January 2008 Archives

January 31

Help me find the movie trailer music that sounds like this...

Looking for a song that sounds like the song posted in the details. This song has been used in movie trailers, and has a very rich orchestral sound, but alas, I can't come up with the specific trailer in which I heard it... [more inside]
posted by jwhowa at 11:55 PM PST - 18 comments

How much for a container full of Essien jerseys?

How much would I pay for a 20' shipping container from Tema, Ghana to New York? I know there are a lot of variables that will affect the answer, so I'm looking for a very rough estimate or range. Any information as to what variables are likely to affect the cost significantly would be so very helpful. Thank you!
posted by boots at 11:39 PM PST - 5 comments

How's office 2007?

How's office 2007? [more inside]
posted by damn dirty ape at 9:54 PM PST - 39 comments

How to set up a state-wide network of theater rooms all sharing the same media?

HELP - all you AV buffs. I have a huge AV project to undertake. It involves finding a way to either broadcast, stream, or sync movies located in one location (i.e., a media server) to 10 different theater rooms across the state of Utah. I have an unlimited budget. More info inside... [more inside]
posted by Detuned Radio at 9:36 PM PST - 14 comments

Wearing daily contact lenses for one week: not considered harmful?

I just bought 90 days worth of daily disposable contact lenses, but I intend to wear each pair for a week at a time, taking them out every evening and cleaning them in OptiFree. I occasionally get eye infections, so I no longer want to use even a well-cleaned set of lenses longer than a week. Am I pushing safety levels by using dailies as weeklies? [more inside]
posted by maudlin at 9:07 PM PST - 11 comments

Legal ramifications of fictional scenario...

Someone takes your child and leaves a bag of cash. What happens to the money? Is it taken permanently by cops/feds and kept as evidence or is it yours to keep? (Note, I'm only interested in the legal answer, not the moral one.) Yes, this is hypothetical but for a story I'm working on.
posted by dobbs at 8:35 PM PST - 20 comments

CMYK to spot?

How do I convert a CMYK image to spot color in Photoshop? Once this is done, is there any easy way to swap out spot colors?
posted by Brocktoon at 8:25 PM PST - 14 comments

Painting Cat5 Cable?

Do I need to do anything special to apply latex paint to cat5 cable or to coax cable tv cable? Do I need primer or anything of that sort?
posted by cm at 8:02 PM PST - 3 comments

1-bedrooms in Toronto?

TorontoApartmentFilter: Am I crazy to hold out for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Toronto's downtown west-side (Little Italy, Roncy, maybe Parkdale, etc.) for under $1100? [more inside]
posted by regicide is good for you at 7:57 PM PST - 18 comments

kill the wabbit

What is the most jingoistic public song you've ever heard? [more inside]
posted by jak68 at 7:49 PM PST - 55 comments

Dish Network DVR no more?

I scheduled Dish Network to come to my house and install a new HD DVR this coming Monday. And then I read this... [more inside]
posted by Dec One at 7:43 PM PST - 8 comments

A children's book about the Cloisters?

[children's book filter]: Help me (Ms. Umbú) remember the title of a children's book that features the cloisters in NYC! [more inside]
posted by umbú at 7:40 PM PST - 6 comments

How do they make them shows on the teevee?

How are serial television dramas, like "Deadwood," written? [more inside]
posted by M.C. Lo-Carb! at 7:39 PM PST - 15 comments

I want to scan my comics, in a non-pirating way.

I would like to be able to scan in the bar codes on all the comics of my collection into a software that will track and allow me to manage my collection. Scanning being the main requirement. [more inside]
posted by Jonsnews at 6:54 PM PST - 10 comments

SUP on the cheap

I'd like to get into Stand-up Paddlesurfing on the cheap. Can I buy a used windsurfing longboard and start with that? [more inside]
posted by sonicbloom at 6:47 PM PST - 4 comments

I'm just too scentsitive.

Who has a sense of smell as strong as mine? No one nose! Please help me. [more inside]
posted by susiepie at 6:16 PM PST - 29 comments

What makes Fridays different in Iraq?

How would a typical Iraqi's activities on Friday differ from their activities on other days of the week? I understand that mosque attendance will be higher on Fridays, but would trips to markets, restaurants, or other places be more or less common on Friday? Are there major differences between Sunnis and Shiites in this regard? [more inside]
posted by thrako at 5:54 PM PST - 7 comments

Help me find a shirt

Ladies - how to find white dress shirts that button flat across the front and aren't sheer? If possible, wrinkle-resistant so I'm not ironing my shirt in the morning and yet still showing up to work all wrinkled up with everything popping out and showing through. [more inside]
posted by amethysts at 5:53 PM PST - 25 comments

Alternate London Fantasy

Need Longform Alternate London Fantasy, please. [more inside]
posted by signal at 5:46 PM PST - 22 comments

GradSchoolFilter: I know I can... but I can't.

I'm a grad student. I like the subject(s) I'm studying, I like research, and I know I'm capable of doing the work... except when I sit down to actually do it, I choke. I know I'm not the only one suffering from both imposter syndrome and perfectionism - how do you manage to get your brain to stop spinning its wheels and get to work? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:38 PM PST - 33 comments

File taxes with a name mis-match?

There's a name mis-match between my social security card and my W-2. Can I still file my taxes and get a refund? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:38 PM PST - 7 comments

How to hear my microphone in my headphones

How can I hear instantaneously what I'm recording with my microphone. [more inside]
posted by philosophistry at 5:38 PM PST - 11 comments

To 'nip or not?

Help me settle a debate on the ethics of catnip. [more inside]
posted by hermitosis at 4:28 PM PST - 47 comments

Confused and disoriented by Flash

I need help figuring out the vagaries of relative vs absolute path names for imported objects in Flash. [more inside]
posted by O9scar at 4:27 PM PST - 2 comments

How do I tell WMP to quit looking?

How can I get WMP 11 to stop trying to find media information about my ripped CD on the internet? The pop up info box is making me crazy. Where's the switch to turn it off? [more inside]
posted by susandennis at 4:22 PM PST - 12 comments

Fold vs pockets vs what?

You're standing at a rock concert. The support band is, at best, reasonable. You've no inclination to dance, but find yourself with neither pint nor cigarette nor shoulder bag to hold. What on earth do you do with your hands?
posted by cillit bang at 4:17 PM PST - 26 comments

Getting around San Francisco International Airport

I need some San Francisco Airport help, ASAP! [more inside]
posted by CrazyLemonade at 4:16 PM PST - 14 comments

Altas pain?

Is my "Atlas" really out of whack? Have you heard or experienced NUCCA upper cerivical realignment? [more inside]
posted by Big_B at 4:12 PM PST - 13 comments

Is there an invoicing program that works well with Harvest's time tracking?

Do you use Harvest for time tracking and another program for invoicing clients? How do you do it? [more inside]
posted by lemuria at 3:37 PM PST - 2 comments

What happens if the president-elect dies before taking office?

What happens if the president-elect dies before taking office? [more inside]
posted by shakespeherian at 3:17 PM PST - 14 comments

Need help with dating site for people with socially stigmatized health issue.

I have an idea for a dating site for people with a certain socially stigmatized health issue, and I need ideas for making them feel comfortable about signing up. [more inside]
posted by Enroute at 3:07 PM PST - 16 comments

Elvis be gone!

There is a very loud, very bad Elvis impersonator within spitting distance from my office window. I work very hard in a high stress position at a non profit, and he is really ruining my job satisfaction. The cops won't do anything, I've tried. I don't get paid much, so I can't afford to bribe him. I have tried listening to music through headphones to drown him out but that's almost as distracting. [more inside]
posted by plague at 2:49 PM PST - 38 comments

How do I find copies of music posters, flyers, live recordings, from a specific Steely Dan concert from the 70’s?

My Fathers birthday is coming up and I want to give him a piece of the past. How do I find copies of music posters, flyers, live recordings, from a specific Steely Dan concert from the 70’s? The concert is Steely Dan, the venue was Winterland in San Francisco, and the date was May 5th 1973. [more inside]
posted by elationfoundation at 2:45 PM PST - 5 comments

Help me to be a thoughtful person!

I'm meeting my boyfriend's friends for the first time this Saturday - at a birthday dinner (at a restaurant) for one of them. I would like to bring some sort of token of thoughtfulness or something to the birthday girl... nothing expensive as I don't want to seem like I'm showing off or anything (and I'm a poor college student anyway)... thoughts? [more inside]
posted by pontouf at 2:32 PM PST - 39 comments

Valentine's Gift for Him

A Valentine's day question - mea culpa! I'd like to go for something handmade and creative for the dude, but I'm afraid school is sucking up my imagination. Ideas? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:09 PM PST - 12 comments

How is the health insurance stipend built into my hourly rate affecting my income tax?

My new company doesn't provide health insurance but a $2500 stipend is "built into" my hourly rate to cover the cost. I've got a plan that costs $175/month but how much does it suck for me that the stipend money is being taxed? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:09 PM PST - 10 comments

How do I stop losing my shirts?

I've come to realize that I am not paying as much attention to detail as I should when I drop off shirts at my dry cleaners. It seems like I end up losing 3 or 4 shirts a year to the ebb and flow of having my shirts laundered. Is this truly because of my lack of attention or do others have the same problem? How common it is for shirts to be lost at the dry cleaners? Beyond a greater attention to the checkin and checkout of shirts, does anybody have any advice on stemming the tide of lost shirts?
posted by blackjack514 at 2:08 PM PST - 9 comments

job in music industry

Looking for a job in New York City archiving music or music related. Where to start? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:08 PM PST - 7 comments

How to effectively use DEVONthink?

DEVONthink: how can i learn to love it? [more inside]
posted by Señor Pantalones at 2:08 PM PST - 2 comments

A Fatal Attraction to Cuteness

My favorite styles of clothing and accessories tend to be whimsical, cute, and generally suited to children or teenagers... but I’m in my late twenties. I obviously need to outgrow this eventually, but I’m not sure when or how. [more inside]
posted by Metroid Baby at 2:07 PM PST - 27 comments

What's the perfect app to track expenses?

Is there an expense reporting app that's flexible, handy, and will help me finish next year's taxes quickly and easily? I know about excel, quicken, and various financial transaction apps, but what if I drive 100 miles to a tech conference and want to note my mileage? And what if I'm out entertaining clients and I want to pop onto my iPhone to note the total bill for the evening (before I forget the next day to open excel). Are there any web-based flexible apps for doing all the expense reporting you might need for a small business' bookkeeping needs?
posted by mathowie at 2:04 PM PST - 7 comments

Toystore and Bookstore in Tokyo?

I am in Tokyo as we speak, on business for two more days. I am in the Kayobacho district, one metro stop away from Ginza... though Saturday will see me taking an early train to Kamakura. I am looking for two things: an amazing toy store and an amazing bookstore. Suggestions?
posted by silusGROK at 2:02 PM PST - 9 comments

Omnigraffle vs Illustrator

I'm a long time Adobe Illustrator user experimenting with Omnigraffle for a project and trying to make it feel more like home. There are two shortcuts I miss in particular: Command-space to toggle magnification and option-command-2 to unlock all (objects). Searches on Omni's forums don't look promising, but I'm hoping someone has a workaround.
posted by Jeff Howard at 1:49 PM PST - 4 comments

music for girls who hate girls?

She's so dull - come on rip her to shreds! [more inside]
posted by runincircles at 1:24 PM PST - 55 comments

Looking for additional Mystery Writers

I have just about exhausted the collections of my favorite mystery writers--looking for other mystery/crime writers that meet my preferences. [more inside]
posted by rmhsinc at 1:13 PM PST - 43 comments

Are there any good turn-based RPGs out there?

Are there any good turn-based RPGs out there? [more inside]
posted by jdruk at 1:04 PM PST - 26 comments

Citrix, Mail Merges, and You

I’m having a hell of a time getting a bunch of mail merge documents to play nice with a Citrix Presentation Server setup, and I’d appreciate any thoughts anybody might have. [more inside]
posted by COBRA! at 12:48 PM PST - 5 comments

VisioFilter: Custom shape with two text-editable regions?

VisioFilter: Custom shape with two text-editable regions? [more inside]
posted by gsh at 12:43 PM PST - 5 comments

Press release etiquette?

What is proper etiquette for writing and distributing press releases? General advice, book/website suggestions appreciated; more specific questions inside. [more inside]
posted by bubukaba at 12:31 PM PST - 13 comments

Help me be awesome.

Where can I get my picture taken in this specific and hilarious fashion? [more inside]
posted by heavenstobetsy at 12:08 PM PST - 9 comments

The Visine, it does nothing!

I'm sick as heck, need to do a metric buttload of work involving typing and reading, my eyes are burning so badly that doing the work is painful, and I can't fix it. Help? [more inside]
posted by flibbertigibbet at 12:03 PM PST - 16 comments

How can I become a better and more prolific reader?

How can I become a better and more prolific reader? I don't have a problem with the idea of reading. I love it, as a matter of fact. I'm crazy about books, I collect them, and I enjoy them. However, I don't read nearly as much as I want to, or need to. Ideally, I'd love to read a book every week or two. It doesn't come close to that these days. I think about reading and how I enjoy the idea of reading more than I actually read. [more inside]
posted by SpacemanStix at 11:35 AM PST - 32 comments

Should the nice, not very talented person be fired because a more talented person came along?

Should the nice, dependable, but not so talented person be fired because a more talented person came along? [more inside]
posted by jmitchell at 11:28 AM PST - 43 comments

Showdown: PSP vs DS lite

I own a PS3, and my gf has a DS lite. Should I buy a PSP or a DS lite for myself? Would it be more fun to play games against/with my girlfriend on the DS, or to be able to play PS3 games remotely on the PSP? What games are able to be played remotely on the PSP? [more inside]
posted by Grither at 11:25 AM PST - 33 comments

Lookout Europe, here I come

What are some good job search websites/engines for Europe? I'm interested in jobs in international affairs, public relations, business and finance, advertising and marketing. I'm mostly looking for resources for Germany, Belgium, France and the UK, but pan-European websites are good too.
posted by barrakuda at 11:20 AM PST - 4 comments

you are your surname

What is the term for when a last name is oddly appropriate for a person? [more inside]
posted by milkdropcoronet at 11:17 AM PST - 62 comments

Better late than never?

US citizen living in Canada, didn't file a US return in 2006 for my meager graduate student stipend. Should I file a late 2006 US return now, even though I know I don't owe anything? [more inside]
posted by Nelsormensch at 11:11 AM PST - 6 comments

Voice-to-Midi for ableton

I record voice tracks with Ableton Live. No problem. But now, I want my singing to create MIDI tracks of the notes, on-the-fly (more of less). Is this currently being done? What must I do? RPM 2008 awaits.
posted by Moistener at 11:03 AM PST - 11 comments

How to automate sorting files into subdirectories?

I have a large zipped MP3+G collection of about 30,000 songs split into several directories and subdirectories. I have them named by "Disc-Track - Artist - Title". for example... SC7501-01 - Presley, Elvis - An American Trilogy SC7501-02 - Presley, Elvis - Devil In Disguise SC7501-03 - Presley, Elvis - Burning Love Although I have some that are named by "Disc-Volume-Track - Artist - Title". CB5012-01-01 - Stray Cats, The - Rock This Town CB5012-01-02 - Looking Glass - Brandy etc... I'm hoping to automate the following: Within a directory (and all subdirectories) Create a subdirectory for files of the same disc (or disc-volume), and move the files for that disc into that subdirectory. Repeat until every file is moved into the proper subdirectory. I'm using Windows XP.
posted by fanboy65 at 10:49 AM PST - 9 comments

Why should dogs sleep near their humans?

Help me convince my stubborn hubby that the best place for a dog to sleep is in the master bed room with (or at least close-by) us. [more inside]
posted by Cordelya at 10:48 AM PST - 63 comments

Who loses first when UC budets are cut by Arnold?

How are the proposed UC budget cuts here(Article) and here(PDF) likely to affect campus employees and administrative staff (non academics, non students)? [more inside]
posted by |n$eCur3 at 10:01 AM PST - 6 comments

I also do windows

I need a full-time job. Right now I work part-time at an office I really like, and would love to be able to just come on full-time there. How do I raise this with my boss? [more inside]
posted by thinkingwoman at 10:00 AM PST - 10 comments

How can an American get money to travel to Japan?

How can I, an American, get money to travel to Japan? - Ideally I'd like to go through arts & humanities grants, cultural exchange programs, or visiting artist/musician programs, but other forms of travel funding assistance would be great too. Bonus mefi: how can an American musician (electronic, pop, club) find venues, promoters, DJ's, clubnights, etc, that can lead to a performance while visiting Japan/Tokyo.? [more inside]
posted by itchi23 at 9:53 AM PST - 5 comments

Where does he live?

State residence issue. Asking for a co-worker. [more inside]
posted by Jazz Hands at 9:51 AM PST - 7 comments

We can (or can not) build this...

I have an iPhone. I want to make and answer calls from my computer using an iPhone interface on my computer screen. [more inside]
posted by bkeene12 at 9:48 AM PST - 6 comments

So after we've ______'d the Cotswold sheep, then what?

We will be spending one week in a rented cottage in Brize Norton, UK this coming May before heading over to ATP. We'll be close to Oxford, which is covered nicely online and in travel books, but are looking for additional activities and adventures that may be off the beaten path. [more inside]
posted by robocop is bleeding at 9:38 AM PST - 11 comments

Corporate Rockstar

How do I become a cubicle king and a boardroom baron? How do I become a corporate rockstar? I am in a typical corporate office environment and am wondering why certain people climb the corporate ladder and others do not. What techniques and tactics have you personally applied to move ahead? I am looking for things related to work ethic, communication, self-promotion, appearance, relationships, use of technology, methodology, GTD, etc. Do you send emails late at night to appear to be working late? Do you suck-up to the CEO's personal assistant? Or do you simply work your ass off and get sh*t done? Take me from the mailroom to the boardroom.
posted by jasondigitized at 9:31 AM PST - 34 comments

a PO Box for those who dont like the glare of the sun

I would like to know if one can open a "P.O. Box" at one of the MailBoxes Etc. places or places like it without showing ID? If so, where can one do this in the DC/VA area? [more inside]
posted by photodegas at 9:21 AM PST - 11 comments

What can you tell me about how to treat rheumatoid arthritis?

My father has a severe case of rheumatoid arthritis. I’m hoping those of you who have arthritis or have loved ones who do will have some information to share. [more inside]
posted by orange swan at 9:10 AM PST - 13 comments

not share del.icio.us bookmarks

Is there a way to make the del.icio.us bookmarking default to not shared? I'm using Firefox with the del.icio.us buttons add-on and find it really annoying to always have to check the "do not share" box when tagging a page. [more inside]
posted by 6550 at 9:00 AM PST - 7 comments

Would you like to tax that tax sir?

Are Canadian graduate students on stipend and studying in the USA required to file both US and Canadian taxes? [more inside]
posted by Smegoid at 8:59 AM PST - 7 comments

What are my rights regarding shoddy construction work?

Legally, what rights do I have in regards to shoddy renovation work done on my condo before I bought it? [more inside]
posted by tocts at 8:48 AM PST - 16 comments

Which NYC bus routes have the most to see?

What New York City bus routes are the most scenic? [more inside]
posted by ThePinkSuperhero at 8:46 AM PST - 17 comments

Privacy ideas

Help me with some ideas on protecting my personal privacy. (U.S. question) [more inside]
posted by crapmatic at 8:35 AM PST - 7 comments

Where did I screw up forcing my tulip bulbs?

I have tried to force some tulip bulbs indoors this winter and have failed miserably, but don't know why. [more inside]
posted by catesbie at 8:23 AM PST - 7 comments

Decanting wine at a BYOB?

What to do about bringing wine that needs decanting to a BYOB restaurant? [more inside]
posted by ssmug at 8:21 AM PST - 12 comments

Not just for wardriving, I promise.

Should I buy a quicky? [more inside]
posted by By The Grace of God at 7:47 AM PST - 5 comments

Reccomend A LI Laundromat

Looking for a central Long Island (Nassau County) drop off/pick up laudromat. Not looking exactly for cheap (though that's nice) but value. Tired of wasting hours waiting for machines to finish. [more inside]
posted by Brian Puccio at 7:27 AM PST - 4 comments

Sunlight, sunlight, sunlight hurts my eyes

Can I get a pair of prescription glasses converted to prescription sunglasses, without buying new lenses? [more inside]
posted by subbes at 7:19 AM PST - 7 comments

Bed and Breakfast: Should I stay or should I go?

At a typical Bed and Breakfast, can you come and go as you please? [more inside]
posted by jacobjacobs at 7:13 AM PST - 8 comments

Validity of a postmark?

Question about the validity of a "postmark" from the US Postal Service. [more inside]
posted by luser at 6:56 AM PST - 9 comments

Help me survive the madness...

Can anyone share experiences or give me tips for surviving the Filene's Basement "Running of the Brides" in Columbus tomorrow? Details inside... [more inside]
posted by thejanna at 6:30 AM PST - 7 comments

Time-shifted Tokyo Super Bowl

Where in Tokyo can my friend-of-a-friend watch the 2008 Super Bowl, not live at 0800 local time, but instead at a reasonable time in the evening? [more inside]
posted by No-sword at 6:18 AM PST - 2 comments

Crumpets, anyone?

Looking for a good crumpet recipe. [more inside]
posted by leahwrenn at 4:37 AM PST - 8 comments

Dreamhacker

I would like to write my own HTML/CSS editor. What would be the best way to go about it? (more inside) [more inside]
posted by ReiToei at 4:30 AM PST - 14 comments

How do you deal with living in a place you don't like?

