch and a record of why it was postponed (and for how long) if so?
posted by Tell Me No Lies at 11:23 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by Tell Me No Lies at 11:23 AM PST - 5 comments
ARGs as casual reading
What are some archived, well-documented ARGs I can explore after-the-fact? [more inside]
How shelf-stable is Oaxacan mole paste?
My brother bought me two ziplock bags full of Oaxacan mole paste from a vacation in Mexico about two months ago. I asked him how to store it and he said to just toss it in my pantry.
I totally forgot about it until today.
I'm making dinner for him and his lady tonight (as well as my husband and toddler) and was thinking of using it for enchiladas. It still smells fine. Would you eat it?
Diet Mt. Dew in Tokyo?
Is there a brick and mortar store in Tokyo that I can walk into and walk out with Diet Mountain Dew?
How do we move an elderly relative with OCD from one state to another?
Our relative lives in one state. We live in another. She has lived her entire life within a 1-mile radius and 70 years on one city block. She's rarely traveled. She's lived in her current house for 4 decades. She has deep anxiety/anger issues and is OC. She had planned to live and die in the same place. It looks like that will not be possible. How do we make this move the safest & sanest way possible for all concerned? [more inside]
posted by clarkstonian at 9:56 AM PST - 28 comments
posted by clarkstonian at 9:56 AM PST - 28 comments
Should I buy my own office supplies?
I work in a startup. Our office chairs and some other equipment aren't ideal, and I'm considering buying my own stuff. Is that sort of thing done, or should I just suck it up? Is there another way around this? [more inside]
Little known American city perfect for a lone woman of colour tourist?
I would like to visit a city in the US that is not commonly thought of as a vacation destination, but still has a lot to offer a tourist. However, as a woman of colour that does not drive and will be travelling alone, I would like a safe and friendly choice. I would like ideas for places with a lot of history and fine dining, which are easy to travel by foot/ public transportation, and friendly towards different looking people. Examples of what I am and am not looking for inside... [more inside]
posted by partly squamous and partly rugose at 9:32 AM PST - 26 comments
posted by partly squamous and partly rugose at 9:32 AM PST - 26 comments
Subwoofer (only) for PC?
I'm looking for help to find a cheap subwoofer to improve the sound for some built-in computer monitor speakers. I don't want to add desktop speakers. [more inside]
How do I change jobs (and move cities) like a grown up?
How do I time giving notice to current boss and finding a similar job in a different city? I'm worried that If I apply for similar jobs in a different city, potential new bosses may know current boss. [more inside]
What to wear to a skilled trade job interview within local government?
Men: should my husband cut his beloved ponytail for a job interview in local government? Also some attire advice would be welcome. [more inside]
posted by Tarumba at 5:55 AM PST - 23 comments
posted by Tarumba at 5:55 AM PST - 23 comments
References from a part time job I started a month ago?
Applying for another part time job to supplement my current one. I've only been at the current one for a month. I'm not comfortable using them as references because they're too new. Will it be obvious from the commencement date on the resume, or should I spell it out anyway? Thanks!
Suggestions for a June visit to Yellowstone
Can you recommend hikes in the Yellowstone area in June? [more inside]
Should I still use my former supervisor as a job reference?
I left this medical supply company last November due to multiple employees leaving, declining accounts, and the inability to be consistently compliant with Medicare standards. My previous supervisor was laid off, and he ended up working for a university medical center that is ranked top 10 in the U.S. While I was working at the medical supply company, we would keep in touch and he encouraged me to look for a better gig. [more inside]
May 16
Hired to cook for 20, stuck cooking for 40...
I was tapped by management recently to work the galley of a decent sized merchant vessel. Due to varying factors, I am stuck working alone, and will be cooking 3 meals a day for 40 people, rather than the usual 15-20. How can I make this bearable? What are some tips/tricks/shortcuts I can use to do as much as possible ahead of time, and maybe sneak in a nap here and there? More details inside. What will freeze well? [more inside]
posted by holybagel at 11:54 PM PST - 20 comments
posted by holybagel at 11:54 PM PST - 20 comments
Moving overseas, packrat edition
I'll be moving from the US to the EU in a couple of months. I'm a packrat and not an organized one, so the idea of paring down my belongings to a couple of suitcases fills me with a paralyzing anxiety! How can I start to whittle things down? I'm looking for practical solutions and ideas for trimming the fat over the next couple of months, ideally to make my final days here as un-hectic as possible. [more inside]
Replacing Cow-shaped Pencil Sharpener
A few weeks ago, I bought a cute little cow-shaped pencil sharpener on clearance from Staples. Sample photo, except mine was blue and white. It was a big hit with my students. The sharpener's gone missing and I'd like to be able to replace it and possibly buy several in bulk, but am not having much luck. [more inside]
posted by wiskunde at 8:05 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by wiskunde at 8:05 PM PST - 12 comments
blockity block
Is there a way to block someone who has already blocked you? [more inside]
How can I make money now that I (will) have a college degree?
Worked full time in assorted office jobs since 2004 while going to community college. In 2012, I started a (part-time) degree at University of Pennsylvania and in Fall 2015 (maybe Spring 2016) I will graduate with a psychology bachelor's degree. I have about 20K in debt and make less than 40k per year in a job that is not really a career. How can I transition to a career where I make at least 50k per year, preferably more? Many more details inside. [more inside]
Need advice on sizing a rear bicycle rack
I have a pannier and bicycle, and I need to mount the one to the other. The bike is a ~1985 Schwinn and the pannier is a Blackburn EX. I’ve tried a Blackburn MTN rack, but my heels bump the bag. Ideally it’d be about 4-6 inches further back and still level along the top (currently tilts slightly back). Do racks come in different sizes I need to know? Are there some bike/bag combos that don’t work? Do people shorten their cranks instead of moving the bags? Is there some crucial measurement I should learn?
posted by migurski at 7:04 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by migurski at 7:04 PM PST - 10 comments
How to handle a lease buyout offer (NYC)
The management company for my apartment has approached me with a lease buyout offer in NYC. I am open to discussion but am unsure of the best way to handle it. Should I get a lawyer or some other professional? Any specific recommendations or types of people to look for? Other things I should do? [more inside]
Last year my girlfriend went mad over a small mistake I made
Made a small mistake, girlfriend went mad - was I being unjust or was she? [more inside]
Is there a (non-alcoholic) drink that Australia calls its own?
I have been planning fun and cutesy little dinner parties just for two once a week for my boyfriend and I where I find new recipes for a meal, a drink, and a dessert. Seeking an Aussie beverage! [more inside]
posted by cristalina at 5:59 PM PST - 18 comments
posted by cristalina at 5:59 PM PST - 18 comments
A Fraudster's Degree in Clinical Research
I took neuroscience, research-methods and sociology courses in college and got a BA in Psychology from a respected state school in NY. I loved them, but taking courses and doing well on multiple choice tests in those courses is about all I did. I learned enough to get the gist of a more conceptually straightforward journal article, but now, trying to get a job, it's become clear that I need to know what I'm talking about. Help? [more inside]
Dealing with parental guidance as an adult child
My parents are kind, generous people, but they are starting to interfere with my life in a way I'm not sure how to handle. [more inside]
posted by cuppycake gumdrops at 5:15 PM PST - 37 comments
posted by cuppycake gumdrops at 5:15 PM PST - 37 comments
Help me not hate weekends
I hate weekends. It's a struggle to get myself to leave the house on Saturdays and Sundays; I just want to hide under a blanket all day. Work is different; I looooove going to work Monday through Friday, and I love work in general. What do you do to get yourself out and about, or otherwise excited about weekends? [more inside]
posted by topoisomerase at 4:01 PM PST - 28 comments
posted by topoisomerase at 4:01 PM PST - 28 comments
Help me fix my brother!
My brother is around 30 years old, 6'2", 286 lbs. He doesn't exercise but he's not a weakling. In fact, people who see him think he's less heavy than he really is. Lately his health has deteriorated big time and I think he's in need of an action plan. Help (and please no cynical answers--just kind and helpful ones please)! [more inside]
What can I tell myself to keep from complaining @ work?
I intend to leave my job in a few months. I would like to bite my lip and suck up any stupid stuff until then. Unfortunately, I have instead been complaining to my managers (never to fellow employees). I feel like I'm showing my hand for no reason and it's undignified. Next time, when I'm talking to my manager and feel frustrated, what are some things (mantras, poetry, general rational thoughts) I could tell myself to keep my thoughts to myself even if I'm certain it won't affect my employment?
Would Wittgenstein distinguish between "all that" and "that which"?
I've most often seen the first proposition of the Tractatus quoted as "The world is that which is the case." (The 2014 film and the line in the chorus from The New Pornographers' Chump Change, eg.) But Ogden translates it as "The world is everything that is the case," and Pears/McGuiness as "The world is all that is the case." Is there an important difference here?
Asking cuz potential tattoo.
posted by PMdixon at 2:47 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by PMdixon at 2:47 PM PST - 15 comments
Quote filter
Woody Allen: “Marshall McLuhan predicted books would become art objects at some point. He was right.” Where did McLuhan say this?
posted by neat graffitist at 1:58 PM PST - 1 comment
posted by neat graffitist at 1:58 PM PST - 1 comment
Fiddlehead fern safety
I want to make this fiddlehead fern recipe. However, it only recommends boiling/blanching the ferns for 1-2 minutes, whereas government safety websites (and plenty of others) seem to recommend boiling for 15 minutes or steaming for 10 minutes. What should I do? [more inside]
Even starving academics (in Highgate) need to eat
Tomorrow, I'm off to the UK to sit in the British Library and read bad religious novels by authors you've never heard of! But when I'm not doing that, I may need to eat occasionally, lest the lack of nutrition make me fall asleep over triple-deckers by Mme. de Genlis. I'm staying in the Highgate area, relatively close to the cemetery. Any recommendations for good but not luxurious fare? Most cuisines are fine (Indian, Thai, Chinese, etc.).
posted by thomas j wise at 1:45 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by thomas j wise at 1:45 PM PST - 7 comments
Verizon Me This
Is there a radical difference between Verizon pre-paid and Verizon regular contract? [more inside]
E-cards for a dying friend.
An online friend of mine is dying. He's not my closest friend or anything, but he is a cool, grumpy, interesting, funny person I am glad I have known and I am sad to see him go. He seems to very much appreciate the e-cards he has gotten so far so I would like to send him one that is not glurgy but expresses that. It can be offbeat and weird. Does anyone have suggestions? Thank you.
house me plz
I'm interning in NYC and I think my housing just fell through. How should I secure something for June 1st for <$1200 a month? [more inside]
How can I build my book club skills?
I run a book club with a friend, and I'm always impressed by how deeply and thoughtfully other folks interpret the books we read. I'd like to build this skill, but I'm not sure where to start. Examples of what we've read: The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt, My Antonia by Willa Cather, The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls, My Notorious Life by Kate Manning. [more inside]
Questions to ask when spending long hours with someone?
A friend and I travel together frequently. What are some interesting questions we can ask one another while we're hiking for hours on end? [more inside]
Convert a MySQL schema to PostgreSQL
I have a MySQL schema dump. I need to convert it to PostgreSQL. The data is not important right now; I just need to deal with the schema. [more inside]
posted by vogon_poet at 12:26 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by vogon_poet at 12:26 PM PST - 12 comments
Is it okay to want more interesting friends? Can I get them?
After years of tricky life circumstances, I don't have much of a social circle left and I probably seem like a boring workaholic loner, which totally isn't attractive to people who, well, have the kind of fun I'd like to have. Should I just make friends with available people I have little in common with, or can I be more likeable to people who already have active, interesting social lives? [more inside]
I'm going to quit this job, what do I do next?
I have been working this temp job for about 3 1/2 months. It has been pretty consistently awful. [more inside]
Recommend me an e-book reading device for mostly pdfs
I have a lot of books and articles in pdf form and I would like to read them on an eye-comforting and portable e-ink type device thing. What should I get? Ages ago I was recommended a nook, but I don't know if that's still a good choice or if I should just yield to kindle dominance. Annotation support would be nice I suppose but I'm find with just carrying a notebook and pen as well.
posted by kenko at 11:49 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by kenko at 11:49 AM PST - 13 comments
Seeking interesting stories of starting small businesses
I've wanted to start a small business (ideally a side business that I can run while keeping my day job) for a long, long time. Both for extra income, and for fun. But I don't know what I should do, and it's scary too! One thing I've found helpful so far is reading the stories of other people who have started businesses. I'd love to find more of these kinds of stories, so please suggest books, blogs, articles, or anything else I should check out! [more inside]
One night in Paris.
how can I get tickets to see the pina Bausch performance Nelken at 2pm tomorrow at the theatre chatelet? It is sold out. Is there a French stub hub? Can I easily scalp tickets at the venue?
Dual Citizenship Dilemma
My Mom was born in Portugal. I was born in Canada. I can get my Portuguese Citizenship. But will that keep me from getting a job in Astronomy? [more inside]
posted by Liger at 10:02 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by Liger at 10:02 AM PST - 8 comments
Hair. How does it work?
Please explain to me, like I'm five, how to use hair product for routine daily styling. (I'm a guy.) [more inside]
As an introvert, I struggle to meet women outside of work
I cannot seem to meet interesting women outside of work because I either scare the holy daylights out of them with my silhipence, my sexuality (I identify as a mild sado and naturally am very dominant), or my intensity. Help? [more inside]
posted by thebotanyofsouls at 9:17 AM PST - 91 comments
posted by thebotanyofsouls at 9:17 AM PST - 91 comments
Can you identify this statue that was in Berlin in 1945
This 7 minute youtube video shows colour footage of Berlin in 1945 right after the war. The whole thing is pretty cool but I'm specifically interested in identifying this statue which appears at the 2 minute mark.
I'm fairly sure it's not in Berlin anymore but maybe it is? Can anyone identify this statue? I'd like to know if it is still in the city somewhere and if not, what happened to it. Thanks!
posted by rubyrudy at 9:06 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by rubyrudy at 9:06 AM PST - 4 comments
Meeting people in Buffalo, NY is hard. How much easier in Philadelphia?
I've never actually lived in a true "big city" but based on how many meetup groups there are in Philly vs Buffalo, you'd think it would be incredibly easy. Buffalo has been a lonely city for me and not for a lack of trying. [more inside]
How can I get my roommates to clean up after themselves?
I and my spouse own a three bedroom house, and live there with four roommates, two dogs, and a dismaying number of parakeets. My roommates are generally considerate, and we work around each other as best we can, but they just will. not. clean. without someone directly telling them that it needs to be done. Since I and my spouse have the lowest tolerance for dirt, we end up doing it.
Snowflake: my roommates are my adult children and their significant others. [more inside]
Unlimited Books + Middle School Readers seems an oxymoron.
My daughter is now on a reading spree and in the middle of summer break, so I am having a tough time finding books to read. Any unlimited subscription sources? More details... [more inside]
posted by theobserver at 7:13 AM PST - 24 comments
posted by theobserver at 7:13 AM PST - 24 comments
Smartphone entertainment contingency for possible rainout
Whenever I go camping, I try to prepare for things to do just in case we get rained out and stuck at the campsite (or if it's late at night and I can't sleep or leave). I've already prepared the classic stuff (a bunch of books to read), but this is the first time I've had a smartphone with me on an extended trip! I'd love to hear suggestions of what I can put on my phone that would be a good timewaster just in case? [more inside]
In search of short wide & thin furtniture
I'm looking for a piece of furniture (a sofa table, DVD rack, bookcase, etc) to cover the exposed back of a sectional couch. Difficulty: can only be 8" deep at most. [more inside]
I can't be the only one who enjoys this..
Before unlimited long distance and minutes, cheap webcams, highspeed internet, and skype.. you could sign up for ICQ, mock up a profile of what you wanted and what you were interested in.. and find people interested in online sexual interactions, otherwise known as cybering or cybersex.. where does one go for that now? [more inside]
How does one develop refined taste, particularly in clothing?
I am trying to solve a situation which involves me regularly throwing every nice looking garment into a basket then becoming so frustrated that I put everything back then leave the store with nothing. [more inside]
posted by ihaveyourfoot at 5:51 AM PST - 22 comments
posted by ihaveyourfoot at 5:51 AM PST - 22 comments
Sole Traders / Partnership
What are the advantages and disadvantages of setting up a partnership as opposed to sole trading? (UK Tax Filter) [more inside]
Bad Idea to schedule my neurosurgery at a teaching hospital in July?
I've often heard that, if you're planning to have a non-emergency surgery done at a teaching hospital, it's best to avoid scheduling it for July; that's when all the brand-new medical graduates begin their first internships, so the level of confusion and mistakes might reasonably be expected to be a little higher than at other times. Is this still significantly true, or is it a non-issue anymore? Is there any reason it would matter more or less with neurosurgery than with with other departments? [more inside]
May 15
Botanical/poetic ways to classify/tag four-leaf clovers
I have a tumblr where I post pictures of four-leaf and other interesting clover that I find. I'm trying to come up with a (better) system for tagging the clover based on various features that make them unique including number of leaves, leaf configuration, leaf markings, leaf shape, symmetry and more. I need suggestions for tags to us as a flexible and comprehensive way to classify any interesting clover I find. Both botanical/scientific as well as more abstractly descriptive suggestions are welcome. Examples inside. [more inside]
Advice for a tall-ish mom of a short child?
My preschool-aged daughter is very short for her age. She's always been confident and happy, but, recently, she has started to realize that that all of her same-age peers are much taller than she is, and she's not happy about it.
Short women and parents of short women, what can you tell me about the experience of being a short female? What are the challenges? What are the perks? What can I do to help my daughter deal with challenges she might encounter because of her stature?
posted by TEA at 8:19 PM PST - 42 comments
posted by TEA at 8:19 PM PST - 42 comments
What open source project should I contribute to?
I want to contribute to a large, existing open source project. Which one? [more inside]
Bay Area Casual Party Venue
We're looking for somewhere to host ~60 people with catered food in early August. Nothing too fancy -- think more like a company picnic and less like a full-out gala. Preferably on the Peninsula or in South Bay. [more inside]
posted by tinymegalo at 7:55 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by tinymegalo at 7:55 PM PST - 4 comments
Quickbooks for Mac - should I use Online Banking?
I run a one-person S Corporation in California, and am using Quickbooks 2012 on a Mac. My current bookkeeper (as well as a previous one) suggested I not use Online Banking to automatically import transactions from my bank and credit cards, saying there's a lot of potential for it to mess things up. My main question: should I avoid Quickbooks for Mac's online banking? What if I upgrade to the 2015 Mac version - does it handle such things better? [more inside]
posted by mistersix at 7:49 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by mistersix at 7:49 PM PST - 6 comments
Liquid Damaged Macbook Pro Retina 15"
I have a ~2012 Retina 15" that received some unexpected water in the vent under the LCD. The LCD no longer works (no backlight, no image), however the machine functions totally fine otherwise with a HDMI display attached.
Is my best bet to sell it for parts? It seems as though a replacement logic board and installation would cost more than selling and buying a used machine.
posted by SirStan at 7:20 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by SirStan at 7:20 PM PST - 6 comments
Fat bottomed girls, they'll be riding today
What are some organized car-free bicycle rides around the United States? [more inside]
How much should I charge for freelance work?
I have been offered the chance to do some freelance work on the side while I'm on the hunt for permanent employment. But I don't know what to charge. Can you help? [more inside]
Why can't I catch fish at Mciknney Falls in Austin Texas?
Others have reported catching lots of fish, but I never have. What am I doing wrong? [more inside]
Web tool for collaboratively captioning photos?
I'm editing and typesetting my grandfather's memoir. I have many (over 100) photos of his I digitized now on my computer, but many are missing captions. What site/tool should I use to go through the photos with him? He's quite tech savvy for someone in his 90s, but he also lives across the country and it's hard for him to hear on the phone.
posted by waninggibbon at 3:17 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by waninggibbon at 3:17 PM PST - 4 comments
How to survive an urgent home-hunt in LA, as a recently disabled person?
ARGH! MOVING! I have less than 2 months to vacate my apartment, and find a new place in Los Angeles. I've moved about a dozen times over the years, but THIS time I don't even know where to begin, because all the stuff I took for granted before requires physical fitness that I no longer have, and I'm running out of time. Could use some advice! [more inside]
Flying w/ equipment into the US - Duties, Brokers and Customs, oh my.
I am flying a contractor to Montreal today to pick up some very important, time-sensitive packages for my business, and then flying him back to the US tomorrow with the parcels.
I'm really out of my element here and it's super critical that the delivery go off without a hitch. Please help walk me through the process of retrieval, customs, dealing with agents and brokers, paying duties, etc. [more inside]
Can someone ID this font?
I've used this font previously but the name escapes me, and font ID apps are failing. Anyone got a name?
http://www.silvermtstringband.com/images/the-silver-mountain-band.jpg
posted by klinefelter at 2:35 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by klinefelter at 2:35 PM PST - 4 comments
Why do certain web sites load slowly from our office?
There are certain web sites (e.g. www.amd.com) which load incredibly slowly from our office. On the same laptops from anywhere else they load fine. What gives? [more inside]
posted by NailsTheCat at 2:27 PM PST - 20 comments
posted by NailsTheCat at 2:27 PM PST - 20 comments
The Trouble with Answered Prayers
I met someone on a dating site five months ago, who turned out to be alcoholic. Despite all odds, and both of us trying to resist the other because of this--we talked openly about it--we ended up getting involved and slowly got closer and closer. Finally, he stopped drinking, turned to AA, and effectively disappeared, at which point my abandonment issues kicked in. Help me understand what happened to him, and how to soothe myself in the aftermath. Apologies for the wall of text within. [more inside]
posted by Puppetry for Privacy at 2:07 PM PST - 17 comments
posted by Puppetry for Privacy at 2:07 PM PST - 17 comments
Snowflake salary negotiation
I'm in the process of negotiating a job offer. I am a software engineer living in NY. The proposed salary seems a bit low to me. I'd like help understanding what to counter with and how to back it up. [more inside]
Do VCs help or harm Silicon Valley?
It is assumed by virtually everyone that venture capitalists are, in aggregate, a force for good in Silicon Valley and San Francisco. I suspect that VCs may be a net negative force because their relentless drive to invest in blockbuster companies to get massive returns results in a lot of human, social and capital waste. How might I obtain some reliable data to help make a reasonably accurate assessment? I'm okay with being wrong; I just have no evidence that all the VC cheerleaders are right. How do I get evidence? [more inside]
posted by Bella Donna at 1:19 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by Bella Donna at 1:19 PM PST - 13 comments
Why is my hair turning into springy noodles at the ends?
Can anyone tell me why my hair is turning squiggly/ zig-zaggy at the ends? [more inside]
Your favorite winery in Paso Robles, CA?
We're going to Paso this weekend! There's some recs on the Green from 8 years ago but many tasting rooms have closed and opened since then. What's your favorite winery to visit in the Paso area? (If you have a favorite coffee shop in San Luis Obispo that would be great to know too!)
posted by rednikki at 12:45 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by rednikki at 12:45 PM PST - 9 comments
How to find part-time fulfilling jobs
I'm looking for a new job. I've been a library assistant for years and I'm tired of the stultifying atmosphere and conservative coworkers. This is partly made worse by my current work environment which I've loathed ever since I moved like 2 years ago. It just so conservative and small-minded, the kind of place where someone finishing the milk without replacing it would be the source of recrimination and speculation for weeks. [more inside]
Where is the Best Zero Gravity Experience? It's Mr. Kalatraz's Birthday!
Mr. Kalatraz always wanted to be an astronaut and it's not looking good for that. He's still fascinating by the whole zero gravity thing, so for his upcoming landmark birthday, I'd like for him to have a genuine zero gravity experience.
I know nothing about said experiences. We are in the Midwestern US but will travel domestically. Can you help, mefites?
How to rebuild and move on when everything you ever knew is gone
I've discovered that I have a taste for stories of people leaving insular communities. Do you have a favorite memoir, movie, or other story about such a person? [more inside]
posted by faethverity at 12:01 PM PST - 29 comments
posted by faethverity at 12:01 PM PST - 29 comments
Is giving out the last 4 of your SSN bad?
Just gave the last 4 digits of my social to a recruiter who contacted me about an open position at a big company. I did it without thinking and now I am concerned I've done a bad thing. Recruiter said that big company uses that number to track me in their application system. Is this a normal practice on the part of recruiters or did I just screw up the safety of my SSN? If the latter, what do I do?
Best Macbook for a new computer science student on a moderate budget
What it says on the tin: I'm starting a professional Master's program in computer science this summer. I've decided to get a new laptop, since right now I have a 5-year-old Macbook that I do no serious work on, due to the oldness and slowness (and small screen). [more inside]
posted by easter queen at 11:50 AM PST - 17 comments
posted by easter queen at 11:50 AM PST - 17 comments
Can you help me find more music that sounds like this music?
Boy howdy do I like this song, "Unfeeling Feeling" by Braindead. This is a band that not only 1) no longer exists but 2) didn't really make anything else I can find that sounds like this anyway. But! I can recall hearing stuff like this, you know, *around*, I just couldn't tell you where! If anyone is willing to help me figure out what I've been missing, please please please let me know. Thanks!
Another "which tablet should I buy?" question
Main uses: Reading (& some marking up of) pdfs. Reading books. Presenting power-point slides on a projector. Taking notes. Web browsing.
Potential other uses: word processing, sketching, and maybe even laptop replacement for light work. Additional info:
I'm a very content user of Android on my smartphone, but I do most of my work in Windows. I was leaning towards an Android tablet or 2-in-1, but now I'm wondering about a Windows 8.1 one.
Female singers with male backing vocalists?
I really can't think of good examples of songs where women have the lead vocals and a man / group of men only jump in for the chorus / the la-la-las / whatever. (There's a song on Exile In Guyville, but that's all I've got.) Please help me out with some tunes. Thanks!
Skin Care? Huh?
Good resources or tips, or both, for learning sight-singing?
I'm going to be auditioning for a chorus in August, and I'd really like to brush up on my sight-singing, since that's part of the audition. I had rather not take a class, so I'm looking for other resources. Snowflakes inside. [more inside]
posted by holborne at 10:35 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by holborne at 10:35 AM PST - 3 comments
Problems getting up in the morning. Very frustrated!
Lately, I have been caught in a very frustrating chain. Sometimes I wonder why I even set my alarm, because I always smack the snooze, often multiple times, and usually wake up at a less than desirable time, feeling bad about it. [more inside]
Where to get beer I like in Italy?
So what are some good beer makers for me to look out for in Italy, and what particular bars or restaurants have good beer selections in Rome and Venice? My preferred styles are IPA, Belgian ales, stout; but anything that has some depth of flavor is good, especially if it is rooted in local/regional brewing traditions. Just not flavorless lager! [more inside]
I have a potential buyer for my house. Do I need a realtor?
After a couple of meetings and tours of my house, a neighbor's sister is going to be making an offer on my house later tonight (via a scheduled phone call). I don't have a realtor, because I am just in the beginning stages of putting the house on the market. [more inside]
How does this scam work?
My boyfriend almost got scammed by a recruiter who said he would get him a job on a ferry in Europe. How does this scam work? I'm also a little worried that this person now has our personal information. [more inside]
posted by Lingasol at 8:49 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by Lingasol at 8:49 AM PST - 10 comments
Snap, Crackle, Pop
I'd like to know how to do a particular type of hand gesture. It's a casual gesture of conclusion, sort of like dusting off your hands. In this gesture, one hand falls into the other generating a little percussive sequence like snapping your fingers, cracking your knuckles and clapping your hands all in close succession. It only takes about a second to execute. Does this type of gesture have a name? Can you help me deconstruct the motions?