How do you deal with living in a place you don't like? (Brisbane, Australia) [more inside]
posted by Silentgoldfish at 2:04 AM PST - 27 comments

The (electric) pipes are calling

Please help me identify this musician. A while ago - two years? - I saw, on my local TV news, a female piper from the north-east of England. Her instrument was an amplified pipe set, almost certainly Northumbrian small-pipes, played through a guitar effects unit. [more inside]
posted by No Mutant Enemy at 1:25 AM PST - 11 comments

Pre-bootloader-4.6 iPhones still in stores?

Are iPhones with the old (not 4.6) bootloader still on store shelves in the US? If so, is it possible to identify such phones from their packaging, for example, by examining a serial number? Hoping to ask my US-based folks to get me an iPhone or two, but keen for units that can be software unlocked for use in Australia.
posted by obiwanwasabi at 1:17 AM PST - 2 comments

Help w/ lodging in Whistler, BC; Or alternate ski trip suggestion

Can you help me find cheap lodging in Whistler, BC? Or if not, suggest another destination in North America for great skiing and cheap digs? [more inside]
posted by tslugmo at 12:56 AM PST - 16 comments

Getting from Fiumicino to Ciampino

Rome airport transfer: Fiumicino->Ciampino with a five and a half hour window between flights. Is this doable? And if so, what's the most cost efficient way to do it? [more inside]
posted by sanitycheck at 12:31 AM PST - 4 comments

January 30

Billary '08?

Settle-a-bet-filter: Lets say that Hillary wins the primaries; would it be legal for Bill to run as her vice president? And how likely is this to occur?
posted by jytsai at 11:41 PM PST - 25 comments

Holidays in Taipei

I've been rushed off to Taipei last-minute for a two-week project. Where can I watch the Super Bowl? What should I do during the New Year celebration? [more inside]
posted by bargex at 10:46 PM PST - 4 comments

Instaling Office:Mac 2008

Office:Mac 2008 question. Any problems installing it? Lose any documents? [more inside]
posted by msacheson at 10:23 PM PST - 12 comments

Inhale, Exhale!

What pop songs, new or old, are out there about breathing? [more inside]
posted by goalyeehah at 9:45 PM PST - 55 comments

A Novel Method of Escape

Has anyone ever escaped from jail or prison using this novel method, either in fiction or in real life? [more inside]
posted by Tube at 9:45 PM PST - 6 comments

Copper pans and electric heat, do they mix?

Can I use my three-ply (out-middle-inner) copper-aluminum-stainless steel pots and pans on an electric range? Will it mess them up?
posted by aussicht at 9:42 PM PST - 3 comments

Asus eee + wifi boosting

Acus eee + Wireless: I have recently bought an Asus eee, and I would like to pick up more free wifi from various locations Downtown Vancouver, Canada. Is there a way that I can boost the connection? I seem to get a few signals, but they are usually weak and drop off soon. I do not want to get internet service as it is too expensive, too inconvenient, it is not portable or or I need CDs to install the services(The asus does not have a cd drive.) I have not found good laptop signal boosters for wireless yet, does anyone have any recommendations?
posted by Knigel at 9:12 PM PST - 8 comments

How do I make an awful photo backdrop?

Help me create the ultimate in awful senior-portraitesque photo backdrops! [more inside]
posted by sjl7678 at 8:48 PM PST - 19 comments

How long does it take the FBI to process a typical FOIA request?

How long does it take the FBI to process a typical FOIA request? [more inside]
posted by omarr at 8:47 PM PST - 7 comments

Can I make brokers make appointments with me to show my apartment?

Woo hoo! Just one month left in my bad apartment. Since management now knows I'm not re-signing my lease for a second year, my apt. will need to be shown (by brokers) to potential new tenants this month. Are the brokers required to make appointments with me, or can they show up whenever they want? If they knock without notice am I required to let them in? [more inside]
posted by sparrows at 8:14 PM PST - 7 comments

Help my sister without giving my husband a heart attack?

How do I tell my husband about being representative payee for my sister's SSI payments? We've helped her before, and they don't get along. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:59 PM PST - 16 comments

Seven years of bad luck?

I have managed to run my once-great credit into the ground. What now? How screwed am I, and for how long? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:59 PM PST - 10 comments

Looking for remodeling picture series

I'm looking for remodeling picture sets (like this) for renovation inspiration. They don't have to be on Flickr, but a sequential, step-by-step series would be nice. Is there a site that specializes in these types of DIY remodel picture sets?
posted by (bb|[^b]{2}) at 7:59 PM PST - 2 comments

I'm being that jealous girl and it's cramping my style

I am irrationally jealous of his opposite-sex friendships, though I have plenty of my own - how to stop? [more inside]
posted by DuckGirl at 7:56 PM PST - 9 comments

Why won't external monitor set as primary?

I can't set my external monitor as the primary monitor on my Dell Laptop in Windows XP, what is wrong? [more inside]
posted by jesirose at 7:50 PM PST - 5 comments

Heard a great song at a US H&M...help me identify the name of it and the band who plays it.

Heard a great song at a US H&M...help me identify the name of it and the band who plays it. [more inside]
posted by mintchip at 7:40 PM PST - 3 comments

How to keep crazy Mom's prying fingers off some assets?

Disentanglement filter: My girlfriend has an inheritence, which is currently in the form of a stock portfolio which in her name, but her mom's name is also on it since she was under 18 when she got the inheritance (she is 21 now). Her mom is less than reasonable, and makes threats regarding said assets, so how can she (my gf) get the stuff to just be in her name, and keep the assets safe from her mom's prying fingers? [more inside]
posted by gnomicPerfect at 7:39 PM PST - 10 comments

What can I put around my sandwich?

I'm trying to eat less bread. What else can I use to contain sandwiches? [more inside]
posted by reenum at 7:21 PM PST - 33 comments

What size is my rice cooker?

What size is my rice cooker? [more inside]
posted by The corpse in the library at 7:21 PM PST - 6 comments

White screen on startup

My computer- a Toshiba Satellite A65, running Windows XP SP2- will sometimes collapse on starting, displaying only a mottled white screen. The only way past it is to shut the machine off and restart (hoping it doesn't happen again). What component or process is failing?
posted by Kronos_to_Earth at 7:20 PM PST - 6 comments

Transferrable Mortgage?

Is there a type of mortgage that can move with me if/when I move? [more inside]
posted by joecacti at 6:33 PM PST - 12 comments

Stop the New York World, I want to get off

How can I avoid motion sickness while reading microfilm, or, failing that, clear my head quickly? [more inside]
posted by Countess Elena at 6:33 PM PST - 9 comments

how do I get that tea glow?

I drink a lot of tea-- two or three cups a day, black with milk and sugar. Maybe one in twenty cups of tea will taste sublime and leave me with a pleasant sort of afterglow that lasts for an hour or so-- not a caffeine buzz at all. The other nineteen cups are just tea. How do I get that tea glow more reliably? [more inside]
posted by moonmilk at 6:20 PM PST - 19 comments

Suggested XBox Games

Tips for XBox 360 games I might like [more inside]
posted by chris88 at 6:11 PM PST - 21 comments

Shakespeare isn't Old English, students.

I am looking for good, undergraduate-geared resources, articles or book chapters that overview 1) the origins of the English language, 2) Old/Middle/Modern/Contemporary English and things like the Great Vowel Shift, and 3) language development in humans. [more inside]
posted by oflinkey at 5:52 PM PST - 15 comments

Where do I get a waterproof battery case?

Where can I get compact, water(proof|resistant) and somewhat sturdy battery case? [more inside]
posted by strangecargo at 5:22 PM PST - 10 comments

2003 or 2006 IRC?

Should I learn the 2006 or 2003 International Residential Code? [more inside]
posted by gregoryc at 5:07 PM PST - 1 comment

I don't want my meat to have to come too far to see me.

I was told there are only a dozen slaughterhouses in the US - which seems absurdly low to me. However, I am having trouble finding any evidence of this. [more inside]
posted by andifsohow at 4:27 PM PST - 13 comments

What's the deal with Habitat?

I don't understand Habitat for Humanity. Perhaps you do? [more inside]
posted by moxiedoll at 4:19 PM PST - 50 comments

Help needed building a PC

I want to build a PC and, while I'm not quite at the summit of ignorance, I'm high in the foothills and the air's getting thin. I need people who know more than me to tell me what to do. Please. Vastly longer explanation follows. [more inside]
posted by rhymer at 3:58 PM PST - 20 comments

Camera Phone mosaic site

Trying to remember this asian (possible japanese/korean) site for camera phones where you could upload your pic or video into this huge mosaic of all of these other people who have done the same thing. Basically a mosaic of life. I remember it took forever to load and was a flash extravaganza, but each pixelated square was a little video/pic uploaded from a camera phone. Any ideas?
posted by Stan Chin at 3:16 PM PST - 4 comments

Tell me about this harmonica.

Tell me about this harmonica. [more inside]
posted by BuddhaInABucket at 2:50 PM PST - 6 comments

Who wrote this song?

My mother used to sing a song to me as a child: "It's a rainy day / and we have to stay inside. / The rain is falling down / and we can't go out to play. / Why does it have to rain / anyway?" She swears it's from Sesame Street, but Google seems never to have heard of it. Who composed this song? Where could she have heard it from? Is it indeed Sesame Street?
posted by RobotHeart at 2:47 PM PST - 7 comments

I can't concentrate! Help!

How do I get back into the mental groove? Got any tips on how to get back my focus and get things done when I've been thoroughly distracted and just can't get back into it? [more inside]
posted by cgg at 2:34 PM PST - 12 comments

Homeless in Florida

Temporary emergency housing in Stuart, Fl.? [more inside]
posted by pearlybob at 2:23 PM PST - 18 comments

How to get submission form fields from email to database and more!

How can a new company track leads submitted via its website through the sales and post-sales process, simply, automatically, and online? [more inside]
posted by prophetsearcher at 2:20 PM PST - 12 comments

96 Tears...But Hopefully More

What's a good example of a song whose emotional power affects the artist performing it? I'm trying to compile a list of songs whose musical landscape and/or lyrics are so emotionally potent that the emotion emerges clearly in a recorded version of the song. [more inside]
posted by AngerBoy at 2:13 PM PST - 97 comments

Why don't we see coconut crab sized insects?

Why don't we ever see insects as large as a coconut crab walking around? [more inside]
posted by fnerg at 2:03 PM PST - 15 comments

Recommendations for a financial advisor/accountant for a young couple?

Recommendations for a financial advisor/accountant for a young couple in NYC? [more inside]
posted by scazza at 1:51 PM PST - 2 comments

If my nephew had a hammer...

18 year old guy from California really wants to become a contractor. Gimme the best advice for him please. [more inside]
posted by miss lynnster at 1:15 PM PST - 17 comments

What should I consider before I move to Berlin?

What should I consider before I move to Berlin? [more inside]
posted by beautiful at 1:11 PM PST - 10 comments

Is plaster safe for hamsters?

Are plaster (of paris) objects safe for hamsters? I know they'd likely chew it, but would that be dangerous or toxic? I'd like to carve a neat little home for my new friend, but I don't want it to end badly.
posted by luftmensch at 1:08 PM PST - 15 comments

AOLs of graphis are giving me ARTache

Is there any way to view old AOL .art files? [more inside]
posted by sandra_s at 1:03 PM PST - 15 comments

Schools and delinquency

Who wrote that the meritocratic nature of schools contributes to juvenile delinquency? [more inside]
posted by ethnomethodologist at 1:00 PM PST - 2 comments

We won't give you a scholarship until you're good and traumatized.

Due to some bizarre circumstances, my college is forcing me to dig up some things from my past I'd thought I'd put behind me and would much, much sooner forget. How do I deal? [more inside]
posted by InnocentBystander at 12:59 PM PST - 41 comments

What can I cook sans-stove?

What can I cook with a countertop grill, a crock pot, and no stove? [more inside]
posted by wreckingball at 12:59 PM PST - 24 comments

Where can I hear uneven temperament

Is there anywhere online that I can listen to instruments tuned to uneven temperament (ideally playing a scale)?
posted by deeper red at 12:56 PM PST - 5 comments

Black and tan...and espresso, and cafe, and brown, and sand...

When choosing a leather messenger/shoulder bag, how do I decide between brown and black? Should I try to match to the clothes I usually wear, or just pick what I like? [more inside]
posted by splendid animal at 12:51 PM PST - 24 comments

A sufficiently sturdy pillbox

The inside of my purse is a hazardous place, and I have trouble finding a pillbox that will stand up to it. [more inside]
posted by Karmakaze at 12:30 PM PST - 21 comments

Self sustaining cities

What potential or existing strategies are there for developing large urban economies without relying on international investment, transnational corporations, etc.? [more inside]
posted by poweredbybeard at 12:08 PM PST - 12 comments

Suddenly I'm the belle of the ball

I find myself in the novel situation, upon being laid off, of having a large number of potential job opportunities. I'm in the tech space, so most organizations work through recruiters, and I'm getting over a dozen calls and emails a day since posting my resume. Many of the job descriptions look like a good fit, so I know I can have my pick of location, type of organization, benefits, salary, etc. It's quite early in my job hunt, and I have the leisure of about 2 months to do it in. I'm looking for tips about how to keep organized and be in control of the situation. [more inside]
posted by matildaben at 12:07 PM PST - 10 comments

Old mainframe computer market?

How would one go about pricing and buying an old mainframe computer, an IBM 360/30 to be specific?
posted by zorro astor at 12:04 PM PST - 7 comments

How to find a Chicago-area psychiatrist?

I'm looking for a respected, progressive psychiatrist in Chicagoland and am having a hard time finding a database of rankings or respected professionals. Any suggestions? [more inside]
posted by I, Lamy at 11:59 AM PST - 4 comments

No, I Don't Want to Change My Default VSS 2005 Database

In Microsoft Visual SourceSafe 2005, on the "Open SourceSafe Database" dialog, is there any way to have the "Open this database next time I run Visual SourceSafe" checkbox unchecked as the default? [more inside]
posted by mjgrady at 11:52 AM PST - 0 comments

Looking for high-intensity, low-impact, portable exercise.

I want a high intensity, low-impact workout that I can do every single day, indoors, with minimal space requirements. Jumping rope in my apartment lobby is absolutely perfect except that my feet and knees can't do it daily. [more inside]
posted by zeek321 at 11:45 AM PST - 35 comments

My money went "poof!"

What can you do if a collection agency "loses" your payment? [more inside]
posted by medea42 at 11:27 AM PST - 8 comments

Volunteering Filter

How can I grow my list of "high impact" volunteering opportunities in San Francisco? [more inside]
posted by meifool at 11:27 AM PST - 5 comments

Nuevas Canciónes

I love Nueva Canción. Got resources or recommendations? [more inside]
posted by Ambrosia Voyeur at 11:24 AM PST - 5 comments

shareable contact management solution?

I'm looking for a shareable/collaborative Contact and Calendar Management program. [more inside]
posted by nerdcore at 11:18 AM PST - 3 comments

Need side job advice for lacking income

What can my wife and I do to supplement our lacking income? [more inside]
posted by macsigler at 11:04 AM PST - 41 comments

Feta-olive-filled bread roll secret?

Baking: I tried some rolls that a distant acquaintance served many years ago- I think they were whole grain, about the size of a baked potato, and they had filling- made of feta, some olives, and maybe soft tofu?? They were really good and I seem to recall that she referred to them as "Bolsas." Does anyone know how to make these? [more inside]
posted by ohdeanna at 10:52 AM PST - 9 comments

Processed food, only I'll process it myself, thank you.

My family loves fruit-filled breakfast/snack bars. How can I make my own? [more inside]
posted by libraryhead at 10:12 AM PST - 9 comments

How do I vote strategically in the presidential primaries?

I live in Arkansas. It's a Super Tuesday state, and I can vote in either party primary. Polls currently suggest that Clinton and Huckabee (both of whom have Arkansas ties) are way, way, way ahead in my state. I prefer Obama to Clinton, but I'm not in love with either of them, and, really, I just want to see a Democrat win the general election. Bearing all of this in mind, how should I vote in the primary?
posted by box at 10:08 AM PST - 52 comments

Gold Farming Spam, and its Malcontents (me).

I saw this today, and couldn't figure out what the hell it was. [more inside]
posted by SPUTNIK at 10:03 AM PST - 13 comments

Stupid Excel Question

Excel 2003 - how can I get 2 or more xls files to open in separate windows? [more inside]
posted by doorsfan at 9:56 AM PST - 12 comments

Mi amas vin

Esperantists: I want to send a friend a valentine in Esperanto. What should it say? Also, what design should I draw on the card? [more inside]
posted by Pallas Athena at 9:49 AM PST - 4 comments

Why are some church websites using .cc?

Why are some churches in the U.S. using the ".cc" Top Level Domain (instead of .com or .org) on their churches' web sites? Isn't .cc the country code for the Cocos Islands off of Australia? Examples from my quick Google search: Example A Example B
posted by unceman at 9:49 AM PST - 7 comments

US TV Shows in Japanese? For free?

How would I go about finding torrents or downloads of popular TV shows dubbed in Japanese? [more inside]
posted by splice at 9:43 AM PST - 2 comments

Help me understand the marginal revolution.

Nascent interest in economics and economic thinking. Having a bit of problem with the theory of the margin. Wikipedia is not that helpful. [more inside]
posted by proj at 9:23 AM PST - 4 comments

digital art in Tokyo? where?

Going to Tokyo during the first week of August. I really want to see some New Media/Digital art. Where should I go? What should I see? [more inside]
posted by nimsey lou at 9:12 AM PST - 5 comments

Break an image into tiles

Help me automate the splitting of an image into tiles. [more inside]
posted by RobotHero at 9:01 AM PST - 8 comments

How can I deal with a person at work who seems to be publicly shunning me?

How can I deal with a person at work who seems to be publicly shunning me? (She is not my direct supervisor, but she does hold some control over the funding for my department, and therefore, my job.) [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:00 AM PST - 20 comments

Wookin' pa Dub

I'd like to get a little more into dub and acquire some albums. I like what I understand to be the more typical kind of tracks: long, rumbly instrumentals and would prefer to largely avoid anything with predominant vocals. Does anyone have any particular albums or artists to recommend? Compilations are a-okay. [more inside]
posted by picea at 9:00 AM PST - 18 comments

Need to find a new Guitar for Guitar Hero 3

I have Guitar Hero 3 for the Xbox 360, and think I might have broke the guitar (buttons are unresponsive at times, sometimes there's merely a lag, which is very frustrating). I thought it might be low battery at first, but putting in fresh ones didn't help (I even got the rechargeable pack, to no avail). So now I'm thinking of getting a new guitar for the game, but can't find where to buy one for the XBOX 360 anywhere. Is the guitar available?
posted by bronxteacher at 8:43 AM PST - 12 comments

Great mash-ups concerning political/social themes?

What are your favorite video and/or audio mash-ups that deal with politics or social issues? [more inside]
posted by liruskainen at 8:33 AM PST - 11 comments

Importing and Altering a Web Site, for Dummies

I want to download an institutional web page and change it a little bit for a job interview. I have Frontpage and NVU. But when I try to capture the page my computer bogs down and stops responding. Help! [more inside]
posted by LarryC at 8:09 AM PST - 3 comments

Children's books for boys?

What are some great classic children's books geared toward boys? (Excluding sci-fi). I'm working on a project for which I need a long list of children's books for both boys and girls. Being a gal myself, I've got that covered; the boys' list is harder.
posted by pipti at 7:59 AM PST - 65 comments

Do I Have Claim to Dual German and American Citizenship?

My mother was a native-born German citizen. My father was a native-born American citizen. I was born in the United States. Shortly thereafter, my parents divorced and my mom was granted custody of me. I lived in Germany until the age of 5, presumably as a German citizen. Then my father and his family took physical custody of me, and an American court ultimately awarded legal custody to my father. Because I was born in America, I now enjoy US citizenship. Do I still have a claim to dual German and American Citizenship? [more inside]
posted by saulgoodman at 7:57 AM PST - 33 comments

Help me stop the mindless munching!

How do I stop eating when I'm not hungry? [more inside]
posted by lemonade at 7:42 AM PST - 45 comments

They have money to build my house, right?

How concerned should I be about my builder's finances? [more inside]
posted by PFL at 7:02 AM PST - 20 comments

Rowing machine for a small area?

Please recommend a good rowing machine for a small space. [more inside]
posted by jbickers at 6:58 AM PST - 11 comments

If writing stuff be the food of love...

Quotefilter: help me find a quote that speaks of both love and writing.... [more inside]
posted by Neonshock at 6:22 AM PST - 10 comments

Can I change my name now, but start using it later?

Complicated name-change issues. I am changing my last name, but not due to a legal marriage. Can I get my name changed now, but start using it for everything later? [more inside]
posted by fiercecupcake at 5:45 AM PST - 11 comments

Finding a classical CD based on its contents only?

Can I re-find a Brahms CD I once loved, if I know which pieces are on it (not a common combo of pieces) but don't remember much else about it? [more inside]
posted by allterrainbrain at 5:06 AM PST - 8 comments

Bass ambition

MidlifeCrisisFilter: my old itch to play the electric bass has resurfaced. Please help this middle-aged lady make a fool of herself. [more inside]
posted by Quietgal at 4:58 AM PST - 21 comments

Help me use game theory to better understand my workplace

Help me use game theory to better understand the seemingly irrational behavior at my workplace [more inside]
posted by brandnew at 4:12 AM PST - 16 comments

How to get rid of this scrap heap in Port Phillip, VIC, Oz?

How to get rid of this scrapheap in Port Phillip, VIC, Oz? [more inside]
posted by activities not in keeping with my status at 3:19 AM PST - 6 comments

why a coop business model?

How does a co-op business model benefit the company? and can any industry use a co-op business model or is it reserved only for smaller/niche markets with passionate buyers? [more inside]
posted by brinks at 3:09 AM PST - 11 comments

Job search in Tokyo

Can anyone recommend where to find a job in Tokyo? [more inside]
posted by Psychnic at 2:45 AM PST - 8 comments

Does certificaion really help you find a job?

Would getting certification help in finding a more rewarding job while I'm working on the major? [more inside]
posted by isopropyl at 2:05 AM PST - 5 comments

The photographer and the lens

What lens to buy? [more inside]
posted by oxford blue at 1:44 AM PST - 23 comments

I can haz stutter. Do not want.

I stutter. I don't want to. Maybe you can help. [more inside]
posted by Phyltre at 12:46 AM PST - 18 comments

Putting the hyphen in "anal-retentive"?

Is this an acceptable format for writing out a business address on a mailing label? [more inside]
posted by melorama at 12:05 AM PST - 23 comments

January 29

Sounds like a job for Monica Gellar...

How can I create an indexing system for the collection of scholarly journal articles that I'm quickly amassing? [more inside]
posted by messylissa at 10:55 PM PST - 17 comments

Do I go or do I blow (it off)

Family (blood) question. I have an elderly aunt (mothers sister) who is about to die (90+ years old). I do NOT like my two sisters [more inside]
posted by raildr at 10:39 PM PST - 15 comments

Help me get my mail!

Moronfilter: I've lost my mail key and can't replace it. Is there any way to get my mail? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:49 PM PST - 17 comments

Why do we have children?

My significant other said this to me today: "over the next 5 years or so you should build an argument for kids," but I can't think of where to start. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:49 PM PST - 40 comments

Though-provoking sci-fi?

Looking for good "Sci-fi" stories, novels, TV shows or movies (primarily the first 2, though) that deal with issues of identity & difference. [more inside]
posted by papakwanz at 9:43 PM PST - 43 comments

Easy database for words (dictionary)?

I want to make a dictionary database of words, where I can query part of speech, spelling patterns, pronunciation patterns, number of syllables, definitions, etc. Is Access best for this? Or are there other smaller, free applications you would suggest? Ideally I would like a lot of control over query output layout. Ease of use is important. (I never felt Access was so user-friendly [maybe that's true of all databases in general], but I'm a whiz at Excel. Unfortunately, using XL as a DB isn't very pretty.)
posted by strangeguitars at 9:40 PM PST - 4 comments

What to charge for a portrait?

What to charge for art? [more inside]
posted by frosty_hut at 9:37 PM PST - 18 comments

Better text entry in Wordpress?

Is there a way (plug-in, hack) to give Wordpress a more fully featured post submission box? [more inside]
posted by stupidsexyFlanders at 9:05 PM PST - 5 comments

Why am I getting a UCLA proxy page?

Why are random web pages rerouting me to a UCLA proxy server authentication log-in? [more inside]
posted by PostIronyIsNotaMyth at 8:57 PM PST - 6 comments

Am I a lousy lover?

Am I a lousy lover? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:31 PM PST - 34 comments

Hashish delivery. How does it work?

Help me with some of the details of a fictional scene involving a hashish purchase. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:31 PM PST - 12 comments

Can a couple reunite from a long term break?

Can I get over my ex while still retaining hope that we might get back together someday? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:30 PM PST - 32 comments

How do I go full time on my start-up?

In the evenings and weekends, I've been working on a web start-up company with a colleague. I think our idea is great and can make money and we're both pretty smart. I want to go full time. What is the best way to do this? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:30 PM PST - 8 comments

Websites and companies that offer cheap weekly vacation rentals in LA area

What are some good sites or companies to find cheap LA weekly vacation rentals? [more inside]
posted by dannon205 at 7:51 PM PST - 1 comment

Cheapskate Laundry?

Can I do laundry with just ammonia alone? [more inside]
posted by thisjax at 7:44 PM PST - 18 comments

Are you guaranteed to be disgusted by 33% of the food on this list?

I once heard something along the lines of there being three foods in the world all of which hardly anyone enjoys the taste, even though many people enjoy at least two. One of them was peanut butter. Another might have been Vegemite. Where might I have heard this possibly false factoid? Any idea what the three items were?
posted by billtron at 7:15 PM PST - 26 comments

Why are transfers to my external firewire drive so slow?

What kind of transfer speeds should I be expecting from my new external Firewire 800 drive? [more inside]
posted by Venadium at 7:14 PM PST - 10 comments

Why am I hot in bed even with cool aircon?

How can I stop myself feeling/getting hot at night when the environment is cold. [more inside]
posted by dasfreak at 7:01 PM PST - 6 comments

Hey, that's a VERY well behaved dog you have there

What's up with all these dog silhouettes? [more inside]
posted by dancinglamb at 6:39 PM PST - 10 comments

Say you want to wake up to music in your pillow. From an Ipod...

Ipod Device Filter: I am looking for an ipod alarm clock that has a jack for an external speaker or headphones on it. Input jacks? Sure. Output that's NOT usb? Not so much. I haven't found one yet after an hour of looking. Does such a thing exist? [more inside]
posted by rileyray3000 at 6:38 PM PST - 3 comments

How do I know if roaches are in my plastic bags?

Should I throw away all my plastic bags because I saw a roach? [more inside]
posted by Attackpanda at 6:31 PM PST - 8 comments

eBay sellers revolt!

Whither Google Auctions? [more inside]
posted by yellowbinder at 6:30 PM PST - 19 comments

What is the name of my coughing fit?

Is there a term for a spontaneous coughing fit caused by "swallowing wrong"? This happens to me randomly and pretty infrequently, but it's occurred as long as I can recall, since I was a kid. Any name for this? [more inside]
posted by zardoz at 6:19 PM PST - 23 comments

Help me identify these short horror stories?

Help me identify these four short horror stories, based on descriptions of their plots and endings. SPOILERS AHEAD! [more inside]
posted by Faint of Butt at 6:16 PM PST - 3 comments

Election blogs for kids?

Election blogs for kids? I'm looking for resources to help my elementary-school-age child follow the presidential race -- not just encyclopedia-style background information, but frequent updates from the news. Has anyone found good resources for (or by) kids?
posted by tweber at 6:05 PM PST - 2 comments

Help me with my digital darkroom technique

PhotoFilter: Help me find an affordable alternative to Photoshop Channel Chops. [more inside]
posted by red_lotus at 6:05 PM PST - 18 comments

Tips for a monthlong business trip to Hyderabad

I am going to be in Hyderabad for a month (February) for work and would welcome any feedback and suggestions. I read this thread but I have some more specific questions: I am staying in Banjara Hills at the Taj Deccan. I will probably be getting home around 9pm on weeknights. Are there restaurants, etc., in walking distance that would be worth checking out, or should I stick to the hotels? Is it an area one can easily walk around in? How safe is a woman alone at night? Are there any quick weekend trips worth doing, say leaving Sat and returning Sunday? What should I see in Hyderabad itself? I don't want to be too skittish about eating/getting sick, what are commonsense rules to follow? What are tipping conventions for hotels, restaurants, cabs, tours? Are there any guidelines I should follow in terms of dress? I would also welcome any and all other tips. Thanks!
posted by jules1651 at 6:02 PM PST - 5 comments

S/he's bi. Still interested?

You: Either gender, heterosexual or homosexual. Your potential date: identifies as your preferred gender, but bisexual. Would you be willing to pursue a romantic relationship, not just a sexual one, with that person? Why or why not? [more inside]
posted by plaingurl at 5:51 PM PST - 58 comments

Refurb decor advice..

Modern/contemporary bathroom refurb ideas? [more inside]
posted by bakertim at 5:30 PM PST - 6 comments

Importing Bookmarks to Google Bookmarks?!?

I am trying to import bookmarks to Google Bookmarks from 4 browsers -- Opera, Safari, Explorer, and Firefox. I cannot figure out how to do this. I have an IMac running OS 10.3 --- Thanks in advance for any guidance!
posted by snap_dragon at 5:23 PM PST - 2 comments

his past. my present.

feelings about his past relationships? how to get past it? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:20 PM PST - 17 comments

Would you recommend liposuction for manboobs?

Does anyone here have personal experience with liposuction for male breast reduction? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:20 PM PST - 5 comments

Oh, it's lonely (on) the top . . .

How do I have sex when I've got no rhythm? I need help on top. Unfortunately, this is not a joke. Definitely NSFW inside. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:20 PM PST - 19 comments

Kidding the living tripe out of all such collections

What was the joke that Ring Lardner contributed to 'Favorite Jokes of Famous People' that was too exquisite for Dorothy Parker to reproduce? [more inside]
posted by calico at 4:55 PM PST - 13 comments

A thrift store gem.

Can you tell me anything about this print or the artist who apparently produced the source painting? [more inside]
posted by hecho de la basura at 4:50 PM PST - 5 comments

How do primaries work?

Are primaries "private" functions of their respective parties, or are they "public"? Who decides how they work? [more inside]
posted by Framer at 4:45 PM PST - 6 comments

Compiler, instruction,... Whats your function?

I want to conquer my apparent inability to comprehend or write code. I'm looking for stories (or real life applicable tips from those of you who write code for a living) where you had the "A HA, I understand this finally" epiphany moment. I realize this might sound like an overly generic question, which is why there is .... [more inside]
posted by jmnugent at 4:20 PM PST - 55 comments

Inputting Kanji on a Palm

I use a Palm TX to help me study japanese. How can I input kanji directly into a document ? [more inside]
posted by Oneirokritikos at 4:09 PM PST - 4 comments

Social Web sites for seniors?

My mother is 69 years old and uses a computer for email, occasionally to play scrabble with my brother-in-law across the country, listen to/find music, view photos and videos of her grandchildren, and to surf the Web. Other than that, she becomes easily frustrated learning new things on the computer. However, she's disabled, so she spends much of her time on the computer. I'd like to introduce her to some new, social-enhancing activities online but aside from Second Life and Facebook, I'm coming up empty. [more inside]
posted by pallen123 at 4:01 PM PST - 10 comments

My iPhone won't place nice with my car

What is the best way to play hook my iPhone up to my car stereo that doesn't involve the use of a tape adapter or a FM transmitter? [more inside]
posted by aburd at 3:18 PM PST - 13 comments

Why won't Dreamweaver let me check out (or save) files?

Why won't Dreamweaver let me check out (or save) files? [more inside]
posted by unsigned at 3:11 PM PST - 2 comments

Northern California Honeybabymoon!

Please help me plan a honeymoon/babymoon vacation in Northern California. I'll be 20 weeks pregnant. We fly in to San Francisco 3/9/08 and out 3/16/08. [more inside]
posted by natness at 3:03 PM PST - 9 comments

Photoshop is suicidal when I try and save. Errrr....

Photoshop CS keeps crashing when I try and save a file. WHY? [more inside]
posted by actionpact at 2:48 PM PST - 9 comments

No more rubber chicken dinners.

Help me make tender chicken breasts. Mine are always rubbery, no matter how slowly I cook them. I've even tried marinating. What am I doing wrong? [more inside]
posted by notjustfoxybrown at 2:47 PM PST - 39 comments

How does an ME change to non-ME?

What else can a Mechanical Engineer do? [more inside]
posted by senador at 2:37 PM PST - 21 comments

Why aren't U.S. Presidential Primary elections all on the same day?

Why aren't U.S. Presidential Primary elections all on the same day? [more inside]
posted by hybridvigor at 2:02 PM PST - 32 comments

Why no Apples in (Bluetooth) Stereo?

What's with Apple and A2DP (bluetooth stereo)? [more inside]
posted by bartleby at 1:56 PM PST - 2 comments

NoIWillNotFixYourComputerFilter

NoIWillNotFixYourComputerFilter: I've got a 500 gig that won't show up in Windows XP. Help! [more inside]
posted by Lockeownzj00 at 1:49 PM PST - 7 comments

An American in Lisboa

I'm moving from the US to Lisbon in about a week to begin a long-term job. I'm planning to learn Portuguese, but so far I know very little. Any recommendations on good English-language resources (preferably online) for both beginning and living life there? [more inside]
posted by pjenks at 1:46 PM PST - 5 comments

How do I create a job search site?

I want to create a job search site for a specific geographic area - sort of a mini-Monster where employers can post job announcements and job hunters can search and filter their results by salary, zip code, etc. Are there web services/businesses that make it easy to do this - e.g., subscribe to their job site service, slap a brand/domain name on it and launch as your own? Or is this something that can only be done with a database/programming solution?
posted by adverb at 1:46 PM PST - 4 comments

Presentation Podcast Capture?

How can I record video of a powerpoint/impress/etc slideshow in a format suitable for inclusion in a video podcast? Presenters use their own laptops and I have access only to a vga cable carrying the image, so screencapture tools are not a preferable option. [more inside]
posted by Alterscape at 1:34 PM PST - 2 comments

My Cat Does Weird Things. Why?

Cat-filter: Can cats go in reverse? Why does our cat compulsively sit on my laptop? How does the groomer trim his butt fur and nails without getting scalped? Is there a way to treat his dry skin? [more inside]
posted by arnicae at 1:31 PM PST - 37 comments

What else sounds like the Quake soundtrack?

I'm looking for music similar to the Quake 1 soundtrack. [more inside]
posted by Black Spring at 1:24 PM PST - 13 comments

What is this Zen Board made out of?

My daughter is in love with my old Zen Board (also called a Buddha board). What kind of paper is this thing made of? [more inside]
posted by jeanmari at 1:22 PM PST - 10 comments

File sharing really to blame for record industry decline?

Looking for data on alternative causes for the mainstream music industry's declining fortunes. [more inside]
posted by nanojath at 1:12 PM PST - 21 comments

How can I convince people not to buy HP?

How can I give a company a lot of bad publicity? I am a bitter customer who wants other people to reconsider before buying from HP. [more inside]
posted by scission at 12:44 PM PST - 15 comments

What weblogs will make me smart and interesting and beautiful?

What are the best weblogs? [more inside]
posted by logic vs love at 12:42 PM PST - 33 comments

radical books wanted

I'm looking for book suggestions for a radical reading group. [more inside]
posted by arcadia at 12:37 PM PST - 24 comments

Funky (smelling) fibers.

How do I de-stink the armpits of my sweaters? [more inside]
posted by the luke parker fiasco at 12:34 PM PST - 12 comments

Where should we goa?

Honeymoon Destination Ideas, something cultural and exotic but with a nice beach in November. Slightly adventurous but we definitely want to be able to chill out as well. Goa? Thailand? Any input appreciated. [more inside]
posted by bitdamaged at 12:29 PM PST - 14 comments

No, not Yellow Submarine

So, we've just found out the kid we're cooking is a girl. Now, I'm tasked with the job I've had for the last 16 years: I have to come up with a signature song for the child. [more inside]
posted by thanotopsis at 12:28 PM PST - 31 comments

Can anyone remind me of a poster designer's name?

Can anyone remind me of a poster designer's name? [more inside]
posted by littlerobothead at 12:10 PM PST - 4 comments

PISS LASER!

PISS LASER! How to use urine most efficiently in carving of urinal cake? [more inside]
posted by klangklangston at 12:08 PM PST - 43 comments

Cost of living in Portland vs. Seattle

Living on a modest income in Seattle vs. in Portland, OR -- your thoughts, opinions, experiences? [more inside]
posted by Kat Allison at 12:00 PM PST - 10 comments

Good hairdressers in Vancouver?

Please recommend a good, affordable hair salon for ladies in Vancouver. [more inside]
posted by SoftRain at 11:57 AM PST - 7 comments

How to upgrade the OS on a laptop with no CD or floppy?

How do I upgrade from Win 2k to XP on a laptop with no CD or floppy and no option in the bios to boot from USB? [more inside]
posted by monkeystronghold at 11:52 AM PST - 8 comments

Museums and the social web

Can you help me find great examples of museums making use of free social web apps? [more inside]
posted by Miko at 11:42 AM PST - 14 comments

Can I go dark for a night?

What is a non-permanent product I can use at home to temporarily darken my blonde hair? [more inside]
posted by justonegirl at 11:15 AM PST - 11 comments

Block prompt

How do I stop the annoying "This device can operate faster" query when I plug a USB 2 thumb drive into a USB 1.1 port (which is all my computer has)?
posted by KRS at 11:14 AM PST - 7 comments

I strongly believe in this question.

"Ann Coulter doesn't even believe anything she says!" Really? Are there any cases of a writer or pundit who turned out not to believe the positions s/he took? [more inside]
posted by transona5 at 10:19 AM PST - 37 comments

Leather, etc: Animal product, or byproduct?

How do I know if something is an animal product, or a by-product that exists only because the animal was killed for other reasons? [more inside]
posted by explosion at 9:57 AM PST - 24 comments

Wireless timeout

Wireless networking problem...help? [more inside]
posted by underwater at 9:46 AM PST - 14 comments

Who really owns your cell phone number?

My former employer won't release my personal cell phone number. [more inside]
posted by ad_hominem at 9:40 AM PST - 18 comments

An Apple a Day Keeps my Research Advisor Away

New Macintosh user needs help getting his Pro set up for academic research. [more inside]
posted by Large Marge at 9:27 AM PST - 10 comments

Time to eat my vegetables

Vegetarian seeks advice for traveling in Korea and China. [more inside]
posted by bassjump at 9:21 AM PST - 24 comments

Where to buy a straight razor in Montreal?

Where to buy a straight razor in Montreal? I'll admit that I haven't looked to hard on my own to find the answer for this but I was wondering if any Montreal-ers know of a good place to buy blades for a straight razor? They're for my wife who is a trained hair dresser and cuts a few peoples hair in our home (she vastly prefers razor with guard over scissors); her supply is getting dull. Thanks!
posted by royalchinook at 9:17 AM PST - 9 comments

how to get newbies healthy?

My wife and I are trying to get back into shape, and maybe loose some weight. I've tried out my google-foo, and can find some places here in RI, but I don't think my wife would feel comfortable walking into Golds gym. Help! [more inside]
posted by edmcbride at 8:50 AM PST - 12 comments

I know, I know, but I'm stuck with IIS

If you have successfully set up a multisite Drupal installation that meets these two criteria, I really want to pick your brain... [more inside]
posted by bricoleur at 8:46 AM PST - 2 comments

How do I get funding for summer history research?

How do I get an undergraduate summer research grant in history? I want to spend my summer working on my senior thesis without going completely broke. [more inside]
posted by slowcat at 8:33 AM PST - 3 comments

Social networking for research collaboration

Social networking for research collaboration? [more inside]
posted by blueyellow at 8:16 AM PST - 10 comments

Seeking stories of kids with superpowers?

I'm trying to make a list of books that include the central plot element of kids learning how to use or cope with unusual powers, dramatic or mundane. (Jumper, recently made into a movie, is one example.) Extra points if the books are primarily aimed at children or young adults.
posted by sacre_bleu at 8:13 AM PST - 48 comments

Vehicle registration theft. Why?

Vehicle registration theft. Why? [more inside]
posted by mrleec at 8:01 AM PST - 14 comments

Who was surrounded by incompetence?

Cartoon Filter: Which animated cartoon character used the catch-phrase "I am surrounded by incompetence!"? [more inside]
posted by johnvaljohn at 7:54 AM PST - 19 comments

How can I get calls, yet protect my privacy for free?

What free services are available that provide a real, anonymous US phone number for forwarding to a cell phone? [more inside]
posted by abkadefgee at 7:49 AM PST - 19 comments

I can haz eazy cardiology literature search?

Looking for a quick and easy online way to search the medical/scientific literature for new publications on a particular group of topics. [more inside]
posted by Mister_A at 7:07 AM PST - 9 comments

Who Knows the Code?

Domain Mapping via .htaccess: I want to map a second domain I have to a subdirectory in my main Web directory (BTW, this is not a Typepad blog). My ISP asked that I set up the redirect via my .htaccess file but failed to supply the code to do that (we're having a little chat about suggesting I do something without giving me the tools I need to do it -g). [more inside]
posted by Taken Outtacontext at 7:04 AM PST - 22 comments

Why is my dog scared of cooked lamb?

My golden retriever-lab mix freaks out when we cook lamb -- he whines and puts his tail between his legs. He'll eat the cooked lamb fine, but he finds the smell of it cooking distressing. I've read elsewhere about this phenomenon, but does anyone have this experience with their dog or have an idea what makes lamb so scary? Does he think we're cooking his pals? He has his skittish moments (scared of thunder, natch), but this is the only time I've seen him behave this way. And he's a rescue dog, so it's possible he had some early traumatic experience involving lamb. But since I've read about other dogs behaving this way, I doubt it.
posted by stonefruit at 7:01 AM PST - 31 comments

Are "counter depth" fridges deep enough?

Are "counter depth" fridges deep enough? [more inside]
posted by alball at 6:55 AM PST - 24 comments

Help me find shoes!

Help me find durable, comfortable, wear-to-the-office women's shoes in a style that won't look dated in a few years. [more inside]
posted by jujube at 6:39 AM PST - 11 comments

7.2 mp vs. 8.1 mp Sony Cyber Shot? Where to find the best deal?

7.2 mp vs. 8.1 mp Sony Cyber Shot? Where to find the best deal? [more inside]
posted by caveat empress at 6:34 AM PST - 10 comments

The middle-aged web?