How to fix serialization and stream corruption errors in Java program?
I'm pretty new to programming and I'm trying to resolve an issue with a java-based program I'm using for a research project. I've downloaded/installed the program files and updated the directories, but when I run the program I get an "InvalidClassException" error. The bigger problem is that when I try to define my "serialversionUID" I get another error: "StreamCorruptedException". I'm running the program in my terminal on my Mac. I'm not sure what I'm doing wrong or how to get the program to run. Any help would be greatly appreciated. [more inside]
posted by jharrison at 8:01 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by jharrison at 8:01 AM PST - 5 comments
How long can I wait on a job offer?
I recently interviewed for two tenure track positions in a STEM field at two local community colleges. The one I want less is probably going to make a decision first. How long can I ask them to wait? [more inside]
Double Vision (Monocular Diplopia)
For the past 6 months or so I’ve been having a problem with double vision after a day of work in front of a computer screen. This is monocular diplopia, that is, double vision that still occurs when one eye is closed (it’s about equal in both eyes). I’ve seen an ophthalmologist who said it appeared to be caused by dry spots on my corneas and the artificial tears he had me tried don’t seem to alleviate the double vision. Has anyone dealt with anything similar? [more inside]
Volume Descriptor Sequences in DVD manufacturing
DVD authoring question: How do I fix the error “Volume Descriptor Sequences are not equivalent”? [more inside]
posted by transient at 7:08 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by transient at 7:08 AM PST - 4 comments
Toddler bedtime playlist
Suggestions for songs to add to a toddler bedtime playlist? [more inside]
Jacques Pepin everyday egg breakfast
I'm trying to recall a cooking method. I saw it mentioned on, I believe, Top Chef within the past few seasons. I'm pretty sure it was Jacques Pepin, and he mentioned that his daily breakfast was a soft-boiled egg he prepared in a mug, possibly in a microwave. It basically seemed like a hack of his eggs en cocotte recipe. [more inside]
Confusingly expensive hotels in San Francisco
So after a lifetime of wanting to visit the US, I've been invited to a conference in Pasadena in September, and so am tagging on a week of holiday at the end. I really want to go to San Francisco and explore the surrounding area, however looking at hotels, ones that are in guides or previous AskMeFi posts as being around $100-150 per night are coming up as $300-400 per night, so 4-5 nights of stay is around $1000. [more inside]
posted by litereally at 5:48 AM PST - 31 comments
posted by litereally at 5:48 AM PST - 31 comments
Things to do north of SF?
I'll be driving north of San Francisco up the coast. I'll stay in Mendocino and Crescent City, and will stay in Redding on the way down. What should I do? Whales would be cool. I love oysters and seafood. I plan on seeing the redwoods, but haven't decided where. I'll also check out Lassen. But beyond that, I'd love suggestions!
What to think about when building a greenhouse
We're going to build a greenhouse from a kit in the garden, around 16 sq meters (around 170 sq feet) in size, probably rectangular and with a regular peaked roof. It will be used mostly for herbs and vegetables, and starting the garden plants in the spring. We haven't owned a greenhouse before, so we need some assistance with the different design decisions: [more inside]
Explain fast food pricing to me like I'm 5 years old.
I ordered a meal in a Burger King a couple of days ago and it was over $12. I ordered the exact same thing in a different city today and it was about $8.50. Explain this to me. Obviously, meat and potatoes are not the only thing being factored into that price difference. [more inside]
posted by Michele in California at 12:17 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by Michele in California at 12:17 AM PST - 12 comments
Click n go
We are road tripping today and have just found one seat belt isn't working. [more inside]
posted by bwonder2 at 12:07 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by bwonder2 at 12:07 AM PST - 4 comments
May 14
It's certainly not like Tumblr...
What would a culture that doesn't hate women look like? I'm looking for books, movies, works of fiction and non-fiction in various formats/media, and your own musings and imaginings. [more inside]
Apple's Spotlight isn't finding files which I know are on my computer
I rely on Apple's Spotlight search to find files on my MacBook Pro, because I am so bad at organising stuff into folders. But recently, it hasn't been working. I look for a word I know is in the file contents – like a Word doc – and it simply doesn't show up in the Spotlight results. I've tried re-indexing Spotlight but it hasn't helped. [more inside]
posted by dontjumplarry at 11:35 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by dontjumplarry at 11:35 PM PST - 3 comments
I got an Experia X10 Mini pro, but I can't get it to work
I just got a phone from Amazon; we have verified that it is unocked, but when we put the sim card in (wind provider) it doesn't work, and in the settings is has it listed as "wind away" as though it thinks that I am out of their signal range. [more inside]
posted by 5_13_23_42_69_666 at 10:57 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by 5_13_23_42_69_666 at 10:57 PM PST - 5 comments
Why does my stupid body hurt so much?
After years of mysterious pains in my side, treatment for colon cancer in 2014 and a colonoscopy yesterday, last night I ended up in the ER howling in agony for hours. My doctors aren't really sure what happened. YAobviouslyNMD, but I'm hoping the smarties of Ask Metafilter can offer some ideas about what the hell is going on with my stupid goddamned body. [more inside]
Small Amplifier
I'm looking for a small, simple amplifier to drive bookshelf speakers [more inside]
Am I Too Fast Or Is He Too Slow? Or Both or Neither?
I recently met a man I dig, but I feel like he's being cryptic about his life. I'm not sure if I'm expecting him to open up too fast or if he is being too slow. Either way, do I cut my losses or wait and see? [more inside]
posted by mermaidcafe at 9:44 PM PST - 21 comments
posted by mermaidcafe at 9:44 PM PST - 21 comments
Replaced HD in iMac, didn't back up Windows/Bootcamp. What do I do now?
I'm an idiot. I had Applecare come out and fix a display issue, and then I asked the guy to diagnose my HD. He spoke little English, and my Korean is very, very poor (I'm in Seoul). He said it's old, so just replace it. I said okay, with little thought. [more inside]
posted by Joseph Gurl at 9:00 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by Joseph Gurl at 9:00 PM PST - 5 comments
How should I engage with my partner's strong Russian nationalism?
My partner is Russian and fairly nationalistic about it. He and I (and sometimes some of our mutual friends) occasionally tangle over statements he makes, increasingly now with the situation in Ukraine. I'm not entirely sure of the best way to reduce these conflicts, if I even should, and I would be super thankful for any advice. [more inside]
posted by daelin at 8:45 PM PST - 22 comments
posted by daelin at 8:45 PM PST - 22 comments
Not invited to the wedding
My brother-in-law invited my wife and my kids to his wedding, but not me. This evening, he texted my wife asking her to do a reading at the wedding. She's going to say yes. I feel amazingly resentful. Help. [more inside]
What can I do in Philadelphia for 3 hours?
I have three short hours (during rush hours) while waiting for a connecting flight at the airport, how to optimize that time?
Where (online) can I find New Zealand newspaper articles from 1968?
My mother and her sister were involved in a dramatic mountain rescue in New Zealand in 1968. I'd like to be able to read the newspaper articles about the event, but I can't find online sources for NZ later than 1945. Are there other places I could look to find the articles? [more inside]
posted by girlgenius at 6:40 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by girlgenius at 6:40 PM PST - 12 comments
Hotel for San Francisco Pride
I've never tried to book a hotel room during an event as big as SF pride and I'm having difficulties finding somewhere for 5 or 6 people to stay 45 days in advance. Our fav motel (Becks Motor Lodge) is full for Pride Weekend (June 27th+28th). Most other places seem to be as well. General or SF-specific tips for finding a room for the night would be really helpful. [more inside]
posted by Strass at 6:17 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by Strass at 6:17 PM PST - 10 comments
Bar Mitzvah giftiquette - long distance edition
Much to my pleasant surprise, today in the mail I received an invite from one of my oldest friends to his son's Bar Mitzvah celebration. They live thousands of miles away, I'm sure they don't expect me to make an appearance, but it seems . . . . . inadequate . . . . . to just check the "no" box on the RSVP card. More context below, but the TL;DR is -- what, if anything, would be an appropriate Bar Mitzvah gift for a young man that I barely know? Or should I just send a card to sort of the whole family? [more inside]
posted by soundguy99 at 5:53 PM PST - 17 comments
posted by soundguy99 at 5:53 PM PST - 17 comments
How do I deal with not having any sort of life plan?
I have no direction in life and I find it hard to do anything useful as a result, because it feels very pointless otherwise. Should I try to generate one ASAP or just go with the flow, and if it's the latter, how do I reconcile that? [more inside]
Javascript is the new assembly language -- why not the JS VM?
There has been a rash of new languages (CoffeeScript, TypeScript, Dart) targeting JavaScript as their backend for running in a browser. My question is--why target JavaScript and not the JavaScript VM? [more inside]
Best TV options on PC
I'd like to stop torrenting the TV shows I follow and be able to pay for them on the up and up. I don't want to stream shows, for a variety of reasons. The shows I watch are for the most part available as season subscriptions on Itunes. Has anyone used itunes to subscribe to shows? Is there a better option? [more inside]
Multi-channel playback from an iPad?
I'm helping a friend with an art installation that calls for 4-6 channels of spoken word audio, with speakers spread throughout the room. I could certainly drive this from a computer with an appropriate audio interface, but it would be nice to have a portable setup for the artist so I don't have to be there with a computer running a DAW to drive it. Is there such a thing as a 4-6 channel (output) interface for the iPad? I've seen plenty of 4-in/2-out options, but nothing with more than stereo output.
posted by zachlipton at 4:08 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by zachlipton at 4:08 PM PST - 2 comments
How much can I salvage termite damaged wood?
There is a well-built shed on my property that is heavily termite damaged that I want to tear down. The inside is lined with cedar paneling and I'd like to salvage as much as I can from the entire structure as I want to build a new shed there but I don't want to doom my new building to an early death. What should I do?
A coworker of mine keeps trying to get me in trouble
I think a co-worker of mine actively has it out for me. He tried to get me fired by reporting my moonlighting work. What should I do, if anything? Details inside. [more inside]
Surprise poly desires in a monogamous relationship.
My wife has recently announced that she is likely polyamorous, complete with relatively long term poly-crush, while I am... not so much. This is........ a bit of a mess. [more inside]
Dealing with lack of everything
Basically, stuff happened in the last 1-2 months and I lost everything. Currently, trying to survive and wait it out. I'm searching for any resources related to unemployment/no income that I may have missed accidentally searching on my own. [more inside]
Can you tell me what kind of bugs these are?
These little guys have just appeared in the last day or 3 in a corner of my wife's office. They're all over anything made of paper, or maybe that's just where they're most apparent.. Don't seem to bite. Smear a little on the paper when rubbed. Help? [more inside]
How would I get my hands on a bunch of the world's most worthless money?
I'd like to find out what some of the most worthless currency is in the world and then get my hands on a lot of it. Not counterfeits. The real stuff. Like where 100 dollars US is literally tens of thousands of a dollars worth of Brupals from Unobtainiastan in whatever form is most conducive to getting a briefcase's worth of seemingly high denomination bills.
So A) what currency should I be trying to get?
and B) Where would I get them?
"Well you WERE on salary but not so much anymore."
(Asking for a friend in a similar white-collar cubicle-dwelling software support position in a similar software industry.)
My friend is salaried at a large software development company. Been in the industry 20 years, been at his current job about 5 years for a large, US-based, publicly traded software company. He's concerned this is about to be changed. [more inside]
posted by tilde at 1:24 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by tilde at 1:24 PM PST - 9 comments
Plant ID help needed
I'm curious to know what this plant is - it's growing in an alley in Washington, D.C.
posted by ryanshepard at 1:18 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by ryanshepard at 1:18 PM PST - 6 comments
Doctor recommended medical marijuana today.
I have a chronic pain condition and have failed all standard treatments. Today, my doctor closed the door and straight out recommended that I seek out marijuana. I live in a state where it's not legal and have no clue how to find marijuana. Help? [more inside]
where can i get my car inspected this weekend in manhattan?
i got a ticket! "inspection sticker mutilated." i can't just get a new sticker, i have to get my car reinspected. where can i do this in manhattan this weekend? [more inside]
posted by sabh at 1:04 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by sabh at 1:04 PM PST - 5 comments
Baby don't cry?
My friend's little girl just passed the 6 month mark. She is very afraid of people and will tolerate others being nearby, but if anyone other than mom or dad try holding her it's an instant trigger for tears and screaming. My friend is trying to get the baby more used to me so I can babysit, but it's not going so well. What to do? [more inside]
Is it worth it for an Ontario freelancer to be incorporated?
About 20 years ago, I needed to set up a corporation to work freelance for a large Ontario film production company. A couple of different accountants over the years advised me to hang on to the corporation and they allocated my yearly salary as a management fee. That paradigm shifted this past year and now I'm wondering if invoicing through an incorporated entity is worth the expense and hassle. [more inside]
911 Is a Job in My Town
I'm up for a 911 operator/dispatcher position. Next week I'll participate in the ECOMM video-based simulation testing where calltaking, notes, and dispatch skills will be evaluated. Aside from doing some random Googling/reading and working on my typing, what else can I do to prep? If you've had experience in the field, do you have any tips or suggestions on how I can do my best? Are there any prep resources you'd recommend?
posted by Alvy Ampersand at 12:14 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by Alvy Ampersand at 12:14 PM PST - 2 comments
Help! Nuisance with High Pitched Noise
My second story bedroom window directly faces a dryer vent (recently installed), that sits at street level across the street. The dryer, when on, produces a high pitched noise that penetrates my home and is loud enough to record on my cell phone. This noise grates at the back of my ears and creates tension in my jaw. It will wake me up at night. [more inside]
posted by SFnative at 11:34 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by SFnative at 11:34 AM PST - 15 comments
How to surprise a child with a kitten exactly on their birthday?
Logistical masterminds and cat people: is it possible to give my son a specific breed kitten as a surprise for his birthday? [more inside]
posted by rada at 11:22 AM PST - 36 comments
posted by rada at 11:22 AM PST - 36 comments
Take A (4800 mile) Hike
My (US Citizen) husband recently indicated that he’d like me (a UK Citizen) to leave.
Where do I start? [more inside]
Good Substitute for Mary Kay Creamy Cleanser Formula 2?
People of the world who know about skincare, I need your input. I have pretty good skin (no history of acne or breakouts and not a lot of sun damage) and I have used a simple but effective cleanser for the past decade- Mary Kay's Formula 2 Cleanser, which is no longer sold. I am about to finish my last bottle as I stocked up a couple years ago just before the product was discontinued. What cleanser should I switch to for comparable results & where do I purchase it?
Poor Lame Pooch Part 2
A few weeks ago our pooch tore his ACL according to his vet. I asked this question. We have been following all the advice given. We were doing ok.
Today I let him out back while I was bringing in the groceries and heard the yelp. Now his other leg is busted too I think. I have more questions. [more inside]
Things to do in mid-coast Maine
Following up on this question, we've decided to spend a week in Camden, Maine at the beginning of August. It's not as remote as we were originally planning, but my wife really wanted to see Acadia, and the more we thought about it the more we got concerned about keeping a five year old entertained in the boondocks.
Now I'm looking for things to do... [more inside]
Flooring Before Walls or Vice Versa
Is it advisable to frame walls in basement before installing click-together laminate flooring? I am trying to keep costs down, and want to do some work before a contractor comes in to do the walls. [more inside]
Legal translation degree - legal?
I came across a distant learning master's programme that I find interesting, but wonder if it's legit and even if it is, if it's the right one for me? [more inside]
posted by LoonyLovegood at 10:14 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by LoonyLovegood at 10:14 AM PST - 8 comments
iPhone 6 - where do you keep it?
I have an iPhone 6 with the Incipio NGP case, and for the life of me I can't figure out where to put it so it doesn't drive me crazy. Also, I can barely feel it vibrate. [more inside]
yeah hell yeah
Accepted an internship that I didnt apply for, so I'm less prepared than I'd like. I need a refresher (preferably online) on inDesign and also a crash course on print production. [more inside]
posted by FirstMateKate at 10:05 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by FirstMateKate at 10:05 AM PST - 3 comments
Book of progressively harder reads
I was a reluctant reader. My parents managed to get me to "level up" my reading to chapter books with a single-volume collection of several short stories that got progressively longer and more difficult as the book progressed. I want to order some for my school library if this concept is still a thing, but what do you even call this format/genre? And do you have any good suggestions? [more inside]
Am I hurting myself in the long run, or being a good friend?
I have posted some questions before about my first relationship and would like to get some advice on whether friendship is even the right thing now. I've had conflicted feelings the entire 5 1/2 years I've known this person, and am wondering what is the right thing to do? He says he needs my support because he finally came out but could we be friends or are we going to keep hurting each other? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:31 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by anonymous at 9:31 AM PST - 19 comments
Hiking that's not too steep
Looking for hikes in New England and New York that are not hard, <4 miles round trip. [more inside]
I can't think of any new games to play, any recommendations?
I play video games pretty casually (maybe 2-3 a year) and I'm in the mood to play one now, but I can't think of anything!! I've been browsing gaming websites and I'm having trouble finding anything that appeals to me. I typically enjoy sandbox-y/first person shooters and I'm not too picky about genre (crime, sci-fi, etc.), I care a lot more about the plot and characters. [more inside]
Non-stretch Women's Jeans?
I used to have a pair of jeans I loved, but the style is no longer available, and I'm having trouble replacing it. I'm looking specifically for jeans with little to no stretch. My current jeans list the fabric as 96% cotton, 3% elastine, 1% poly, and they're okay, but I kind of like the thick, solid, almost constricting feel of non-stretch denim. Do they make decent women's jeans without stretch anymore? [more inside]
Closing my LLC -- is my liability limited?
I'm closing my LLC. Am I still on the hook for recurring expenses that were set up for the now-defunct company? Example: the LLC had a contract with an alarm company for monitoring, and there are still several years left on the contract. Does my closed LLC have to keep paying the alarm company? I'm in Washington state, if that matters. I know y'all ain't my law-talking persons, but just in principle, is this a liability that is limited?
When to buy tickets for a Christmas trip to Puerto Rico?
Planning to spend a week around Christmas in Puerto Rico with my wife and two kids. Have been watching airfare from DC - has been pretty consistent at about $350 RT. Exact days are flexible, so flying in and out on Wednesday to take advantage of cheaper mid-week fares is fine.
Do I pull the trigger and buy now, or do I have a reasonable chance to save significant dollars by waiting?
posted by COD at 8:28 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by COD at 8:28 AM PST - 3 comments
What is my PROBLEM?
Regular short periods of mild depression?/terrible procrastination/apathy about twice a month...therapist seems puzzled. What is this? Anything I can do to help me & my therapist address this? [more inside]
Help my money be responsible
How can I make my personal finances as green and as socially responsible as possible? (Other than by donating to causes.) [more inside]
Using NYC sick leave when your work is short projects?
I work project based/time sheets for a big company in NYC and I'm getting sick leave built up. But how do I use it if the chances of becoming sick on a short term project are very very small? [more inside]
Help me prepare?
I am in line to become president of a non-profit board, can you point me to some great resources? [more inside]
Do these things run down my laptop battery faster?
I wonder if having 4-5 Word files open (including 2 always, just for for convenience) will drain my Dell Inspiron 11 3000 series battery quicker than just using one file at a time.
I wonder: Does more tabs being open in a broswer mean more battery drain? Is a nonactive YouTube tab best being closed till used?
I wonder if even having calendar, weather -- stuff I seldom open -- pinned to my taskbar run the battery down more quickly.
Same question regarding having several Adobe Acrobat Reader PDFs ready at hand...just comic book pdfs.
These things take so little space on the hard drive, so I figure they'd also use less RAM than other actual heavy programs, thus would be easiest on the battery-time availability.
Correct me if I'm wrong, but having Foobar, Windows Media Player, and Spotify open at the same time will drain battery faster than having one going, as well as slow things down generally? Add to that the Word, Acrobat, a broswer...
Thanks.
posted by noelpratt2nd at 6:20 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by noelpratt2nd at 6:20 AM PST - 12 comments
Shrinking pdfs
What is the best non online tool to compress existing Pdfs? For Windows computers and not online. Paid is fine if it's highly recommended. [more inside]
Rilke quote
I read an article that claimed Rilke wrote that romantic lovers "keep on using each other to hide their own fates." Where did he write this? Googling reveals nothing except the article itself, but it may just be a non-standard translation from German.
posted by deathpanels at 5:39 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by deathpanels at 5:39 AM PST - 5 comments
How do I make my Galaxy S5 distraction-free?
I recently got my first smartphone - the Galaxy S5 - and having the web and email on my phone is way too distracting. I want to make my phone distraction-free (inspired by the distraction-free iPhone). Basically I want to stop myself from constantly checking my email and surfing the on my phone, but retain the ability to use email and the web if I really need them when I'm out. Any ideas on how to make my Galaxy S5 distraction free? [more inside]
posted by catquas at 5:12 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by catquas at 5:12 AM PST - 6 comments
Need help IDing a song
I heard a song on the radio today that I really liked, but foolishly I didn't drop everything and try to find it, and now that I've forgotten the lyrics I attempted to memorise, I need help to ID it! The station's website only shows the last 20 or so recently played songs, so it's no help. What I remember is that the song was girl group-y, almost certainly from the sixties or seventies, and that the lyrics were in part about lying—I think there was some plaintive line in the chorus accusing someone of lying or something. OBVIOUSLY this doesn't narrow things down much, but I'll listen to anything that you think fits the bill!
Can a will, or similar document, supersede a deed? Please help.
YANML. Home was willed to three siblings, two daughters and a son. One daughter relinquished her share, leaving two siblings to own the home. Remaining daughter, in order to avoid paying taxes and insurance on property, had the home's deed changed into the brother's name ONLY. Can anyone, other than deed holder, make claim to the house.
More inside. [more inside]
May 13
Identifying Malware
So I have some malware on my PC that appears to be trying to connect to all the domains in this list (or a very similar list)
https://www.google.com/fusiontables/DataSource?docid=1QWqZE2I6Vt45N4JFC5XrzUrfYkyIdT_NANNFmw [more inside]
https://www.google.com/fusiontables/DataSource?docid=1QWqZE2I6Vt45N4JFC5XrzUrfYkyIdT_NANNFmw [more inside]
Typeface with these characteristics?
I'm looking for a typeface that is preferably condensed, bold, and most importantly one where the "S" and the "2" are mirrored (or at least very similar). If it is a high-end typeface, all the better. Ideas?
posted by omar.a at 10:29 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by omar.a at 10:29 PM PST - 3 comments
Digital painting and intuitive color blending in the HSL space
I've been fooling around with Procreate a little bit recently, and it's great! But I find "blending" between two colors with the HSL-space color picker pretty difficult. Is there a smarter way of doing this that I'm missing? [more inside]
posted by invitapriore at 9:18 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by invitapriore at 9:18 PM PST - 3 comments
Help me not wreck my house.
We love our house, an 85-year-old home that was extensively remodelled, preserving much of the charm, including original A-grade fir hardwood floors, but with many improvements, including plumbing and wiring. The outside is the original cedar siding, which was sanded/filled/primed/painted about seven years ago. Now that it's in need of repainting, I'm considering whether I should paint or replace. Don't know if this wrecks the look/value of the house. Hope me! [more inside]
posted by liquado at 8:07 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by liquado at 8:07 PM PST - 8 comments
Am I over-reacting?
I met up with this guy from OkCupid two weeks ago, and he seemed really charming. We've met up around three times to do various activity-oriented things in the city. He's done a few things to set off my alarm bells, and I'm not sure it's safe to see him anymore. At the same time, maybe these things are no big deal. Details inside [more inside]
posted by MFZ at 7:51 PM PST - 80 comments
posted by MFZ at 7:51 PM PST - 80 comments
Why did my Irish ancestors leave from Liverpool instead of Londonderry?
My 3-greats grandfather departed Liverpool, England with all of his children for America and arrived here in New York on November 18, 1866. The thing is, I am as sure as I can be that he lived in Raphoe, Donegal, Ireland. Why would he go alll the way to Liverpool when Londonderry was so close? [more inside]
posted by brownrd at 7:41 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by brownrd at 7:41 PM PST - 7 comments
Chronic Compartment Syndrome treatment in Portland Oregon?
Looking for a physician in Portland, OR area to diagnose and treat chronic exertional compartment syndrome. [more inside]
Self care for the work traveller
I travel a lot for work - mostly short domestic trips. Mostly I enjoy it but sometimes the exhaustion and disruption to my usual routine becomes overwhelming. My fridge has nothing but condiments in it, my laundry pile is sky high, all my usual habits around diet, exercise and sleep are upended. I am tired of talking and tired of meeting new people and oh god, tired of sitting in cramped plane seats. If you also travel a lot for work, what do you do to take care of yourself and create a sense of continuity, wellbeing and peace wherever you happen to be? [more inside]
That's all well and good in practice
Can you help the hacked and hopeless? (Hacked site? Email?)
Hostgator says my site has been hacked but can't find where or how, and after two days and numerous calls, we're lost. Can anyone explain in teeny, tiny words what I should do next? [more inside]
posted by The Wrong Kind of Cheese at 6:54 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by The Wrong Kind of Cheese at 6:54 PM PST - 11 comments
The 1960s Female Physique
How does one attain a 1950s/1960s body? [more inside]
posted by Brittanie at 6:44 PM PST - 18 comments
posted by Brittanie at 6:44 PM PST - 18 comments
cat = dog?
My cat acts like a dog. Is it possible that he was raised by dogs? [more inside]
Monkeybrains vs. Comcast/Wave in (Mission) San Francisco
Will be moving to the Mission, trying to decide between my internet options. Monkeybrains is cheap, local, awesome, but not as fast as Comcast, who suck, are expensive, but very fast. Do you have experience with either? [more inside]
weeze. weeze. click. buzz. breathe. Help me fin a new nebulizer? weeze.
Long time asthmatic here. My portible nebulizer is over 10 years old and is coming to an end of its life. In that time nebulizers have gotten cheap (150-250 USD) in price without insurance and have changed dramatically. Ultrasonic technology and the appeal of 5 minute treatments has me very interested. [more inside]
How not to feel bad about coworker slights
My coworker is excluding me from social gatherings she has planned with other coworkers. How do I not feel so crappy about this? Am I over-reacting or being overly sensitive? [more inside]
posted by knownfossils at 5:06 PM PST - 20 comments
posted by knownfossils at 5:06 PM PST - 20 comments
Friend I barely know in need of "huge support this weekend"
A Facebook friend I hardly know posted a very suicidal post a couple days ago involving being on a bridge and wanting to jump off. Because it appeared urgent and no one else had responded in any way, I sent him a message and my phone number and told him to call me. He did call (by this time he was in a bar), and we talked for about half an hour. I have been in somewhat similar situations before, but never with someone I really don't know (we've met once), and now he has sent me a Facebook message saying "I need huge support this weekend." I need advice on how to respond. [more inside]
posted by Corduroy at 5:01 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by Corduroy at 5:01 PM PST - 16 comments
Non-working radiator fan in 96' Accord.
Are a non-working radiator fan and non-working AC system related? I'll list more in depth what I've checked so far below. [more inside]
Can I throw away my pennies?
In the United States, it is illegal for me to throw my pennies into public trash cans?
posted by mrgrimm at 4:30 PM PST - 21 comments
posted by mrgrimm at 4:30 PM PST - 21 comments
Replacements for Hipster International playlist on Spotify?