Where do 35 to 45 year olds hang out on the web? Do social media sites specifically for this age group exist out there? [more inside]
posted by vizsla at 6:23 AM PST - 21 comments

are red herrings overdone at this point in the movies?

Are movie audiences today too trained to anticipate a plot twist? (OP does not contain spoilers. Future comments might.) [more inside]
posted by Lucinda at 6:12 AM PST - 11 comments

Just graduated and moving to Europe with a girlfriend and no job

Help an almost-grad figure out how to move to Europe with his girlfriend [more inside]
posted by swhitt at 6:04 AM PST - 13 comments

Windy City Suggestions

What are some "can't miss" places to go and places to eat in Chicago? I'm taking someone who has never been in March and am trying to make sure they see the best of the city. [more inside]
posted by Breo at 6:00 AM PST - 33 comments

OK, so strike a pose I guess?

Where can I find some good resources about modelling and directing models, for photographers? [more inside]
posted by chrisbucks at 5:51 AM PST - 5 comments

Pleasing yourself

Do women have different phrases to describe the act of masturbation? [more inside]
posted by hadjiboy at 5:36 AM PST - 37 comments

Is legalsounds.com operational?

Is legalsounds.com still operational? [more inside]
posted by goo at 5:30 AM PST - 1 comment

Rear bike rack for a VW New Beetle

Anybody know the make and model of a bike rack that can be used on the rear end of a VW New Beetle? I know Volkswagen makes a top-mounted rack accessory, but I don't want to be lifting my heavy bikes up that high. Bonus points if you have successfully mounted it on your own Beetle in this lifetime. Holding 2 bikes would be fine, 3 would be even better.
posted by ackptui at 5:07 AM PST - 6 comments

...because no one is going to pay me to study. Temp or part-time?

Temp work 101: Is temp work just a part-time job on my own terms? [more inside]
posted by doppleradar at 5:07 AM PST - 7 comments

Can anyone help me with my Kant-induced headache?

Can anyone help me translate some Kant into English? I don't want to produce an English translation like the kind available on the net, rather a more literal translation, i.e. one that sticks closely to the text. [more inside]
posted by farfaraway at 4:38 AM PST - 10 comments

Where can I find Virtual Reality hardware?

Where can I find Virtual Reality goggles or something similar? [more inside]
posted by Savvas at 4:05 AM PST - 5 comments

help me put Fiction in sequence Pulp correct

Prompted by the 'reversed' Memento, I want to re-cut my Pulp Fiction DVD so that the events play out in sequence. What tools should I be looking into? [more inside]
posted by MarvinJ at 3:18 AM PST - 9 comments

How do you watch George W. Bush without going blind?

Does NTSC look as bad on actual NTSC televisions as it looks on my PAL television? [more inside]
posted by Jimbob at 1:50 AM PST - 11 comments

January 28

Seeking original Microsoft Natural Keyboard (the first ever)

Where can I find an original Microsoft Natural Ergonomic Keyboard? [more inside]
posted by 4midori at 11:53 PM PST - 13 comments

Am I saving a ton of cash by using Starbucks' power?

How much money am I costing, say, Starbucks if I charge my laptop there every day? [more inside]
posted by terceiro at 9:55 PM PST - 14 comments

Beat Detective wanted

Are there any free realtime osx beat detection plugins or applications? [more inside]
posted by Jon Mitchell at 9:40 PM PST - 3 comments

Looking for (Fictional) Surveillance Film

I'm looking for a short film I watched online of an (fictional) surveillance of an apartment, with the camera pointed for the entire length of the film at a black and white monitor in the van and the four remote feeds displaying on it. [more inside]
posted by Inkslinger at 8:22 PM PST - 5 comments

How to best sell old collectables?

What do I do with my old collectibles? Meaning: how do I easily turn Beanie Babies and Hess Trucks into some money? [more inside]
posted by razorfrog at 7:55 PM PST - 9 comments

How to really, really flush the php buffer?

PHP: How to flush the buffer for really real? [more inside]
posted by vraxoin at 7:44 PM PST - 3 comments

Advice before interviewing for small environmental law internship?

LawFilter: I am applying for an internship at a small law practice that focuses on environmental law. What should I do to prep for this beyond the normal job interview routine? Also, how reasonable are the conditions of this internship (details below)? [more inside]
posted by DetonatedManiac at 7:17 PM PST - 21 comments

How do I get review units?

How do I get hardware review units to review in my school paper? [more inside]
posted by names are hard at 6:58 PM PST - 8 comments

How do you make your body conform to a standard schedule?

Becoming a regular person after all these years. My boyfriend is for the first time since high school required to be at work 5 days a week from 9-5. How do we prepare? [more inside]
posted by stormygrey at 6:51 PM PST - 28 comments

Aquify Safari 3 form elements?

What should I put in a custom browser stylesheet to override and Aquify all web form element styles (buttons, text fields, etc.) in Safari 3.0.4? I'd like to undo custom properties like colors, fonts, and borders, and make all form elements display natively, using Aqua, like Safari used to do in previous versions. I'm essentially looking for the opposite answer to this question, using a custom userContent.css-esque stylesheet. (Thanks for your help.)
posted by tepidmonkey at 6:32 PM PST - 1 comment

when things are this down, there's only one direction they can go: sideways

What are some little things I can do to stay positive and kind to myself while going through some heartache? [more inside]
posted by loiseau at 6:19 PM PST - 50 comments

You can't be President - you took a nude photo 10 years ago! So you're a bad person!

Does doing anything sex-industry-related (from taking a nude photo to actually working as a prostitute or exotic dancer) actually damn you from ever living a successful life in another area? Has anyone ever managed to be known and respected in their field without falling into "OMG SHE POSED NUDE" controversy? [more inside]
posted by divabat at 6:13 PM PST - 49 comments

Whence the Weirdo's Wall Walker?

MuppetFilter: Can anyone remember the (or any) episode of the Muppet Babies in which young Gonzo freaks out about the Wall Walker, a monster no one has ever seen that lives inside the walls of the closet and terrifies me for my entire childhood?
posted by BlackLeotardFront at 6:01 PM PST - 6 comments

Where to find affordable housing in Buffalo, NY?

Going to see girlfriend in Amherst/Buffalo, NY over spring break. Bought (non-refundable/changeable) airfare, just found out that she doesn't get to stay in her dorm and has to live in a big room shared with all other students staying on during spring break. We're both students - is there any specific place the hive mind would recommend to get *affordable* off-campus housing (student or otherwise) for a week during spring break? Hopefully something we can book in advance? Need Internet.
posted by mebibyte at 5:47 PM PST - 7 comments

Is celery burn normal?

Sometimes celery tastes fresh and watery, and sometimes it has a slightly bitter taste and a lightly spicy/burning aftertaste. Is the light bitterness/burn normal or is this a product of chemicals/pesticides (or something else entirely)?
posted by Alabaster at 5:38 PM PST - 14 comments

Skippito

Help me find humorous books for kids that will interest them in learning some spanish, ala. Skippyjon Jones. [more inside]
posted by mcarthey at 5:31 PM PST - 6 comments

How am I going to sneak up on people with such noisy shoes?

My shoes are noisy. How can I get them to be quiet? [more inside]
posted by cazoo at 5:13 PM PST - 6 comments

When can I have my foot back?

How long will I be in excruciating pain? [more inside]
posted by Camofrog at 5:01 PM PST - 21 comments

How to help a disabled friend lose his V-Card?

My brother has a longtime friend who has a degenerative neurological condition that will ultimately be fatal. This friend is approaching 30 and still a virgin, and he wants to hire someone to help him experience that part of life. He has asked my brother for help (which he will need in order to make this happen) - what should he/can he do without running afoul of the law? [more inside]
posted by man on the run at 4:44 PM PST - 34 comments

Help my curls be less uptight

How can I get looser curls out of my naturally fine, tight corkscrews? [more inside]
posted by sweetkid at 4:41 PM PST - 12 comments

How do I get a low/no cost divorce when I live in Mobile, Alabama but my spouse lives in Georgia?

How do I get a low/no cost divorce when I live in Mobile, Alabama but my spouse lives in Georgia? [more inside]
posted by magnoliasouth at 4:39 PM PST - 5 comments

Videos like "The Pretender"?

What music videos depict the band somehow defeating an enemy with the power of their music? The Foo Fighters' recent "The Pretender" video brought the question to mind, but I know it's a frequently used idea. What other videos used this theme? [more inside]
posted by mdbell79 at 4:31 PM PST - 31 comments

Mystery of the Missing Pasta

I'm trying to find pastina, that tiny star-shaped pasta usually used in soups, somewhere in Orange County, CA. For some reason it seems to have disappeared off the shelves of the local supermarkets. (Albertsons and Ralphs are the two I've checked.) It's my husband's favorite comfort food and he has the flu right now, so I know he could use a little comfort. Any recommendations on stores that might carry it? (I'm in Huntington Beach if that helps.)
posted by platinum at 4:24 PM PST - 9 comments

I'm Younger Than That Now

Lawyer Alert! -- Say my beloved son is 22 yrs old and living in Montpelier, Vermont. Suppose that Montpelier has more lawyers per capita than any other state capital (which it does, because it is the smallest of them all). What service could this bright, good looking young man offer to all those lawyers in order to support himself while he gets ready to earn his college degree? [more inside]
posted by partner at 4:07 PM PST - 21 comments

"To play this disc, put it in an Xbox 360 console."

My Xbox 360 is just over a year old, and out of warranty. Naturally, it starts acting up. Whenever I insert at game disc, I get the message "To play this disc, put it in an Xbox 360 console." [more inside]
posted by GriffX at 3:56 PM PST - 12 comments

Pacific North West serial killer hotspot?

I've heard several times from different sources how the NorthWest of America, and the Seattle area in particular, is a hotspot for serial killers. Is there any truth to this? Or is it just a reflection of the high profile of the Ted Bundy case? And if it is the case (or even if it isn't) has anyone offered any explanations?
posted by Artw at 3:52 PM PST - 18 comments

Looking for Hotel McRitzy Bits: Where to stay in Portland, OR?

Looking for lodging of the highest order in Portland, OR. [more inside]
posted by cior at 3:04 PM PST - 24 comments

iMac not recognizing external HD

Problem accessing WD external hard drive on iMac. Does not mount, attempts to format it in disk utility unsuccessful - input/output error. [more inside]
posted by slowtree at 3:04 PM PST - 3 comments

DIY portfolio printing - Best paper?

Printer paper - I'm printing my portfolio for application to art college. Hoping to DIY so I'm looking for high quality, A3, dual-sided, matte paper for use with a Canon Pixma IX 4000 printer. I think. [more inside]
posted by rog at 2:39 PM PST - 6 comments

Good basketball DVDs?

Best Instructional DVD for Basketball? [more inside]
posted by shotgunbooty at 2:36 PM PST - 2 comments

Can you help me find a children's record player from my youth?

I'm looking for a very specific (Fisher Price?) record player from my childhood. [more inside]
posted by mamessner at 2:26 PM PST - 2 comments

Do they like big butts and cannot lie?

How does Buffalo Exchange work? [more inside]
posted by santojulieta at 1:55 PM PST - 17 comments

Weekend War

I'm interested in finding weekend work in NYC. Can anyone steer me in the direction of a good temp agency that might have some sort of focus in that department?
posted by josher71 at 1:54 PM PST - 2 comments

Does Virulite work?

Has anyone tried Virulite, the anti-cold sore device? Does it work?
posted by Lezzles at 1:30 PM PST - 2 comments

What's Berlin's best indie rock venue?

I'm looking for an indie rock/small rock venue in Berlin. [more inside]
posted by GilloD at 1:25 PM PST - 4 comments

Private party venue in Chicago

My wife is turning 30, and I need a nice cocktail party venue in Chicago for 40-50 people. [more inside]
posted by chundo at 1:24 PM PST - 4 comments

Need suggestions for a Xen-compatible rackmount server.

We need to buy two rackmount servers that will play nice with Xen (and Linux). Budget: approx $10k. Can you suggest a configuration, brand, and/or vendor? [more inside]
posted by fishfucker at 1:16 PM PST - 30 comments

Best Global Warming Real Estate?

In the inevitability of global warming (bias disclosed) where should I move to? I'm a 20-something getting close to that home-owner stage, but from some of the stuff I'm reading a lot of great places to live won't be great much longer! [more inside]
posted by 53B3L1U5 at 1:07 PM PST - 26 comments

I need some backup software fast

I need some backup software that can handle a few conditions, and I need it 3 hours ago.... [more inside]
posted by omnipotentq at 12:44 PM PST - 20 comments

Is it possible to disable the Windows XP Slideshow Folder View

Is it possible to disable the Windows XP slideshow folder view, or at least set it to not be default? I want to do this without disabling custom folder views; I know I can set all folders to display a certain way (I like tiles), but I'd like to be able to give some folders their own custom view settings (i.e. I like showing my mp3 folder as detail view with custom columns)
posted by lrodman at 12:41 PM PST - 4 comments

Where should we go in Scotland?

Where should we go in Scotland? [more inside]
posted by rbs at 12:37 PM PST - 28 comments

Gaithersburg MD affordable homes?

Gaithersburg, MD: Are there any areas within an hour drive where a house with a back yard might cost under $150K (or might be reasonable to rent)? [more inside]
posted by Shane at 12:30 PM PST - 16 comments

How to keep leukemia patient safe?

Leukemia patient -- how sterile should their hospital environment be? [more inside]
posted by ellenaim at 12:20 PM PST - 11 comments

How much per gram for 14kt gold necklace?

How much per gram for 14kt gold necklace? [more inside]
posted by beelover at 12:15 PM PST - 4 comments

Mobile Internet Plans

What's a good *affordable and reliable* mobile phone internet plan for traveling around Southeast Asia? [more inside]
posted by jne1813 at 12:00 PM PST - 2 comments

How to write opening emails on online dating sites.

How to send that first email in the world of online dating. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:28 AM PST - 51 comments

What's good on the net for a 3-year-old?

What are some of the best flash games or other internet activities for a 3-year-old?
posted by sveskemus at 11:20 AM PST - 17 comments

Not ready to marry

This question isn't a big deal--but I thought I'd put it out there in the spirit of "query of the hivemind." My girlfriend and I just broke it off, and it was with mutual interest that we did so. I moved out after living together for about 5 months, got my own place, and it was hard for her, but less hard for me. [more inside]
posted by gmodelo at 11:15 AM PST - 26 comments

Incorporate shipping in product price, or not?

I am soon opening a store selling backyard items, and wonder what would be best to do for shipping charges. Should I incorporate the shipping into the item price, or not? [more inside]
posted by adriana at 11:14 AM PST - 7 comments

Exercise is a dirty word. Every time I hear it, I wash my mouth out with chocolate.

I want to lose 5 pounds in two weeks. What do I have to do? Is it possible? [more inside]
posted by Sassyfras at 11:08 AM PST - 45 comments

Arts and Crafts: Map Making

I would like to make or buy a detailed map of my neighborhood in Manhattan. I want it to be poster sized and nice enough looking to hang on the wall. I also want to be able to make notes on it, put push pins in it and post it on my wall. [more inside]
posted by 2bucksplus at 11:06 AM PST - 11 comments

I shall be a man of destiny like my father the King, who does not concern himself with books and study and the queer prattlings of foolish bookworms and scribblers.

Does anyone get over the resentment of having rich, privileged friends? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:04 AM PST - 63 comments

Bye bye moustache

I'm male, I have brown skin (latin) and I'm really considering permanently removing my thick moustache with laser. I don't mind losing the possibility of growing a moustache again. I do mind something going wrong. Are there any risks that I should be aware of?
posted by anonymous at 11:03 AM PST - 11 comments

Help with debt collectors trying to get money for a bill that is not mine.

Debt collectors are calling about a bill from 6-7 years ago. The bill actually belongs to my father whom I have redirected their inquiries. They keep calling and the billing information they gave to me is my fathers old address but for some reason they have my social security number attached to the bill. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:03 AM PST - 11 comments

Advice for working in Japan

I'm moving to Japan to work for a year - what should I do to prepare? [more inside]
posted by Arasithil at 11:03 AM PST - 17 comments

What is that?

This symbol appeared very clearly to me near the end of an otherwise uneventful meditation session. This sort of thing has never really happened to me, and it was quite clear, so I'm wondering if it has significance. Maybe I've seen it before; if so, I wonder where. If not, I wonder if it's an archetype. [more inside]
posted by Slam I Am at 11:00 AM PST - 25 comments

Any recommendations on a *Free* *Serverless* instant messaging client?

Any recommendations on a *Free* *Serverless* instant messaging client?I have a small network that I would like to allow instant messaging among all hosts. The problem is I am hoping to be able to do this without installing a server app. Any thoughts? These are all Windows boxes. I've done a few google searches...but haven't been able to find anything that really fits. (First question on AskMeFi!) Thanks, AltReality
posted by AltReality at 10:54 AM PST - 10 comments

How to get parental consent online

[IRBfilter] I'm trying to set up an online survey for minors where parental consent can be accomplished online instead of via signed permission slips. [more inside]
posted by k8t at 10:36 AM PST - 10 comments

Managing mangled styles in word.

I need help simplifying the styling of Word Documents that I receive from other people. Are there any specific addons that might help me accomplish these goals? [more inside]
posted by nickerbocker at 10:30 AM PST - 6 comments

Sysadmin Seeks Officemate, Must Speak Fast Ethernet, Take Orders.

Are there any managed Fast Ethernet switches that are quiet enough to share an office with? [more inside]
posted by Skorgu at 10:26 AM PST - 3 comments

Lexus MOT & repair in London?

Where in London to take a Lexus for MOT and service/repairs? Alternatives to Lexus official dealers, or your recommended Lexus dealers, welcomed.
posted by londongeezer at 10:17 AM PST - 1 comment

Looking for Chicago fiction writing groups.

Please recommend fiction writing/critique groups in Chicago. [more inside]
posted by Work to Live at 10:14 AM PST - 4 comments

tuba tuba oompa oompa

I miss my tuba... Can someone point me in the direction of what I should be looking for in a tuba/baritone? [more inside]
posted by Quazie at 9:58 AM PST - 3 comments

Made to order, but on the cheap

I'm participating in a wedding shortly and am thinking of buying a tuxedo online, then having it locally altered in Toronto. Has any one had experience or tips in doing this? Is it worth my time (and money) to buy online? [more inside]
posted by mutantdisco! at 9:57 AM PST - 1 comment

How do i win something back?

I dropped the ball on this one....year anniversary. Is there anyway to win her back? [more inside]
posted by AMP583 at 9:43 AM PST - 33 comments

My touch lamp has the same vibrating static electricity feeling that my massage clients used to have. Why?

My touch lamp has the same vibrating static electricity feeling that my massage clients used to have. Why? [more inside]
posted by kristymcj at 9:43 AM PST - 8 comments

Size comparison of Asic Onitsukas and Adidas?

How do sizes of asics onitsuka tigers compare to adidas? [more inside]
posted by modernnomad at 9:19 AM PST - 10 comments

Web service best practices

Where can I find more information on web service best practices? [more inside]
posted by TungstenChef at 9:19 AM PST - 5 comments

Ayudame!

I'm looking for interesting topics that incorporate the fields of Spanish and Linguistics [more inside]
posted by chara at 9:10 AM PST - 11 comments

B-r-r-r-r-r!

Why am I freezing all the time? It's not my thyroid. [more inside]
posted by Melismata at 8:52 AM PST - 13 comments

Ritual or abuse?

Help me figure out what happened to this little girl. [more inside]
posted by Evangeline at 8:23 AM PST - 24 comments

Printing business cards in NYC

Help me choose a printer in NYC for my business cards. [more inside]
posted by frieze at 8:23 AM PST - 4 comments

Metafilter, price my sideboard

I (think I) need a furniture appraiser in New York City. [more inside]
posted by shothotbot at 8:21 AM PST - 1 comment

I'm trying to find a place that rents out soft boxes/umbrellas for outside rentals in Boston. (Studio Photoshoot)

I'm trying to find a place that rents out soft boxes/umbrellas for outside rentals in Boston. I have a studio in my school that I am using for photo shoots but I do not have a soft box nor an umbrella which I desperately need. I am wondering if there are any places that rent them out for a day or two. Thanks in advance! [more inside]
posted by cheero at 8:06 AM PST - 3 comments

Deedle deedle deedle de dit deet, deedle deedle deedle deedle deeddle dee dit deet

I am looking for other songs that use the 45 King's "900 number" sample, other than "Let me clear my throat". [more inside]
posted by cosmicbandito at 7:54 AM PST - 7 comments

Help my husband and me find a way to make our living together.

My husband and I have been together for 9 blissful years, and the only blight on our happiness is being apart for 60ish hours a week, due to our office jobs. That's too many hours. Can you help us think of creative solutions? [more inside]
posted by Fenriss at 7:51 AM PST - 8 comments

What is the going rate for the Tooth Fairy?

What is the going rate for the Tooth Fairy? [more inside]
posted by thesneeze at 7:50 AM PST - 44 comments

Unnaturally hard to find: the author of this quote!

I need a reputable source for this quote (or something similar): "The only unnatural act is the one that cannot be performed." Any ideas? [more inside]
posted by eralclare at 7:47 AM PST - 5 comments

How to ride a fun MTB trail as a tourist?

I'll be visiting SF soon (yay, visiting mefi friends!) and want to go biking on an MTB trail. I've found a few internet resources on biking around SF but I have a few particular constraints that make me require your help. [more inside]
posted by jouke at 7:38 AM PST - 7 comments

Where can I find pictures of dead firefighters?