What are some good replacements for the Hipster International playlist on Spotify, which seems to have stopped updating? [more inside]
Photo hosting and printing for 3rd parties, without my involvement?
I took photos at an event, and I want people to be able to order prints, but without involving me. Bonus points for a site that will allow for additional watermarking if a 3rd party wants it. Details inside. [more inside]
posted by filthy light thief at 4:14 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by filthy light thief at 4:14 PM PST - 2 comments
What's up with a car rental at Dublin airport?
I will be renting a car at Dublin airport in mid-july, and driving to near Galway.
The prices online are insanely low. I frankly do not believe them. [more inside]
Have vs Has
It's not important at all, but it bothers me! Yes, I know something's wrong with me. But which is correct? And why? [more inside]
recommended General and pediatric surgery books/periodicals List
What are the best textbooks/periodicals in general and pediatric surgery ? [more inside]
Theme party ideas for an academic department cocktail hour?
I need ideas for party themes for a small, semi-regular academic department's cocktail party. We're talking ~50 people, a mix of students and faculty and staff. But I'm rapidly running out of theme ideas, and having a really hard time finding ideas online that aren't either massively culturally appropriative or sexually suggestive/misogynistic (thanks, frat parties). Please help! [more inside]
Women's sandals
I want a pair of sandals similar to this or this - flat, made of thin straps of real leather, with an interesting strap design but no other embellishment. For some reason, I can't seem to find them anywhere. [more inside]
Is there a TV guide covering all online streaming services?
Those of you with a Roku / Chromecast / Apple TV / etc. probably know the drill – you spend more time browsing listings trying to find something you want to watch, than actually watching something. (And browsing with a TV remote is a tedious, ineffective chore.) Does an independent, comprehensive TV guide exist? [more inside]
Best Way to Organize Wedding Memorabilia
I'd like to find a pretty way to preserva all sorts of lovely cards/notes/etc. from our wedding. Difficulty level: so not crafty! [more inside]
Dating storm in a teacup
A friend of mine just asked me about a guy I had a long weekend visit with; seeing us together one evening, she assumed he was very into me and that I was totally uninterested. That was really not the case, but it might shed light on why he has been fading since he left (I kind of hope it does!). Can you help me make sense of this (and myself)? [more inside]
posted by laceysocks at 2:00 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by laceysocks at 2:00 PM PST - 12 comments
A Matter of Life and Debt (Collectors)
A while ago, I stopped paying off an old credit card from college - I couldn't afford the payments for a while. However, once things did look better for me financially, I had forgotten about the debt. I also moved, meaning I did not receive any letters that were sent. The balance is well under $500; I know the exact amount of this debt. I just got two phone calls from debt collectors and caved to one. Did I handle this situation correctly? [more inside]
Help me find new eyeglass frames
I'm so in love with my current glasses, and I can't let go. Unfortunately, they are no longer made. Help me find something new! [more inside]
Help me find an mp3 of a song?
I am trying to find the mp3 of a song from a youtube video. Is there a service like TinEye, but for music? Alternately, is this something you wonderful MeFites could help me find? I'm looking for the music in this video. Thanks! [more inside]
posted by chatongriffes at 1:19 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by chatongriffes at 1:19 PM PST - 6 comments
Navigating Health Insurance in Washington?
My girlfriend (domestic partner, not registered) has had a ton of trouble navigating the new health insurance landscape. The application process this year was confusing as hell. Today we tried to take her in to see her regular doctor of many years, only to be turned away because now that she's on state insurance, her doc can't see her even if we want to pay out of pocket. This is turning traumatic. We need to find someone or someplace to help us sort this out. Help? [more inside]
The State of Condos in Seattle
So I'm considering purchasing a condo in Seattle (Ballard, specifically), but I'll be moving cross-country in doing so, and I'm unfamiliar with the local market. A friend who lives there suggested that condos aren't popular in the greater Seattle area, and that they're hard to sell once purchased. Is that true? In general, how is the market for condos in Seattle? [more inside]
Get That Juicy Double
Help me make the perfect hamburger! I'm new to making my own hamburger patties, and am looking for tips to making the best beef burgers. [more inside]
Phone in Guatemala?
I'm going to Guatamala for a few weeks, in two weeks! I'll be at language school in Xela. For various reasons, I'd very much like to have a cell phone with podcast-playing capability while I'm there; I also use a meditation podcast when I fly and would very much like to have that available to me while I'm getting there and leaving. How should I go about making this happen? I currently have an iPhone with Verizon within the US, would be fine getting something new for the few weeks I'm there. Money is not limitless, but this is a pretty big deal for me so I can be flexible.
Received an termination/eviction notice. Now what?
I'm still waiting for tenant lawyers to get back to me, but I don't know what to do. We've been given 2 weeks to vacate the premises and it was a complete shock. [more inside]
Cannabis for pain
I am embarrassingly new to pot, medical or otherwise. It seems to be helping with my pain, but I really don't know what I'm doing. [more inside]
Should I use a general contractor for home repairs (not renovation)?
I just bought a 100-year old house in Seattle. The inspector had pointed out various things that need fixing with regard to the structure, plumbing, electrical, and heating systems. A very rough estimate for all of the important fixes put together would run about $20-30K, which is OK. I'm also OK with waiting a couple months before moving in to get the bulk of these repairs done. But I've never owned a house before and don't really know where to start.
Should I use a general contractor to get these things done? [more inside]
posted by splitpeasoup at 10:43 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by splitpeasoup at 10:43 AM PST - 7 comments
Win7 Computer can't see other Win7 comp on 4 computer network?
Doing phone support (no physical access) Windows 7 network... 4 computers...
Let's call them Laptop, Front, Data1, Data2.
The original call was for a computer (Front) that couldn't see the local network or the internet. After playing around with it, having them replug wifi adapter, loading the "Netgear Genie" software and doing ipconfig /release and ipconfig /renew, I got it so that the computer could see the internet and 3 out of 4 computers on the local network/workgroup. [more inside]
posted by symbioid at 10:25 AM PST - 1 comment
posted by symbioid at 10:25 AM PST - 1 comment
How do I stop worrying about my loved ones getting hurt?
I can't stop envisioning scenarios in which people I care about get into horrific car/train/plane accidents or get sick and die. How do I accept my powerlessness to protect my loved ones 100% beyond the shadow of a doubt and just live with it? [more inside]
Issues with dropping rabies shots for an older dog?
At our 10-year-old Standard Poodle's last yearly checkup his vet mentioned that he was old enough that they no longer advised vaccinating, making the point that he was old enough that vaccine complications made the risk of vaccinating more significant, and advised that we drop the vaccines. I'm looking for a reality check with other pet owners on how this might conflict with various social logistics around vaccinations... [more inside]
posted by handful of rain at 9:43 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by handful of rain at 9:43 AM PST - 14 comments
Help me find an expert in stylometry and forensic linguistics
I'm working on a project that focuses on determining authorship of a well-known work in pop culture. I have anecdotal evidence of authorship, but need to back it up with science. It's along the lines of the work done to discover that J.K. Rowling was the author of The Cuckoo's Calling, writing under the pen name Robert Galbraith. [more inside]
posted by bassomatic at 9:30 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by bassomatic at 9:30 AM PST - 6 comments
Can I live? [in Atlanta]
Tell me if or how I could like living in Atlanta. [more inside]
Stuff to do in/near New Haven?
Hey, y'all! I've gotten a short-notice approval to go to a professional conference in New Haven, Connecticut. The conference ends on a Friday afternoon, and I'd like to take the next couple days to poke around in the area before returning home. Any recommendations as to what a solo female should do over a weekend in that neck of the woods? Thanks!
teasing boyfriend just won't stop
I've been in a serious relationship for almost 4 years. it was very toxic at times but we have been working very hard and diligently to recognize and change things to make us work. Anyhow in the past my 43 year old boyfriend has begun teasing me by flicking me, pulling my pants down while I'm either just talking to him or go up to hug him, he will flick me hard with the dishrag, poke me until I get mad, kick me when we are walking although not hard, constantly undo my bras strap many times a day, sometimes mock me when I talk.... Anyhow you get my point. [more inside]
posted by miranda at 6:41 AM PST - 374 comments
posted by miranda at 6:41 AM PST - 374 comments
Help me ask a woman out. Easy, right?
I need help asking a woman out for the first time since the "opening" of my marriage. [more inside]
Publishing/Self-Publishing a kids storybook - where to start?
A friend and I are planning to put together a children's book. Where do we start with finding a way to put it out? [more inside]
How to deal with a diva? This is really freaking me out...
A few years ago I interviewed a locally-based but internationally-known folk musician about her life and work. Her stories were great and I thought she should write a memoir, but she said he didn't have the time. So I volunteered to help. [more inside]
What to read after In Real Life?
My 7yo son and I recently finished Doctorow & Wang's "In Real Life". He loved it (so did I), I think because of the mix of gaming with a good, character driven story, but he's bummed that we finished it.
What should we read now? [more inside]
posted by signal at 4:30 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by signal at 4:30 AM PST - 5 comments
Talent Show Ideas
I need ideas for a talent show that a friend hosts. It's just for fun, more of an excuse to get a bunch of different people together and have a few drinks, but I would prefer not to look like a complete fool. Last year I read a few sections of my favourite Terry Pratchett book (The Last Continent) but I can't do that again (if nothing else it would end with me in tears) ... this year I need some ideas (restrictions and more information inside). [more inside]
Homework and vegetables girlfriend. Bleh
I'm not jealous of the other women, I'm jealous of how they make him feel. What do? [more inside]
May 12
How can I clear my head and focus on what I am doing?
Advice on how to concentrate when depression and anxiety are a mental distraction. [more inside]
How much should I ask for caricatures?
I'm trying my hand at caricatures for parties. I've done an event (for free) and gotten really good feedback, but I have no idea what sort of rate I should be asking for. I want to do kids' parties. Any suggestions? [more inside]
posted by biddeford at 9:57 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by biddeford at 9:57 PM PST - 7 comments
Is this quote for electrical work reasonable?
I just got an estimate for electrical work that needs to be done in my apartment, and am wondering if it is high. I'm also looking for recommendations for other electricians whom I can contact. Details inside. [more inside]
Internet safety for the elementary school set?
How do I protect my small from teh pr0n? [more inside]
Help me help my hair
What are the best products to use for my thick, curly hair? [more inside]
Help me find this vintage camera strap!
Please help me find my husband's dad's 1970s era camera strap online. [more inside]
posted by makonan at 9:07 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by makonan at 9:07 PM PST - 8 comments
What are airlines looking for when hiring for customer service?
How do I get hired by an airline to work in customer service? I want to know what level of education and experience I need, what their ideal applicant looks like, and any pros and cons of the job. [more inside]
Eat the cherries off the top?
What’s a good metaphor for taking what you want and leaving the rest? Eat the icing and put the rest of the cupcake back on the plate? Eat the inside of the Oreo and put the rest back? Pick out all the cashews and leave the peanuts? I know there's a popular expression, I just can't remember what it is.
Why are there so many old barns
I live in southern Alberta Canada and love driving around on backroads. I have noticed that in the farm areas there are lots and lots of old barns. Lots of them are literally falling down with their roofs collapsed, too old to store anything in, and still remain next to the farmer's new barn. We were wondering why there are so many that haven't been torn down? [more inside]
posted by photoexplorer at 7:38 PM PST - 17 comments
posted by photoexplorer at 7:38 PM PST - 17 comments
DIY fix on a concrete floor crack.
What are best practices for filling a long, dry 1/16" wide crack in my basement floor? [more inside]
posted by slateyness at 6:42 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by slateyness at 6:42 PM PST - 7 comments
Help me decipher this Inverness, Scotland place name
I have obtained a birth record from Inverness, Inverness-shire Scotland from April 1824. I can read it all except the following word at the beginning: "Donald Chisholm (Farmer, "XXXX") It could be a farm, burg, town, street or something else. Any ideas? Thanks!
Help me find a very specific episode of This American Life.
I'm looking for a segment from This American Life to have a friend listen to, because the story is oddly specific to her life.
The segment is about a man and a woman who were at one point married, but then divorced, because the husband suffered from a type of delusional disorder where he believed his wife was sleeping around with just about everyone. The interview was from the perspective of the woman, since the man had moved on to a new woman, and presumably would take up the same course of actions with her (the wife's words [paraphrasing here]). I've looked through the tags on TAL's website and even searched by air date back, but I think that the part I'm looking for was fairly short within the context of the episode itself. IIRC, in the same episode, one of the presenters on TAL talked with a woman who was sort of a secret agent, maybe met her in a bar, and followed her around for a bit. I know for certain that that part was in the same episode.
If anyone out there can hope me find this episode, I would forever be in your internet debt!
posted by ThaBombShelterSmith at 4:36 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by ThaBombShelterSmith at 4:36 PM PST - 4 comments
Getting a replacement title for a mobile home in North Carolina.
I'm not sure how many people will have had experience with this, but... as the title says, I need a replacement title for a mobile home I own in North Carolina so that I can transfer it to another person. I am aware that the DMV can facilitate the transfer between the two of us in person; however, the buyer's schedule prohibits this. More details below. [more inside]
What is the best way to both display and safely store rare books?
I am finally beginning to get serious about a first editions book collection. I see a lot of conflicting information online about book storage, even from 'experts'. [more inside]
posted by basehead at 4:28 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by basehead at 4:28 PM PST - 8 comments
Calling all remote adventurers
Where do you travel to feel like you're the only travelers in a peaceful oasis? What I'd really love is an amazing sense of remoteness and quiet. [more inside]
Repairing holes in concrete to be used again.
I drilled two uneven holes in a cement wall. Is there a compound that can fill the hole and withstand re-drilling? [more inside]
Help me buy some cleats
I'm looking for wood cleats to hang some prints and a piece of fabric. [more inside]
"Scraping" a website for a particular email address?
This is for work, honest. We've had instructions to delete a generic email address as all enquiries sent to it (about one every three months) are going to be redirected elsewhere. [more inside]
MAME me
I'm looking to build an upright MAME console from a kit. I have a budget of about $700-900 total, including the screen and PC and any other bits and pieces I'd need. I'd like a dual joystick setup with a trackball. I have no idea what's out there, other than what Google searches show me, and I don't know what the "gotchas" are. What are the best options for doing this, with the budget in mind? What issues should I watch out for?
posted by a lungful of dragon at 2:46 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by a lungful of dragon at 2:46 PM PST - 11 comments
Adopting and maintaining cis privilege as someone who is trans
My husband and I are talking about starting a family in a year or two, when we’ve paid off some debt. At this point I'm just beginning to do research and figure out how the process works, but I am curious if my situation will be a stumbling block. [more inside]
posted by polywomp at 12:57 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by polywomp at 12:57 PM PST - 10 comments
Home Depots around the world
How do hardware stores differ from country to country? [more inside]
What does this passport say?
This is my uncle's passport. It was issued in 1949. He was originally from Aleppo, Syria, but he lived elsewhere. I'm not certain what some of the words are (in French and in Arabic) on his passport. [more inside]
posted by jdl at 12:52 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by jdl at 12:52 PM PST - 8 comments
*Stares unblinkingly*
I just realized that I really enjoy stories -- both fiction and nonfiction, and across all media and genres (movies, books, journalism, etc) -- about or featuring extremely focused people. Whether dedicated, pared-down, driven, or even obsessive, sympathetic or sinister, they fascinate me. (Examples inside.) I'd love recommendations for stories, articles, and other materials about people like this: [more inside]
Name this drum sound of the late '90s
I'm trying to identify the drums used on a lot of music of the late '90s.
Three songs that have this drum sound are Lullaby by Shawn Mullins, Short Change by E-Z Rollers, and Woke Up This Morning by Alabama 3. [more inside]
posted by Megnusin at 12:23 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by Megnusin at 12:23 PM PST - 12 comments
Please help cure my gaming malaise
I play a lot of PC action games, but I'm kind of bored of the same old junk. I'd like to play a relaxed, slow-paced strategy game. [more inside]
posted by selfnoise at 12:20 PM PST - 24 comments
posted by selfnoise at 12:20 PM PST - 24 comments
Toddler Battle 2015
Two toddlers walk into a share... One is named "Grabby" and the other "Bitey." How can I determine if the daily, and escalating, battles of these 1 1/2 year olds is too stressful? Could this just be like the love/hate that usually takes place between siblings? [more inside]
I want to be the things I see: Denver Edition
I want to experience Denver as an entrenched local rather than a tourist. Any suggestions? [more inside]
posted by Young Kullervo at 11:56 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by Young Kullervo at 11:56 AM PST - 13 comments
Outlook Prints Emails As A Column of Single Characters
Outlook automatically formats some nested messages as very narrow columns a single character wide. I need to print out several such messages and I'm unable to format these properly. [more inside]
posted by I Foody at 11:32 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by I Foody at 11:32 AM PST - 4 comments
Summer Jams—International Edition
It’s getting to be summer, when a young man’s thoughts turn inevitably to aw yiss summer jams. But I’ve been hearing awesome US summer jams for nigh 40 summers now, and I would like exposure to non-US summer jams. I’ve applied my sun block, packed my beach towel, and I want you to take me on a summer jam journey around the world. [more inside]
Two roads diverged...and, like, what should I do now?
Trying to figure out the next career move. Please, total strangers, help me? *Snowflakes inside* [more inside]
Macbook Air powerful enough for Adobe CS Photoshop?
Macbook Air powerful enough for Adobe CS Photoshop? [more inside]
Can I or how do I sharpen this meat grinder blade?
I have a venerable Moulinex "Jeanette 243" grinder, with a very old blade, which I'm not sure how to sharpen [more inside]
posted by Dext at 10:53 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by Dext at 10:53 AM PST - 4 comments
MeFi, help me name my new dog?
Polaroid 55 film? what cheapish, obtainable camera for a novice?
I want to try messing around with large format Polaroids if this is at possible in 2015. I like the image quality, depth of field, and cool edges, but don't want to try and fake the funk with photoshop filters. Is the Impossible Project or anyone else doing 55 film? What's a good camera for cheap (ish) that will work for this? Do I need a darkroom or any sort of setup for this? Would love your experience and advice.
posted by tremspeed at 10:44 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by tremspeed at 10:44 AM PST - 5 comments
Cheap and "good enough" projector for backyard?
I would love to find an LCD projector for occasional outdoor use (one movie a week in the summer). I am on a tight budget and wonder what people would recommend.All I really care/need is... [more inside]
posted by The Hyacinth Girl at 10:42 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by The Hyacinth Girl at 10:42 AM PST - 5 comments
What's Yours Like? Bridal Shower Edition.
I'd like to play a few rounds of "What's Yours Like" at the bridal shower I'm hosting this weekend. Please help me think of wedding/domestic/romantic guess words to use in the game. Difficulty: not everyone is married or even coupled. [more inside]
Federal Employment Program for Persons with Disabilities
I'm on a low-level job hunt - I have a decent job, but I'd like to relocate closer to my family sometime in the next couple years. I'm also HIV+. I've never been sick and never considered myself 'disabled.' However, I just learned that being positive might qualify me for non-competitive recruitment for positions I'm applying for under the Federal Employment Program for Persons with Disabilities. [more inside]
Stepdaughter (13) started shaving all pubes. Should I talk to her?
Her father told me about the pubes when he discovered her shaving in the shower a few weeks ago. He asked her to stop doing it, but I’ve since seen her undressed and she continues to shave it all off. Around the same time as this started she announced that she now has a boyfriend, also 13. [more inside]
Annuity or Stocks for Retirement?
We are approaching retirement and the Fidelity rep is recommending we put about half our nest egg into an annuity for peace of mind. Other people said not to buy an annuity. What do you say? [more inside]
Help me return to the marital bed
Lately, I have been having trouble sharing the bed with my husband. I want to be able to return there... [more inside]
GenCon for the First Timer.
So we're heading to GenCon for the first time this year. I am looking for tips, tricks or just plain survival strategies, to get the most from the event. [more inside]
I'm interested in existential psychotherapy
I'm interested in existential psychotherapy. What are the most accessible for the layperson texts out there about it?
Tell me some "Good Guy Ed Sheeran" stories
As an aging curmudgeon, I was predisposed to resist Ed Sheeran's ubiquity and popularity with the kids (like I do with One Direction and the like). But by all accounts - literally, ALL accounts that I have found so far - he is a cool and humble and gracious and funny guy, and the story of how he worked his way to success is real. Googling for stories about him gives a deluge of stuff, so I ask here: are there some good specific stories or quotes or actions that demonstrate that he is a "good guy"? (Or if I am wrong in my assessment, are there stories showing the opposite?)
I think I might've killed Yew.
In the early spring I severely pruned some very large and very old Yew bushes. I cut them down to old wood, with no remaining green growth. I had heard they were hardy and would sprout from old wood, but it's been over a month now and I've still just got a bunch of shrub-shaped brown sticks out there. Did I kill them? [more inside]
posted by RingerChopChop at 8:36 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by RingerChopChop at 8:36 AM PST - 4 comments
Bach to the future
Could you share with me recordings of Bach's works played on instruments from different time periods? [more inside]
Forest, trees, career, burnout.
I’ve been a copywriter for 10 years and I’ve done well. I climbed the ranks… and promptly burnt out a little more than a year ago. I’m down in the dumps, perhaps depressed, and need to start making decisions. Weigh some pros and cons with me? This is going to get very long. [more inside]
How do you share a bed when it's too hot?
How do you sleep with someone who insists on throwing all the blankets off the bed, when you are a person who needs weight to sleep well? [more inside]
posted by epanalepsis at 7:11 AM PST - 43 comments
posted by epanalepsis at 7:11 AM PST - 43 comments
Should I pay for original work while damage fixed?
A licensed, insured and bonded contractor (asphalt) performed some work at my home, but due to sloppy work, sprayed tar droplets all over my home, garage door and walkway. I don't think he can fix problem on his own. [more inside]
What do you eat when craving sugar?
What are your go to snacks and beverages when craving sugar? I'm trying to give up processed foods again and the sugar detox last time was killer. I'd like to find a variety of ideas to increase my chances of success. [more inside]
Not marriage material
My boyfriend made a joke about men not wanting to marry me. I can't stop thinking about it and feeling terrible as a result. [more inside]
posted by sockermom at 6:20 AM PST - 116 comments
posted by sockermom at 6:20 AM PST - 116 comments
Morse. Just Morse. Or was it?
I'm trying to find an Inspector Morse story (show?) that I'm beginning to think only existed in my mind. Did it? [more inside]
I am looking for a bookmarking solution for yosemite, firefox
I am looking to upgrade my mac osx to yosemite on my main home computer. One of the things that gives me pause is the bookmarking sidebar I enjoy that delicious offers as a plug in on the earlier system. Can anyone offer something of similar convienience that might work with firefox on yosemite. I am also willing to consider a new browser
May 11
Bully brat children
Hi there,
[disclaimer: i love children]
I'm an adult and go to a local indoor gym that is short on space and so members are often milling around within close proximity of each other.
It's a specialty gym that's actually geared toward adults, and so imagine my surprise when within the last few months enrollment with the primary and middle school crowd spiked and now the gym has become overrun with poorly behaved children from 1PM - 5 PM (the only time I can use the gym).
Switching my schedule is not an option.
I've noticed that many women in general tend to take an instant dislike to me, but these primary and middle school girls seem to think that they're among peers and have been targeting me in rude ways. [more inside]
posted by nephilim. at 10:55 PM PST - 34 comments
posted by nephilim. at 10:55 PM PST - 34 comments
School recommendations (with specific criteria) for grades 6-12
My son (8 years old) currently goes to a private school in Douglas County, Kansas. He and I both love (LOVE) this school, but unfortunately they can only take kids up to age 12. I'm looking to place him somewhere else for grades 6-12. [more inside]
Irish tax and inheritance question
A dear friend is about to pass away from cancer. She is an Irish national currently residing in Ireland. Most of her career was spent oversees in a non-EU middle-eastern country where her life savings of about $250,000 is currently banked. She has avoided repatriating those funds back to Ireland due to tax reasons. But as time is very short, she would now like to do this and pass them on to her family after her death. I have advised consulting a lawyer. But as time is very short, does anyone know what taxes is she liable to incur with this transaction, including inheritance taxes of her heirs? And is there an optimal method which will minimize her tax burden in this situation? Thank you.
Password protect/encrypt USB drive readable on both Mac and Win?
I use Macs. I use a flash drive to carry powerpoint presentations and other documents that I need to access on PC's running various flavours of Windows, which are not mine and I will not have administrator access to.
Is there a way that I can protect/encrypt the drive in a way that will let me use it on both systems, without having to pre-install software on the Windows system? I do not need government-grade encryption, just something that will stop casual snoopers accessing the data if I lose the drive.
How is this app profitable?
I've been seeing a lot lately about an app which lets people buy and sell gift vouchers at a discount. However, I'm curious as to how the company itself can make money.... [more inside]
Looking for a weeklong getaway
I live near San Francisco and I'm looking to take an impromptu 7 day vacation that I don't have to spend a day getting to and from, is Hawaii my only real option? Snowflake details inside. [more inside]
Fence dispute -- did we do the right thing?
Our elderly neighbors were planning on fencing in 1300 square feet of common ground that adjoins our lot. They also wanted to put their fence about 4 feet over into our side yard. We gently tried talking to them about the potential encroachments twice. Unfortunately they were not open to moving their fence stakes even after we gave them our survey and the plat of our street showing the common ground. We had to eventually involve the neighborhood trustee in charge of fence approvals. Now they are absolutely furious about it. Did we do the right thing? How can we now deal with angry neighbors who yell at us from their car as they drive past our house? [more inside]
iMac (older) to iMac (new) transfer
Best way to wire a 2009 (w/ OS X Yosemite 10.10.3) iMac to a brand stinkin' new iMac for file transfer/migration? [more inside]
How to not think about relationship troubles
I'm in a serious relationship that might be ending. How do I let myself not have constant anxious thoughts about this? [more inside]
Movies at 60 Hz , how they do that?
My new Sony flatscreen TV seems to have developed the superpower to show movies at 60 frames per second. But since I always thought that the movies were filmed at 24fps, it has me wondering: Are the in-between frames being GENERATED by the TV? [more inside]
posted by shipbreaker at 7:13 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by shipbreaker at 7:13 PM PST - 8 comments
Needed: Ultra Compact Mechanical Treadmill Suitable for Walking Desk Use
The treadmill under my walking desk has died. This was expected. I bought a cheap crappy treadmill that I knew would die, in part to be sure that I liked/would use the walking desk before spending real money. Now I'm willing to spend some money on something that will last more than a year, but I can't find anything that will fit my setup. [more inside]
Auto Paint Job: Use insurance? Cut corners?
I managed to scratch my car doors on a parking garage column. Should I use insurance to cover it or pay myself? [more inside]
If I'm not bemused, what am I?
Bemused: I do not think it means what you think it means. So what word does? [more inside]
posted by Starling at 4:49 PM PST - 20 comments
posted by Starling at 4:49 PM PST - 20 comments
Where can I buy strong social studies and science homeschool curricula?
Wanted: Ancient Civilizations and Earth Science homeschool curricula for a 6th grader. Trickiness after the jump... [more inside]
used cars for tall people with tall children
Mr. Architeuthis and I are shopping for a gently used car, preferably a wagon. We are 5'10" and 6'2". We have 2 kids and will be using a car seat for at least another 2-3 years, and our kids are both 95th percentile for height. What can we buy that will leave more than 1 inch of clearance between seat and infant knee? Parameters: preferably under 15K US, must have AWD. [more inside]
Quirky they certainly are...reliable? Not so much.
I have four Quirky Pivot Power Geniuses (wifi-enabled smart outlet strips) installed in my home controlling lights around the house. Brilliant idea, but they've been pretty unreliable. I'm on the verge of getting rid of them. Is there a more reliable product on the market? [more inside]
Can I trust formi9.com with my SSN?
Can I Trust formi9.com with my US Social Security Number and other Personal Information? [more inside]
posted by zaphod at 2:50 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by zaphod at 2:50 PM PST - 4 comments
Crime novels like The City and the City
I think China Mieville's The City and the City does a great job of taking a familiar detective/murder mystery premise and twisting in a very unfamiliar conceptual or sci-fi way.
What are other books or short stories that do the same -- tell a familiar crime story but with a big genre/conceptual twist?
How to keep hair healthy while it's up.
What are the best hair accessories to minimize breakage and damage during physical activity? [more inside]
posted by futureisunwritten at 1:44 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by futureisunwritten at 1:44 PM PST - 15 comments
Popular songs that include modulation?
I'm looking for examples of songwriting (preferably pop) that contain modulation. Not looking for the trucker key change or circle of fifths, rather tastefully playing with keys in a standard Verse Chorus Middle 8 format. Alternatively, explain modulation to me like I'm a moron. [more inside]
posted by remlapm at 1:42 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by remlapm at 1:42 PM PST - 7 comments
Small Claim - GC takes $, no contract happens, GC keeps $...
Small Claim - GC takes $, no contract happens, GC keeps $... Legal assistance please. [more inside]
posted by Reasonably Everything Happens at 1:38 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by Reasonably Everything Happens at 1:38 PM PST - 14 comments
How to deal with extreme anxiety over loved ones' well-being?
I have a lifelong pattern of extreme anxiety attacks and imagining the worst when people I'm close to are not where they say they will be at the time they say they will be there and unreachable. It escalates quickly into a terror that they are dead and at worst ends in uncontrollable shaking and crying. How can I mitigate this? [more inside]
Boot camp for snowflakes
Transitioning out of academia, considering trying to rebrand myself as a "data scientist," wondering if a boot camp or certificate program would help. Snowstorm inside, but there's basically two issues. One: Is a program like that a good way to deal with having background and skills that don't show up on my resume? Two: Is a program like that worthwhile for someone who… let's just say "won't fit in culturally or demographically at tech industry networking events"? [more inside]
posted by nebulawindphone at 12:51 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by nebulawindphone at 12:51 PM PST - 14 comments
Two people checking-in on a single phone
My wife and I are flying soon and I want to try the mobile app check-in and boarding pass. However, we are both on the account for the tickets. Has anyone used the app when more than one person is flying, and if so, what did you do?
posted by grefo at 12:41 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by grefo at 12:41 PM PST - 13 comments
Affordable high quality protein wet cat food?
When our 9-ish-year-old cat started barfing regularly, out vet had us switch him from dry food to the Royal Canin Selected Protein PR canned food.
It worked, although man, that stuff stinks. Now we're looking for something more or less equivalent that isn't $3 a can. (Vet: "Try a bunch, see what works.") Any suggestions for relatively affordable high quality protein canned cat food? Venison seems to be the favorite.
posted by gottabefunky at 12:19 PM PST - 22 comments
posted by gottabefunky at 12:19 PM PST - 22 comments
Health Insurance for 2+ months
I just found out today that since I am going to part time status at the end of this month, my health insurance will not be continuing through the end of the summer. 3 states and stop-gap health insurance snowflakes inside. [more inside]
posted by chainsofreedom at 11:43 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by chainsofreedom at 11:43 AM PST - 8 comments
It's another project management software question.
I work for a (currently) very small research center, and we need to manage the rotating herd of undergrad and grad research assistants, which means we need project management software. We're looking for some snowflakes and unicorns... [more inside]
posted by joycehealy at 11:37 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by joycehealy at 11:37 AM PST - 3 comments
Overheating in bed, steps to take - sleep filter
I haven't been sleeping well. Including all winter. I have a crappy polyester comforter and Target Jersey Cotten Sheets, and a $600 10 inch memory foam mattress from Amazon with two memory foam pillows. So - basically everything that would make me overheat. Would adding a Latex Topper to the mix fix a lot of problems? [more inside]
posted by bbqturtle at 11:21 AM PST - 39 comments
posted by bbqturtle at 11:21 AM PST - 39 comments
Duncan Hines did me wrong
Duncan Hines (like so many packaged goods companies) has decreased the volume packaged in their classic cake mix boxes. How do I convert my recipe? [more inside]
posted by Lylo at 11:01 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by Lylo at 11:01 AM PST - 10 comments
What party/snack food can we make with Japanese Curry mix?
We are trying to clean out our pantry in advance of a house move, and want to use as much as possible to make snacks for our goodbye-old-house party. One of the things in our pantry is a box of S&B Japanese Curry mix (medium hot). Given that a big pot of curry isn't really a good finger food, what would you suggest we make with it? (For those who are not familiar with this ingredient, it is not a powder, but more like a stew/sauce base.)
posted by matildaben at 10:23 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by matildaben at 10:23 AM PST - 12 comments
Gift ideas for road trip?
What would you give as a gift (single item or basket of useful stuff) for someone planning a long road trip? I've thought of audio books, picnic kit, car games, etc. but was hoping others might have good ideas.
Toddler's Diarrhea---how to help?
We're looking for suggestions to help toddler's diarrhea [more inside]
Throw the book at me
Wanted: novels about prosecutors. [more inside]
Non-American Travel Shows Traveling in America
I watched Unplanned America on Netflix, an Australian travel show in which these guys travel around America, and it made me realize this is a category that I enjoy. What are some other non-American travel shows about America? [more inside]
I have a searing pain six weeks after open surgery inguinal hernia
I had a hernia in the left of my groin, which was operated on about six weeks ago. It was open surgery, where a 2-3 inch cut was made and then a mesh piece inserted. It was getting better until the last 2 days when bending over is now excruciatingly painful (feels like someone is stabbing a knife into my groin) and I don't know what it is. Does anyone know what it could be or have had a similar experience? [more inside]
Company/Service that specializes in just packing for Chicago?
We have a move scheduled soon with a company we've used before and are happy with. The SO has about 6-8 medium boxes worth of valuables and delicates she would like professionally packed before the move; the company we have can do this the same day but has indicated this would result in delays and does not recommend it, and they are unable to send someone the day before. Is there anyone that will help us with just the packing part? [more inside]
How to address massive amounts of mental verbosity
Hi. I would like to explore new ways to address my problem of too many thoughts. [more inside]
posted by iliketothinknu at 9:21 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by iliketothinknu at 9:21 AM PST - 8 comments
How do I deal with this overwhelming breakup regret?
I'm now 5 months out of a breakup with the man I thought I was going to marry and I'm struggling to make peace with it. (Sorry for the long post). [more inside]
Is the good enough preschool good enough?
Statstoddler will soon be turning three, and we are trying to decide between keeping at his current daycare center or switching him to a Montessori-based preschool in August. [more inside]
posted by statsgirl at 9:15 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by statsgirl at 9:15 AM PST - 13 comments
Multi-pin connector with insertion detection
Calling local EEs: I'm looking for a small multi-pin (4 pin minimum) electronic connector with an integrated insertion detection switch. The switch should be isolated from the 4 active pins (unlike, for example, most audio connectors).
Academic etiquette advice for this special snowflake.
I graduated last spring with a humanities BA, I moved back to Canada the summer following and got in touch with local uni. faculty, looking to gain a little research experience. This led to me doing a little data-crunching for a faculty member, but fizzled out rather quickly as other commitments got in the way. Would it be inappropriate to contact her again? Not sure exactly how to approach this because I feel I more or less messed up by not being proactive enough the first time around. [more inside]
Proven ways to transform a fledgling bully back into a nice kid?
A six year old in martial arts class has just started to do and say mean things. Small stuff so far: unprovoked shoving, telling other kids they're doing it wrong, mild name calling like "big baby" and "dumb shoes." Coach is starting to crack down on the behavior, but now the mean stuff is getting said softly so it isn't caught. Will this pass as an age-related blip? Are there ways to inspire the kid to be friendly again? [more inside]
posted by xo at 7:36 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by xo at 7:36 AM PST - 19 comments
Meniscal tears and physical therapy
Asking for my SO: Our patient in question has had knee pain on and off (mostly on) for 4 months that has recently been diagnosed as a meniscal tear. Doctor is recommending surgery; however there are several studies that indicate that physical therapy can work as well as surgery in many cases. If you have tried physical therapy for a torn meniscus, how did it work out? [more inside]
posted by under_petticoat_rule at 6:48 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by under_petticoat_rule at 6:48 AM PST - 6 comments
Help me replace a travel coffee mug!
I'm coming up short looking through Google Images and on Amazon for a coffee mug to replace the special one I broke this morning. [more inside]
posted by emelenjr at 5:29 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by emelenjr at 5:29 AM PST - 5 comments
Am I being silly?
I'm having conflicting desires regarding my future. Is this a 'the grass is greener' scenario, or should I be making changes to my life? Complication: anxiety. [more inside]
posted by toerinishuman at 5:21 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by toerinishuman at 5:21 AM PST - 15 comments
Please Help Me Fail.
I need to screw up a couple of times. Once I do, I'll realize it's not the end of the world, and I will be able to stop keeping everything on hold. But I've been on hold for most of my life, paralyzed and afraid to move for fear of not getting it perfectly right. How do I bring myself to put forth the effort to do the scary thing, even knowing that that's the only way I can make it stop being scary? [more inside]
posted by Because at 4:07 AM PST - 28 comments
posted by Because at 4:07 AM PST - 28 comments
Does anyone know how I find more women that box or do mma?
I'm working on writing and shooting a story of a female fighter for a film competition. Unfortunately, all the fighters I know, whether in mma or boxing, are all guys. Obviously, women also go to the gyms around me but not that many compete. And my friends weren't close to any female fighters. They offer some insight but I'd rather talk with a woman who has been in the ring or interested in competing amateur or otherwise, so at the very least I don't create a story that rings false. Any ideas about how to get in touch with women who do competitive boxing/mma? [more inside]
Sve Filter - an amazing Sunday between Hovmantorp and Malmö?
I have one day/night to plan, using public transport between Hovmantorp (where I'll be seeing in Midsommar with friends) and Malmö. Sunday 21st June, and the morning of the Monday.
What do you think the best use of that 24h/230km would be? I love wilderness and wild space, amazing sights and strange experiences. Anything "different" or inherently Swedish. I have a relatively low budget and I'm limited to public transport. [more inside]
posted by tzb at 3:38 AM PST - 1 comment
posted by tzb at 3:38 AM PST - 1 comment
What was the name of that GT bike for petites?
I'm trying to remember the model name of a bike manufactured by GT (at least, I'm 95% sure it was GT). Here's what I recall: [more inside]
Help me accessorize a navy dress!
Situation: I'm going to a major environmental nonprofit's fundraising gala/ball. More details inside. [more inside]
posted by Ragini at 12:14 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by Ragini at 12:14 AM PST - 12 comments
May 10
things to consider before moving in early in a relationship?
I'm looking for a list of things to think about, talk about, or try before moving in with a relatively new girlfriend. [more inside]
dylarama
How do I request therapy that's more medically/concretely focused without being perceived as drug-seeking or noncompliant? Complication: previous use of diverted psychiatric drugs. [more inside]
is it time to give up on him?
I started writing this anon question in December. I don't think I actually posted it, but I kept the text file.
basically, I think I need to break up with my long-term boyfriend, but I don't know how to go about it. Please confirm/deny, and help me to do this [more inside]
X forwarding for the conceptually challenged
I need to X forward remotely from outside a private Linux network to display onto a Windows 8 laptop. [more inside]
Help my Cousin Get Back into a Computer Science Major
My cousin is a bright student and worked so hard to get to where he is, but a recent family emergence ( a death in the family) and his grades started getting really bad towards the end of the semester, he was put in probation but one thing led to another and he was dismissed from school for one full semester, he took the semester off and after much grief he was ready and more focused that before to go back and complete his undergraduate in computer science.The computer science department at his school won't let him continue and asked him to change to another major outside of engineering. [more inside]
posted by dolilmao at 8:49 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by dolilmao at 8:49 PM PST - 12 comments
Hair care regimen to rock my natural hair [male, medium length]
I'm looking to change my hair care regimen so that I can keep my hair thick and manageable as it typically is after not washing it for a few days. [more inside]
posted by lalunamel at 6:12 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by lalunamel at 6:12 PM PST - 15 comments
Having a custom diamond necklace made. Question about cost breakdown
As a gift to my fiancee on our wedding day, I'm planning on having a necklace made out of a diamond that is an heirloom. The diamond is a small pear shape (a little under half a carat) and is currently set in a ring, surrounded by several small diamond chips. I took it to a local jeweler that has a good reputation for being great to work with and fair on price. [more inside]
Anyone gone through a child having cataracts?
If your child has had cataracts what was your experience? What do you wish you had known? [more inside]
posted by warriorqueen at 4:37 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by warriorqueen at 4:37 PM PST - 4 comments
Polished black shoes turned white
Polished a pair of black shoes and after awhile the toe caps turned white. Can this be fixed? [more inside]
posted by lucia_engel at 4:14 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by lucia_engel at 4:14 PM PST - 5 comments
I hate the sun. What type of hat should I get?
I hate the feeling of the hot summer sun on my skin. What type of hat should I get to keep the sun off of me? I am an early 30s male living in Philadelphia. My style is pretty casual and I likely being wearing jeans and a t-shirt in the situations where I would wear this hypothetical hat
I don't need to look cool in the hat, but I'd strongly prefer to not look goofy in it. I'd prefer to spend less than $100 but I am flexible on that.
posted by nolnacs at 2:19 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by nolnacs at 2:19 PM PST - 16 comments
Forced to Quit My Antidepressant
After six months of runaround from my sliding-scale clinic after my prescribing physician left the practice, I just found out that my Mertazapine/Remeron prescription will not be refilled. I have six 15mg tablets left. I'm also on Quetiapine/Seroquel which was just refilled. How can I best make it off the Remeron? [more inside]
posted by MuChao at 1:53 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by MuChao at 1:53 PM PST - 12 comments
What question would you ask Neal Stephenson?
Later this month, I have a chance to have 10 minutes on the phone with Neal Stephenson. What question would you ask him if you had this opportunity? [more inside]
Help me find a wellness retreat without any woo
My wonderful wife needs to get away from everything and enjoy a week of high quality, woo-free me time this summer — but where? [more inside]
posted by ZipRibbons at 1:23 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by ZipRibbons at 1:23 PM PST - 9 comments
Help me come up with some clever inside jokes
I am building several dozen tank cars in HO scale for a friend, who has given me license to come up with clever (fictional) railroad/car company names to put on the cars. Some considerations: [more inside]
What to do in and around Göttingen, Germany?
A friend and I are headed to Göttingen, Germany, for part of the Handel Festival. We'll have some time to kill during the days (May 21-24) before the evening concerts. Can you recommend some daytime activities in Göttingen or within a short radius by train? We'd especially like to find a good place to go hiking and watch birds, but other suggestions are welcome. [more inside]
posted by Orinda at 11:54 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by Orinda at 11:54 AM PST - 9 comments
What HTML editor would meet these criteria?
What HTML editing software would meet the following criteria? It should be usable for a modestly sized web design project.
posted by primal at 11:41 AM PST - 7 comments
- is free for personal or non-commercial use
- has functionality for creating reasonably modern HTML
- can show both (possibly stylized) page layouts and actual markup code
- works on both Linux and Windows systems
posted by primal at 11:41 AM PST - 7 comments
Annual physical checkup: what if one wants to opt out for privacy
A similar question to this one, w/ a different country context. How does one officially "refuse" their annual physical if the checkup and data sharing appears more mandatory than voluntary? [more inside]
Many cats, much carpet, too many stairs. Help me choose a vacuum!
I have three floors of carpet, three black cats, and little upper body strength. I need a light vacuum that inhales cat hair over both large carpeted surfaces and stairs. [more inside]
Help finding sci-fi-ish submarine book I read as a kid?
I would love to locate a book I read around age 10-12 that I'd checked out of the library, probably from the kids' section. It was kind of sci-fi-ish in that the plot centered on a man who, for some reason I can't recall, checks out of human society and goes on longer and longer expeditions in his one-man submarine. [more inside]
How can I accept being the slow, stupid student?
Two weeks ago I started college for the first time. My own intellectual deficiencies, impatience, and self-hatred as started to rise to the surface once more. [more inside]
Are young spiders more venomous then a full grown adult?
I've spent the past week packing up all my belongings in preparation for moving to a new house tomorrow. A few days ago I discovered a large brown recluse spider under my staircase with numerous young or smaller spiders. I sprayed pesticide on them and continued packing upstairs... I never located any dead spiders and unfortunately I was dumb enough to sleep about 5feet away from where I originally found them. Up until this morning i didn't think much of the itchy bumps on my back...then my fiancée noticed them and clarified 3 bites on my lower back all matching the descriptions found online for the spider in question.
Before I freak out and go to the ER could anyone enlighten on the venomousness of baby spiders compared to adults. Also how would multiple bites factor in? They've steadily have gotten worse and now appear red with a blister ... I'm assuming I was bitten 2-3 nights ago... Help!
Political info with less wide-eyed panic, please
Since the UK elections last week, I've realized that I only really know the surface of British politics. It seems like a worthwhile thing to get deeper into, but recent events have rendered non-party sources rather...breathless, and official sources never actually talk about what they do or plan on doing directly. So, I turn to you all - where can I read good, in-depth information on the agenda of the major UK political parties?
Can you quote a Scottish poet?
Can you recommend a quote from a Scottish poet (or writer) which exemplifies the pain and frustration of being so far down the socio-economic ladder as to never be able to even own land? It could also talk about the chasm between the haves and the have-nots.
Move to a city I'm not crazy about for better dating prospects?
I love New York and I'm not thrilled about my prospective new city, but I'm wondering if it would be worth a move if it resulted in better dating prospects. [more inside]
posted by whitelily at 4:26 AM PST - 47 comments
posted by whitelily at 4:26 AM PST - 47 comments
Given the recent UK election outcome, which career should I pursue?
As a current unemployed ambitious 34 year old woman whom is currently feeling the anxiety of a tough job market and uncertain career path, can anyone provide any advice as to the best strategic choice for picking a career path which will provide some degree of financial security and job satisfaction? I am struggling to make a definitive choice despite racking my brains for nearly 12 months since losing a full time job. [more inside]
Help me find work in the US
Having just come back from visiting family in a few different states, I'm now beginning to feel that their suggestions for me to move closer to them might be a good idea. I'm from the UK and wouldn't move without a job, so where can I find potential employers who would take me seriously and not think I was too much of a hassle before they'd even read my resume?
Are there any particular jobs boards for this type of thing? I would also consider a temporary move. [more inside]
posted by joboe at 2:21 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by joboe at 2:21 AM PST - 11 comments
May 9
I want more strangeness.
Surrealism recommendations: If I like Adult Swim's "Off The Air" and anything by Tim and Eric, and I also like Famicon's "Bart the General," what else would I probably like? [more inside]
How to remove dead ivy from tree?
There is this tree with ivy growing all the way up it, from bottom to top. I am going to kill it.
But then this tree will be covered in ugly dead brown ivy. I guess after a few years all the leaves will fall off, but it will still look bad. I understand that physically pulling the ivy off can damage the tree. I'm hoping someone will have an idea for how to improve the aesthetics of the tree after the ivy has died--without hurting the tree.
Family-friendly hotel in Victoria BC?
We are a party of 4 traveling by ferry from Seattle. We will not have a car. What are your favorite hotels in Victoria?
Should I fill a prescription in my own name, intended for my mom?
My mother is retired and disabled, on a fixed income. Every single year she hits the coverage gap (the "donut hole") on her medications, usually by September or October. This leads to the last three months of the year being a scramble of asking for free samples of her diabetic medications from her endocrinologist, and scraping to get by. At her last visit, her doctor straight-up offered to write the prescriptions in my name. My insurance would cover it with a simple copay and no coverage gap. Should I do this? [more inside]
Lower my expectations!
I have bipolar II disorder and anxiety that's led me to recognize that my dreams are not realistic. What are good careers for people with mental health issues, how can I adjust my goals and expectations accordingly? [more inside]
posted by cosmic owl at 7:50 PM PST - 19 comments
posted by cosmic owl at 7:50 PM PST - 19 comments
What do you do with sprouted legumes and grains?
I ended up with a sprouter and tons of legume mixes for sprouting. I've followed the growing instructions a couple times and ended up with..... sprouted legumes. So, now what? Our kitchen is vegan but we don't do many salads. Bonus points for creative uses (like gluten-free breads??)
Sprouting mixes are diverse, including lentils, peas, peanuts, chickpea, mung, and a whole grain mix.........
How can I make my balcony awesome? Difficulty level: allergic to dirt.
We recently moved to an apartment with a large balcony. We were super excited about the possibilities, especially growing veggies / herbs / flowers with our kids. But surprise!! We can't find dirt! My child has a peanut allergy, and - WHO KNEW?? - most commercially available dirt / potting soil has peanuts and peanut shells as a filler. My child's allergy is severe enough that we won't take the risk of having it around. How can we enjoy the full potential of our balcony and maybe even enjoy some living, growing things? [more inside]
Looking for lesser known soul and blues to dance to...
Looking for suggestions for lesser played, less appreciated, or less known soul and blues tracks from the 50s, 60s, and early 70s to create a playlist that is both danceable but also fresh and unpredictable. Bonus points for links to YouTube clips or Amazon/iTunes samples...
posted by Unsomnambulist at 6:08 PM PST - 19 comments
posted by Unsomnambulist at 6:08 PM PST - 19 comments
Please re-raise my raise at work
What is the best way to ask for a raise following a recent job promotion after I learned that people in my department at a significantly lower responsibility and title level were granted raises very recently that now put them above me in pay? [more inside]
Where should we go to dinner?
Cast of characters: two adults, generally located on the Westside of LA. One vegetarian, one decidedly not. We are in search of fun and interesting places for events worthy of more celebration than Grubhub takeout! [more inside]
Recommendation for A Good Dock Program for Windows 7
I'm very spoiled by the dock on my Mac, and am hoping for a program that provides the same functionality on my Windows 7 machine. [more inside]
posted by neeta at 3:48 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by neeta at 3:48 PM PST - 4 comments
Is he trying to steal my job?
I feel like a co-worker is trying to steal my job. We are also friends outside of work so this is difficult to navigate. What to do? [more inside]
posted by sabina_r at 3:19 PM PST - 22 comments
posted by sabina_r at 3:19 PM PST - 22 comments
Need to convert a brocade sari into a skirt in NYC.
I just bought a gorgeous sari, got it home, and realized it's way too heavy and desperately needs a liner. No problem, I can just get it converted into a lehenga (long skirt)...I think? [more inside]
posted by timoni at 3:04 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by timoni at 3:04 PM PST - 3 comments
Help me find work overseas
I'm an older oilfield worker who'd like to change jobs and change locations, from the U.S. to, well, almost anywhere. [more inside]
Restore/update problems with iPhone 5s
Asking for my partner: Not able to restore or update an iPhone 5s on iTunes without getting repeated error messages which cancel the update/restoration. Please hope us! [more inside]
posted by Chairboy at 1:03 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by Chairboy at 1:03 PM PST - 11 comments
I wanna hug a lion.
Let's say I want to hang out with baby lions and tigers. Is there a place I can do this? [more inside]
posted by something something at 12:58 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by something something at 12:58 PM PST - 13 comments
Ideas for building a self-sufficient, environmentally friendly home?
I have this pipe dream of settling down somewhere extremely rural and building a self-sufficient, environmentally friendly home. I've got a lot of ideas floating around in my head, but I'm always looking for new ones. How would you go about setting up such a dwelling? (Or how did you do it, if you've done it yourself?) I'm ideally looking for ground-up plans, but all ideas are welcome. [more inside]
Downloading shows/movies to watch offline on a Mac
I'm about to get on a long international flight. I'd like to download some TV shows and movies to my Mac laptop before I go, so that I can watch them offline while in the air. Most sites seem to be focused on streaming these days, so what are my best options for obtaining offline content? I'm in the U.S. Thanks!
When you've got the best, but couldn't give two hoots about cleaning it.
This is why we can't have nice things. How do I calibrate my brain to take better, proactive care of the select, excellent things I am lucky to own? I'm talking leather goods and well constructed clothes, chef's knives, stainless steel cookware, upholstered furniture and solid wood furniture, precious metal jewelry, glass stemware, oil paintings by local artists, houseplants, the list goes on... [more inside]
posted by nightrecordings at 11:15 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by nightrecordings at 11:15 AM PST - 19 comments
Emergency LibreOffice help: all of my footnotes just disappeared!
Emergency LibreOffice help: all of my footnotes just disappeared! [more inside]
Help! Poison ivy growing into my garden
There is poison ivy growing into my vegetable garden. The area it originates from is not accessible, and the roots are right next to the garden. How can I get rid of it? [more inside]
posted by foid at 10:33 AM PST - 16 comments
posted by foid at 10:33 AM PST - 16 comments
Lazyweb: Greatest *consistent* scifi/fantasy series novels?
What are the best scifi and/or fantasy book series that are consistently great from novel to novel? For my purposes this would be a series of at least three books, and probably no more than... six? ish? (I might be cutting it short; this is a general estimate of about how long my interest tends to remain keen. Not a dealbreaker if a bit more). I'm looking for the sorts of books that really draw you into the fictional world and have a lot of character building, with few or no "weak links" from book to book. [more inside]
How Can I Care Less and Move On?
Is this normal? I often have anxiety about my kids. I need perspective. [more inside]
Recommended toddler car seats?
We're looking for a convertible (rear- to front-facing) car seat for our 16 month old. We have a Britex Boulevard CS we got as a hand-me-down, but we don't love it. The biggest problem with it is that our daughter is prone to motion sickness and the Boulevard is hard to clean. [more inside]
Fjällräven kånken advice!
I'm looking to buy a practical backpack that will last and look good for hiking, walking around town, daytrips abroad, and more. I'm leaning towards a Fjällräven kånken due to their classic design and quality. [more inside]
posted by smorgasbord at 9:05 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by smorgasbord at 9:05 AM PST - 11 comments
What's a good all-around moisturizing body oil?
I want to experiment with oil instead of store-bought moisturizing creams and lotions for the body. My main criteria is that it MUST NOT GO RANCID on the shelf, and won't stain clothes. Sweet almond oil, grape-seed oil, or what? Coconut oil is out as it's just too heavy in texture. Please share your experiences.
(This is for body use, not facial moisturizing.)
Where can I buy shallow bookcases?
Bookcases all seem to be 10-12 inches deep. I want one that's 7-9 inches deep. Can you help? [more inside]
posted by neat graffitist at 8:12 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by neat graffitist at 8:12 AM PST - 14 comments
As a homeowner, how do I move my family across the country?
I want to move to another city across the country, but I don't understand how people do this. If you own a home, have a family, and earn only a modest income, what are the logistics of making this kind of move? More complicating factors in the extended explanation. [more inside]
Is it okay to not take it seriously, or is it time to opt out?