Where can I find pictures of dead firefighters? [more inside]
posted by raddevon at 7:10 AM PST - 19 comments

How can I get a news feed out of my facebook group and into an external website?

How can I get a news feed out of my facebook group and into an external website? [more inside]
posted by media_itoku at 7:04 AM PST - 5 comments

If you believe in climate change, is it wrong to drive or fly?

If you believe climate change is real, bad, and man-made: does that mean it's wrong to take a flight or drive a car? Are there any reasonable excuses?
posted by MetaMonkey at 6:47 AM PST - 24 comments

What grade of titanium are Walmart wedding bands?

What grade of titanium are Walmart wedding bands? I'd like a CP grade ring, since I understand aircraft grades can't be cut off. I've read that they should be stamped "CP", and I'm also wary of a ring coming from China with lead in it or worse?
posted by raikkohamilonso at 5:56 AM PST - 17 comments

heated windscreen troubleshooting

Rear heated windscreen on Ford Fiesta (UK) has stopped working. I've checked the fuses; is there anything else I should try before phoning the garage?
posted by primer_dimer at 5:45 AM PST - 6 comments

No CopyPasta For You, Sir

How is this website disabling copypasta (Copy / Paste - Seems to just be replacing all copied content with a '*') in my browser? Can somebody pull the offending code for me and possibly explain how they are manipulating the whole browser and not just this web page?
posted by B(oYo)BIES at 4:36 AM PST - 16 comments

How smart is SmartWater?

How does SmartWater "forensic property coding" work? [more inside]
posted by roofus at 4:26 AM PST - 5 comments

What to see in Poland and the Czech Republic?

Looking for things to see and places to go in Poland and the Czech Republic. [more inside]
posted by kjs4 at 3:41 AM PST - 14 comments

Kitchen rennovation advice

Kitchen Rennovations - Commercial stainless steel benches versus second hand fitted kitchen - please advise. [more inside]
posted by singingfish at 1:10 AM PST - 6 comments

January 27

Cities with software industries like SF bay area but not so expensive?

What US cities have a strong, diverse software industry, multicultural makeup, affordable housing, and walkable neighborhoods? [more inside]
posted by bumpybear at 11:40 PM PST - 29 comments

Hire Me!

Tell me some great, effective ways to market my dog training business. For example, how do I promote myself to veterinary clinics who don't know me yet? What will really help me get my name out there? [more inside]
posted by freshwater_pr0n at 11:17 PM PST - 12 comments

Family of four, moving to Bay Area, making $115K. Is this crazy?

Family of four, moving to Bay Area, making $115K. Is this crazy? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:11 PM PST - 15 comments

Looking for "Web-Based" Database Program

I am looking for a web-based database application that I can run on my own servers. [more inside]
posted by DerekTheGeek at 10:14 PM PST - 8 comments

The Game Will Be On the Gumbo Tron!!!

Gumbo. Recipes, tips and tricks, please. [more inside]
posted by Cyrano at 9:38 PM PST - 17 comments

How to find a Yakiniku grill for a party

I'm having a 25th birthday party, and need a yakiniku grill for it. Where can I get one?! [more inside]
posted by omnigut at 9:33 PM PST - 5 comments

Will President Obama take my job away?

What would an Obama Presidency mean for the business process outsourcing industry? [more inside]
posted by micketymoc at 9:29 PM PST - 9 comments

How good am I? No, seriously.

How do I rate my skills when preparing a resume/job application? [more inside]
posted by jacalata at 9:28 PM PST - 11 comments

Seeking Final Cut Pro access in Chicago

Is there any place in Chicago where a stereotypically starving artist can use Final Cut Pro and/or other video production tools for free or cheap? [more inside]
posted by white light at 9:25 PM PST - 5 comments

Another help me find a journal article

JournalArticleFilter: The journal article I need is unavailable from my school's e-journal system for another 4 months. Searching otherwise is fruitless. So I go where all desperate people go. Metafilter, please help me find the PDF for this article, like you have done before.
posted by lpctstr; at 9:14 PM PST - 4 comments

CharlotteNC to HoldenBeachNC

Driving from Charlotte, NC, to Holden Beach, this July: warnings, advice, cool places to show the kids en route, anecdotal musings all appreciated... [more inside]
posted by docpops at 9:07 PM PST - 7 comments

Portrayals of friendship and social circles in books, movies, or essays

Can you recommend books, movies, or essays with good portrayals of friendships or people's social circles? [more inside]
posted by salvia at 9:01 PM PST - 30 comments

Can you help me find this sci-fi book series again?

Please help find the name of series of sci-fi books. It's about a guy who finds some alien artifact on Europa that helps him save Earth from a meteor. [more inside]
posted by marcocampos at 9:00 PM PST - 2 comments

Pre Pigskin Party Pastimes Peeks

Interesting, unique and quirky things to do and see in Glendale, AZ in the 3 days leading up to the Superbowl next Sunday... [more inside]
posted by stavx at 8:36 PM PST - 6 comments

This movie title is racking my brains.

Help me find a movie I only remember a few details about: dude with a car, collecting pieces to a prize, possibly post-apocalyptic. [more inside]
posted by joshrholloway at 8:06 PM PST - 3 comments

What does it mean to lack a past and future?

What is it called when you can't imagine the past or the future? [more inside]
posted by unknowncommand at 8:06 PM PST - 11 comments

Three good websites, possibly to do with theatre / the arts in London

I'm working on a job application to work at a theatre and events company in the UK. It asks me for three websites I admire and to give the reasons why. What sites should I put down? [more inside]
posted by tapeguy at 7:54 PM PST - 12 comments

Mac lover seeks technical writing software solution.

I am changing careers at the moment and am looking to get into technical writing possibly. Of the software that are industry standards (FrameMaker, RoboHelp) it all seems to run only on windows. I have a pre-intel Mac but would still love to get my feet wet, any suggestions? [more inside]
posted by munchingzombie at 7:21 PM PST - 4 comments

8 lb dog swallowed magnesium tablet - what to do?

My 8 lb dog just swallowed a 200 mg chelated magnesium tablet (67% as magnesium amino acid chelate, 33% as magnesium oxide.) Should I rush him to the emergency vet or just wait and see what happens? Thanks very much.
posted by Tullyogallaghan at 7:19 PM PST - 16 comments

Need some nerdage.

Help me find some great or good scifi watchables. [more inside]
posted by pilibeen at 7:10 PM PST - 60 comments

How can I broadcast video to my parents?

What's a simple way to broadcast video of my new baby to my parents? [more inside]
posted by Xazeru at 6:57 PM PST - 7 comments

To drug or not to drug? That is the question...

I want to hear from women who have given birth using narcotics and analgesics via IV as pain relief. [more inside]
posted by FergieBelle at 6:48 PM PST - 14 comments

Ever coming to a theater near me?

How can you find out if a certain independent film will be coming out in a wide release? [more inside]
posted by Funky Claude at 6:46 PM PST - 9 comments

Is there a batch file command that closes a dialog box?

For windows batch files, is there a way to automatically close dialog boxes that open as a result of a windows program producing an error? [more inside]
posted by jldindc at 6:14 PM PST - 5 comments

Mystery crown-head must have an interesting story

My friend and I saw this lovely carved-wood head with a crown (picture) at the American Museum of Natural History in the hall of African artifacts. Now we're curious about it and its European-looking crown. Why did people make this? [more inside]
posted by dreamyshade at 6:05 PM PST - 10 comments

How to deal with salespeople who work on commission?

What is the etiquette of dealing with commission (commissioned?) salespeople? [more inside]
posted by Morrigan at 5:46 PM PST - 23 comments

need good fashion sense

How do I pick pants I will like for business? [more inside]
posted by arh07 at 4:35 PM PST - 15 comments

i knew if i waited too long this would happen

I bought these suede moccasin slippers at Target back in November. My local store no longer carries them, and target.com says they are out of stock. Where can I find them (or at least shoes similar to them)? [more inside]
posted by kidsleepy at 4:20 PM PST - 8 comments

Can I learn German in a structured, online course?

Where can I learn German online through an actual school/university? [more inside]
posted by lxs at 4:08 PM PST - 6 comments

The mimetic and narrative capacities of artefacts

I am interested in the mimetic and narrative capacities of artefacts, how cultural remnants transmit information through time and how meaning is translated once an artefact is re-appropriated or examined from a new perspective. I have several avenues of study at the moment (a list in extended explanation), but would like some more ideas. Areas of critical theory, linguistics, evolutionary psychology and poetics are all relevant. [more inside]
posted by 0bvious at 3:58 PM PST - 12 comments

Thank-You Present for being Present

Help me think of gifts for a small group of very special people. [more inside]
posted by hapax_legomenon at 3:54 PM PST - 7 comments

Help me keep my phone number a year from now

Canadian Phone Question: I'll be leaving my city and province for a year, and I'd like to make sure that I have the same phone number when I return as when I left. What are my (cheapest) options? [more inside]
posted by furtive at 3:48 PM PST - 12 comments

Saxy Miami Dance Song

What was the dance song I heard this week on Miami radio that had a few sax notes in the chorus? [more inside]
posted by i love cheese at 3:40 PM PST - 5 comments

Educational card game

Ran across the card game Ekklesia: The Congregating and was wondering if a similar game had ever been professionally produced. [more inside]
posted by levijk at 3:03 PM PST - 6 comments

Is it good?

How long can chicken be frozen and remain good (as in not dangerous) to eat? Thanks
posted by Snyder at 2:55 PM PST - 11 comments

Neoprene, not neo anymore

What can I do with my old wetsuit? [more inside]
posted by nekton at 2:51 PM PST - 18 comments

Should I file my tax return before the passing of the stimulus package?

[TaxReturnFilter] Should I file my tax return before this economic stimulus package is passed through Congress? [more inside]
posted by stratastar at 2:50 PM PST - 8 comments

The Sun is in Your Hand

Where can I buy a UV flashlight in downtown San Francisco? [more inside]
posted by BeaverTerror at 2:39 PM PST - 9 comments

Best stage production musicals available on DVD?

Please point me to some of the best-produced stage production musicals available on DVD. [more inside]
posted by cog_nate at 2:30 PM PST - 17 comments

Looking for the name of a near-future sci-fi series from mid-90s.

I'm looking or the name, and possibly other information on a five or six part sci-fi series that aired in the mid nineties, I think on the BBC (not sure). It was set in London/UK and dealt with repercussions of various theorised technological advancements. [more inside]
posted by sparklejess at 2:18 PM PST - 7 comments

Snow Removal

Can I use my hose (regular water hose) to significantly melt the pile of snow and some ice in my driveway? [more inside]
posted by davidmsc at 1:35 PM PST - 23 comments

Stop Gmail from downloading All Mail folder

I've been using Mail.app with OS X Leopard as a front end to my Gmail account. And it works great, for the most part. Unfortunately it seems to download both my "Inbox" and also the "All Mail" folder from Gmail. This has the effect of increasing the amount of messages in Mail.app significantly, and I want it to stop. [more inside]
posted by qwip at 1:22 PM PST - 10 comments

Did Ferraro cry?

I was sure I remembered that Geraldine Ferraro cried during the 1984 presidential election, and that the media made the event into a symbol of why women are too weak to hold national office, but now I can't find a headline or news article from that time that mentions her crying. Am I getting this mixed up with Pat Schroeder's famous breakdown when she dropped out?
posted by serazin at 1:05 PM PST - 9 comments

Jazz-Experts: Please help me find great Jazz music in movies!

So, let's just assume I got an internship for this small radio station and I want to start a segment introducing listeners to great Jazz music in movies - can be both specifically written/performed for the particular movie or a song/track that existed previously and was used prominently in the movie. [more inside]
posted by waldlaeufer at 12:59 PM PST - 17 comments

Photo Sites That Will Do the Mailing?

Is there an online photo service which will mail my custom baby announcements directly to the recipients? [more inside]
posted by DarkoBeta at 10:49 AM PST - 4 comments

... but you're beautiful inside...

I photograph very poorly. [more inside]
posted by porpoise at 10:46 AM PST - 30 comments

Old Console Wireless

What are the best options for wireless original xbox controllers? Ditto for PS2? [more inside]
posted by ChrisR at 10:31 AM PST - 11 comments

Bi-amping: How to using cheap t-amps?

Bi-amping two cheap Sonic Impact T-amps — is it worth it? [more inside]
posted by humblepigeon at 10:16 AM PST - 14 comments

Costa Rica condo

Looking for a condo/villa/hotel room rental in Costa Rica... [more inside]
posted by milestogo at 9:39 AM PST - 5 comments

Do fish wear lipstick?

What are some things that humans do, that no other animal species does? [more inside]
posted by Solomon at 8:57 AM PST - 91 comments

How to meet a nuke

What's the closest it's possible for a civilian to get to a live nuclear weapon?
posted by alby at 8:54 AM PST - 17 comments

Reactive Attachment Disorder in Adults - What can be done to help?

Attachment Disorder in Adults - Are there any resources out there? [more inside]
posted by watercarrier at 8:42 AM PST - 6 comments

Tracing Offshore Accounts

I need help in trying to find hidden assets of my soon to be ex--he has gone to the Caymans, and I had heard that I may be able to trace fund transfers somehow through Homeland Security? Any suggestions of how to proceed?
posted by bettyboop4 at 8:33 AM PST - 7 comments

cross-platform archive encryption?

Is there any way to encrypt an archive so that everyone (PC and Mac, maybe Linux) can open it without installing additional software? [more inside]
posted by sero_venientibus_ossa at 8:21 AM PST - 14 comments

Definition of bonbon

I recently found that a wide range of candies get called bonbons, and now I'm curious about the different meanings for "bonbon", and what times and places they're connected to.
posted by Nancy Lebovitz at 8:14 AM PST - 12 comments

Trying to find a Mate

I'm in the market for some Yerba Mate, either online or in a store. My options in the real world are Bloom, Farm Fresh, and The Fresh Market... but it seems like I might be able to find a better deal online. Is there something like Adagio for tea that has mate (cheap + good, of course) in the loose leaf state?
posted by tmcw at 7:49 AM PST - 5 comments

Shadow of the Torturer

In Shadow of the Torturer, what's with... [more inside]
posted by nicolas léonard sadi carnot at 7:43 AM PST - 16 comments

Should I tell my ex-girlfriend that the reason I broke up with her was because I had feelings for someone else?

I recently broke up with my girlfriend. The reason I ended it was because I realised that I had been gradually developing strong feelings for one of her close friends (and it’s very possible that her friend had feelings for me). My feelings for her friend were not going away and this was causing me a lot of hurt. I felt that the right thing to do was to break up and walk away from the whole situation. Will the truth allow my ex to move on or will it just upset her unnecessarily? [more inside]
posted by bluespacemonkey at 7:16 AM PST - 31 comments

What degree to become a therapist?

I want to become a therapist. What kind of degree should I get? [more inside]
posted by shivohum at 6:52 AM PST - 10 comments

Blogging from the future - forcing wordpress to show future dates

How can I get wordpress to show a post as though it had been published in the future? [more inside]
posted by Happy Dave at 4:12 AM PST - 12 comments

Would-be intestinal bacteria snob seeks counsel

So, thanks to the doctor, I'm on some weapons-grade antibiotics, and it looks like all the friendly symbiotic bacteria in my tract are going to be/may already have been destroyed. I guess this is sort of an opportunity, so I'm wondering, anyone have any recommendations for what to repopulate my intestines with? [more inside]
posted by evariste at 12:13 AM PST - 25 comments

Musical Time Capsules

What songs evoke an earlier decade in near-perfect detail, in terms of musical style? [more inside]
posted by Drop Daedalus at 12:07 AM PST - 53 comments

January 26

Replacement for mikeshardware.co.uk

Anyone know a good replacement for mikeshardware.co.uk WRT his clear, easy-to-reference industry roadmaps?
posted by panamax at 11:46 PM PST - 1 comment

Get thee from a nunnery!

Any suggestions for places and events I could take part in to help me get out of my rut? [more inside]
posted by Madamina at 11:42 PM PST - 8 comments

Philosophy please!

Please help me find writings about the relationship between men's and women's reproductive rights. [more inside]
posted by ssg at 11:17 PM PST - 11 comments

Office Stationary Chess

I remember an magazine advertisement from long ago which featured a slick chess set made out of desk drawer miscellany. The pawns were binder clips. I think the rooks were loupes. I've always wanted to see it again. Anyone else remember this and have any other information about it? What was the ad? What were all the pieces?
posted by wobh at 11:01 PM PST - 1 comment

Dad, may I have your DNA?

Would it be worthwhile to preserve a sample of my parents' DNA, with their permission, in case I ever need it for genetic testing of myself or my family? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 10:45 PM PST - 9 comments

UK-Canada transhipment

Recommendation for a company that will receive an eBay package in the UK and ship it to me in Canada? [more inside]
posted by Mitheral at 10:43 PM PST - 2 comments

funny matriarchs

What are some examples of family sitcoms that don't adhere to the funny dad, nagging mom stereotype? [more inside]
posted by emd3737 at 10:11 PM PST - 39 comments

TF2 music

I really like the music used in the game Team Fortress 2 (TF2). I describe it as 60's secret agent music (think early James Bond). Where can I find more music like this? Is there a sub-genre style of music that this belongs to? If you don't know what TF2 is, check out the trailers.
posted by medarby at 9:53 PM PST - 12 comments

How to deal with a maddening co-worker?

What if Lucifer was your co-worker? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:42 PM PST - 46 comments

Smallest brain

What is the animal with the smallest number of neurons (but more than one cell)? More specifically, is there a multicellular organism that has about 10-50 neurons, thus making its "brain" significantly smaller than that of the nematode C. elegans?
posted by wyzewoman at 9:40 PM PST - 10 comments

unlocking the magic box

my work threw out an old g4 imac (the dome with the flat-panel type) and i took it home (with their permission). unfortunately, when i boot it up, the only option it gives me is to sign in under the admin, and i don't know that password. our IT guy wasn't too much help. [more inside]
posted by kerning at 9:21 PM PST - 4 comments

which comes first?

I just accidentally ate uncooked chicken. Sigh. What happens now? [more inside]
posted by robotdog at 9:17 PM PST - 17 comments

How do we know if food used to be better?

Were produce and meat really better in the old days? How can we be sure? [more inside]
posted by L. Fitzgerald Sjoberg at 9:02 PM PST - 42 comments

Hey PSP, stand up!

I'm looking for the plastic stand that came with the PSP Giga Pack (link within), and hoping that some nice member of the hive mind knows how to help me get one. [more inside]
posted by phaded at 8:41 PM PST - 2 comments

Should we fly or drive from Vancouver to Toronto this spring?

Should we fly or drive from Vancouver to Toronto this spring? [more inside]
posted by radiocontrolled at 8:18 PM PST - 18 comments

Why would a computer squeal?

Why would a computer squeal? [more inside]
posted by be11e at 8:08 PM PST - 12 comments

Pilonidal P.I.T.A?

Recurring pilonidal cyst? [more inside]
posted by PaintMeRed9 at 8:06 PM PST - 5 comments

Coping with ADD?

I have ADD. What are some specific steps that can help me focus on getting a task done? [more inside]
posted by fogster at 7:31 PM PST - 16 comments

Podcasts about statistics

I'm taking statistics math this semester, and I'm wondering if there be any geeky statistics math-related podcasts that will help me wrap my head around this tricky subject matter (and maybe even enjoy it). [more inside]
posted by survivorman at 7:15 PM PST - 9 comments

Help me design my torrent management system.

I'm looking for tips, tricks, hacks, scripts, and ideas for managing torrents using Linux. [more inside]
posted by christonabike at 7:04 PM PST - 8 comments

Help sharing itunes iphotos

Help setting up OSX leopard so that my wife can see AND edit all of my iphotos and itunes files?I am the administrator. She shares the same iMac, so this is not a network sharing issue i gather. I have read about 30 articles by googling, all are either pre-leopard or way beyond the understanding of this new iMac owner...use of terminology foreign to a newbie. Thank you!
posted by dougiedd at 6:25 PM PST - 18 comments

LaTeX font hell

Help! I don't know what I did, but I somehow destroyed my Mac's (10.5) ability to render fonts in my LaTex document correctly. [more inside]
posted by about_time at 5:57 PM PST - 11 comments

Is there an easy ranking system for Movable Type?

I'm using Movable Type and would like to begin rating 800+ things on a scale of 1 to 100. I'm hoping to rate 3 a day. My question: Is there any easy way (through a plug-in, etc) to have these rankings automatically go in some type of database that someone can sort by ranking, year, genre, or any other field I wish to fill in?
posted by Mark at 5:46 PM PST - 1 comment

Help me remember this Free Custom Ringtone site!

What is the name of the website that allows you to upload mp3's to its site, converts them to ringtone format, and then text messages them to your phone for free (after a delay) or immediately (for a donation)?
posted by Maia at 5:32 PM PST - 9 comments

Super Tuesday party ideas?

We're having a Super Tuesday party at our house, and we're looking for funny politically-related finger food ideas (half-moon cookies anyone?) as well as some good party names (like Super Booze-day). [more inside]
posted by joshuaconner at 5:19 PM PST - 18 comments

How do you choose a sushi knife?

Know anything about sushi knives? I need info and recommendations. [more inside]
posted by zennie at 5:12 PM PST - 20 comments

Name that chair (please)

Aside from paying an appraiser - which I really don't want to do - is there any way I could find out anything about this chair? [more inside]
posted by still_wears_a_hat at 3:41 PM PST - 11 comments

How do I contact and arrange a meeting with Ina Garten?