I'm having a great time with a guy I have been dating for about a month. The thing is I like him and he seems mum in return. Finally I asked him what he was looking for and said no pressure, but he seems content to keep things casual and wants a sexual relationship. I am not sure I am okay with the arrangement as I know I become attached. Time to cut bait and move on? [more inside]
Overstaying my welcome in the European Union by five days?
My (German) student visa ends on May 25th. I was going to leave on the 20th, but now my exchange university in a different EU-country has asked me to attend a (really exciting) event on the 1st of June.
Does anyone have personal experience with overstaying a visa in the European Union and could weigh in as to whether I should risk it? (Please no US-answers: I would never overstay a minute in the US, I know how ruthless US-Immigration is.) [more inside]
posted by ipsative at 7:15 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by ipsative at 7:15 AM PST - 14 comments
breakdown of Yale salaries by salary grade
I need to see a breakdown of Yale salaries by salary grade; does anyone know where I can find this online? [more inside]
posted by StealthOatmeal at 5:47 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by StealthOatmeal at 5:47 AM PST - 2 comments
May 8
What departments utilize volunteer firefighters near Columbus Ohio?
Help me find any volunteer firefighter/EMS in/near Columbus Ohio. I have googled, but it's really hard to find. The only one I could find is Minerva Park.
Help me buy a good mobile phone
I'm trying to buy a mobile phone that is unlocked. I want to avoid getting it from the big stores in Toronto, and I am looking online for a good option. I am really not that tech-savvy, and if I had to choose between Android and iPhone, I'd go with whichever has a better deal. Ideas? [more inside]
What Internet camera for puppy cam?
We're having a litter of puppies soon and need a good camera to let interested people look at them playing, eating, sleeping, etc. in their corral. A good camera that is NOT a Dropcam. [more inside]
posted by kindall at 9:52 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by kindall at 9:52 PM PST - 7 comments
Help me plan a 2 family trip to Yellowstone? Or maybe not Yellowstone?
I would love to get some targeted advice on how to optimize this trip I'm trying to plan.
Here are the parameters: East Coast Family (ECF) and West Coast Family (WCF) each consist of a couple plus two little girls. ECF has an additional toddler too, and probably an au pair. ECF and WCF would like to rent a house together somewhere that is lovely and relaxing, and adjacent to interesting nearby outdoor activities. [more inside]
posted by fingersandtoes at 9:23 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by fingersandtoes at 9:23 PM PST - 7 comments
Kondo-ing my place. Should I keep books from grad school?
I went to grad school for counseling. While I work in the field (policy/government), I'm not working clinically anymore. Due to financial constraints, I have to stick to government work while I pay off student loans for the forseeable future (at least 6-7 years). [more inside]
posted by onecircleaday at 9:21 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by onecircleaday at 9:21 PM PST - 11 comments
Dude, where's my credit?
Last I checked (a bit under a year ago), I had a fantastic credit score. Now, a leasing agent just ran a background and credit check on me and says that I have no credit at all. What gives? Should this worry me? What am I supposed to do about it? [more inside]
Am I judgemental for not dating people who smoke/drink/do pot?
I have friends who smoke, drink, and do weed/light drugs. I don't think anything of it (at least consciously) and I wouldn't prefer them to stop or anything. But suddenly, when it comes to people I date, I get so turned off when I hear that they smoke, drink, do pot, or light drugs like LSD. I like my friends but I would never date them. There's just some things I don't mind or even prefer in friends that I wouldn't want in a potential "other half". I have friends who have fuckbuddies and I think it's funny/awesome/empowering for example, but when it come to someone I would do myself, I wouldn't touch such people with a ten foot pole. [more inside]
Seeking women's summer fashion role models
What to do with baby bird with swollen belly that fell out of its nest?
Found a baby bird that fell out of its nest. Took it inside, fed it. It now has a swollen belly. What do I do?? [more inside]
Identify certain repeats in table
Please help me eliminate duplicates in a table based on specific criteria. [more inside]
Help a hair novice cover her greys
My grey hairs have been proliferating in the last few months, and I've decided I'm not ready to embrace them. I'm a 3A/B curly lady with totally virgin hair. Looking explanations and tips about hair coloring that an inept novice could follow. A few more questions/concerns inside: [more inside]
posted by TwoStride at 4:31 PM PST - 21 comments
posted by TwoStride at 4:31 PM PST - 21 comments
Should I apply for a federal job at the same office my MIL works in?
About nine months ago, I applied for a spot with the federal government, which was in line with what I previously did as a paralegal. I got a call back amazingly quickly -- but the hiring manager pointed out that someone with my unusual last name also worked in the office, and it turned out to be my step-mother-in-law. (I knew she did that type of work but I had no idea it was with that agency.) The hiring manager still wanted to interview me. I agreed to set-up an interview during that phone call, talked it over with my husband, and, the next day, emailed the hiring manager and said I was withdrawing my candidacy, to avoid the perception of impropriety. And then snowflakes fell. Details inside. [more inside]
posted by coast99 at 4:13 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by coast99 at 4:13 PM PST - 9 comments
Doc for ADD meds without office visits every month?
This may be a hopeless ask. But you, mefites, have astounded me before with your knowledge of such things.
I have ADD. No one has disputed that since college. I choose to take meds for that. The meds I am on are not controlled substances...Strattera. Going to the clinic monthly is inconvenient (I don't drive because medical reasons), but my doctor requires this monthly to get my Rx refilled.
It all seems ridiculous. Can I do this virtually? How?
I live in Minnesota. States have different rules, I suppose. Thanks!
My Math/Excel Ignorance is Showing
In three cells in a single column in Microsoft Excel, I'd like to be able to input a number in the bottom cell, have the middle cell calculate what a 6% sales tax on the figure below it is, and provide the amount before that 6% tax in the top cell.
Any help will be appreciated. The last math class I took was 44 years ago and I didn't pay much attention in that one.
posted by imjustsaying at 2:34 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by imjustsaying at 2:34 PM PST - 8 comments
Occult Mystery
I've recently picked up The Dain Curse by Dashiell Hammet. It blends a fairly standard hard boiled mystery novel plot with elements of the occult. I think this is something I'd like to read more of, although the occult aspect is most important, and the mystery can be of any sort (hardboiled or no). What are some other works that have an investigator taking on mysteries with occult elements (either real or imagined)? [more inside]
Preparing for 1st baby- when to save vs splurge? buy new vs used?
Preparing for our first baby in October and trying to figure out the smartest approach to equipping ourselves with everything we're going to need. So many choices to make! What things should we pay more for because we'd regret pinching pennies, and when is splurging on the pricier stuff a waste? What should we look for new vs used (and not just for safety issues like carseats, but also what's the key "never waste your money on buying X new, you can get it so much cheaper used" stuff)? [more inside]
Avoiding cinematic offense at 30,000 feet
What are the weirdest and/or most intense non-documentary movies that are nonetheless totally safe to watch on a crowded plane? I'm looking for movies that are uncompromising, but nonetheless have no gore, no nudity and no disturbing violence. Assume I have well-insulated earphones. (Examples: GLENGARRY GLEN ROSS or THE 5,000 FINGERS OF DR. T.)
Time for Her to Fly-eee-aiyyyy....
Asking for a friend: This is in New York State. She's been with her husband for 25 years, married for 15 of those. She's done trying to make it work, and wants a divorce. [more inside]
How to make colonoscopy prep less awful
Should I deviate from the prep procedure my doctor gave me? [more inside]
posted by raspberrE at 11:21 AM PST - 26 comments
posted by raspberrE at 11:21 AM PST - 26 comments
Dev is just a few steps away from production, right?
I have a little Django web app that is nearly complete. But I absolutely can't it working with a production-grade web server (Apache, nginx). Can I just turn off debug mode and use the dev server in production? [more inside]
posted by Tehhund at 11:21 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by Tehhund at 11:21 AM PST - 7 comments
The worms crawl in and the worms crawl out
I am having a weird symptom lately that I don't know whether to attribute to depression, anxiety, or aging. Namely, I can't stop thinking about death and dying. I'm 26 and I am constantly thinking about how I could die at any moment and time is running out for me (and my loved ones). [more inside]
posted by easter queen at 11:12 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by easter queen at 11:12 AM PST - 10 comments
Are there any tv fan sites split up by the season you've watched?
I enjoy fangirling over tv shows, but tend to binge watch years after the show is off the air. Is there a reasonably active tv show fan site around where I can noodle around based on the seasons the I've watched, and avoid spoilers?
Asking because I just spoiled myself on The Killing while looking for pretty pictures of Joel Kinnaman. Naturally.
posted by jenmakes at 10:48 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by jenmakes at 10:48 AM PST - 5 comments
Calculating the probability of a scenario that might happen by chance
I have to validate some input for a database, and I want to present the user with a mathematically accurate estimate of the percentage of data that they entered which may be invalid. The problem is that valid data looks like invalid data 10% of the time. [more inside]
posted by zixyer at 10:37 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by zixyer at 10:37 AM PST - 12 comments
Form Letter Software needed
I am looking for a better alternative to The Form Letter Machine for making letters that are built up of standard snippets of text. [more inside]
Summer pants
I'm looking for casual, stylish summer pants. [more inside]
posted by cotton dress sock at 10:07 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by cotton dress sock at 10:07 AM PST - 10 comments
Doing a Line Dance
There are these selectable objects/lines all over my Excel spreadsheet. Instead of selecting a cell, I'll often accidentally click one of these instead, and it is very annoying. Please help. [more inside]
posted by papayaninja at 9:41 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by papayaninja at 9:41 AM PST - 4 comments
Are there statistics about Americans and meditation?
I'm curious about how many Americans have been exposed to meditation and mindfulness, and to what degree. I've had a difficult time finding research about these and related statistics. Can anyone point me in the right direction?
posted by zenja72 at 9:14 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by zenja72 at 9:14 AM PST - 6 comments
Work friend, real friend
Now that a new-ish friend has moved to my department at work, I'm less interested in hanging out with her outside of work. Seeing her socially makes me feel like I'm still in work-mode, but I love her as a friend. Tips for handling this like a nice, reasonable, caring human? [more inside]
posted by little_dog_laughing at 9:05 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by little_dog_laughing at 9:05 AM PST - 10 comments
Relaxing getaway near Tucson?
I need a 1-3 night, relaxing getaway near Tucson, AZ. Anyone stayed in any quaint cabins or good value guest ranches/hotels/B&Bs no more than 5-6 hours from Tucson (or even somewhere within Tucson/surrounders)? I've considered everything from finding a discounted night at a fancy resort and spa to primitive camping on Forest Service land. Extra credit (but not required): pool/swimming hole/hot tub.
posted by dahliachewswell at 8:58 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by dahliachewswell at 8:58 AM PST - 11 comments
What did I gain from my internship?
Please help me figure out something that is not quite obvious to me. [more inside]
posted by winterportage at 8:45 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by winterportage at 8:45 AM PST - 11 comments
Abroad, then the return?
Can you provide anecdotes, books, resources that can help us with our mental and actual planning on moving abroad for several years? Specifically on the "what happens when we go home?" part of the equation. [more inside]
posted by sandmanwv at 8:20 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by sandmanwv at 8:20 AM PST - 2 comments
Is it time to move on?
My bf and I have been together for almost 2 years, we have talked about getting married for about year and he still has not asked. Should I be concerned? [more inside]
Sure I can do it but will it taste bad?
My quest to sate my wife's appetite for carbonated water, along with a scene in a BBC documentary about pharmacies, has led me to the idea of using citric acid and baking soda to carbonate our own. Setting aside the risk of bottle bombs, I'm curious as to if the quantities needed to make a fizzy beverage will impart a strong or unpleasant taste, or any taste at all for that matter. Any first hand experience with this sort of thing? [more inside]
posted by RolandOfEld at 7:19 AM PST - 26 comments
posted by RolandOfEld at 7:19 AM PST - 26 comments
How to stop negative rumination?
Greetings. I seem to have a terrible case of negative rumination and I cannot impede my negative thoughts at all; this jeopardizing my work ethic and academic studies. I would greatly appreciate some pragmatic tips and positive thinking advice. I'm not sure how to stay optimistic and positive about the world and myself. [more inside]
Is Global Entry worth it?
I have some international trips coming up in the latter half of this year and was thinking of getting Global Entry to reduce airport hassles. When I traveled abroad a few years ago, it seemed a definite advantage (at least at my airport, Dulles), if only for the TSA Pre-Check. But, is it still that way? I read recently that they get 50,000 new applications every month, so I imagine as more people join, it may not be as useful. [more inside]
posted by bluefly at 6:31 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by bluefly at 6:31 AM PST - 19 comments
Avengers: Age of Ultron - to 3D or not 3D?
Is the 3D in Age of Ultron good, bad, or negligible? For my taste - I thought the 3D in Avengers 1 & Cap 2 was good & worth it, and the 3D in Thor 2 was fine but didn't impress me in any way as to make it better than watching it in 2D. (minor spoilers inside, please don't spoil me more) [more inside]
posted by oh yeah! at 5:53 AM PST - 28 comments
posted by oh yeah! at 5:53 AM PST - 28 comments
DC --> Ankara travel newb help
My sister-in-law is getting married in Ankara, Turkey in August. I plan to go, but need help with making travel arrangements or just general Ankara help. [more inside]
posted by raztaj at 5:19 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by raztaj at 5:19 AM PST - 4 comments
What are the best examples in your community of building community?
I'm currently doing a fellowship, where I'm examining how public radio stations could provide membership to folks who may not be able to or want to donate financially, but would like to donate a skill, code, or their time to their local stations.
I am looking for concrete examples from other industries - for-profit, non-profit, community - where organizations have granted membership or affiliation to people who give time, code, or a skill. [more inside]
Somebody wants my domain name
A young, fast-growing insurance and financial services company in the EU (note: not an insurance agency, but an actual insurance company) has the same name as a .com domain I registered more than 5 years ago. How should I proceed? [more inside]
posted by Strumpf Marionette at 3:58 AM PST - 20 comments
posted by Strumpf Marionette at 3:58 AM PST - 20 comments
Summer shoes with ankle support?
I need summer shoes that are appropriate for my dark-colours, femme-with-an-edge aesthetic. Difficulty: my ankles roll (and then I fall), and my hand surgeon has emphasized I must do everything in my power to avoid slipping/falling this summer. What flat, good-grip summer shoes provide ankle support? [more inside]
posted by flibbertigibbet at 3:37 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by flibbertigibbet at 3:37 AM PST - 19 comments
Automatic document creation
At my company we regularly compile credentials documents. These typically have a picture representing a client we've worked for, and a bit of text explaining the work. Sometimes it's just a big picture if it's being presented. The trouble is, there are loads of them and we have version control issues and problems with masses of conflicting PowerPoint templates due to copy/pasting. [more inside]
Modern urban Athens souvenirs
Looking for a specific kinds of Athens souvenir, which may or may not exist: ones based on "urban" icons like their taxi signs, and other infrastructure-y things like that. Most definitely not looking for keychains containing photos of the Parthenon or other such tat, they are already being thrown at me with abandon, thanks. [more inside]
What to serve at a umami show and tell?
I'm giving a presentation about umami for my fellow students in a foreign language course. There are no cooking facilities in the classroom. What kind of dishes could I prepare beforehand, and what could I make on the spot? [more inside]
May 7
Help me identify this vocal sample?
I've got the track I hear in the background here (DJ W!ld - All About You), but I've not heard any remix with this vocal overlaid, I'm wondering what it is and where it's from and googling for the words doesn't help much. It starts at 9:30 (Soundcloud link will autoplay)
posted by bashos_frog at 11:34 PM PST - 1 comment
posted by bashos_frog at 11:34 PM PST - 1 comment
WANTED: Kick-Ass Team of Therapy Professionals/Superheroes/Spirit Guides
Know of any good therapists in the Philadelphia area? [more inside]
Summer-ish, VERY comfortable, closed-toe shoes that go with skirts?
During the winter, I wear my Born boots to work with all my skirts and dresses. (They're similar to these)
But what do I wear in the summer?? [more inside]
posted by exceptinsects at 7:30 PM PST - 22 comments
posted by exceptinsects at 7:30 PM PST - 22 comments
Good Nepal/Kathmandu pun
My office is making a big banner to welcome back three colleagues who were assisting with earthquake response in Kathmandu. Every has great puns up ("Yak, yak, yak, welcome back!") but I can't think of one. Any ideas? I'm steering clear of any explicit mention of the earthquake or anything that wouldn't be workplace/family friendly.
posted by whitewall at 7:21 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by whitewall at 7:21 PM PST - 11 comments
Dining suggestions in Buffalo, NY
I'm from Buffalo, but I've not been back since 2001, I will be traveling to the area to got to a wedding, and since I've been away for so long I have no idea as to what the current state of culinary affairs are in B-lo and I was always partial to Allentown, Elmwood, North Buffalo area. [more inside]
posted by reedcourtneyj at 7:13 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by reedcourtneyj at 7:13 PM PST - 10 comments
DVD ripping software for fast, easy backup.
Somewhere, hidden among thorny brambles, lies software to save my kid's DVDs from being loved to death. Help me find it! [more inside]
posted by Jilder at 6:43 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by Jilder at 6:43 PM PST - 16 comments
Credit Monitoring
Hey Mefites, what do you think is the best credit monitoring service? Is it worth it?
Laundry near Los Angeles Convention Center
I am going to a conference in Los Angeles next week, at the Convention Center downtown. I'd like to do a load of laundry before I leave. According to my hotel (Westin Bonaventure), they don't provide laundry service - only drycleaning - and the nearest place to do it is "a 15-minute drive away." What's the best way to get this done? [more inside]
Dust on...Dust-off?
I just broke the nozzle on a can of Dust-off compressed gas. It is now stuck "on." Is this dangerous? [more inside]
posted by kythuen at 5:03 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by kythuen at 5:03 PM PST - 11 comments
Backpack for my mommmmmmyyyyyyy
I am looking to buy a backpack for my 58-year-old Mom for Mother's Day, so that she can comfortably and --more importantly-- stylishly carry her 13-inch macbook pro. My Mom is 5'1". [more inside]
posted by atetrachordofthree at 4:09 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by atetrachordofthree at 4:09 PM PST - 11 comments
Just dumped. Super busy. Need tips on getting work done.
I was just dumped. I realize now I was a bad partner because I've been depressed. I have an appointment to see a therapist in a week but I'm having trouble figuring out how to get through and meeting my obligations for the next few days (I am not suicidal). [more inside]
posted by mcmile at 3:32 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by mcmile at 3:32 PM PST - 13 comments
How do I sign up for private health insurance asap?
I haven't had health insurance ever since the Obamacare thing went into affect. This happened because I was overseas for a long time and I let my us health insurance expire and then I got really confused about the new rules so I just kept putting it off. [more inside]
How to become a welcome regular customer when fave cafe is taken over?
I have social anxiety and mostly socialise either online or at meetups of socially anxious people organised via a community web site. However I'd like to become comfortable just being around other people in my local café and possibly (not essential but would be nice) be able to have short chit-chat conversations with the staff too. Honestly at this stage just getting out the apartment regularly and being around others would be a valuable thing in itself, I don't expect a shouted greeting like Norm in Cheers :) but maybe I could get more from my visits too. Is there anyone who is a regular at a bar or coffee where they visit by themselves but still feels quite at home and comfortable talking to the staff? How did you get to that point? [more inside]
posted by AuroraSky at 3:03 PM PST - 19 comments
posted by AuroraSky at 3:03 PM PST - 19 comments
Should I tell the truth about looking for a new job
I am content in my current role, but looking to relocate. This will require days off work to interview. Should I tell my manager what I am doing? [more inside]
Am I a narcissist?
I really hope not and I think probably not, but if not, then what exactly? Not that I need an exact label, but I would love to hear some objective thoughts on this. [more inside]
What else do I need to know my at home manicure?
So the current nail tech FPP on the blue, and my comment inside have me wondering what other tips and tricks there are for at home hand care. [more inside]
posted by bilabial at 2:36 PM PST - 24 comments
posted by bilabial at 2:36 PM PST - 24 comments
How can I make my attic studio more comfortable over the summer?
I just moved into a new apartment and there's a huge open attic that's all mine. I'm in the process of turning it into studio space, but as a renter I can't make significant modifications. It's going to get very hot this summer and I'm worried it'll become unbearable. Has anyone used the rolls of radiant barrier foil? It sounds like a good solution, but dropping a bunch of cash on something that might be woo makes me nervous. [more inside]
posted by Lighthammer at 1:36 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by Lighthammer at 1:36 PM PST - 12 comments
My sex drive is now a sex leisurely amble in the park
I have been on SSRIs for depression for a bit over a year, and my sex drive has fallen through the floor. I find this extremely distressing. What can I do about it? [more inside]
Gustatory effects of probiotics?
I started recently on probiotics and find that my sense of taste has gotten better for some reason. [more inside]
posted by curuinor at 12:20 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by curuinor at 12:20 PM PST - 2 comments
This is possibly the most boring thing I've ever asked.
Last year we bought a set of appliances (fridge, dishwasher, stove) from Whirlpool and they've sent us a warranty renewal notice. Best as I can tell, the offer is coming from Whirlpool directly (they have our info on file as we got a manufacturer's rebate.) Can you school me on what the deal with appliance warranties is? [more inside]
posted by griphus at 11:56 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by griphus at 11:56 AM PST - 15 comments
Are Public Radio Fund Drives Actually "Working"?
Does anyone know about the success rate of public radio fund drives? During the last cycle in October, a local public radio station missed its target at the end of its drive by almost 30%. Yet, everybody keeps saying fund drives "are working". Where can I find data that says if that's true or not?
NPR Election Party Analogue for 2015 UK Elections
Is there an equivalent to NPR's Election Party that I could keep an eye on while the UK returns cone in tonight? [more inside]
Maths question about building a funnel
I'm trying to work out the measurements to cut 4 pieces of metal and it's completely wrecking my head. [more inside]
posted by night_train at 11:33 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by night_train at 11:33 AM PST - 9 comments
Separated after many years. Help me feel like I haven't wasted my life.
I separated from my ex-husband about a year ago. I am now 40 years old and I feel like I threw my life away on a marriage that never should have happened. Please help me to move on and be optimistic for the future. (Wall of text inside) [more inside]
Help me be a decent supervisor, please.
What specific tips do you have for someone who just got their first supervisory position? [more inside]
posted by Tarumba at 11:07 AM PST - 22 comments
posted by Tarumba at 11:07 AM PST - 22 comments
How do people do their jobs?
Are there more podcasts (or books or movies) like the first season of Slate's Working? [more inside]
Men's hair product and technique for thick, mostly-straight hair
I got kind of a funny haircut (not on purpose). It's like the mid-'90s "butt cut" but extra long in the front. I have no idea what the stylist was thinking, as she did the two things I specifically told her not to do: no butt cut, as I have a serious cowlick that accentuates that look, and nothing that requires product, as my hair is very thick and everything I have tried is absorbed and useless within two hours.
So what can I do? Technique and product recommendations? [more inside]
posted by laerm at 9:48 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by laerm at 9:48 AM PST - 13 comments
Blondes definitely have more fun
I don't think I want to get pulled into some exhaustive hair dyeing routine, but I hate the color of my hair while it's short. What are my options? [more inside]
Where can I find a library of Macros for Excel and what they do?
I've been recently getting interested in various Macros and what they can do in Excel. Is there suppository of various Macros available online as well as clear demonstrations of what they can be used for that I can insert into my spreadsheets.
iPad setup for Grandma and Grandpa
I want to send and iPad to my grandparents for FaceTime and email. They are not tech savvy, and I want to make this as easy for them to use as possible. They don't have internet access, so I will be adding them to my family AT&T plan. Snowflakes inside. [more inside]
posted by domo at 8:14 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by domo at 8:14 AM PST - 11 comments
Curious about a hypothetical situation
My neighbor has the same name as a certain celebrity. Hypothetically, would it be legal to publish quotes from him? [more inside]
posted by cmcmcm at 8:09 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by cmcmcm at 8:09 AM PST - 10 comments
Resource Management Software? Help, please.
Thanks in advance for your assistance. I'm looking to find a resource management software that will help me keep track of which of my 150-170 facilities are in use right now, and which will be in use in the coming days. Details below the fold. [more inside]
Best way to find/search for Facebook and Twitter profiles
How do I properly search for Facebook pages in such a way that I find ALL the results that I am looking for? [more inside]
Caffeine that isn't coffee, tea or cola...in Toronto, and not expen$ive?
Is there an inexpensive local or online seller (Toronto) where I can order or go buy a liquid caffeine source that's either tasteless or sweet? [more inside]
Installing new HDD into iMac due to sector errors - use an older backup?
My iMac's HDD is borked due to lots of sector errors. I'm happy to buy and install a new HDD myself and then use my TimeCapsule backup to get up and running again. But should I use a backup from before the disk stuttering problems began, because the most recent backup would replicate the problems?
Moving to Greater Boston - Where's the suburbs?
My wife has been told if she wants to be promoted she's coming to the mothership. That mothership is in Westford, MA. Now we have to find a place to live. But I can't find the suburbs. Not like where we're from in Santa Clara, CA. [more inside]
Where can I watch election coverage in Cambridge?
I'm a US person currently living in the UK, specifically Cambridge, and this is the first election I've been present for. I like to watch election coverage on TV in a pub with a bunch of left-leaning politically-clued-in people. I've sampled a lot of Cambridge pubs and I've noticed that among their many charms is an absence of televisions. Is there a place where I can watch election coverage over a pint (or several)? The closer to the city centre the better, but I'm not picky.
posted by yomimono at 5:38 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by yomimono at 5:38 AM PST - 5 comments
How to keep track of names and faces to build relationships at a large c
Remembering who someone is has been a roadblock to successful networking in the past – but in my new job, I have more people to remember than ever. I’d like to know what you, as someone who also has trouble remembering names and faces, has done to keep track of a large network. I am not looking for mnemonic tricks to remember one or several specific names. I’m hoping more for something like “Everyone I meet goes in my electronic rolodex that I update with X information after each meeting.” [more inside]
posted by rebent at 5:36 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by rebent at 5:36 AM PST - 9 comments
Buying presents for people you don't know very well
What should I bring to an acquaintance's 30th birthday gathering? Details and complicating factors inside. [more inside]
posted by kinddieserzeit at 5:29 AM PST - 18 comments
posted by kinddieserzeit at 5:29 AM PST - 18 comments
Portable foodie gift from Japan?
I live in Japan, and will soon be meeting up with some French friends who are visiting the region (we're not meeting in Japan). They are real foodies and I want to take them some food-related gifts, but they can't be too heavy/bulky/perishable/breakable - they'll need to get them home. Any suggestions? I am already planning to get them some good quality matcha as one of them bakes and has made some lovely matcha pastries before.
posted by ontheradio at 5:07 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by ontheradio at 5:07 AM PST - 15 comments
What are your favorite profiles?
Hi! I'm teaching a writing class and would love some examples of great profiles (famous people, ordinary people, whatever). They can be long New Yorker-style ones, or newspaper articles, or whatever -- anything that is nonfiction and skillfully captures a person (or is intended to). Short ones would be particularly helpful.
Any recommendations of ones you love?
Where to find Wikipedia Statistics?
I'm looking for something like the most popular/visited pages for each month (or week, or day) since Wikipedia's debut. I found the Top 25 list which would be perfect if it wasn't for the fact that it starts only in 2013. I'd like to go back as many year as possible.
I combed through the statistics department but I can't find anything usable except for a couple of "Top N" pages for a single year. Most pages or sections refer to just little samples and examples.
Thanks a lot for any hints
Chris
Why can I not highlight text on my iMac?
May 6
Is it possible to pause an ATT account and transfer the phone number?
My company offers to cover our phone bill, however I'm currently on my family's plan. I've been grandfathered into unlimited data and I don't want to lose that. Is it possible to put my individual ATT account on hold, while leaving the rest of the family plan active, and still keep the same number either on an ATT individual account or another service provider?
DIY cell repeater/booster, or recommended forums/vendors.
I need a repeater, and tend to not trust integrated units. I'm perfectly comfy with soldering and assembling an über-repeater by sourcing the various parts ala a handbuilt PC. I just don't know what to buy! [more inside]
posted by Jack Karaoke at 10:59 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by Jack Karaoke at 10:59 PM PST - 3 comments
"We have received a non-credible threat."
I just got an email from my doctor's office telling me they have "received a non-credible threat." They say they've notified the police and they're putting extra security on, but have given me the option to reschedule. I am a little thrown by the fact that they've emailed me when it is allegedly non-credible. Has anyone else had this happen and what did you do? [more inside]
posted by rednikki at 10:14 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by rednikki at 10:14 PM PST - 7 comments
Design the perfect dog friendly day in Point Reyes
Coming from Tahoe via Vallejo. Probably sometime in the next few weekends. Assume I have about 4 hours once I arrive at the visitor center. Prettiest, easy to get to dog friendly beach (I have a 12 year old little mutt, still spry but not ready for a killer hike)? Better to go on a Sunday than on a Sunday? Any must do cheap eats?
posted by HeyAllie at 8:59 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by HeyAllie at 8:59 PM PST - 4 comments
ISO: a font of a passed era
Given the plethora of handwriting fonts online, I'd like to find a one that has the same feel as library hand. I'm aware of the Nathan Hauenstei font but am interested in other possibilities. Any suggestions?
posted by bluesapphires at 8:59 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by bluesapphires at 8:59 PM PST - 5 comments
How to cope with my terror of uncertainty in my mid-20s
How do I enjoy and make the most of my life, when it is so full of uncertainty? What are some strategies for tolerating and living with uncertainty, rather than being afraid of and fighting it? Details/specific situation inside [more inside]
posted by armadillo1224 at 8:56 PM PST - 25 comments
posted by armadillo1224 at 8:56 PM PST - 25 comments
The finitude of real-estate development pressure?
My city has been re-writing its zoning code. There has been a lively debate about proposals to allow higher buildings in select areas, and about how doing so -- or not doing so -- would affect other areas in the city. Some argue as if there is a finite amount of 'pressure' to develop, and that if this pressure isn't relieved by up-zoning in the select areas, the other areas will experience more undesirable development than they would if the pressure were relieved. Is this really how it works? [more inside]
Resources for surviving emotional abuse
I'm seeking techniques, advice and resources on how to protect oneself in an abusive relationship. [more inside]
Help me find an appropriate dress for the mother of the bride!
I am trying to help a relative find a dress for her daughter's wedding, a dress that has very specific parameters. Where do the awesome ladies in their 70's shop for special occasion outfits that are, as my relative puts it, "suitable for someone over the age of 20"? [more inside]
Feed me To and From Chicago
Where can I eat as I travel from O'Hare to Champaign, IL on a Friday night, and then from Champaign to Midway on Sunday late afternoon? [more inside]
Which landscaping company do we use with crazy different quotes?
We have two quotes from landscapers, and our decision is coming down to how they are proposing to deal with the drainage. How do we make this decision? [more inside]
A good book on basic dog training?
We recently adopted a 7 month old dog from the local shelter, a 37 pound border collie mix awesome mutt. We really need a good book to give us direction in training him to be even awsomer and deal with a few problems. [more inside]
Aging gracefully as a developer
I'm a web developer. I'm almost 40, and I'm starting to wonder how much longer I can expect to sling code in the trenches with the youngsters. I mean, I still have a number of years of relevance left in me—but it's hard to imagine that I'll remain competitive as a developer as I enter my 50s and 60s. I need to start thinking about the long game. So...what does the long game look like? [more inside]
Recommend me a movie to distract myself
Hello Mefites,
My mom is in the hospital several states away and I'm not going there right now. She has good family helping her and we are spreading ourselves out over time rather than clustering all at once. It is likely she will recover well. [more inside]
posted by harrietthespy at 4:31 PM PST - 18 comments
posted by harrietthespy at 4:31 PM PST - 18 comments
Getting out of limerence while still maintaining the relationship
Help me figure out how to get back to a place where I once was with a close friend? [more inside]
Making sense of multivariable statistics (with infographics?)
I'm working with some multi-variable data (up to 12 factors per event, from a possible 28 factors) so far I've only seen it discussed as a combination of two factors. Is there a way to elegantly (or at least clearly) display inter-relations of more features? I realize 12 factors is a lot, so anything more than 2 factors would be an improvement. [more inside]
My brain rejects any man who treats me well. Help!
I can stay attracted to emotionally or actually unavailable men for YEARS: but as soon as a guy starts treating me decently and wants to get serious, my brain starts picking him apart and I run away before I hurt him. How can I stop myself from thinking this way and ruining potentially great relationships? [more inside]
posted by libertypie at 2:41 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by libertypie at 2:41 PM PST - 14 comments
Using Adobe Premiere/Media Encoder to chop end off MP4s automatically?
I have 400 promotional MP4s that are each exactly 51 seconds long.
I need 400 promotional MP4s that are each exactly 25 seconds long.
Can I use a Complete up-to-date Adobe Creative Suite to accomplish this automatically? [more inside]
Help Me Be Successfully Carless
My car was totaled on the freeway last month, and I've decided to take this opportunity to go carless. I've read through the other questions (not a lot of them), but would love tips, tricks and things to watch out for. [more inside]
How to get a dentist to take my inflamed and bleeding gums seriously?
I went through a period of time where I didn't take as good care of my teeth as I should have due to excessive stress in my life. I wasn't flossing, didn't brush very often and also was grinding and clenching my teeth a lot. [more inside]
Bypass OS X "security" for my own Automator applications?
After upgrading to 10.10.3 I have a repeat of a problem I had months ago, and still no satisfactory solution. [more inside]
posted by terrapin at 11:31 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by terrapin at 11:31 AM PST - 10 comments
What movie to show middle schoolers?
What would be a good movie to show middle school students that would spark dialogue and critical thinking about what it means to be "American"? The audience would be mostly African-American and Hispanic students. Needs to be PG-13 or lower rating.
Odd couple + angst + romance = all the stories I want
[Fic Rec Filter] Looking for novels, short stories, or fanfics that play on the odd couple trope, especially the Sensitive Guy and Manly Man. [more inside]
Helping Boyfriend Help Depressed Me.
Need advice and/or perspective on my relationship problems. DISCLAIMER: Please don't tell me to DTMFA. I am not interested in ending my relationship with him right now. I want to attempt to improve it before I end it. [more inside]
What do I need to know about dental implants?
My root canal failed. Went to the dentist as soon as I started feeling pain, but the tooth is now unsalvagable due to decay and now an implant is my only option. [more inside]
Stucco Termite Dilemma
Exterior stucco on our new Toronto house is touching the ground in an area known to have termites = a big no-no according to our home inspector. Can you help with finding a solution? [more inside]
posted by elkerette at 10:22 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by elkerette at 10:22 AM PST - 6 comments
Grill me: Weeknight Edition
What delicious things do you grill on a weeknight? We're getting bored (already!) with our rotation of chicken thighs, burgers and pork chops. We are willing to set up a morning marinade before leaving for work.
posted by sarajane at 10:22 AM PST - 42 comments
posted by sarajane at 10:22 AM PST - 42 comments
Curbside Check in at O'Hare for Delta?
I'm having no joy getting answers to this: is there curbside check-in at Chicago O'Hare for Delta?
My wife is on a flight on Monday, and will be arriving by cab, and currently has a foot problem which means she can't lug her luggage inside.
posted by blue_wardrobe at 10:17 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by blue_wardrobe at 10:17 AM PST - 4 comments
Lexapro? Prozac? Or...?
I'm thinking of going on medication for anxiety. Poking around on the internet has suggested that an SSRI might be best for me to try first. I'm thinking of Lexapro or Prozac. Help? [more inside]
How to deal with severe SNRI withdrawal symptoms?
After a few months on Cymbalta, I was hit with pretty intolerable side effects - extreme fatigue, weakness, and dizziness being predominant. I asked my doctor if he could take me off it, and he did so - albeit with a very rapid taper, which I (and he?) felt was justified by the side effects. It has been 2.5 weeks since I stopped the Cymbalta, and I have been experiencing intense withdrawal on top of the effects I had been feeling previously. [more inside]
Marijuana use in Oakland
I have some questions about (medical) marijuana use in Oakland. (Primarily about legality, but also a bonus question about drug interactions.) [more inside]
French Song Identification
Please help identify a song from French pop radio. [more inside]
posted by jeto at 9:13 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by jeto at 9:13 AM PST - 3 comments
Good, safe places for me to ballroom/Latin/swing dance in Portland?
Recently moved to Portland, OR. I'm an intermediate ballroom/Latin/swing dancer and I'm overwhelmed by the amount of choices here when I google. In particular I want a nice safe place where I won't get groped or hit on a lot...I'm 30 and a reasonably attractive woman. Where I used to live I basically gave up on social dancing because I couldn't go anywhere without getting groped, and stuck to my Arthur Murray like glue. Any dancers out there that can help me out? [more inside]
Still MORE funny, charming, intelligent movies?
Please recommend well-written, funny, charming, gentle movies. [more inside]
posted by kristi at 8:16 AM PST - 87 comments
posted by kristi at 8:16 AM PST - 87 comments
Joe Vs. The Volcano (ambient soundtrack)
We're throwing a tiki party and I would like to set the mood with some soundscape. Please recommend some online available jungle sounds and beats to set the vibe. [more inside]
My MacBook thinks I am an iPhoto library
On my MacBook Pro: when I double click on the computer icon and it opens (to show me Applications, Library, etc) and then I double click within that to Users (which shows me Guest, Me, and Shared), if I then click on "Me" it tries to open with iPhoto, claiming I am an iPhoto Library. I just want to be a User folder again with typical subfolders like Documents, Music, Pictures. Help. [more inside]
A mob of people decorate a car - genius or scary?
We're hosting a Maker Fair later this summer. This is my first crack at organizing such an event, so everything is new, exciting, and freaking me out. Our theme is "City of Makers", and we'd like to include a collaborative installation that builds into a big piece of art over the course of the day. In this way, people will see that it's not hard to be part of making something awesome. Key to this is that the end result is awesome, and not a giant pile of crap (unless that too is awesome). [more inside]
I've been given a job in a field I know nothing about
A family connection has coopted me to do a job I know nothing about, namely, running a cocktail bar. How do I make this a success? [more inside]
posted by Pechorin at 7:35 AM PST - 23 comments
posted by Pechorin at 7:35 AM PST - 23 comments
J. Crew employee discounts. What can they be used on, how can I get one
Would like to buy a new pair of shoes for my wedding in July. J. Crew Alden's would be real nice but are on the pricey side and don't seem to ever be a part of sales. Does anyone know if the J. Crew employee discount can be used for these shoes, and if so, what is the discount amount? [more inside]
posted by rbf1138 at 7:21 AM PST - 21 comments
posted by rbf1138 at 7:21 AM PST - 21 comments
Writing Groups in NYC?
Looking for a writing group for someone who is about to graduate from college and move back to Manhattan in a few weeks. [more inside]
Divorce Process Question
Hopefully a quickie: Divorcing, and my car loan is in wife's name (as is registration), and her car loan and registration is in my name. Need your help/advice [more inside]
Need a bike for 2 weeks in NYC - rent or buy?
I'm going to NYC June 23 to July 7 and need a bicycle for that period. Last time I rented one on Spinlister, which worked great, but still cost $250-ish. I wonder if it's worth buying a 2nd hand ride and reselling it on the last day. If so, where? [more inside]
posted by ClarissaWAM at 6:17 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by ClarissaWAM at 6:17 AM PST - 11 comments
How to sort through job dissatisfaction?
I've been feeling frustrated and unsatisfied with my work situation for several years, but have a hard time articulating what it is I actually don't like or what/how it could be improved. Are there any tools (self-assessments, books, anecdotes, etc.) I could use to help unpack what's bothering me and find solutions?
posted by ladybird at 6:16 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by ladybird at 6:16 AM PST - 4 comments
Chinese translation needed for special painting
My father passed a few months ago and left behind a painting that he picked up while residing in China many decades ago. We don't know much about the story behind the painting but would at least like to know what the artist's name was. Can anyone tell us what the Chinese on the painting says? Picture links inside. [more inside]
posted by Papagayo at 4:38 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by Papagayo at 4:38 AM PST - 2 comments
Greyhound
I had a really unpleasant experience with Greyhound. I am on the bus, and I do not want to be on the bus. It is 2 am, and little or no options to leave the bus. [more inside]
posted by PinkMoose at 1:18 AM PST - 24 comments
posted by PinkMoose at 1:18 AM PST - 24 comments
Noise, and sleep, and a potential new roommate
I rented a place this evening (put down a deposit, got my key, signed a lease) and am immediately regretting my decision. Does it make sense to see if I can undo this now? [more inside]
posted by twill at 12:34 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by twill at 12:34 AM PST - 11 comments
May 5
Give me my damn pupillary distance!
I just want my effing pupillary distance and I want it to be right. I want it without having to measure it myself -- I did that once and though I still use those glasses, I do worry I was slightly off. I want someone who has done it before to do it for me so I can get this number and know it's right once and for all. Ideas? [more inside]
Decreasing sleep sensitivity...how?
I've long been a light sleeper. Realllly light. Earplugs, eye mask, blackout curtains. People in the same space sworn to tiptoeing silence. I have a form of insomnia + other issues that sometimes keep me awake, but even when those are not a major factor, I'm just so damn sensitive to any stimuli, and I hate it. [more inside]
Why do my photo flash drives keep failing?
I have had three flash drives recently, and they keep failing. This is why I am buying more. When I used the newest one tonight (not for the first time) I got a balloon message saying, "Your drive has malfunctioned and is no longer recognized by the computer." (I got that message or similar on the first two.) [more inside]
posted by intrepid_simpleton at 8:29 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by intrepid_simpleton at 8:29 PM PST - 8 comments
Are 36" Over-The-Range Microwaves even still available?
My house is 10 years old, as is the over-the-range GE Profile microwave we had put in. This evening, it stopped heating. Possibly a diode, possibly a magnetron, possibly not - I'm not an electrician by trade, so who knows. Regardless, I can't seem to find a 36" wide over-the-range microwave for sale or from any manufacturer. My current microwave and the space between the cabinets is that wide, and I'd hate to have something that doesn't look clean in the opening. If I have to replace, what are my options? HALP!
posted by gangsterscience at 8:29 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by gangsterscience at 8:29 PM PST - 7 comments
Up and coming record labels
I'm looking for a up and coming independent record labels. Has anyone heard of any new record labels, specifically targeted to hip hop artists, in the Pittsburgh or cleveland area? Any info would be greatly appreciated.
Allergic reaction to DIY face mask
Hi, everyone.
So I had a very bad reaction to a face mask I made at home using matcha green tea powder and lemon juice to treat my acne scarring. I left it on for just over an hour, and now my face has tiny red bumps all over it! It's itchy, flaky, has dry patches all over and it's burning like crazy! I've applied lemon on my face numerous times before and never had any problems, so it might have been the combination with the matcha powder. My face looks like a swollen tomato.
Any idea on how to make the bumps and dry skin go away? I'll go see a doctor tomorrow but I'm just wondering what I can do in the meantime to make my face heal?
Thanks so much!
Firefox mobile - stop tabs auto-reloading
If I'm reading a webpage in Firefox on my phone, and then go to another tab or another app, when I return to the original tab, the page automatically reloads. How can I prevent this from happening? I would prefer to control when pages reload, as on a regular PC. [more inside]
What is sexual compatibility if libido is not a problem?
Trying to get over a recent Ex who I thought was perfect except for sexual compatibility. I'm trying to unpack this concept and get advice on whether different sexual styles (libido is not a problem) is a dealbreaker. There's no chance of getting him back, but it might help me move on. [more inside]
Water reclamation in CA
Orange County currently fills 20% of its groundwater basin with recycled wastewater. Is there any other water district in CA that tops this figure, in terms of treating wastewater for supplying a basin that provides direct, potable (drinkable)? If not, which water district takes 2nd place?
posted by invisible ink at 6:38 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by invisible ink at 6:38 PM PST - 3 comments
"Life exists to modify carbon"?
I read an article several years ago in which the following argument was made: "life" exists to modify carbon. The assertion was that "life" arose as the most efficient method for creating certain forms of carbon utilizing all available resources, including sunlight, etc.
Does anyone know of the article or of the broader theory?
posted by jefficator at 5:48 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by jefficator at 5:48 PM PST - 3 comments
Help me identify this song
I'm killing myself trying to find a recent rap song, released in the last six months or so. Sample is of a Phoenix-type band (male falsetto over electronic-influenced rock), I'm pretty sure the sample was a minor hit itself. The rapper is male, as well. [more inside]
posted by corcovado at 4:50 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by corcovado at 4:50 PM PST - 4 comments
Painting them white seemed like a good idea at the time...
I need a classy, fairly easy, and affordable way to make the staircase in my house look great and take the abuse of human and cat traffic. [more inside]
posted by Kitteh at 4:40 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by Kitteh at 4:40 PM PST - 13 comments
house hunting / living style to pursue as an introverted remote worker
I work from home and have an opportunity to move soon. I enjoy fresh starts and wondering about buying a house in the sticks somewhere and living the good life. I've recently cut my last geographic tie, and after a spell travelling, wondering if anyone has some insight/anecdata into living styles that might suit someone for whom commute is not an issue. [more inside]
Unreal Estate
Can you help me figure out why a random realtor keeps mailing me letters claiming to know my dad? And what is the best thing to do in response? [more inside]
posted by Mrs. Rattery at 4:12 PM PST - 19 comments
posted by Mrs. Rattery at 4:12 PM PST - 19 comments
Dog with back disease... how to cope?
I found out two days ago that my 6-year-old dog has something called IVDD, which is Intervertebral Disc Disease. I am hoping to get advice on how to live and help him live a happy life given this diagnosis. I welcome anecdotes, science, warm wishes, advice... [more inside]
posted by hippychick at 2:58 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by hippychick at 2:58 PM PST - 13 comments
Frameworks for dumbs
I need a quick and dirty run down on working with frameworks in web site design (e.g., Bootstrap, Boilerplate, Bones, etc). Online text &/or video tutorials would be most welcome. I am competent in both HTML and CSS. [more inside]
Cheapest MP3 players with bluetooth
What are the cheapest bluetooth MP3 players? Note: I would actually pay more for one that didn't have a screen (a la ipod shuffle), but somehow I doubt that exists. [more inside]
Should I return or exchange my new shoes? Difficulty level:High Arches
I bought these in a 12.5, and while I love how they look there's no way I can keep them as currently sized. My arch is too high and it messes up how the tongue looks. If I bump up to a 13 will that solve my problem or will I just end up returning those as well? [more inside]
As sound proof as a leaky sieve
Legal firms are based around privacy, but both Suits and The Good Wife quite prominently feature offices with walls made of glass panels with substantial air gaps between them. In Suits it looks like it's about an inch. In TGW it's nearer a foot.
Is there something I'm missing about the design or the acoustics, or are these walls pretty much useless?
How to keep ants out of a mailbox?
Whenever the weather is wet, ants invade our mailbox and bring their eggs/larvae. The best solution I've found is just to keep the mailbox open, which totally works. Unfortunately, on wet days it just has to be shut for a couple of hours (like after the mail comes) before they move back in. Is there any way to keep them out of the mailbox without poisoning the whole colony or putting something messy (like baby powder) in the mailbox?
posted by that's how you get ants at 2:03 PM PST - 20 comments
posted by that's how you get ants at 2:03 PM PST - 20 comments
Drugged and robbed in Tokyo, what should I do?
I recently visited Tokyo. While I was there, I found myself in the Kabuki-cho region near Shinjuku. I hadn't checked the state department advisories before I left, but if I had I would have found there have been warnings about this going back years. I was drugged by a tout, who then led me around town in a dissociative state all night, and in the morning I found that my credit card had charges going up to the limit, all in $1k or $2k increments. I called my card company and told them the transactions were fraudulent, and also told the embassy and the Shinjuku police. Is there anything more I should do? I'd also like to reconstruct the night - can I get detailed records from my credit card company? [more inside]
Hotels in the city centers of Stockholm, Copenhagen, and Oslo
Heya. The wife and I are staying for two nights in each of Stockholm, Copenhagen, and Oslo. We'd like something very centrally located and though we'd pay more to stay somewhere nice/cool, price is a little bit of a concern. Don't want to sacrifice comfort, though.
Any tips from you guys?
Does this fragrance exist in anything other than the actual plant?
Caffre (Kaffir)-lime blossoms smell like sunshine. Please help me find it in a bottle. [more inside]
We wanted a porch, not a pool
Thanks to everyone's help in response to this AskMe, we built a screened porch and love it. But we've run into a little problem that we hope someone can help us solve: [more inside]
Dress shopping help please
I'm looking for a dressy enough dress to wear to a wedding and graduation, with short sleeves, not too short, but not matronly either--help! [more inside]
posted by biscuits at 12:53 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by biscuits at 12:53 PM PST - 13 comments
how do I go about buying the empty lot next door?
I want to buy the empty lot next door (a big empty yard where they tore down a house last year). And then I'll basically just have a bigger yard. I found the owner through the county auditor website, and he is deceased. What do I do? [more inside]
moving tips?
My mom is moving from a small town 45+ miles outside of Atlanta to a suburb of Atlanta.
We're looking at best ways to move her - neither she nor I can move all the furniture/boxes, so we're looking at movers. Due to her location in a small town, there aren't many local moving services/local labor sources.
Any tips or tricks that I might not be thinking of? [more inside]
How do I change credit cards without hurting my credit score?
So I've got several 2-3 credit cards that I use heavily; I never run a balance, none of the cards have annual fees, I just like the convenience and earning rewards. I'd like to switch from the cards I'm using to some new ones that have better rewards, and do it in a way that doesn't hurt my credit score. [more inside]
Attending AA meetings in Delhi and Mumbai for a visitor!
Attending AA meetings in Delhi and Mumbai for a visitor! Hi,
I was asked this by someone going to India for a couple of weeks. I know there are meetings in both places but the question was "How easy/difficult is it if you are an American Woman visiting and want to go to a meeting?"
This completely floored me as I had NO idea how women friendly meetings are in India, especially if you are a White woman.
Please don't impute any racist undercurrents to my query. I am an Indian man myself, and I know first hand how tourists, especially white women, get harassed by all and sundry.
I was curious if any Mefiers have any suggestions or experiences that I can pass along to my friend. Thanks.
posted by indianbadger1 at 11:29 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by indianbadger1 at 11:29 AM PST - 7 comments
Another job question from me...
I'm very unhappy at my job and in the process of looking for a new job/career change but I'm struggling to deal with my current job in the mean time [more inside]
Portable swing for a kid
Things are returning to normal in the Panda household, and it's time to get out and play! Specifically I'd like a swing that can be installed temporarily on a nearby tree and removed when it's time to go home. Advice from all directions is welcome: swing seats, rope, hardware, knots, or anything else tangentially related. This will primarily be used by a 4 year old, but ideas that would work for an 18 month old are good too. [more inside]
Please help me build an adult wardrobe for men
I find my style transitioning from one of jeans and a t-shirt to khakis and a Polo. Please help me build my wardrobe! [more inside]
Anonymous chat programs, multi-platform
What is a chat/IM program, that doesn't require giving away personal details, such as either your google ID or your phone number, to the other party? Cross-platform (including Windows PC), like Viber, but I understand that program requires sharing phone numbers.
So I want to live chat to someone, sometimes on android phone, sometimes on iPad, or iPhone, or Windows PC, and we have each others email addresses, but no more than that.
Market Research Question on Meditation & Mindfulness
Mindfulness is trending, and I am opening a meditation studio. I am looking to find out my target audience in order to lock a location. I am seeking a profile on people who meditate. Are they typically baby boomers? Women around 30 years old? Etc. This will also allow me to plan programs, curriculum, and advertising. If anyone knows where I can find information like this (or something close) please let me know. Thank you!
Like this, but not.
I really, really love Brick Bars, but they're expensive. Are there any cheaper, non-nut-based alternatives? [more inside]
posted by joyceanmachine at 9:22 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by joyceanmachine at 9:22 AM PST - 9 comments
Starting a food-related business on the cheap?
Asking for a friend: I want to start an LLC in NYC and sell yummy sweet things. Most of the requirements are pretty straightforward, but the newspaper publication requirement runs over a thousand dollars! Is there any way to get around having to pay such crazy high Certificate of Publication fees? (I am in Queens, if it makes a difference.)
Thanks!!
Tracking impressions, clicks and conversions in iframe on external site
My company sells digital music. We have starting offering some of our partners the ability to embed an iframe widget with an audio player in it. I'm trying to figure out the best tool to use in order to track page impressions, clicks and conversions. How do I do that? [more inside]
How to Give References when Potentially Changing Jobs
I am currently employed. I like my job, I like my co-workers, and I'm not unhappy here at all. Recently someone I know sent a job opportunity my way, and it looked really, really cool - something I'd be really excited to do. So I threw them an application, just to see, and ended up going on two rounds of interviews that went really well. There's a decent chance I'll get this job but, you know, they're talking to other people as well.
Today they asked for references. I'm not sure how to handle that. [more inside]
posted by Ragged Richard at 8:52 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by Ragged Richard at 8:52 AM PST - 12 comments
Is it possible to change your email address?
How inconvenient is it to change your email address in the modern Internet environment? Nearly every web application in the world treats your email address as your login or account name: is updating that everywhere feasible? [more inside]
posted by Nelson at 8:48 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by Nelson at 8:48 AM PST - 13 comments
Can I put my LLC "on hold" and not pay fees?
I have gone from freelancing to full-time work so I don't need my LLC at the moment. But I will continue to be charged active-agent fees and taxes. Should I just dissolve it? [more inside]
You're almost certainly not my dentist
I've got a potential issue with some dental work sequencing - should I get a filling now or wait until I've had my wisdom teeth taken out next month? More details within. [more inside]
Book recommendation filter: goats!
I need book recommendations --- specifically, recommendations for books about goats, suitable for an indulgent aunt to give to a 7-year-old who adores them. That's it, that's all there is: kids' books about goats..... she also adores chickens, but I think I've got that one covered. Thanks in advance!
posted by easily confused at 8:01 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by easily confused at 8:01 AM PST - 13 comments
Are you a realtor? What's the nicest gift a buyer has given you?
We adore our realtor, and are about to close on our new house. We want to give him a thank you gift, but champagne just doesn't seem like enough, nor particularly original. Any suggestions? Possibly pertinent: he's single, 50, fit, mild-mannered, very kind. We could spend $50-$75 (more?). Thanks!
posted by Specklet at 7:51 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by Specklet at 7:51 AM PST - 19 comments
De-friending?
A friend I hadn't seen in a decade came to visit me a few months ago, and during the visit I realized I no longer want to be friends with her. Since then I've avoided calls and messages, or responded that I don't feel like talking right now. She continues to contact me, and I'm wondering what the best way to deal with this is. Lots (and lots) of detail inside. [more inside]
posted by odayoday at 7:25 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by odayoday at 7:25 AM PST - 19 comments
Life of an Adventure Guide
After reading these two articles from Outside Magazine (1, 2), I would like to read more blogs/essays about the day to day life of an Adventure/travel guide. Any recommendations? [more inside]
Need to analyze words within 800+ ppt decks - shortcuts?