How do I contact and arrange a meeting with Ina Garten? [more inside]
posted by zooropa at 3:17 PM PST - 9 comments

Question about short-lease of a brownstone in NYC

NYC-vacation-rental-filter: we're on the cusp of agreeing to rent a six room brownstone in Williamsburg, but before we do, I need to know what we're getting into from people who have had similar experiences. [more inside]
posted by bjork24 at 2:54 PM PST - 6 comments

Travel the Newell Highway

I want to travel to Brisbane from Melbourne via the Newell Highway. I have done thisn drive many times before, but non stop. I have a young family now and would like to break the trip up. [more inside]
posted by mattoxic at 2:41 PM PST - 3 comments

Well, I've seen The Big Lebowski anyway...

What movies should any person in their right mind have seen by now? [more inside]
posted by showbiz_liz at 2:36 PM PST - 103 comments

Where is All My Money Going?

What is the best online web 2.0 personal expense tracking sites? [more inside]
posted by davidstandaford at 2:30 PM PST - 19 comments

My credit report, it makes no sense to me.

Help me understand my credit, please? [more inside]
posted by TomMelee at 2:16 PM PST - 12 comments

Clutch Problem #2.

Mechanic Question: Even though I just changed the clutch, it still won't start. The starter runs, the flywheel and some of the transmission is turning (I can hear it loud and clear), but it won't fire; it just spins. [more inside]
posted by koeselitz at 2:03 PM PST - 85 comments

Paintin' purty...recommendations for painters in NYC

Recommendations for a good interior painter in NYC? And what do I look for in a painter? [more inside]
posted by kenzi23 at 2:02 PM PST - 1 comment

I want to download all tomatoes. Can you show me where?

Does there exist a database for plants grown in the US similar to the USDA's nutrition database? If yes, can I download it? [more inside]
posted by cdmwebs at 1:30 PM PST - 1 comment

What are your best timesavers?

Recent college grad now living in the real world: what are your favorite techniques, tricks, or products to get the everyday things done?` [more inside]
posted by btkuhn at 12:36 PM PST - 27 comments

Is WordPerfect a big obstacle when job hunting?

Should I pay for MS Word just to make my job hunt easier? Although I have MS Word at work, at home I only have WordPerfect 12 and I don't want to have something round filed because a recruiter didn't like the format. There appears to be a free trial version of Word. Would I be able to use that for a resume?
posted by anonymous at 12:24 PM PST - 31 comments

Inheriting $25,000...

A family friend recently died and left me and my sister $25,000 each. Now what? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 12:24 PM PST - 13 comments

How do avoid paying customs twice on a shipment?

How do I avoid paying customs on a package I'm shipping back home? [more inside]
posted by Deathalicious at 12:06 PM PST - 7 comments

Are polaroid 690's fragile?

Are polaroid 690's fragile? [more inside]
posted by miniape at 12:05 PM PST - 2 comments

Help an acoustic guitar pop guy tour Scandinavia

My friend is a singer/songwriter who would like to tour Scandinavia. How would he go about doing this? [more inside]
posted by jeffmshaw at 11:34 AM PST - 2 comments

Why do I get sick now after even a few drinks (but not every time)?

Over the last year (I am 36) I have experienced some disturbing effects related to my drinking even a small amount of alcohol (two drinks or so). The odd thing is, I am only adversely effected some of the time... [more inside]
posted by pazoozoo at 11:29 AM PST - 20 comments

What's wrong with my car and can I fix it myself?

Please help me figure out why my car won't start, and whether I can fix it myself. [more inside]
posted by joshjs at 11:23 AM PST - 7 comments

World Geography Quiz? (?seen on mefi in the last 5 weeks?) - Involves putting flags close to locations

World Geography Quiz? (?seen on mefi in the last 5 weeks?) - Involves putting flags close to locations [more inside]
posted by you're only jung once at 11:07 AM PST - 9 comments

Can I convert a regular bed into a platform bed?

Can I convert a traditional bed into a platform bed? [more inside]
posted by wflanagan at 10:45 AM PST - 10 comments

Sewing 101

Beginner's sewing: Please guide me to the most simple, step by step instructions on how to sew simple garments from simple patterns with a sewing machine.
posted by mistsandrain at 10:28 AM PST - 16 comments

corey's infamous sunglasses?

what brand / model sunglasses are corey delaney's infamous sunglasses? and where can i find a pair? see them here
posted by fac21 at 9:34 AM PST - 4 comments

Ever been in an investment partnership?

Tell me about your experience with investment partnerships. (Multiple questions inside.) [more inside]
posted by ijoshua at 8:52 AM PST - 2 comments

fan on laptop won't turn off!

Why is the fan on my Toshiba laptop almost continually blowing? The computer doesn't seem particularly hot, and the constant on/off noise is annoying. Anybody know how to fix this?
posted by Ollie at 7:56 AM PST - 19 comments

"How Many Five-Year Olds Could You Take On At Once" is not an option

I'm having a birthday pool party (indoor) with a group of 20 kindergarten-age kids. They'll be in the water most of the time, but they'll be in a charming little holding cell for the first part of the party. Any suggestions for an activity or craft that would work well in this situation? [more inside]
posted by bibliowench at 7:56 AM PST - 10 comments

Help identify old building

Where in the world is this building? (150k jpeg) [more inside]
posted by Fins at 7:45 AM PST - 43 comments

Portland OR Filter: Suggest a local events magazine for a Portland newbie!

My friend recently moved to Portland, OR to go to grad school. I've sent her some guide books for the area, but I'd also like to give her a subscription to a weekly events-type magazine. I'm in NYC and I get a lot out of reading Time Out: New York -- listings of restaurants to try, shows to see, bands playing, etc. I don't think Time Out prints a Portland version, so I'm looking for suggestions from the masses here. Is there something similar to (or even better than!) Time Out:NY for Portland? Thanks!!
posted by ahimsa at 7:39 AM PST - 12 comments

Setting up subdomains for a LAN?

How do I give my computers subdomain names on my local network? For example, mylaptop.mynetwork.com, mydesktop.mynetwork.com, momslaptop.mynetwork.com, kids.mynetwork.com and so on? Do I have to set up some kind of local DNS or is there an easier way to do it in the router? I am not concerned at this point about being able to access the subdomains from the WAN although that would be handy later. It's the LAN I'm interested in. (Obviously I am using Bonjour right now but for I want to use the subdomains too). I own mynetwork.com and it points to a static IP. My LAN router is firewalled behind that. It's a WRT54G running DD-WRT. I have a spare computer I could run DNS on but I'd rather not have to do that. Everything is Macs running OS X, mostly Leopard.
posted by unSane at 7:37 AM PST - 9 comments

Where should I eat while doing jury duty in Jamaica, Queens?

Where can I get a good cheap lunch in Jamaica, Queens while I'm on jury duty? [more inside]
posted by jason's_planet at 7:29 AM PST - 4 comments

This flu tastes terrrible

I am on the trailing edge of a bout of flu, and I have a persistent bitter taste when I drink any fluids. Doesn't seem to be there when I eat things, only drink them. Has anyone else experienced this? When do I get my taste-buds back?
posted by mzurer at 6:59 AM PST - 9 comments

Predecessor/Teacher of Archimedes?

Greek history: one of Archimedes' predecessors? [more inside]
posted by jjsonp at 5:58 AM PST - 4 comments

Treatment for a child's ear infection?

My first-grader has pain in his right ear. It was keeping him up last night but the pain went away after a dosage of Tylenol. For the past week he's had a cold but the ear pain began just last night. Does anyone have advice for how to proceed with this thing I suspect is an ear infection? Our clinic is closed until Monday, and that is also the earliest I could get him to his chiropractor (he sees one since he painfully overextended his back on a waterslide last summer--but I hear chiropractors can help with ear infections too).
posted by mamaraks at 5:37 AM PST - 14 comments

What's the difference between romantic behaviours and loving ones?

I'm trying to define the difference between a loving, helpful action and a romantic action. How would you define romance, and what would you consider to be romantic? [more inside]
posted by purplesludge at 4:34 AM PST - 17 comments

Life at George Washington University for foreign students

Young New Zealand girl seriously wants to go to George Washington University to study a Masters of Forensic Science next year. That's all I know. That's pretty much all she knows .....but she wants to know more. What should she know? [more inside]
posted by zaebiz at 3:35 AM PST - 14 comments

Why do some actors use their own names in TV shows?

Why do some actors use their own names in TV shows? [more inside]
posted by ranglin at 3:26 AM PST - 31 comments

Stomach acid and infiltrates in the lungs?

When do you need to start worrying about acid reflux and your lungs? [more inside]
posted by arimathea at 12:10 AM PST - 2 comments

January 25

Are there any Amtrak stations that have trailheads nearby?

How can I use Amtrak to get to a good backpacking spot? [more inside]
posted by andythebean at 11:45 PM PST - 12 comments

Asked for too much at job interview - help!

I just asked for too much at a job interview. Did I screw up? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:24 PM PST - 23 comments

How To Know If A Subletting Offer Is A Scam?

What's the best way to find out who owns an apartment in New York City? A relative of mine has been offered a sublet, but the circumstances seem very shady. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:23 PM PST - 7 comments

My best friend's girl on my other best friend's knee

So I saw a best friend's leg adorned by another best friend's fiance's hand. This is not the first time I have witnessed this, but it is the first I have independent verification. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:23 PM PST - 24 comments

I need help

I now have a week before I start work and I am really, really desperate to quit smoking once and for all. [more inside]
posted by parmanparman at 11:16 PM PST - 32 comments

things change, sometimes.

Help me plan a really romantic date... [more inside]
posted by Acari at 10:38 PM PST - 15 comments

Have iPod. Will travel?

I'd like to start listening to my podcasts in m'car. [more inside]
posted by tcv at 9:19 PM PST - 12 comments

How can I get Saturn to take this potentially dangerous car off my hands.

Car systems randomly shut down a week and a half after purchasing it. How can I get the dealership to take it back? [more inside]
posted by Becko at 8:35 PM PST - 8 comments

Gotta Hava Waway out...

I'm in somewhat-central New Jersey on business. I just found out that I will be stranded in a hotel all weekend and would much rather get to Manhattan, Atlantic City, anywhere but here (there is literally nothing here, the nearest Wawa is like a five-minute drive). I know the region in general has great train service, but have a couple of questions about it. [more inside]
posted by geckoinpdx at 7:54 PM PST - 24 comments

Nonintuitive and Seamful

Brand new iMac -- After I set up Parent Controls on a new account, my dashboard disappeared. I can't get it back. I found a long thread on the subject at apple.com, but none of the solutions worked for me. So - here is my question about Time Machine... [more inside]
posted by crapples at 7:33 PM PST - 8 comments

Chewing gum stuck inside the dryer

How do you get a good amount of chewing gum out of a clothes dryer most efficiently. [more inside]
posted by prodevel at 7:23 PM PST - 10 comments

How to work with a heavy bag?

Newbie--never thrown a punch before--wants to work out with a heavy bag... [more inside]
posted by Manhasset at 6:34 PM PST - 10 comments

Oranges make me sweat. You? Know why?

Oranges make me sweat. You? Know why? [more inside]
posted by a robot made out of meat at 6:32 PM PST - 12 comments

How can I write better short stories (science fiction)

How can I write better short stories (science fiction) [more inside]
posted by Wolfster at 6:24 PM PST - 20 comments

"i" have no iDea

Why does everything start with an "i" ... like "iFrame" or "iPod"? What the hell does the "i" stand for?
posted by GIRLesq at 6:07 PM PST - 34 comments

Feed Me

I'm living in a motel for another week and am tired of only having carry out food. What kind of yummy food can I make to feed myself? I have a microwave and a small fridge and access to a grocery store but would like to avoid buying too many supplies that I won't need in a week. Thanks!
posted by nalyd at 5:59 PM PST - 21 comments

Cold kitten at the door

It is freezing outside, and I just took inside a kitten (about a foot long). What do I have suitable for food beside milk that would not harm it? What can I improvise for a litter box? I do not want to go out shopping for cat stuff tonight.
posted by francesca too at 5:54 PM PST - 21 comments

Do I tell my boyfriend I know his ex-wife?

Do I tell my boyfriend I know his ex-wife? Their separation was particularly messy. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:37 PM PST - 28 comments

People are not Pokemon. Stop trying to keep them all.

How can I reign in jealousy? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:36 PM PST - 10 comments

Wrong Impression

Want to be friends, but not be seen as too close at work. How do I tell her? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:36 PM PST - 11 comments

Where can we go bushwalking near Melbourne?

Where can we go bushwalking near Melbourne that is accessible by public transport? [more inside]
posted by lazy robot at 5:34 PM PST - 6 comments

Positive, "universal" Yeats poems?

I'm seeking a W.B. Yeats poem that's as "positive" and as "universal" as possible -- specifically, that doesn't talk about death, or aging, or romantic love -- and that isn't spoken by, or addressed to, one individual who's clearly female or male. [more inside]
posted by lorimer at 5:01 PM PST - 10 comments

"Last Man on Earth" Stories

I'm looking for stories involving "last man on earth" type scenarios. [more inside]
posted by Ziggy Zaga at 4:27 PM PST - 69 comments

Need 80/20 Housing Help

Need help with an 80/20 housing issue gone mad. [more inside]
posted by plinth at 4:25 PM PST - 13 comments

Tell me where to go.

What are some amazing adventures, anywhere on the planet, that take around 3 months to do? [more inside]
posted by twirlypen at 4:15 PM PST - 13 comments

Help my thirsty skin clear up!

Are there any good skin care products for people with very dry skin and breakouts? [more inside]
posted by missjamielynn at 4:01 PM PST - 13 comments

Fun with banking call centres (not).

Help! What 'eight digit' number regarding my Visa credit card are the Abbey National call centre trying to get from my fiancé? We're in the UK. [more inside]
posted by Flitcraft at 3:58 PM PST - 15 comments

Help me define a job role or career path based on my interests.

What jobs or careers match my interests? [more inside]
posted by PetiePal at 3:45 PM PST - 11 comments

19" LCD (1440x900) + (?) + eMachines T2862 = crisp, clear, monitoring

Please help me fit my new monitor to my crappy old computer. [more inside]
posted by carsonb at 3:40 PM PST - 17 comments

Why should I be generous?

Why should I be generous? [more inside]
posted by cluelessguru at 3:31 PM PST - 80 comments

Books for beginning woodworking

What are some good beginner's level woodworking books that don't require any/many power tools? [more inside]
posted by drezdn at 3:28 PM PST - 8 comments

Broom of the system

Giant, multi-faceted, possibly-career-making project about to begin. How to reorganize my workspace so I completely kick ass, take names? [more inside]
posted by Mrs Hilksom at 3:13 PM PST - 12 comments

Quote about pointless struggle against insurmountable injustice

I am looking for a quote that I heard or read recently, something along the lines of "It is pointless to struggle against overwhelming injustice; it is worse not to struggle against it" or "You ask how it is that I can expend effort fighting against an unchangeable, unjust system? I ask how it is that you can live with not doing so." I'm looking for the exact quote, and the book or essay or what-have-you in which it originally appeared that I can read for some context. [more inside]
posted by mistersix at 3:01 PM PST - 9 comments

How many people are involved in building the Shuttle?

About how many people, including contractors and their employees, are involved in building the space shuttle? [more inside]
posted by np312 at 2:58 PM PST - 7 comments

Any Good User Support Groups for ACT! by Sage Software?

Any Good User Support Groups for ACT! by Sage Software? [more inside]
posted by ~Sushma~ at 2:50 PM PST - 6 comments

Bay Area (horse) Riding School?

Looking for SF Bay Area equitation schools (wanna make with the horse-riding). [more inside]
posted by penciltopper at 2:43 PM PST - 5 comments

Need to find a bar in DC to rent for a Superbowl / birthday party!

I'm looking for a bar in DC to rent out next Sunday for a combination birthday party / Superbowl party. The U Street / Adams Morgan / Dupont area is my ideal goal, but if you have the perfect location elsewhere in DC, throw it in here. [more inside]
posted by inigo2 at 2:31 PM PST - 7 comments

I got the blues, baby

1. Is blue antifreeze special? 2. If the coolant reservoir is half-full, can I keep driving until I can get what I need? [more inside]
posted by Blazecock Pileon at 2:30 PM PST - 12 comments

How to verify state-issued sales certificate/tax ID?

How do you verify a state seller's permit/resale certificate and/or tax ID for US businesses? [more inside]
posted by boygirlparty at 2:18 PM PST - 1 comment

Elimination diet? etc.

Help me find someone in the SF Bay Area (esp Berkeley) who can coach me through an elimination diet. Also, know anything about the Clearvite detox program or www.foodintol.com? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:03 PM PST - 9 comments

Let's play master and servant... all day long.

Someone close to me has a D/s lifestyle. Are there readings/websites I can check out to give me a better understanding of these things and help me come to terms with my worries? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:03 PM PST - 24 comments

Chevrolet Tracker Spark Plugs

Changing sparkplugs: I have a 2003 Chevrolet Tracker, with an unusual ignition coil setup, and I want to learn how to remove the coils and access my plugs. (Pictures inside) [more inside]
posted by Aanidaani at 2:02 PM PST - 5 comments

Constant corruption - and I'm not even talking about the government!

I have a few mysql tables that keep repeatedly getting corrupted - help! [more inside]
posted by twiggy at 1:42 PM PST - 12 comments

What's recommended to consume right after a work-out ?

What should i consume immediately after a work-out ? If i'm not a fan of powdered protein ? [more inside]
posted by hboogz at 1:31 PM PST - 28 comments

Jailbreak the iPhone

I want to jailbreak my iPhone... [more inside]
posted by kaozity at 1:23 PM PST - 9 comments

Where to buy a classic Brake for Moose bumper sticker?

I'm stuck in southern California, but I long to assert my NH roots with a "Brake for Moose: It Could Save Your Life!" bumper sticker. Trouble is, I really really want the classic yellow one, and I can't find it for sale anywhere. Help me save moosey lives!
posted by ilyanassa at 1:15 PM PST - 7 comments

What tequila should I buy in Mexico?

What tequila should I buy in Mexico? [more inside]
posted by markblasco at 12:50 PM PST - 17 comments

Steve Albini's guitar sounds?

How does Steve Albini get those metallic guitar sounds so badassedly made famous in Big Black, Rapeman, and Shellac? [more inside]
posted by xmutex at 12:34 PM PST - 9 comments

Wireless AND Wired networking issues

Yes I have read all these wireless router problems . I'll try and make it more interesting.... [more inside]
posted by Papa Mango at 12:25 PM PST - 7 comments

TrueType (.ttf) or OpenType (.otf) font file rename utility for Mac OS X?

Does anyone know of a TrueType (.ttf) or OpenType (.otf) font file rename utility for Mac OS X? [more inside]
posted by bigt83 at 11:58 AM PST - 9 comments

I know plantar fasciitis and you, sir are no plantar fasciitis.

The medial side of my ankle hurts during the first two minutes of walking around each morning. The pain quiets down after 2 minutes or so of moving around. I've had plantar fasciitis before; this feels different. [more inside]
posted by neilkod at 11:39 AM PST - 18 comments

Sydney Hostels & Apartment

Sydney questions: Which Sydney hostel should i stay at for international orientation week at University of Sydney? [more inside]
posted by Black_Umbrella at 11:25 AM PST - 4 comments

Are there any decent Chicago gyms without yearly contracts?

I'm being a very bad transhumanist by letting my body get so unhealthy over the last few years. I'd like to fix that; having just moved to the Chicago area, I'd like to find a decent gym to start working out in. My fear, however, is that I'll run into the same issue I've encountered before: signing a year contract only to let my attendance taper off (ultimately never visiting at all in the last six months). [more inside]
posted by korpios at 11:24 AM PST - 15 comments

Tips for a long cross-country drive?

Driving cross-country (FL->WA) in a week and looking for advice [more inside]
posted by tkolstee at 11:11 AM PST - 28 comments

Scratch mine, and I'll scratch yours!

HELP!!! My boyfriend and I are bumpy and ithcy everywhere!!! Nothing helps and it's a terrible nuisance. What could this be and any suggestions for remedy? [more inside]
posted by NotInTheBox at 11:05 AM PST - 35 comments

Email Alias Creator: Does Such a Thing Exist?

Are there any free (and non-sketchy) services out there that would allow me to create an e-mail alias that would re-direct to 30 people? [more inside]
posted by hazelshade at 10:55 AM PST - 10 comments

Paper waste?

Don't publishers waste a significant amount of money and paper by including blank pages at the begining and end of their books? I have seen as much as six blank pages included at the begining and end of books. Now if the book becomes a hot seller and sells let's say 500,000 copies, that's 2 million blank white pages if it has as little as four blank pages. Don't publishers keep this in mind? Or is the cost of paper insignificant? The environmental factor should be considered as well as the monetary one of "wasting" so much paper.
posted by princeofpersiaxz at 10:51 AM PST - 22 comments

Podcasts audience sizes

Is there an easy way to find out the average estimated audience size of a specific podcast? [more inside]
posted by worker_bee at 10:47 AM PST - 2 comments

Help me get my images back online

I'm looking for software or a service that will spider my blog and return a report of all broken image links. [more inside]
posted by syzygy at 10:44 AM PST - 5 comments

Shock and awe and so many footnotes

EconomicPolicyFilter: I'm reading The Shock Doctrine by Naomi Klein. It's making me angry, but I don't know whether it's making me justifiably angry. Is she right? Or is she terribly biased and distorting the facts? [more inside]
posted by heatherann at 10:41 AM PST - 19 comments

Atlanta dinner meeting locations?