I have a set of 800+ powerpoint decks. I'm looking to identify which ones have certain search terms -- say, "aardvarks" or do not include certain terms -- say, "tigers". Ideally, I'd get an excel spreadsheet with the file names and how many times "aardvarks" appeared, and another list of file names where "tigers" did not appear. Is there a tool to do this so that I don't have to open all 800+ individually?
I was diagnosed with herpes this weekend. Please anecdote me.
I feel guilty that my SO has to deal with this through no fault of his own. Our sex life is amazing and I know this would put a damper on it. He's supportive, but I worry that that might change. [more inside]
navigating the post-FWB hookup drawdown
Hooked up with a longtime friend, A. We are both somewhat recently split from LTRs, although A's exit was much more recent than mine. Pre- and during, A was super affectionate, looking ahead and waxing poetic about our as-yet-unrealized future plans. Post-, A has been unusually cool and distant. I'm really embarrassed and way too old for this. What can I do to reassess, re-calibrate, regroup, and move on? [more inside]
Long car rides and family get-togethers
I've planned a day-long road trip to spend about a week at my cousin's farm. My husband and I with our 4-1/2 year old daughter are planning to drive 10 hours to get out there. We'll stay a week. My mother lives another 4 hours from where we'll be staying. We decided not to tack on a trip out to see her and so she invited herself on our trip. I'm of two minds about this. [more inside]
Short Curtains for Short People
Does anyone make reasonably-priced short curtains (around 4' long) that suit a modern bedroom? [more inside]
posted by capricorn at 6:22 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by capricorn at 6:22 AM PST - 6 comments
Cooking filter: Teach a man to cook
Hi, I'd like to learn the art of cooking to both help my wife and child out, and to learn a cool skill. Looking for a few things here: 1) Resources for teaching the theory of cooking, 2) Tips/Tricks and (of course) 3) recipes. Some special snowflakey details inside. [more inside]
Why do so many new jeans smell like mothballs/formaldehyde?
I recently bought a pair of jeans at Macy's. They stink like mothballs/formaldehyde/naphthalene. Washing them doesn't get the smell out. What IS the smell, is there a sure way to get rid of it - aside from returning them to the store as a defective product, which I'm willing to do - and why do so many jeans being sold in stores now smell like this? [more inside]
Making a series of graphs from a dataset
I need to make a series of 40 graphs (all of the same format) from an excel dataset and I'm having trouble figuring out how to do this efficiently. Basically, I would want something that would cycle through all the rows producing a separate graph for each row that could be copied into the appropriate section in the report. Although, I would prefer to do this in excel so that others in my dept could also use it, I do have R available if there is an easier way to do this in that environment. Any ideas? Thanks!
What friendships will show in my friends' Facebook ticker?
On Facebook, my friends' list is set to completely private ("only me"). This should mean that when I friend someone with a private / friends-only friends list, the new friendship should NOT show up in my friends' tickers unless they already know that person. However, what if I add someone with a public friends' list - will it show up in my other friends' tickers despite my privacy settings? [more inside]
posted by beyond_pink at 3:56 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by beyond_pink at 3:56 AM PST - 6 comments
May 4
Passing down stuffed animals to your kids - yay or nay?
Husbunny has a few stuffed animals from when he was a kid, well-loved and frankly looking ratty and gross to me, but eye-of-the-beholder and all that, he intends to give them to our kids. [more inside]
posted by lizbunny at 11:09 PM PST - 32 comments
posted by lizbunny at 11:09 PM PST - 32 comments
Setting up an iPad for use abroad
Help me (in the US) figure out how best to set up an iPad for my mother (in India.) Snowflakes inside. [more inside]
Getting from Munich Airport to Hiohenems (Austria) in a train strike
Simple as that. I fly into Munich Airport at 0700 on Friday morning. I have a rail booking to Hohenems (extreme west of Austria). I am going to a concert in Hohenems at 2000 hrs on Friday night. Back to Munich Airport the following morning to catch a flight at 1100. If Deutsche Bahn is on strike, how do I make this work? [more inside]
posted by Logophiliac at 10:33 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by Logophiliac at 10:33 PM PST - 9 comments
What they say is true: HR is never, ever on your side.
I was fired for what I (and several lawyer friends) believe to be a bogus reason. But what should I tell potential employers, given that I don't trust my former HR department? It's going to be long but the detail is necessary. [more inside]
Need help with core beliefs and travel anxiety
I'm going to put the TL:DR up here. I have lots of limiting core beliefs involving my worth. Meeting new people causes me great anxiety due to these beliefs, which include not being allowed to have any needs, especially those that might inconvenience, irritate, or anger the other person. I also have panic disorder. I've met someone online that I want to meet in person but it would involve a drive of several hours. Travel = panic = debilitating and anxiety-inducing physical symptoms. Help me meet this person while remaining functional. [more inside]
Running a Book Club
What should I know about running an online book club? [more inside]
The grass is always greener on the other side...
A recruiter contacted me on LinkedIn today, and instead of politely responding that I'm not looking to move, this one has me questioning my usual response. I need some help determining if it's worth it to take a peek over the fence or not. [more inside]
posted by noneuclidean at 7:57 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by noneuclidean at 7:57 PM PST - 8 comments
Fiscal Encounters
Is there anything that does with US congressional data the same thing Fatal Encounters does with police data? [more inside]
posted by Johann Georg Faust at 7:26 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by Johann Georg Faust at 7:26 PM PST - 2 comments
Portfolio website for a freelance writer -- what to use?
As a freelance writer/editor, I want to set up a website for several years of clips and a short bio. I want something that is going to be around for a while, so I'm leaning toward Wordpress or Squarespace (can write off cost as a business expense) rather than a more specialized site. I found some previous questions about this but they were from 2006/2010. Good examples of individual freelancers' sites are welcome too.
posted by trillian at 7:25 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by trillian at 7:25 PM PST - 11 comments
I want to smell like Hawaii.
I want to smell like Hawaii. To me, this means a coconut fragrance. Bonus question: if you know of a good coconut lotion, I'll gladly take those answers. [more inside]
posted by joseph conrad is fully awesome at 6:20 PM PST - 27 comments
posted by joseph conrad is fully awesome at 6:20 PM PST - 27 comments
How to do my first dive vacation
I just acquired my PADI Open Water certification. I want to go on a scuba diving vacation in early August. I've never traveled before and don't know the best way to do it, given some complicating factors. [more inside]
Less Teddy, Less Heady
Where do I shine my UV light to find interesting UV active art? [more inside]
Fry
What foods are fun to fry at home? [more inside]
Considering contacting an ex...
After 18 months of virtually no-contact, I am considering reaching out to my ex. I think my reasons for doing so are healthy, with an eye towards moving on and letting go (as opposed to courting drama) - but I would like input from others who have found themselves in a similar position. Also, if I do go ahead and reach out, what is the best way to do so? Behold the great wall of text: [more inside]
Help me buy a hat
I'm looking for a stylish hat with good coverage. I'm not normally a hat-wearer, but I've been spending a lot of time outside and want to keep my face out of the sun. I'm looking for more coverage than one of these straw fedoras but not a big, floppy beach hat. [more inside]
posted by ohisee at 4:06 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by ohisee at 4:06 PM PST - 10 comments
Pardot? More like ParNot.
I am in marketing, and we've had Pardot and Salesforce for about a year. We're starting to do some lead nurture email campaigns using Pardot. We have many prospects in Pardot who aren't yet MQLs, so they are not yet in Salesforce. If one of these prospects contacts Sales by email or phone, Sales has no information on them. How do we bridge the gap? [more inside]
It's a Red Letter Day In My Office
Suddenly, in the middle of a print job, the printer stopped printing. And then things got strange. Help? [more inside]
Losing sleep due to neighbor's toddler
I am this poster's downstairs neighbor (no, not literally), and I haven't gotten a full night's sleep since they moved in. What do? [more inside]
posted by goodbyewaffles at 2:44 PM PST - 34 comments
posted by goodbyewaffles at 2:44 PM PST - 34 comments
Going outside and staying outside
I have spent enough time indoors to last the rest of my life, I want to start sleeping outside more. I'm looking for places to wilderness camp near Chicago and I'm having trouble finding any. I've gone camping at a few drive-in type sites and that's not really what I'm looking for. I don't want to be around people watching TV in their RV. I want to be shitting in the woods. I have a hammock and a stove, where should I go within a days drive of Chicago that is actually wild?
How to beat back ongoing back pain
Me-fites with past back pain experience: if you've experienced multiple episodes of back pain but have managed to conquer it after all, how did you do it? [more inside]
Solid data on "messages received" increasing over time?
I'm working on something with the sloppy premise that over the gradual shift from print to digital, communications isn't a zero-sum game. The general idea is that the introduction of things like first the Internet and e-mail, and later social media and texting, have increased the total number of messages people receive, and that people are increasingly "messaged at" over time. What sources can help me prove this, or disprove it? [more inside]
posted by Shepherd at 1:33 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by Shepherd at 1:33 PM PST - 5 comments
Are hacked and cracked Android apps a thing?
I am familiar with the dark underside of PC software. Finding cracked and hacked versions of whatever you want is a trivial exercise. Is it like that in the Android app ecosystem too? [more inside]
posted by Meatbomb at 1:28 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by Meatbomb at 1:28 PM PST - 14 comments
Is the cloud the cloud?
Is there a reason for me to pay $11.99/year for 5GB of cloud storage on Amazon when 5GB of storage is free on iCloud? Is there something I'm missing?
What book about BASIC programming did I read as a child?
I'm trying to remember a book I read about BASIC game programming when I was a child. I don't know the exact publication date, but it would have been in the late 1980s or early 1990s that I borrowed it from the library. It was about how to write a text adventure game set under the ocean. Can you help me? [more inside]
posted by Vorteks at 12:32 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by Vorteks at 12:32 PM PST - 6 comments
Identity without erasure?
I'm planning to change my name, but I'm a little uncomfortable with removing the clear marker of latina identity that my surname provided in the past. How do I still represent my Mexican heritage and avoiding unintended erasure of ethnicity, as a white-passing individual? [more inside]
posted by elephantsvanish at 12:26 PM PST - 18 comments
posted by elephantsvanish at 12:26 PM PST - 18 comments
Let's play ID the plant!
I'm a gardening dummy and bought and potted an herb without really confirming what it is. I originally thought it was thyme but it's obviously not thyme.
Here is a photograph of said plant.
1. What is this plant?
2. Is it safe if my cat nibbles it?
3. Any advice on how to avoid killing it?
What do I do with someone else’s memories?
I have in my possession my dead stepmother’s baby photos, photos of her beloved mother, her lovingly constructed scrapbook of awards, school reports, diplomas, etc. She has no one left behind to whom I can give these items, not a single family member, not a single friend.
While her items have no intrinsic sentimental value for me, I also feel really weird about just throwing them away.
What do I do? [more inside]
posted by Ink-stained wretch at 12:02 PM PST - 43 comments
posted by Ink-stained wretch at 12:02 PM PST - 43 comments
Name Those Actors
Who are the 4 actors playing the boy band members in Amy Schumer's "Girl, You Don't Need Makeup" video?
posted by ThePinkSuperhero at 11:17 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by ThePinkSuperhero at 11:17 AM PST - 2 comments
Name my animation-focused non-profit
Hello everybody!
I am starting an independent animation-focused non-profit. Our mission statement is 'a not for profit organization that supports independent, non-commerical animated film through education, grants, and distribution.' And we need a name! [more inside]
How can I be more patient with my career trajectory?
I'm very new into my career and I'm finding it difficult to be patient with my career development. I spend too much time worrying about my career and it's honestly negatively affecting my life, at this point. [more inside]
posted by modesty.blaise at 11:03 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by modesty.blaise at 11:03 AM PST - 8 comments
Spraying our yard for ticks: yea or nay? And chemical or organic?
We have a small back yard that backs up into some woods. I’ve seen deer in the neighborhood (not in our yard though), and there are definitely mice, bunnies, chipmunks, squirrels, and neighborhood cats and dogs that can be seen roaming our property. We’re thinking of getting the back sprayed for ticks, esp. for the sake of our one year old. Is that overkill? And if we spray, do organics work, or do we need to go chemical? [more inside]
A better weather balloon, safer for sea-snacking seaturtles?
How would we release a weather balloon and get it back without its exploding? [more inside]
Pretty sure our house was just cased, now what?
My wife, currently disabled and at home, texted the following encounter that occurred a short whle ago: [more inside]
posted by sock, the puppet at 10:05 AM PST - 34 comments
posted by sock, the puppet at 10:05 AM PST - 34 comments
Recommend to me similar poppy bands...
a friend recently turned me on to bleachers and the drums (totally new to me, i'm a punk kid) and i am in LOVE. who else should i check out?
Calling all residents of Dallas County
It's possible that, sometime in the next five years, we may have to leave Jacksonville, FL for Mrs. Mosley's career. I had always thought that if I did move out of my hometown of 41 years, it would be (a) somewhere somewhat cooler and (b) somewhere somewhat more liberal. Dallas doesn't strike me as either of those. Can someone who lives there give me their impression of the city?
New job, new phone system, not working
So I'm at my new job. The main thing I'm supposed to be doing is calling people. Thing is, my phone isn't working and the tech support person's wife just had a baby, so he's incommunicado. A little help? [more inside]
Because COCKTAILS!!
My new favorite way to entertain is what we're affectionately calling cocktail club—a casual drop-in thing with a cocktail of the night and snacks. The cover charge is limes and lemons. Usually 4-6 people are present at any given time. We do it every week, sometimes a couple times a week, and it is the best. I need more ideas for cocktails, foods, and making it THE BEST EVER! [more inside]
posted by peachfuzz at 9:22 AM PST - 43 comments
posted by peachfuzz at 9:22 AM PST - 43 comments
I want to copy my dress.
Can you recommend a tailor/seamstress/dressmaker in New York who can make an exact copy of a beloved, though not at all high-fashion, dress that has seen better days? [more inside]
What's a relaxing way to the Dales, and what do I do when I get there?
A trip to England is in our future, help us with itineraries to the North. [more inside]
Banana pests
Can you help me identify these flat white bugs on my bananas? Google gives me a wide range of food pests, but nothing that looks like these critters. [more inside]
posted by lollymccatburglar at 4:02 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by lollymccatburglar at 4:02 AM PST - 3 comments
Who Were Those Guys?
Mr. K and I are interested in the history of the Oregon Trail. He's good at research, but is coming up blank on papers or discussions to help understand who went, and WHY they decided to spend six months on an incredibly difficult trek in order to try to carve out a living in Oregon. [more inside]
posted by kestralwing at 4:02 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by kestralwing at 4:02 AM PST - 11 comments
Danish people, I have questions
My partner and I potentially have the opportunity to relocate to the Aarhus area of Denmark for six months. This would be part of an exchange program based at VIA University College in Horsens for me and potentially a little more ad-hoc for her. We have a whole bunch of questions about Denmark, Jutland, Aarhus, accomodation, commuting and other things. [more inside]
"Savage Wildlife" or something.
Nostalgia time: I can't remember the title of a series of direct-mail nature videos advertised on TV. [more inside]
posted by Mister Moofoo at 1:25 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by Mister Moofoo at 1:25 AM PST - 4 comments
Chromebook/netbook for on-train work, does Storybook work?
I want a very light laptop/netbook/chromebook/ultrabook to work during my commute, can anyone help me out, please? [more inside]
posted by LoonyLovegood at 1:12 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by LoonyLovegood at 1:12 AM PST - 7 comments
Culture Change in a High Power Distance Culture?
I'm tasked with creating more career options for coworkers in an Asian establishment of a large European brand. I am having trouble attracting coworkers into these new roles despite competitive salaries and freely available training. I know it is because of cultural differences and would like to hear stories of others who may have worked with this kind of change. [more inside]
posted by frumiousb at 12:27 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by frumiousb at 12:27 AM PST - 9 comments
Smaller photo file size, without changing the date
Is there any way to resize photos without changing the date on the file? [more inside]
May 3
Safe DIY seatbelt replacement? Difficulty level: pretensioner
Dog chewed partway through the seat belts on a 2000 Toyota Corolla. I got original Toyota replacement seat belts shipped from a salvage yard across the country. I know I can replace the belt assembly, but I'm wondering about the pretensioner.
The replacement belts came with an intact pretensioner, with the wires cut off. Can I safely swap out the pretensioner connection? (that photo is of my exact replacement part). It's a yellow connector that seems held in place. What is it connected to? Can I just pull it out and shove my car's existing connector in?
I'm planning to disconnect the battery before doing this work, but I know the pretensioner is an explosive device and I want to be cautious.
Mother's Day and Father's Day for parents-to-be?
Is it normal to celebrate these holidays before you have a baby? Partner and I are expecting. We're excited but this was a surprise. Baby is due in July.
Would it be normal or customary to celebrate a partner on Mother's Day or Father's Day in these circumstances? We won't really be a mother or father until next year. Am I likely to disappoint my partner if I don't get a gift or card or something this year? What have you done or seen done?
I could ask them, but this seems like one of those things that would lose its luster if I have to ask. I'd rather just get it right.
Why am I so fat?
I am a 40 year old woman. I'm 5'6" and weigh about 200lbs. I know why I am so fat; I eat a lot and never exercise. But what I don't know is why I don't look after my body the way I do the rest of my life. I have read and heard lots of times that a lot of weight issues are related to emotional issues but I'm happy. I don't have any major issues. If you were like this, how did you finally motivate yourself to lose weight and get healthy? [more inside]
Recommend a cereal dispenser / container?
I was recently awarded backpay for raises I was contractually owed, and I want to spent a portion of it on decor. I'm looking at 4 boxes of Cheerios and am slightly embarrassed -- I appear to regularly open new boxes before the unopened ones are finished. I'm thinking a cereal dispenser would help me unclutter my counterspace and reduce spoilage.
Does anyone have a dispenser they really like? [more inside]
posted by pwnguin at 9:24 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by pwnguin at 9:24 PM PST - 4 comments
Decorative style of a tea set
Not knowing botany I have to ask - what flowers are these supposed to be [more inside]
posted by ptm at 7:29 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by ptm at 7:29 PM PST - 9 comments
Examples of coercive rules that spread by imitation?
HIVEMIND! Does anyone know any examples of rules or institutions imposed by powerful individuals that other powerful individuals then copied, with the rule eventually spreading through a population? I imagine that someone might impose a rule and that someone else might think, "woah, that's a good idea - I'm gonna impose that, too," and then it spreads. Possible examples might include the origins of Jim Crow laws, or the development of norms of respect (like bowing to old people). I'm especially looking for examples that are discussed in the academic literature, but any thoughts or suggestions are welcome. THANKS!!
Forced Rental Payment Fees - Is this allowed?
My landlord just sent out a notice saying that we're going to be required to pay our rent online, through a service that will charge a fee. Is this allowed? [more inside]
It looked me square in the eye and said, "I AM GROOT!" Now what?
Need a little advice about snaking out a drain. It's draining now, but am I done done. [more inside]
How did Fritz Zwicky appear in Cosmos?
In the last episode of the new Cosmos series, (someone portraying) Fritz Zwicky appears briefly, to sort of stare and blink and then make a gesture like this. He died in 1974. What is the source of this footage? Is it an actor (with an oddly non-speaking role, and no acknowledgment yet on IMDB), some sort of CGI magic from photos, or archival footage? Our household is unreasonably curious about this.
booking sex-related work as a woman
How does one navigate sex work or sexological bodywork as a female client in the United States? [more inside]
How to get a complete list of my traffic tickets from the past 21 years?
I'm applying to the bar in Virginia, and just realized I need a list of all traffic violations I've ever committed. My regular DMV record doesn't go back that far. I need this information in the next 7 days. Where to go? [more inside]
posted by skewed at 4:32 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by skewed at 4:32 PM PST - 5 comments
Not Getting Distracted by a Work Crush
How do I not get distracted by, and keep in perspective, a work crush? [more inside]
How to convert text of an essay into a bunch of images?
A strange request, perhaps: I have a relatively long essay (in PDF form), and for various reasons, I'd like to convert each word of the essay into an individual image, preferably PNG. How? [more inside]
How Do You Work For A Canadian Company?
Are there any Mefites that have worked in the US (as a US citizen) for a Canadian company? How does it work with taxes, benefits, etc? This is going to become a very relevant issue for my wife tomorrow, and Google has not been a lot of help in finding authoritative information. [more inside]
posted by COD at 3:48 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by COD at 3:48 PM PST - 5 comments
Embarrassing sweat problem
I have a semi-embarrassing question about sweating during sports activities. Details below. [more inside]
Gender Presentation in Africa
I am a 31yo queer woman who is considered fairly masculine presenting in my daily life (I am frequently addressed as "sir" by waiters, customer service people, etc, and many never realize their mistake). I'm headed to Cameroon for the first time for a business/research trip and I want to be received well, which I unfortunately suspect means changing my gender presentation. I would love tips and tricks, and support, particularly for people who have been to West Africa before. [more inside]
Semi-supervised sleepover for 12 15 year old girls
Would you be comfortable allowing a dozen 15 year old girls have a sleepover in your house while you are away for the weekend? Twin daughters have volunteered our house for the team to have an end of season sleepover while my wife and I are away for the weekend. The teams coaches will be in charge and present for the event. On one hand, my kids and all the other girls are routinely permitted to travel to away games solely under the coaches supervision, stay in hotels, etc. In addition in previous seasons they've all slept in the practice gym as a team bonding exercise. On the other hand, it feels weird, I'm not sure I'm comfortable with the idea, but don't really have a firm reason why. [more inside]
What article told of The Stars My Destination => The Fifth Element?
Somewhere recently I read a listicle of films never made which were remade as something else? Either in a magazine or on the web, maybe another in it was Jack Kirby's Lord of Light designs which showed up in Argo but the part I'm interested in concerned artwork someone notable did for a never-made The Stars My Destination being the basis the future city in The Fifth Element. What was that article?
My bf always asks if I'm okay, and it's frustrating.
I don't like being asked on such a regular basis (five times or more a day) if I'm okay. I just want to go about my normal activities and feel my normal range of emotions without having to be self-conscious about it. I know he means well, but I feel like if I'm not always smiling and outwardly placid -- like if I'm trying to find something in the house or concentrating intently on writing an email -- then something is wrong, the kind of wrong that I suddenly have to open up and talk about to placate his need to know if I'm okay. 98 percent of the time, I am fine. I'm not a naturally perky person, and I'm a bit introverted so my inner life is important to me. I've mentioned all this to him several times. How do I get him to stop?
Where to buy reputable cellphone replacement parts?
I broke the screen on my cellphone (nexus 5/ LG D820) and need to purchase a replacement screen for it. Reviews on most sites that sell replacement cellphone parts complain about non-oem/shoddy/fake replacement parts.
Are there any good sites to order high quality cellphone parts from?
Pulley my derailleur?
I have a mid-2000s road bike that was built up with 9-speed Ultegra. One of the rear derailleur pulleys has ejected a ring of rubber (a gasket?). Shifting is fine, though my drivetrain seems inert - when I spin the cranks with my hand, it stops almost immediately as soon as I let go. So I think I should replace the pulley set, and probably the chain, though that's easier. [more inside]
posted by Dashy at 12:47 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by Dashy at 12:47 PM PST - 4 comments
Seeking recommendations for Istanbul (not Constantinople)
Asking for friends who are in Turkey for the next week. They have done lots of guidebook research and have accommodations sorted out, but are looking for personal recommendations for must-see/must-do activities as well as recommendations for outstanding food and drink (read: alcohol wherever possible). [more inside]
posted by little mouth at 12:35 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by little mouth at 12:35 PM PST - 8 comments
Parallax, Javascript, and Read Mores
I placed some code to get Read More expansions on a page on my site, and it's conflicting with the parallax layout. It seems to work on Firefox, mobile, and when you change the window size, but on a fullscreen desktop it doesn't work so well. [more inside]
What's in shaving cream?
Is shaving cream different from foamy soap? Are there actual beard-softening agents in there? Is there any reason to use shaving cream instead of shampoo? (I suppose this is the perfect question to have in the shower.)
posted by musofire at 12:06 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by musofire at 12:06 PM PST - 12 comments
Older films with the speed ramping effect?
Looking for Hollywood films released before the year 2000 that use the speed ramping effect. [more inside]
Setting posts - series of dumb questions
So I'm not much of a DIY person, but I might want to build a pergola along one side of my back yard. Normally I'm a trial-and-error kind of person, but since this would involve concrete-set posts, parts of this have to be right the first time. I still have some questions after googling around. [more inside]
How to consolidate multiple photo storage into one?
I have pictures on Flickr, google photos, amazon prime, icloud and Smugmug. What's the best way to consolidate and migrate all of these into one primary storage. I don't mind paying and the migration tool ideally would work on chrome and mobile. Thanks!
Creating a map from an image?
Is there a service/some software that will let me (up)load an image of a map and then convert that image into an actual map, with lat/long coordinates? I have an image of a hand drawn map (drawn to scale). I know the latitude/longitude points for some points on the map. I want to find out accurate coordinates for some other points on the map. Ideally, I'd be able to click a point on the output and be given the coordinates.
To Repair or Replace My DSLR?
I'm a hobbyist photographer on a very fixed income. My camera is Nikon D3100, which I bought used for $300. Last fall it survived my apartment fire, and I think there's some discoloration from smoke damage. Don't know if I should repair (if so, where? And how much would it cost?) or replace (if so, with what?) I would love some help deciding if repairs would be worth it and, if not, suggestions on models that are good for newbies and are also affordable used.
One fat bee patrols my deck
Ever since spring weather arrived in Brooklyn, there's been a single large bee patrolling my 3rd floor balcony. (1) What's the deal with this bee - where can I read more about its lifestyle? And (2) can I gently discourage it and its kind from hanging out and buzzing around my head when I want to sit out in the sun? It mostly ignores me when I'm out there, but I feel watched the whole time. [more inside]
posted by moonmilk at 10:21 AM PST - 17 comments
posted by moonmilk at 10:21 AM PST - 17 comments
why is mobile call quality so terrible?
When calling landline to landline, I have no trouble hearing every word that's said. Meanwhile, my friend just called someone to give an ETA and ended up shouting NATO phonetic alphabet into a smart phone that can stream 1080p video. After he hung up, he admitted that he hated talking on telephones because one party or the other always needed something repeated. Why is mobile call quality so terrible? Why do people not demand this (in the economic sense)? [more inside]
posted by d. z. wang at 10:00 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by d. z. wang at 10:00 AM PST - 19 comments
How Do I Antidepressant? Tracking success/side effects of medication
I'm working with a psychiatrist to try antidepressants for anxiety in combination with my ongoing work with a therapist. He's started me on a low dose of Cymbalta and says I may need to try a variety of antidepressants before I find out what works. If you take medications for mood/anxiety, how do you track their effects on you to figure out if something is working or not? [more inside]
What's the font in the Royal Navy logo?
What font is used in the logo of the Royal Navy of the United Kingdom? Obviously the A is custom, but what's the rest of it? The R has a straight leg and the O is circular. It's not any of the usual suspects (Helvetica, Frutiger, Akzidenz-Grotesk, Gill Sans). It's almost Gotham Black, but not quite, and it's driving me nuts! Help!
posted by Faint of Butt at 7:07 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by Faint of Butt at 7:07 AM PST - 6 comments
Help me find a German Pensioner for a Pen-pal!