My professional association wants to hold a dinner meeting at a restaurant or hotel near the Perimeter Mall area in Atlanta, Georgia. Does anyone have a suggestion of a good location that won't cost us an arm and a leg?
posted by SallyHitMeOntheHead at 10:36 AM PST - 7 comments

What colleges offer a doctorate in comparative myth?

What schools other than Pacifica offer a Ph.D. program in comparative mythology? My Google-fu has failed me. I understand that certain institutions offer interdisciplinary studies that can be bent in the direction of mythology, as can certain programs in English. But I can't seem to find any that offer the richness of mythological courses found at Pacifica. Surely that isn't the only university out there!
posted by jackypaper at 10:15 AM PST - 9 comments

Yes, I'm taking the plunge

I'll be building a computer in a few months, and I have a few questions about aesthetics, case mods, and power supplies. [more inside]
posted by fvox13 at 9:58 AM PST - 13 comments

How much can an 11-year old handle?

My niece's mom is an alcohol/drug addict. My niece has consistent contact with her mom over the phone. Did I do the right thing in letting her know about her mom's problem? If not, can I mitigate the damage I've done? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:55 AM PST - 31 comments

War. What is it good for?

Is it finally OK to buy a Blu-Ray player? [more inside]
posted by uaudio at 9:54 AM PST - 36 comments

Road trip along the South Carolina coast

We're taking a road trip soon from Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill, North Carolina to Savannah, Georgia. What do recommend seeing along the way? Favorite food stops? Non-touristy interesting spots? Think boiled peanuts, not golf courses. [more inside]
posted by billder at 9:29 AM PST - 10 comments

Your job, our business

Has anyone ever been fired for choosing Microsoft? [more inside]
posted by ardgedee at 9:24 AM PST - 14 comments

Trust for minor in event of parent's death.

Is there a site where I can see actual trust language regarding a trust that would be created to hold an inheritance for a minor child until age 25. I have been to an attorney....they ask me what I want. I won't know what I want until I see it. There are many details that need to be covered like where the money is invested and how requests for money from the kid's custodian are handled.
posted by Pete1162 at 8:35 AM PST - 11 comments

Is going to a tanning salon a good idea before a tropical vacation?

Is going to a tanning salon a good idea before a tropical vacation? [more inside]
posted by browse at 8:30 AM PST - 27 comments

How to run a query in Excel 2007?

How do I group values by a variable in Excel 2007? Essentially, I want to run a query. [more inside]
posted by desjardins at 8:20 AM PST - 8 comments

Help me not be allergic to my pants!

Suddenly I'm allergic to polyester. But.... a lot of pants and skirts and dresses out there have at least 5% polyester in them. What do I do? [more inside]
posted by silverstatue at 8:11 AM PST - 11 comments

Tripped up by tipping.

We're coming near the end of a major kitchen remodel and we'd like to show our appreciation to the foreman/carpenter by "tipping" him at the end of the job. How much? [more inside]
posted by cooker girl at 8:08 AM PST - 18 comments

How can I convert book, movie and video game titles into their ASIN?

Are there any web sites or programs that can convert a list of titles from books, movies and video games into their respective ASIN numbers from Amazon? [more inside]
posted by the biscuit man at 8:05 AM PST - 2 comments

How do I only run a task on one startup a day?

I need to schedule a task to run only on the first startup of each day. [more inside]
posted by edbyford at 7:48 AM PST - 5 comments

Blowing my mind in Japan

How many ways can I blow my sheltered American mind while visiting Japan? [more inside]
posted by ZackTM at 7:27 AM PST - 36 comments

[fun filter] help us make the most of our "night out" in NYC!

If you had a night in Manhattan with your sweetheart, what would you do? Where would you go? [more inside]
posted by deejay jaydee at 7:25 AM PST - 12 comments

What suicide methods are common in different cities?

Is there a way to find out what suicide methods are common by city? [more inside]
posted by agregoli at 7:18 AM PST - 7 comments

The mystery of the open garage door

Why did I find my garage door open this morning? I haven't opened it with the garage door opener entry pad for several days, and I know it was closed completely the last time I used it. [more inside]
posted by wexford_arts at 6:37 AM PST - 21 comments

I don't want to be Danny the Downer

I have a tendency to focus on the negative, and to be really hard on myself. And in describing my life to people (namely, women) I tend to be overly self critical. I don't think this is working for me. [more inside]
posted by sully75 at 6:24 AM PST - 28 comments

We were old....and now we're even older

My 4 friends and I had been planning a combination 30th birthday party to be announced as our "sesquicentennial" (that is...five thirty year olds = 150 years). Now, we seem to have added a sixth honoree to the party (six thirty year olds = 180 years). So....now what do we call it? My best guess so far is after the cut. [more inside]
posted by divka at 6:17 AM PST - 12 comments

Where to advertise a media job in North America and Aus/NZ?

I've recently been appointed editor of a UK-based computer/tech magazine and website, and need to hire someone to bring the team up to full strength. In the UK, the majority of media jobs are advertised in the Guardian's Media section on Mondays, and on its companion website. However, I'd like to advertise in in other English-speaking countries but don't know where to place the ad. [more inside]
posted by Sifter at 5:44 AM PST - 9 comments

Help me sell the family jewels.

(Posted for a friend:) Appraising and selling jewelry in NYC . . . [more inside]
posted by spitbull at 5:32 AM PST - 1 comment

Books on being the best trainer ever (it's that easy, right?)

Know of any books that can improve my training style? [more inside]
posted by lagreen at 5:25 AM PST - 3 comments

Wanted: a stats Gini-us

It ought to be possible (though I know it's going to be inaccurate) to estimate the number of people earning above a certain level using a given country's GDP and Gini Coefficient. Can you help me work through the details? [more inside]
posted by godawful at 4:34 AM PST - 5 comments

What are 1s and 0s?

What are the 1s and 0s of computers? I.e., in what sense is it true (and in what sense is it false) to say that there are 1s and 0s in computers? [more inside]
posted by Eiwalker at 3:29 AM PST - 32 comments

Good mayo. Stat!

Please give me your tried-and-tested recipies for egg-free mayonnaise. I'm holding a dinner party tomorrow and have run into a problem. [more inside]
posted by ninazer0 at 1:58 AM PST - 13 comments

New girl in town

I'm moving to Venice/Santa Monica and want to meet good, intelligent, normal people in my age group. How? [more inside]
posted by JJ Jenkins at 1:18 AM PST - 14 comments

How can a skinny guy find a slim-cut suit?

How can I find a small, very slim-cut suit, either online or in Nova Scotia? [more inside]
posted by ZaphodB at 1:09 AM PST - 11 comments

Why would someone pay $500. or more for an unmodified iPhone when they can get the same thing from Apple for $399.?

Why would someone pay $500. or more for an unmodified iPhone when they can get the same thing from Apple for $399.? [more inside]
posted by jorlando at 12:27 AM PST - 14 comments

January 24

*crash* Fortunately, we all had insurance. Which one of the three companies gets the claim?

Out of state rental car driver who paid for the Loss Damage Waiver backed in to us. We have his insurance information and claim number, and also reported the incident to our insurance company, which offered to cover damages to the car. We think we'd like to have repairs covered under the rental company's LDW. Do we have the right to choose who should foot the bill? And is this a good choice? [more inside]
posted by truenorth at 11:10 PM PST - 10 comments

Where to stay while attending SXSW?

I'm planning on going to SXSW this year. I'll probably stay for at least a few days, maybe a week. Where should I stay? How expensive are accommodations? How far in advance must I make reservations? Are there any popular alternatives to staying in a hotel? p.s. I don't drive.
posted by bingo at 10:46 PM PST - 7 comments

We don't let fuckups be bridesmaids in this wedding.

How to deal with not asking a close friend to be in your wedding because you don't think she's responsible enough? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 10:29 PM PST - 39 comments

It's been five years. Why do I keep thinking about this girl?

It's been five years. Why do I keep thinking about this girl? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 10:29 PM PST - 16 comments

Who do I see for a butt rash?

Never-ending, super itchy, flaky butt rash. What kind of doctor do I see? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 10:11 PM PST - 6 comments

Lonely at the table

How do I get my husband to the dinner table? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 10:11 PM PST - 47 comments

How do I cope with being in love with an older man?

I am very much falling for a (much) older man. How do I handle this? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 10:10 PM PST - 26 comments

Why is the smoky eye popular?

Why is the "smoky eye" popular? [more inside]
posted by mausburger at 9:50 PM PST - 23 comments

I just want to save my web site locally

I'm willing to pay for a really good tool to save a copy of a web site locally, downloading through HTTP. HTTrack isn't quite cutting it, and I need CSS background images. [more inside]
posted by amtho at 8:41 PM PST - 18 comments

No luck on the dating scene.

Where does my friend meet a decent guy between the age of 47-55? She has tried the on-line dating service costing $100 to no avail.
posted by sweet tooth at 8:37 PM PST - 7 comments

SFO layover & dinner

Friend with three-hour layover in SF -- help me with dinner logistics. [more inside]
posted by ClaudiaCenter at 8:35 PM PST - 14 comments

Small mac app idea wanted

Are there any small Mac applications that you wish existed but doesn't? [more inside]
posted by jasminerain at 8:30 PM PST - 29 comments

iTunes/internet radio help needed

Is it Possible to stream internet audio to my airport express? [more inside]
posted by smithmac_99 at 8:22 PM PST - 3 comments

What are some good uses for spare smaller capacity SD and CF cards?

What are some good uses for spare smaller capacity SD and CF cards? [more inside]
posted by Cods at 8:12 PM PST - 10 comments

Is there a name for this film technique?

Is there a formal name for a part of a movie that shows the same scene 3 or 4 times, sometimes from different angles or in slow motion (or both)? [more inside]
posted by Addlepated at 7:57 PM PST - 7 comments

Organising a play space.

What options are there for tidying up a child's play area and creating a 'play space' within limited area? [more inside]
posted by Frasermoo at 7:26 PM PST - 10 comments

How do I set up a shared blog that my parents can post to via email?

How do I set up a shared blog that my parents can post to via email? (caveats follow) [more inside]
posted by jcruelty at 7:11 PM PST - 9 comments

Where can I buy Moravian spice cookies in Boston?

Where can I buy Moravian spice cookies in the Boston area? [more inside]
posted by komilnefopa at 6:50 PM PST - 5 comments

No Sleep Till Pismo

[Romantic-Mini-Vacation-Filter]: We're off to the Central Californian Coast in a few weeks. What insanely romantic activities can you suggest? [more inside]
posted by numinous at 6:44 PM PST - 13 comments

Waking up too hot but not sweaty

What do I call this symptom- waking up too hot? [more inside]
posted by fructose at 6:15 PM PST - 16 comments

Need cell phone advice for a trip to russia.

Need cell phone advice for a trip to russia. [more inside]
posted by the ghost of Ken Lay at 5:55 PM PST - 5 comments

Best way to store arbitrary form data?

What are best practices for storing arbitrary form data? More inside... [more inside]
posted by zackola at 5:23 PM PST - 6 comments

Help me hack in to my Font folder!

Can I install (and use) a TrueType font on my computer at work without having access to the C:/WINDOWS/Fonts folder? [more inside]
posted by foxinthesnow at 5:02 PM PST - 9 comments

Recommended German-language singers similar to French language singers

Which German language singers would you recommend for those of us like French singers such as Carla Bruni and Madeleine Peyroux. I tried Ute Lemper but she seemed a tad on the heavy and intense side. Definitely looking for that cool, jazzy feel.
posted by vac2003 at 4:58 PM PST - 6 comments

Most Pics Uploaded?

Which Flickr user has uploaded the most photos?
posted by mattbucher at 4:40 PM PST - 10 comments

Yakuza vs. Triad

Love the two main actors but War just did not do anything for me. Are there any other Yakuza vs. Triad movies out there that are worth watching?
posted by jasonspaceman at 4:27 PM PST - 5 comments

CarFilter: overdrive?

John O'Connor, install my Oscillation Overthruster! Or not? [more inside]
posted by GuffProof at 4:20 PM PST - 14 comments

ComputerFilter: Where did my option to hibernate go?

My computer used to have the ability to hibernate and sleep... now it is as if those options never existed. What happened and how do I fix it? [more inside]
posted by thelastpolarbear at 4:17 PM PST - 8 comments

Help me stop using plastic bags

I'd like to stop using plastic grocery bags, but I use them as liners in all of my garbage cans (including the kitchen, where stuff thrown in tends to be moist food detritus). Any ideas on what to use as garbage liners in lieu of the plastic bags?
posted by backseatpilot at 4:14 PM PST - 21 comments

Firefox Reloading on the Fritz

Why won't Firefox reload web pages after I receive a "server not found" message? [more inside]
posted by eswusp86 at 4:09 PM PST - 12 comments

What's the name of this sci-fi novel?

SciFi BookTitleFilter: Looking for the title of a juvenile sci-fi novel I once read, involving parallel dimensional travel. [more inside]
posted by Perplexer at 3:52 PM PST - 7 comments

What do our cat's paws suddenly look dirty?

Our orange tabby's fur looks a little dark and dirty in a few spots around his paws and claws, but he keeps himself clean and no the dirt doesn't show or come off when we wipe him with a wet paper towel. What gives? [more inside]
posted by iknowizbirfmark at 3:41 PM PST - 8 comments

Fondness of O.P.P.

Can you help me find funny graphs/charts to show in my university level statistics class? They don't have to be technically correct, I just want something to put onscreen while the students are coming into class. Stuff like this is ok, but SFW is preferable.
posted by arcticwoman at 3:04 PM PST - 25 comments

Multi line Text-to-column - A CHALLENGE FOR YOU!

How to "text to column" a cell with multiple lines in Excel? [more inside]
posted by keasby at 3:01 PM PST - 7 comments

Gino's Beautiful Timepiece

Where can I purchase a Gino Valle Cifra clock? [more inside]
posted by SpiffyRob at 2:43 PM PST - 5 comments

Pinup Girl Bachelorette Party?

I'm planning a lingerie shower/bachelorette party with a pinup girl theme (e.g., Gil Elvgren, Art Frahm, etc.) Any ideas about how to work the theme into the evening? [more inside]
posted by ultraultraboomerang at 2:21 PM PST - 13 comments

Can you help me decide between (used) PDA's, Smartphones, Pocket PCs and the year 2008?

Can you help me decide between PDA's, Smartphones, Pocket PCs and the year 2008? I am looking most specifically for info on the Sony Clie PEG NX70V ... IPAQ 4350 ... and IPAQ 2215. But advice on any of this would be immensely helpful! I did search AskMeFi, but found only info for new equipment or old posts. I'm talking used equipment instead, older but able to keep up with current software stuff. (More inside) [more inside]
posted by thewhynotgirl at 1:47 PM PST - 21 comments

Best Windows TIFF combiner?

What is the best Windows TIFF combiner? [more inside]
posted by yesno at 1:46 PM PST - 11 comments

How much time does being a CASA involve?

How much time does being a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate for children) really involve? This relates to Seattle/King County. [more inside]
posted by tristeza at 12:49 PM PST - 5 comments

Can a 1.1.1 iPhone be software-unlocked?

Can my iPhone, which was jailbroken and AnySim-unlocked with firmware 1.0.2, be made to function, jailbroken and unlocked, with any later version of the firmware? [more inside]
posted by chudmonkey at 12:16 PM PST - 11 comments

I need to find my Adult Historical Graphic Novel Biography thing

When I was a kid (about 9-10 years ago), I came across what I can only describe as an Adult Historical Biographical Graphic Novel. I read it that one day and never found it again. More info in Explanation. [more inside]
posted by carefulmonkey at 12:09 PM PST - 3 comments

Intro to Jung

What text(s) should I read for a substantial (but not daunting) introduction to Jung? [more inside]
posted by regicide is good for you at 12:04 PM PST - 9 comments

Purple is a fruit

My sister has been a vegetarian for several years. She's contemplating eating meat again. Is there a safe way to do this that won't destroy her stomach?
posted by roomthreeseventeen at 11:52 AM PST - 28 comments

how to I make salmon behave properly?

How do I make salmon "cakes"? [more inside]
posted by mustcatchmooseandsquirrel at 11:48 AM PST - 13 comments

How do I remind my professor to write that letter of recommendation?

Now that I've asked for all of my letters of recommendation for graduate school, how do I politely remind one of my professors that he had agreed to write a letter for me? [more inside]
posted by andeles at 11:28 AM PST - 15 comments

40 hours a week is a lot of your life.

Statistics-n-facts Filter: I have a whole bunch of queries regarding a variety topics. So far my search for answers has been fruitless, and so I was wondering if A) you happen to know the answers to the included questions and/or B) can refer me to a website that might be able to help? [more inside]
posted by mwachs at 11:24 AM PST - 5 comments

help me play my xbox on my desktop monitor

i am trying to take the RCA output from my original xbox, plug it into the RCA input of my Vista HP 'media center' desktop, and play xbox, watching on my new desktop monitor and listening through the audio out of the computers sound card. [more inside]
posted by gcat at 11:22 AM PST - 13 comments

What to buy my valentine while she's far away?

I need some long-distance-specific suggestions for a Valentine's day gift. I'm in San Francisco; she's in Australia. [more inside]
posted by autojack at 11:07 AM PST - 18 comments

Tax Withholding For Novices

We're looking for a good online tax withholding calculator. Our 2008 income will be much higher than 2007, and we've only filed jointly once before (newlyweds). [more inside]
posted by Lord Kinbote at 11:05 AM PST - 7 comments

Is the YMCA for me?

Please help me determine if the YMCA is the right fit for me. [more inside]
posted by waraw at 11:02 AM PST - 33 comments

Can I equip my lab with consumer refrigerators?

Buying refrigerators for the lab: is there a good reason not to go with consumer models? [more inside]
posted by mr_roboto at 10:57 AM PST - 17 comments

Management Staff, Manage Themselves

Help me manage other peoples projects.... [more inside]
posted by bleucube at 10:55 AM PST - 6 comments

Hey, "c000021a" to you too, buddy.

PC laptop diagnostics and repair in L.A.: Recommendations, please. [more inside]
posted by mykescipark at 10:50 AM PST - 3 comments

my limited gardening options, let me show you them

Where should I put my garden? [more inside]
posted by M.C. Lo-Carb! at 10:37 AM PST - 12 comments

PDA that syncs with Outlook 2007?

Help me find a PDA that syncs with Office 2007. [more inside]
posted by brownbeards at 10:35 AM PST - 2 comments

To lease or not to lease ...

Two year lease (new, used or swap) vs. buying a used car with the definite intention of getting rid of it after two years? [more inside]
posted by Nelsormensch at 10:28 AM PST - 6 comments

child abuse and the statute of limitations

Questions about child abuse and the statute of limitations (unpleasant details inside) [more inside]
posted by prk14 at 10:23 AM PST - 19 comments

How to overcome fear of driving

How do you get over being paranoid about driving? [more inside]
posted by geminus at 10:12 AM PST - 28 comments

Cheapest digital camera with remote shutter?

I'm looking for the cheapest digital camera with remote shutter capability. Lets say under $400 (preferably much less). NOT wireless remote shutter, just a wire with a button. No other specs matter, I don't care about any other features. Extra points if the camera uses SD memory. [more inside]
posted by dujoducom at 10:06 AM PST - 6 comments

What electrical event killed my wife's laptop and printer?

What electrical event killed my wife's laptop and printer? We connected the printer to the laptop and...fireworks! [more inside]
posted by ransom at 10:04 AM PST - 7 comments

Nonphotographic memory

From my vague description, can you tell me what this form of photography is called? [more inside]
posted by popcassady at 9:59 AM PST - 7 comments

Social Action Artwork

I need ideas for a visual representation of a human rights issue. [more inside]
posted by Etta Hollis at 9:51 AM PST - 11 comments

Genre flick factory!

Has anyone ever attempted to estimate the total number of films made in Hollywood that we today consider film noir? What about other long-lived genres of the high era of the silver screen? [more inside]
posted by mwhybark at 9:43 AM PST - 6 comments

US tax rebate for nonresident alien?

Am I, a nonresident alien who is a "US resident for tax purposes", going to get the $600 US tax rebate check in 2008? [more inside]
posted by tabulem at 9:37 AM PST - 7 comments

Doctor Inventor

Doctor-friend wants to join a company that invents/designs medical devices in or around NYC. Does anyone know of any such boutique companies in the area that hire doctors? [more inside]
posted by Eringatang at 9:33 AM PST - 1 comment

How do you set up pub key auth for Dreamweaver's sftp client on a windows box?

How do you set up pub key auth for Dreamweaver's sftp client on a windows box? [more inside]
posted by jj27 at 9:27 AM PST - 3 comments

MS Excel terror

MS Excel terror. Data saved but it is still gone. Where - if anywhere? [more inside]
posted by ollsen at 9:20 AM PST - 4 comments

Why change the company name?

What are the advantages of a start-up company changing it's name? [more inside]
posted by gt2 at 9:18 AM PST - 7 comments

"I fart in your general direction." Please help us stop! The guy in my pilates class thanks you!

Ladies and Pilates - question about unintended sounds during class. I know it's normal but is there any way to clamp down to quiet down once in a while? This doesn't seem to happen as much during yoga, and it doesn't matter if I've had sex recently or not. [more inside]
posted by barometer at 9:06 AM PST - 10 comments

Help me decide what to charge.

Freelance filter: How much do I charge? I've not done this type of work freelance style before. [more inside]
posted by delladlux at 9:01 AM PST - 6 comments

Will sit exam for food...