I need some help finding older Germans who would like to be old-fashioned pen-pals.
I need to practice my superpowers! [more inside]
posted by Tchad at 5:48 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by Tchad at 5:48 AM PST - 9 comments
Cracked iPad glass - how to keep cracks from spreading?
I just knocked my iPad off the counter where it hit something on the floor that cracked the glass. What's the best way to keep the cracking from getting worse? Besides, of course, not dropping it again. [more inside]
posted by rmd1023 at 5:46 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by rmd1023 at 5:46 AM PST - 7 comments
RoRo's Big Adventure
Dearest Mefites of the USA, my 21 yo daughter is planning to galavant around your country this Northern Hemisphere summer, and we'd like your input! Any advice/recommendations for things to see, places to go, how to get there, accommodation, etc appreciated.
We're yet to book flights, leaving everything pretty much to the last minute. We have friends in San Fran who will likely be her first stop, then after that, all is variable. [more inside]
Spoken Word for the Great Outdoors
I recently bought a pair of Aftershokz bone conduction headphones, with the express purpose of using these to listen to podcasts, audiobooks etc. without shutting out the sounds of the world around me when hiking. As hoped, they work brilliantly, so I'm now looking for new ideas of what to listen to when spending quality alone time surrounded by nature. [more inside]
Help me choose new in-ear earphones (2015 ed.)
I'm in the market for new sound isolating earphones. I had Shure SE210 earphones for a few years which did really well (and were chosen on a Metafilter recommendation) but now I need a replacement. [more inside]
Should I stay or should I go? - Therapy edition
I've been in therapy for PTSD since October 2014 with a therapist who is trained in gestalt therapy. I'm feeling confused, angry and anxious about therapy and I'm trying to figure out whether this is something is should work through with my current therapist or whether it is a sign to change therapists. More detail below. [more inside]
Help me find this music documentary
The post on Genesis the other day reminded me about a TV documentary series I saw which focused on a different band's video clips each week. I'm pretty sure Genesis and Duran Duran were both covered. Googling hasn't helped me. Initially I thought it might have been Classic Albums, but they never covered Genesis. Does anyone know what series this might have been?
May 2
Desktop computing! On a budget! In Australia!
I'm looking for a desktop (tower) PC of solid quality that can be purchased and delivered to my house for less than $1000 in Sydney, Australia. Can you recommend any? [more inside]
Preparing to leave marriage, how to deal with sex in meantime
I am in an abusive relationship. Not physical, but mental, emotional and verbal. I want to stress that there is no physical abuse. I am getting my ducks in a row & working on an exit strategy. It will be ugly when I leave, so I really need to have things in order when I do. Problem is - I haven't had sexual relations with my husband due to the fact that his treatment of me over the past year has repulsed me to the point that even the thought of it makes my skin crawl. [more inside]
Building a network in technical communication despite location
Do you think I can build a network and find a job in technical communication despite living in the country with no STC chapter? My foundation is decent: an English degree and current technical job. Said job has few technical writing roles, and none available for the foreseeable future. More inside. [more inside]
Buying everything from scratch - what is the 2015 best plan for stuff
I'm getting divorced. It appears that ex is keeping everything (which I am okay with, I'm getting compensated). But now I am faced with buying lots of stuff. I'm not rich but not poor. I want stuff that will last 10+ years. What are the 2015 best practices? I have all the major American furniture and homegoods stores nearby. I'm fond of online shopping. Consignment is fine but I can't spend weeks hunting. [more inside]
Should I live alone or seek housemates? 27M INTJ.
27-year-old male, INTJ, single, straight, with a 2yo labrador, living and working in San Francisco.
I have lived with various housemates since college, who provided me with activities to do and friends to hang out with. In August, our lease ends, and the others are moving away. Should I seek housemates, or live alone? [more inside]
How to disguise yourself as a man
Hi there, I am a female who is in college studying to become a war correspondent, and this has been my unshakeable goal for many years. I would like to know how to successfully disguise myself as a man with the use of minimal makeup, masculine attire (etc.), and all the while keeping my hair shoulder or waist length.
My main concern is that while I'm very thin, I have very, very feminine and delicate facial structure, so I feel like this could really really affect the success of my career as a future war zone journalist.
In Search of Cruelty Free Alternatives to Specific Beauty Items
A few of the mainstay items in my beauty regimen aren't cruelty free and I'm having a hard time finding replacements that don't give me acne or allergies. Can you recommend alternatives to these products/brands so I can stay true to my desire to be a cruelty free consumer? [more inside]
posted by Hermione Granger at 9:04 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by Hermione Granger at 9:04 PM PST - 16 comments
how to create a simple slideshow from a USB file of jpgs ?
Have a lot of slides that i simply want to loop during a demo next week
I am working on a imac but will show it on a pc.
I have about 200 jpgs
Nothing fancy...
unfortunately I am on Powerpoint 2008 so i can't easily create a PPT from this folder.
posted by dougiedd at 7:55 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by dougiedd at 7:55 PM PST - 7 comments
Movie about German or Swiss man on ski holiday
Trying to remember a film I saw on television years ago. I was either German or Swiss and was about a heavyset man on a ski holiday. I remember it was very nearly silent (but was not a silent movie; it looked relatively modern) and everything was a sort of a disaster for him, and I remember it being unexpectedly sweet, and that's all I remember.
Hope me!
Recommend me a loud freestanding backyard fountain.
It's springtime, I've hung my hammock, and I'm considering getting a backyard fountain to add some white noise to help drown out the sound of cars from the busy two lane street that runs in front of my house. [more inside]
Help me identify these flowers!
My sweet, long-distance boyfriend sent me a surprise bouquet of flowers! The flowers are beautiful, but I want to make sure that they're safe for my cat, Ada. I don't think they're unusual flowers, but I know basically nothing about plants, so I would like some help identifying them. Photos inside! [more inside]
posted by tickingclock at 6:22 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by tickingclock at 6:22 PM PST - 13 comments
How could we modernise this living room?
We are thinking about bidding on a house at auction next week that has a very unusual living room. My husband thinks it can be modernised to be amazing, but both of us are struggling to see exactly how. Obviously the flooring and light fixture would be changed, but to what? Does anyone with better design sense than us have specific suggestions or links to similar looking spaces? I think I'd feel a lot better about bidding for this place if I had a clearer idea of what we could do with it. [more inside]
What are some one-to-one comparisons of standard and metric units?
I'm looking for a resource or, failing that, some outright suggestions of one-to-one comparisons for standard and metric units. I am tutoring a third grader with some learning disabilities who needs a simple visualization. In other words, I'm looking for a resource that says, "A meter is as long as a dalmatian" or "a foot is as big as your dad's foot." This is less easily googleable than I expected. Things like Scale of the Universe are neat, but I need a simple one-to-one relationship. [more inside]
posted by Alex Haist at 3:42 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by Alex Haist at 3:42 PM PST - 12 comments
Cooking healthy meat-lite dishes with a twist:
I am trying to get back into cooking healthy meals where vegetables are the star and meat is an accent. My husband has varying tastes when it comes to vegetables. Recommend me some recipes/resources/strategies to cook some delicious things we both like? Special snowflake details inside. [more inside]
Diversity training for Acting Teachers
Readings on race and intersectionality in the performing arts? [more inside]
How can I understand how someone we trusted molested my daughter?
My husband and I were stunned when our daughter told us that her nanny had touched her inappropriately (with details). We'd completely trusted the nanny, who'd worked for our family for more than four years and had excellent references. Of course, we fired him and notified the police. Our daughter did not say anything about the abuse in the forensic investigation, so the case was dropped (although we were still advised to keep the nanny away from our child). How can my husband and I make sense of this? [more inside]
posted by anonymousy at 3:04 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by anonymousy at 3:04 PM PST - 12 comments
Multiplayer (non-scrabble) iOS games, 2015-style
Two guys stuck in a hotel room. Two IOS devices. Looking for games, head to head and/or co-op, that can keep us amused. Requirements? Looking for non-word-based or connect-four-ish games. We burned several hours on Trenches and enjoyed it, but got bored after that. Ideas?
I Need a VNC Multiviewer
I need a VNC viewer capable of displaying at least six different screens as thumbnails. I have found one program that works well but the only problem is that it does not display the hostname (or any identifying information on above or below the thumbnails).
Requirements:
- Must work with standard VNC protocol
- Windows 7 Compatible
- Must identify the host in someway
- Must be able to display 6 hosts simultaneously
Where might one find the Mayweather-Pacquiao live online?
Where would one start to look online to watch the Mayweather-Pacquiao fight live? I'm asking for a friend who has very shady morals and a thin wallet. ;)
posted by Bushmiller at 1:53 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by Bushmiller at 1:53 PM PST - 4 comments
A Recliner for the bigger fella, not too many extraneous frills
I am in the market for a new recliner. The internet has presented me with a dizzying array of choices, almost all of which I do not want or need. More inside in the --> [more inside]
Sounds like Gymnopédies
I need help trying to find a song similar to Erik Satie's Gymnopédies No. 1. for use in a film. [more inside]
Managing data use w/ OS X 10.10.2 on a metered connection?
My father's Macbook Pro is consuming bandwidth at a prodigious rate, and he's on a metered data connection (10gb/month 4g data). What should I be sure to disable so he can control when the system wants to run updates? List of what I've already tried inside. [more inside]
posted by Alterscape at 12:39 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by Alterscape at 12:39 PM PST - 9 comments
Anything like the Harvard Extension School in the DC area?
I’m likely relocating to Washington DC this summer and I'm looking for somewhere where I can take Linear Algebra and a few other undergraduate math and statistics classes in Fall 2015 and Spring 2016 as a non-degree student. [more inside]
posted by dyslexictraveler at 12:29 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by dyslexictraveler at 12:29 PM PST - 8 comments
Talk to text on my iphone? Help
Hello,
I would like to talk into my phone (with headphones/mic) and have a document be typed up.
How can I do this?
Can I open google docs on my iphone and get a talk and text/type feature?
thanks
posted by TRUELOTUS at 11:10 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by TRUELOTUS at 11:10 AM PST - 8 comments
How can I naturally repel pesty hornets(?) from vegetable planter?
I bought standing planter boxes for my wife and she hasn't touched them yet because there are always 3-4 of these pests (hornets?) on the wood. She would like to plant strawberries and other edibles so we obviously don't want to use chemicals. Any advice on how to repel these buggers?
Photo of bug
posted by Mikey51 at 10:26 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by Mikey51 at 10:26 AM PST - 6 comments
Looking for quality SEO & PPC help.
Do you recommend any particular freelance site or marketing firm? [more inside]
Smartphone in Japan for 1 Year
I'm getting assigned to work at the parent company near Tokyo for a year. Yay!!! They won't be providing a mobile phone. Boo!! What's the best way to have a smartphone in Japan for the year? [more inside]
posted by Caravantea at 8:52 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by Caravantea at 8:52 AM PST - 3 comments
Looking for running shorts with good pockets.
I am looking for running shorts with a pocket that can comfortably hold my smartphone while I run. I can't believe that this is so difficult but here we are! [more inside]
posted by mandanza at 8:41 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by mandanza at 8:41 AM PST - 14 comments
Central Booking DWI help NYC
I have a friend that is in NYC central bookings. Details are limited. All I know is this morning ~2AM my friend was in a car accident and arrested for DWI. I had a past DWI in my youth and know that a lawyer is very helpful and also that one needs to deny any wrong doing for the entire time. But I don't know how to get this kind of help to my friend.
Basically just looking for the correct things to do in the early going. [more inside]
Simple iOS app for the gym?
Looking for a current recommendation to keep track of weight lifted, reps, and to maybe time the intervals... [more inside]
Improve acting & dancing in less than 24 hours?
I'm going to callbacks for a production of Carousel tomorrow. Yay! I'm in the running for the role of Nettie, as well as the ensemble. I'm primarily a singer and will be asked to read sides and perform some quickly taught choreography. What can I do between now and tomorrow to improve my acting and my dancing? Tips, tricks, and anecdotes welcome, assume I'm starting from zero in both skill sets. Thanks!
Where should we walk in the United Kingdom?
My partner and I are planning a trip to the UK from Canada in September. We are middle aged and reasonably fit and would like to include a short walking holiday within this trip. We have found a number of walking tour companies online, but the choice is somewhat overwhelming. Can Metafilter help use narrow down the choices? Some considerations follow. [more inside]
posted by TORunner at 5:54 AM PST - 20 comments
posted by TORunner at 5:54 AM PST - 20 comments
Where to Watch Eurovision
I'm looking for suggestions as to the best place to watch Eurovision in Europe this year. [more inside]
Make me cry
I need a good cry. I've tried sad movies, sad songs, but nothing works any more. [more inside]
posted by chairish at 1:57 AM PST - 71 comments
posted by chairish at 1:57 AM PST - 71 comments
Present for someone into festivals, food, comics, drama and hospitality
My lovely brother is graduating from university in southern California, and I'd like to get him something special, reasonably-priced, and memorable...that matches his interests...that I can order online or take home from Hong Kong, where I live. [more inside]
May 1
Lost prescription for ADHD medication and psychiatrist won't replace
Help!! My psychiatrist won't replace the Vyvanse prescription she just wrote me two days ago, which I accidentally threw out yesterday, and had not filled yet. Pharmacies will only accept a written prescription. Please help me solve this by next Friday when I run out of meds. I'm in Tennessee and this has the potential to destroy my performance at work for the next 2 months. [more inside]
suggestions/recommendations for a 2 day company gathering?
I need ideas for a company gathering in the summer. [more inside]
Almost avant-garde electronic music?
Help me find electronic music that doesn't sound electronic. [more inside]
I think I like you . . .
Even though I rejected you. Does it work to give people a second chance? [more inside]
Help me cry happy sappy mommy tears
I basically want to sob on my couch at how childlike children are and how much parents love them beyond words. [more inside]
Europe summer suggestions
Please help me figure out where to kill time for two weeks in Europe [more inside]
posted by special-k at 7:41 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by special-k at 7:41 PM PST - 13 comments
I want to start getting muscles...
... to impress a girl I like. Basically I am the thin type. Long but thin. And since I don't really workout I have thin arms and a flat chest. That was fine for me for a long time, but now I would like to get some muscles. [more inside]
posted by iliketothinknu at 6:41 PM PST - 17 comments
posted by iliketothinknu at 6:41 PM PST - 17 comments
Houseguest karma
I've had my share of regrettable houseguest behaviours in my early 20s (I am 30 now), so I am choking this up to karma. But I am curious: I've had consecutive houseguests in their late 20s/early 30s who are fantastic people but rough-around-the-corner as houseguests. Is this a generational thing? Is it particular to the artsy/academic type that I hang out with? How do I politely tell them "I consider you a good friend, and that part won't change. I am unhappy with [behaviour] in my home, so if that doesn't change I can't host you again."? [more inside]
posted by redwaterman at 6:03 PM PST - 44 comments
posted by redwaterman at 6:03 PM PST - 44 comments
How to generate most obnoxious recurring email ever?
Is there a way to set something up today that will email them until the end of time on Wednesdays at 9am?
Bonus: obnoxious graphics, trumpet sounds, neon colors, dancing hamsters, the works. [more inside]
Help me avoid the fiery pits of hell, er, I mean, the Post Office!
Has anybody had good or bad experiences with online services for sending USPS certified mail? I need to send letters return receipt requested semi-frequently, and am absolutely unwilling to go to the post office. Usually 2 or 3 letters at a time, not hundreds. Stamps.com (premier subscription), onlinecertifiedmail.com, certifiedmaillabels.com are the ones that show up on the first page of my google search. TIA!
Myopia in early 20s -- possible?
Is it possible to become slightly nearsighted in your early 20s? [more inside]
Like a smartphone camera, only without the phone?
I'm looking for a digital camera that essentially replicates the experience of using a smartphone camera, but does not have phone functionality, extra apps, or anything else besides basic camera features. Does such a thing exist? Specific critera within. [more inside]
posted by aecorwin at 3:55 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by aecorwin at 3:55 PM PST - 3 comments
In search of job interview tips for teaching ESL to adults
I have a job interview for an ESL teaching position with a US government organization in Southeast Asia. What kinds of questions will I be asked? What should I ask them? How should I prepare otherwise? [more inside]
posted by tapir-whorf at 3:17 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by tapir-whorf at 3:17 PM PST - 6 comments
Is a whole house fan worth it?
With the summer about to come on strong, we're considering installing a whole house fan in our newly bought house (Los Angeles area). Before we take the plunge, I'd love to hear from anybody who has one, preferably in a climate like ours -- the good, the bad, and the ugly. Worth it or not? [more inside]
What are some good alternative conferences or festivals for thinkers?
I want to take a vacation that includes some sort of intellectual festival or conference where I'll meet interesting people and discuss ideas. (I'm a party animal.) Think TED gone to summer camp or Davos for hipsters ;-)
The Do Lectures and Porcupine Freedom Festival both sound massively interesting - what other events should I look into? [more inside]
colostomy bag + cancer/chemo = diet?
Please help me suggest some nutritious and appropriate foods and easy recipes for my mom who has a colostomy bag and is simultaneously undergoing chemotherapy. Nutrition is key, and so are food choices that don't cause blockage. If you've been in this situation or know someone who has, advice appreciated! Thank you.
Spas in Manhattan where a big girl will feel at home?
I'm headed to NYC for the weekend and would like to spend part of a day relaxing at a spa, with massage, sauna, baths, the works (think Aire Ancient Baths or Russian Baths, for two I've considered). Where, based on your experience (preferably personal) will I be least likely to stick out as a woman who's a size 22? [more inside]
Dealing with the stress of a court process which may take time?
We are involved in a court process which may take some time to complete. The stress is getting to me. How can I deal with this better? [more inside]
How would I create this monochromatic look in Photoshop?
I want to know how to try to create this look with one of my own jellyfish shots, but I'm a bit of a Photoshop noob and have no idea where to start or even what to search for in order to find a tutorial. Any suggestions?
Science, technology and health news for the non-expert?
Hi mefites! I'm looking for blogs or websites that post interesting news or tidbits on science and anything science-related. I'm sure there's tons out there, but I want the metafilter-curated collection. [more inside]
why does my colleague's gmail hate itself?
A colleague's company run gmail account is filtering to the spam folder for other people on the same company run gmail account. Is there a fix beyond "not spam"? [more inside]
posted by ovenmitt at 11:39 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by ovenmitt at 11:39 AM PST - 7 comments
How do retirement parties work?
A close relative is retiring this year, and I'm considering throwing a party-- but have absolutely no skills or experience with this type of event (or, really, with party-planning in general). Looking for tips/ ideas/ planning frameworks that will help me put together an awesome retirement bash. [more inside]
Exporting Google Sheets To Flat Image
I'm interested in exporting a Google drive spreadsheet to an image file. I need it to be relatively simple since it will be a process for someone else on a weekly basis. Plug-ins from the Play store are fine, but these are state government machines and are locked down from unauthorized installs.
posted by codacorolla at 10:48 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by codacorolla at 10:48 AM PST - 11 comments
Can a messed up finger cause shoulder pain?
I've had this messed up pinky for as long as I can remember but, now my shoulder feels weird and it's hard to type. Well harder than normal anyway. My shoulder kinda feels like it's cold and has a minor ache to it. This is day 2 of symptoms I hit the table the other day pretty hard after getting angry with a videogame. [more inside]
How do I set up a decentralized neighborhood tool lending exchange?
I'm interested in starting a neighborhood tool lending exchange, both as a way to save costs on tool, but to also better foster community and getting neighbors to know each other. I'm not (at this point anyway) interested in starting a centralized tool library, given the costs and commitment. I'm imaging a google sheet or something similar where registered members can check and see what tools they're willing to lend and then go from there.
Have you had experience with a decentralized tool lending or can point me to successful exchanges where I can learn more about their system? [more inside]
posted by Karaage at 10:43 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by Karaage at 10:43 AM PST - 5 comments
Do they make linen balaclavas?
Please suggest to me a sunscreen for backyard/gardening/exercise use that I will not instantly get in my eyes? [more inside]
Am I going to catch, like, coffee scrofula?
How clean should I be keeping my french press? Help me overthink a plate of (coffee) beans. [more inside]
posted by phunniemee at 9:50 AM PST - 22 comments
posted by phunniemee at 9:50 AM PST - 22 comments
Fairy Tale Podcasts
I love fairy tales, myths, and legends. I also love listening to people tell stories. Can you recommend a podcast or other something of that sort which will provide me with a regular dose of people telling me stories? [more inside]
Chemistry Content of Cell Phone Batteries
I just finished reading The Powerhouse by Steve Levine and it inspired me to be curious about the specific lithium battery chemistry of current cell and smartphones. I've found this link from Battery University which does a great job describing the current major variants used (LMO, NCA, NMC, etc). In some google searching I haven't found any specs on what phones like the Nexus 6 or the S6, or iPhone 6 uses. [more inside]
First bike tour
I'm going to do my first little bike tour and although it's only a few days, I would love help understanding the mechanics of how this actually works. Advice and also recommendations for other books and online resources would be very helpful! [more inside]
posted by latkes at 9:26 AM PST - 18 comments
posted by latkes at 9:26 AM PST - 18 comments
How do I become a resident of another state?
I've moved to Vermont. How do I become an official resident?
posted by zenja72 at 9:12 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by zenja72 at 9:12 AM PST - 11 comments
Literary Descriptions of Ships
What are some great descriptions of boats and ships from literature? I'm especially looking for descriptions from classic books in the public domain. Novels, stories, plays, poetry etc. are all welcome.
I'm tabling at a graphic arts festival next weekend, what do I bring?
I haven't tabled at an event like this before. I've got my merchandise, signs, display items, business cards, float, sketchbook, and pens. It's two full days, with hundreds of other exhibitors and thousands of attendees.
What am I not thinking of that I should bring or do to make this go smoothly? Do you have any other tips or tricks for events like these?
Weaning Myself Off of Checking Messages, Email and Websites
How do I wean myself off this urge to constantly check the internet? Sometimes I use an app blocker or turn of the internet when I need to do a focused session of work, but I find myself feeling this strong, psychological itch to use the internet anyway. The urge is so strong it's distracting, even if the internet is inaccessible. [more inside]
posted by neeta at 8:26 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by neeta at 8:26 AM PST - 11 comments
Name of a recent podcast episode: waitress deals with rich jerk in LA
I heard a great story about a waitress in Hollywood who dealt with a vulgar regular diner who turned out to request her every time he returned. Eventually they develop a friendship and he flies her granddad to Las Vegas so he can fly a vintage WWII airplane he bought from Tom Cruise. Ring any bells?
posted by patrickc at 8:20 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by patrickc at 8:20 AM PST - 4 comments
Save my face...
Can somebody help me find a tinted moisturizer for my face. I don't want anything super heavy so it should absorb almost immediately. I can purchase in person or via the net. My skin is slightly dry, but no other problems. Hopefully it won't cost more than $50.
chicken drumsticks + slow cooker = ???
I am looking for the best recipe that requires both chicken drumsticks and a slow cooker. [more inside]
posted by everybody had matching towels at 7:36 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by everybody had matching towels at 7:36 AM PST - 15 comments
New glasses, focal length is wrong?
I bought my first pair of eyeglasses recently and they look great, but after about ten days I just can't get used to them. They are sharp when I hold my phone or a book a foot from my face, but not as sharp when something is further away (like my computer screen). These are single-vision glasses so I'm not just looking through the wrong part. [more inside]
Fourth Lake Kayak Picture in Poster Size
Where can I buy a poster sized copy of the 1000 kayaks and canoes on Fourth Lake in New York state? The picture was taken by Nancie Battaglia and is quite striking. [more inside]
BFFs with a Straw and a Spoon
What are your favorite liquid meals and/or very soft foods? [more inside]
Help me hear a pin drop so I can talk on the phone at work.
What is the best mobile phone headset (with mic) setup for whisper-quality phone calls in super noisy environment? [more inside]
posted by OlivesAndTurkishCoffee at 7:05 AM PST - 1 comment
posted by OlivesAndTurkishCoffee at 7:05 AM PST - 1 comment
Help me cope with my anxiety about my wife's anxiety!
My wife struggles with anxiety and paranoid thoughts about our marriage. She'll often start asking questions of me about where I've been, if I'm seeing anyone else, whether I want to leave her and whether I think I'd be better off without her. I'm used to this, and I know that these are just intrusive thoughts rather than what she rationally believes, but I'm about to go away for work and I can't stop feeling anxious about what might happen whilst I'm away. [more inside]
Debt Free Child, Later Retired Dad
I am over 59 1/2 years old. I need to take money out of my IRA for my daughter's last year of college. Help me to find a way to do this with the least tax impact. [more inside]
posted by Xurando at 5:51 AM PST - 25 comments
posted by Xurando at 5:51 AM PST - 25 comments
Is it wrong to gift my boyfriend underwear he doesn't usually wear
My boyfriend wears --- um -- Walter White underwear. It's his birthday, and I would like to give him some spiffy boxers. Is this a wrongheaded idea? [more inside]
posted by angrycat at 5:21 AM PST - 44 comments
posted by angrycat at 5:21 AM PST - 44 comments
Keep that sword sharp!
How do I keep growing while working a boring desk job? [more inside]
Comfortable dog collars, buying online, EU/UK
It's new collar time for my soft haired curly, wavy doggy, so I'm looking for this combo (in order of importance): comfortable / secure / attractive, and wonder if anyone has recommendations. Local shops have very little choice, so options available via Amazon UK, eBay UK, or Etsy are especially helpful. [more inside]
posted by taz at 3:51 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by taz at 3:51 AM PST - 8 comments
Renting an apartment and car in Mount Vernon, Baltimore for 4 months
My partner and I are looking to rent a furnished in Mount Vernon, Baltimore from September 1-January 1. Where should we look, and how does the rental proces work? Also, we need a car. [more inside]
posted by coraline at 1:49 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by coraline at 1:49 AM PST - 7 comments
Magnificent Wooden Stick Art Thing
I found this superb woodcraft art thing at the thrift shop and was compelled to buy it. It's a picture made up of thousands of slices of twig, branch, logs. Various woods, maybe some bamboo. It has a 1970s feel to it (Owls!) I want to know what this sort of artwork is called, and perhaps identify its origin via an artist stamp and some numbers written on the back. [more inside]
posted by slightlybewildered at 1:03 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by slightlybewildered at 1:03 AM PST - 2 comments
reporter+academia: is the best of both worlds possible?
After finishing my dissertation, I successfully applied to become a reporter at a newspaper. I'm liking the work as well as the flexibility and connectedness that allows me to apply what I researched (political theory/discourse analysis) in my writing--I'm wondering how I can better conceptualize my future career path. (Details within) [more inside]
posted by wallawallasweet at 1:01 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by wallawallasweet at 1:01 AM PST - 8 comments
Travel China with a baby
We want to see the parts that showcase China's natural beauty, what we couldn't see anywhere else, what will likely be gone by the time we return next time. But we are limited by traveling with a super flexible 2 year old, and we don't have a ton of time. What do you recommend? [more inside]
Apartment break-in opportunists? Talk me down.
Am I wrong about feeling like my apartment building's being cased for a burglary, and what can I do about it? [more inside]
Chicago bachelor party ideas near Wrigley Field?
I'm planning a bachelor party for ~7 people in Chicago. The main event will be going to a Cub-White Sox game. [more inside]