Which jobs/careers require an examination as the starting point of employment? I'm not looking for careers that require some sort of professional accreditation like passage of a bar exam or certification. I'm thinking more along the lines of the old (in the US) civil service exam. I know all about the foreign service exam and am curious what else is out there.
posted by the christopher hundreds at 8:57 AM PST - 11 comments

VC Firm Interviews

Do you work in venture capital, or have you applied for a job at a VC firm? What was the interview process like?
posted by NotMyselfRightNow at 8:47 AM PST - 1 comment

How can I prevent Google from tracking my visits to web sites?

How can I prevent Google from tracking my visits to web sites that use their services (Google Analytics, AdWords, etc.)? [more inside]
posted by Ø at 8:21 AM PST - 10 comments

Photo Directory in Excel

I'd like to create what amounts to a photo directory in Excel, and be able to sort by last name. Is this possible? If so, how? [more inside]
posted by uvaleg at 8:12 AM PST - 6 comments

Somebody's Going Japanese

I remember finding a link off AskMe for a young guy who taught himself Japanese through immersion at home, got a job in Japan, tried the same thing with Chinese? Does anyone remember this? Have a link?
posted by whitewall at 7:56 AM PST - 3 comments

How can I streamline editorial production?

How should I improve the our small publication’s production schedule/process? [more inside]
posted by BT at 7:53 AM PST - 3 comments

This would be a perfect job for an intern. If I had one.

MS Excel filter: I'm editing a huge spreadsheet and Excel doesn't like my zip codes. How can I quickly fix this? more after jump... [more inside]
posted by LiveToEat at 7:47 AM PST - 9 comments

Well t'aint a pardon, and t'aint attainder...

Two to three questions involving the pending FISA bill--specifically the immunity provisions. [more inside]
posted by dsword at 7:26 AM PST - 13 comments

Help me replace my S3IS with something a little beefier

It's time to upgrade my Canon Powershot s3is. I have a specific budget and feature set, and I am looking for some opinions as to where I should go from here. [more inside]
posted by JonnyRotten at 7:19 AM PST - 11 comments

Skull bashing for sport

What percentage of baseball bats sold are bought by people intending to use them primarily as a weapon or threatening object, vs. how many sold primarily for playing baseball? [more inside]
posted by Space Coyote at 7:13 AM PST - 30 comments

Multi blogg solution or platform?

We're a small daily paper out in the west. The boss wants us to host blogs, i.e. something where any user can come to our website and sign up for a blog, hosted by us. However, as the only mildly technical person in the office, it would fall to me to run and administer and frankly I'm not sure if that's possible, given the other duties, like laying out the paper and building ads. But I'd be remiss if I didn't investigate the possibilities, so can anyone recommend a multiblog platform (where anyone can sign up to get a blog) that's fairly easy to administer? I've looked at WordpressMU, but it looks like a headache to maintain.
posted by jmitchell at 7:11 AM PST - 16 comments

iBook randomly goes gray

iBook randomly goes gray... [more inside]
posted by brevator at 6:48 AM PST - 2 comments

old sad Christmas movie

Oldmoviefilter: Movie about 50 years old. Mother with four or five kids. Mother poor and dying. [more inside]
posted by beccaj at 6:23 AM PST - 3 comments

What's the best portable and self-contained PIM (Personal Information Manager) I can run on my USB stick / thumb drive?

I need to find a way to keep all of my various bits of information handy in one application on my USB drive - things like notes, to-do lists, addresses and project information - and would be very grateful for any recommendations or help you can give me :) ! I'm happy to pay for the right software so paid or free options would both be great. What I'm looking for is something that is... - Self contained: must run on, or from, the USB stick and not* require a webserver or apache to work (browser-based apps are fine if they meet this criteria) - Easy to use - Secure (a login would be ideal) - Searchable - Has checklists for my to-do items - Has the ability to write freeform text for project info / notes Do you know of a portable PIM or similar application that would fit the bill? A huge thank you in advance for taking the time to help me out :)! * Web servers, wiki's and Wordpress (so many w's!) are out of the question sadly since my work computer is in serious IT lockdown and I can't even change the apache port.
posted by katala at 5:41 AM PST - 12 comments

In seek of IT Asset Managemtn Solution

I need help finding a good, easy to use IT asset/inventory tracking software for my company. [more inside]
posted by bDiddy at 5:36 AM PST - 10 comments

If I were really hitting on guys via Craigslist, at least I'd have better grammar

Can I do anything about a spammer using my e-mail address to answer ads on Craigslist? [more inside]
posted by korres at 5:14 AM PST - 17 comments

No more sweet music.

Say I wanted to fill the genre tags of my whole mp3 library automatically. Say I trusted the last.fm community enough to use the three most used tags for a certain song/album listed there (for example: New Order's Ceremony would get "80s" "new wave" and "post-punk"). Say I wanted to do this automatically. Say I had a Mac. How would I go about this? [more inside]
posted by Skyanth at 4:44 AM PST - 12 comments

Dust traps

Is there a SINGLE word in English preferably or in any other language for drinks or foodstuff that lay forgotten in the back of the cupboard / pantry not being used and just gathering dust?
posted by Parsnip at 4:20 AM PST - 26 comments

From pill-free to migraine-free

How long does it take to detox from pain meds, specifically those taken for migraines? [more inside]
posted by Gordion Knott at 4:16 AM PST - 7 comments

Apache: Subdomain Management

Quick Apachefilter Question: I have complete control over my setup. What is the best way to setup Apache to serve files from /home/domain.com/subdomains/of/level/arbitrary/an/ when an.arbitrary.level.of.subdomains.domain.com is requested? I cannot figure this simple one out for the life of me! [more inside]
posted by PuGZ at 1:31 AM PST - 8 comments

Guitar repertoire recommendations

Please suggest songs of increasing difficulty I should master on acoustic guitar for entertainment, edification or attention seeking purposes. [more inside]
posted by hifimofo at 1:11 AM PST - 20 comments

Help me make a tall cheesecake.

Where can I find a 5- to 6-inch deep springform pan? [more inside]
posted by tihleigh at 12:28 AM PST - 10 comments

Can you spray paint a storage tub?

Is it possible to (successfully) spray-paint a rubbermaid storage tub that would sit outside and be exposed to the weather? Alternative suggestions for sprucing up a plastic storage tub welcome! [more inside]
posted by FortyT-wo at 12:01 AM PST - 9 comments

January 23

Help me find a bandwidth monitor.

I'm looking for a freeware Windows bandwidth monitor that can be minimized to an icon sitting in the taskbar that displays a graph (think Process Explorer-style) of the up/down bandwidth. [more inside]
posted by griphus at 11:51 PM PST - 5 comments

Awake enough to like the song, too sleepy to remember the words.

Help me figure out the name of a song I just heard on NPR... [more inside]
posted by arianell at 11:03 PM PST - 7 comments

How do I figure things out?

I need some advice/encouragement/something. Am I really burning out at age 21? Big, melodramatic details follow. [more inside]
posted by ThomThomThomThom at 10:10 PM PST - 18 comments

Entering the field of sleep/dream research

My friend is interested in a career in sleep/dream research, but isn't sure where to start. [more inside]
posted by historybuff at 9:48 PM PST - 8 comments

Office 2007: Why is the interface distorted?

Office 2007 (Professional Plus) filter: Why are the Ribbon and other program icons/interface disproportionately stretched? [more inside]
posted by fourstar at 9:18 PM PST - 2 comments

How to record phonecalls.

How can I record phonecalls taking place on my cell phone? [more inside]
posted by catatethebird at 9:13 PM PST - 14 comments

Rules of High Jump.

Did the rules governing the high jump change because of what gymnasts were able to do? [more inside]
posted by Tube at 9:12 PM PST - 9 comments

crazy people go to prison?

can a paranoid schizophrenic be put in prison for having an attack in a bank and tearing up the place? No one was injured, but I did destroy many tables, chairs and television sets before I was detained. I was having both auditory and visual hallucinations.
posted by DillonArt at 8:53 PM PST - 24 comments

Where can we learn to make cheese near Chicago?

Where should we go for a long weekend within a few hours of Chicago to learn the art of cheesemaking?
posted by melodykramer at 8:38 PM PST - 7 comments

Should I refinance my auto loan

Is it worth refinancing my auto loan since the Fed made a cut? My current interest rate is 3.90%, can I do better than that, and if so, where?
posted by mgrimm at 8:07 PM PST - 12 comments

Installing perl in a user folder

Does anyone have any experience with or tips on installing Perl without root privileges? [more inside]
posted by Ritchie at 7:37 PM PST - 9 comments

A word for the emotion you don't feel?

Is there a word for: expecting to feel grief or ache of conscience and then not feeling it? [more inside]
posted by coizero at 7:36 PM PST - 22 comments

crate?

my room mate just got a dog and wants to pick up a crate. She has a few questions .... [more inside]
posted by nihlton at 7:15 PM PST - 23 comments

flash picture viewer

I need to make a presentation of some photos. I use a MacBook pro. I need some sort of Flash picture viewer, something slicker than iPhoto. It doesnt have to be for online, just something i can show people on the laptop. I have tried downloading Simple Viewer, and for the life of me can't get it to work. Is there something easier, with just a drag and drop your jpegs into a box style thing?
posted by cascando at 7:08 PM PST - 6 comments

Help me put wireless in my xubuntu

How do I get my linksys wireless USB stick (model: wusb54gc) working with linux (xubuntu)? [more inside]
posted by andoatnp at 6:28 PM PST - 4 comments

Help me find baroque-rock music!

I enjoy the old Japanese goth band Malice Mizer, mostly the stuff from later in their career. I can take or leave their fancy outfits, but I like the musical style - this is a prime example: ( youtube video ) What other bands play music that is similarly 'cathedral rock'?
posted by thedaniel at 6:04 PM PST - 10 comments

Help me look good in a newspaper photo.

Help me look good in a photo accompanying a news story. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:54 PM PST - 15 comments

medical history

is there any way to know for sure if i was pregnant/miscarried several years ago? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:54 PM PST - 8 comments

Why is my skin 41 going on 14?

Why am I, in my 40's, suddenly breaking out like a teenager? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:54 PM PST - 10 comments

Can you help me find some Warmbats?

Does anyone know where I can find a pair of Warmbat Gecko Grip Tall boots in New York City. Further explanation inside... [more inside]
posted by plep at 5:54 PM PST - 1 comment

Chemistry Peeps: Help my distillation please.

I'm doing research in prep for some small batch distillation of corn liquor/moonshine. (For educational purposes only.) Very specific question inside. [more inside]
posted by snsranch at 5:52 PM PST - 28 comments

How to give others access to a folder on my computer?

What's the easiest way for me to host files for friends to download directly off my computer? I'm running Ubuntu 7.10. [more inside]
posted by spikeleemajortomdickandharryconnickjrmints at 5:47 PM PST - 29 comments

Easiest pet fish?

I want to get a small aquarium. What are the types of fish that are the cheapest and easiest -- read: low maintenance -- to take care of in terms of feeding, changing the water, etc, but at the same time, are pretty to look at? Any additional advice on tanks/filters is welcome too.
posted by bondgirl53001 at 5:02 PM PST - 23 comments

Adoption by 2011, will I be ready in time?

I would like to begin the three year long process to adopt a child internationally. I am located in the state of Illinois. What kind of requirements will I need to fulfill through the homestudy? [more inside]
posted by aetg at 5:00 PM PST - 14 comments

Touch into iPhone via Crackberry

How can I use the data connection for my Blackberry Curve on my iPod Touch? [more inside]
posted by TrashyRambo at 4:57 PM PST - 7 comments

Is your name Michael Diamond?

How do I get creditors to stop calling me by mistake? [more inside]
posted by Nathanial Hörnblowér at 4:56 PM PST - 9 comments

Christmas come late

What laptop should I buy for $2K? What should it come with? [more inside]
posted by barrakuda at 4:33 PM PST - 35 comments

Can I have my favorite sneakers repaired? How?

Should I/how do I repair my favorite Puma sneakers? They're black leather with black suede on the toes, sort of like cap toes, but right where the suede meets the rubber sole they've gotten quite worn. I guess I must scrape them on the sidewalk often, right in that spot. Otherwise they're in good shape, the only decent commuter shoes I have. I could afford it, but I hate to buy a new pair already, it seems like such a waste of resources to just keep buying new shoes. Is there a way I could get them fixed instead? (And if you know a place in the DC area, that'd help too!)
posted by citron at 4:16 PM PST - 3 comments

What should I roll over my pension plan into?

What should I do with the $5k I have sitting in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas pension plan now that I'm starting a new job with no retirement plan to roll it over into? [more inside]
posted by lychee at 4:14 PM PST - 8 comments

SQL/DBMS ninjas please help! How can I replicate my current abilities at a new company from scratch?

Some colleagues and I will soon be leaving our current employer and starting a new company. How can I best replicate our current relational database/SQL abilities from scratch? [more inside]
posted by raz5 at 4:13 PM PST - 11 comments

Identify this blotchy skin.

Blotchy skin. Is this familiar to anyone? [more inside]
posted by Neiltupper at 3:57 PM PST - 3 comments

You suggest this book/piece of software/item to everyone in your field, so suggest it here.

What are the websites, software, books, desks, tools and errata you find the most useful and efficient for your work, and why are they so much better than the competition? Brownie points if they're good for students, and are free--but hey, list them all. [more inside]
posted by flibbertigibbet at 3:53 PM PST - 18 comments

Utah travel question

Where should we stay if we want to hit as many as possible national parks in Utah? [more inside]
posted by kingfish at 3:44 PM PST - 11 comments

health effects of low frequency sound

What are some reputable resources on the deleterious health effects of low frequency sound / vibration? [more inside]
posted by fleetmouse at 3:32 PM PST - 2 comments

Swim pool railing

Please link me to a picture of a hip and cool swimming pool railing.
posted by wallstreet1929 at 3:23 PM PST - 3 comments

...other than Auld Lang Syne...

I'm looking for those songs that, when they come on, everyone in the room starts singing along to...for inspiration, think the Tiny Dancer scene in "Almost Famous"...
posted by Ziggurat at 3:18 PM PST - 96 comments

SNL 1978

Where can I find an online video or audio clip of Steve Martin's monologue where he talks about "You can be a millionaire!"
posted by plexi at 2:50 PM PST - 2 comments

I'm no astronaut.

How can I give my girlfriend an engagement ring with a stone made of moon rock? [more inside]
posted by ben242 at 2:47 PM PST - 20 comments

How do you change a school?

Can you turn a bad school into a good school? [more inside]
posted by acoutu at 2:41 PM PST - 5 comments

Cool fat girl clothes in Capetown?

Can you recommend a plus-size clothing store in Capetown? [more inside]
posted by hot soup girl at 2:37 PM PST - 7 comments

Necessity of ® and ™ symbols?

Is it necessary to include ® or ™ symbols on every instance of a logo or brand name? [more inside]
posted by andreux at 2:27 PM PST - 6 comments

"Ratatouille" signage - English or French?

When I saw Ratatouille in theatres, I'm fairly certain that all the printed text in the film was in English. But watching my (Canadian, FWIW) DVD the other night everything was now in French. Is my mind playing tricks, or did Pixar alter the movie while I wasn't looking?
posted by Monster_Zero at 2:26 PM PST - 14 comments

Sprint smartphone with WiFi, Skype?

GadgetFilter: Searching for a smartphone that does WiFi and can run Skype Mobile, preferably for Sprint. Anybody tried this? [more inside]
posted by rouftop at 2:07 PM PST - 7 comments

Fever at night, but morning's alright

When I'm battling an infection/virus for a few days, my body temperature climbs as the sun goes down. My village elders tell me this is normal. Why do fevers get worse after sundown, but subside in the morning?
posted by Mozai at 2:05 PM PST - 8 comments

ArchiCAD 9 on OS X 10.5?

Has anyone extensively used ArchiCAD 9 on Mac OS X 10.5? I'd like to upgrade to Leopard from Panther if I can be sure it will work fine, and I'd rather not have to upgrade to ArchiCAD 11.
posted by Prince Nez at 2:04 PM PST - 0 comments

How do you avoid staring at cleavage?

How do you avoid looking down cleavage? [more inside]
posted by long haired lover from liverpool at 2:02 PM PST - 102 comments

Welcome to our website. Our hours of operation are 2:00pm to 2:05pm.

In the movie Paprika by Satoshi Kon one of the tropes was a website that would show specific content at a specific time. While I'm sure this is possible, is it easily implementable? Better yet, is there an downloadable script or somesuch that I can use on my website? Can a page be time-locked?
posted by lekvar at 1:35 PM PST - 15 comments

To question is human; to declare, divine

"How do we get to Jupiter? And do it cheaply..." [more inside]
posted by Terminal Verbosity at 1:35 PM PST - 17 comments

Looking for a wonderful short break near Bath, UK..

Can anyone help me find a wonderful short break near Bath, UK? [more inside]
posted by sann1657 at 1:31 PM PST - 5 comments

Online sharable address book?

I'm looking for an online, free address book that my partner and I can share -- so we should both/each be able to log in to access it, rather than it being linked to just one person's email address. Bonus if it provides a good way to handle address-book entries for, say, a married couple (i.e., two people in one entry), and bonus if the user can choose/configure which fields any given entry contains. Must be usable on a Mac, preferably w/ Safari.
posted by barefoot at 1:21 PM PST - 11 comments

Karting for old folks

Getting started in go-kart racing at an old (for the sport) age. Where to start? [more inside]
posted by machaus at 1:20 PM PST - 2 comments

Novice Travel Photography Crash Course

Novice Travel photography. I'm just learning how to use my fancy new SLR that wife purchased for, among other things, our big three week trip to Italy coming up soon. I've been before; wife has not. So having seen the things we are going to see, I want to make memorable pictures to have while she soaks things in. SO the questions is: what skills, techniques or tricks should I learn and practice with and what traveling issues should I be aware of with my camera and camera bag? (Italy advice also welcome.) [more inside]
posted by dios at 1:08 PM PST - 21 comments

state ID without proof of address?

Is it true that when I get a NY state non-driver ID card, they won't ask me to prove my street address? According to the DMV's list, my passport plus my social security card are enough to get me a state ID. Neither of those two things shows a street address (and I have no proof of my address, and I've never had a driver's license or non-driver ID). Does this mean I could just write my address (or for that matter, any NY state address!) on the form at the DMV?
posted by sparrows at 12:36 PM PST - 12 comments

I need corduroy!

Where can I find wide-wale corduroy pants to fit leggy thin me? [more inside]
posted by that girl at 12:27 PM PST - 8 comments

Building a URL with a Form via JavaScript?

Anyone have a JavaScript trick to create a web form that builds a URL to send users to a pre-populated search? [more inside]
posted by pzarquon at 12:09 PM PST - 6 comments

Emo movies?

Suggestions for movies, TV, or visual media that feels like a Dashboard Confessional song sounds? [more inside]
posted by squarefrink at 11:42 AM PST - 19 comments

Quicktime to high-res WMV conversion

I need to transcode QuickTime files for Windows Media Pplayer that works on both XP and Vista. I know macs like the back of my hand, but SQUAT about windows. [more inside]
posted by captainscared at 11:38 AM PST - 3 comments

How to file for unemployment benefits for temporary layoff

How can my husband collect unemployment benefits for temporary layoffs, in Illinois? [more inside]
posted by Joleta at 11:31 AM PST - 7 comments

It's hard out here for a temp.

I’ve been at my current job – as a temp – for over a year. I want and need a more permanent job, but I’m concerned that my temp status might look bad to prospective employers. [more inside]
posted by Metroid Baby at 11:22 AM PST - 20 comments

Home Mechanics

Where can I find a site dedicated to modern or classic home mechanisms... [more inside]
posted by matthelm at 10:53 AM PST - 9 comments

How do I find a star-for-hire in London?

How do I find a list of publicists for stars of the theatrical stage or screen? Basically, I can be a hero if I can find celebrities currently in London, England recognizable to a Canadian audience. We need to hire them for a charming bit on our show... but the ones on our short list have not turned out. Therefore, I am now looking to get in touch with an appropriate publicist who has LOTS of clients and who can make suggestions as to who we should use, and then give them to us. [more inside]
posted by Elle Vator at 10:52 AM PST - 6 comments

Milblogging the Election

Are there deployed soldiers blogging about the US elections? [more inside]
posted by k8lin at 10:46 AM PST - 4 comments

Gross Anatomy for the Layperson?

I want to learn gross anatomy. Help me find a cadaver. [more inside]
posted by minervous at 10:28 AM PST - 14 comments

Video about Asian fermented foods

Where to find an on-demand Korean Air video about Asian fermented foods? [more inside]
posted by pravit at 10:15 AM PST - 6 comments

Help a cheapskate pick a cell phone model and plan.

We've all basically acknowledged that Canadian cell/mobile industry players are wankers and price themselves waaay too high for what we get. So until they get their act together I'm going to be cheap on my next purchase/plan. [more inside]
posted by iTristan at 9:57 AM PST - 13 comments

Flash or HTML running locally with a socket connection?

I want to write a Flash or HTML Telnet client that would run locally in Windows. Is this possible? [more inside]
posted by ducksauce at 9:42 AM PST - 6 comments

Looking for a font for two mailing industry Barcodes...

Anyone know where one could find a free-to-use font for POSTNET barcodes and the new Intelligent Mail Barcodes? I can do my own encoding, but my supervisor wants the fonts installed for Microsoft Word. Any help is much appricated. :)
posted by TrueVox at 9:30 AM PST - 0 comments

Suppressing last.fm client in other Vista accounts

I share a Vista machine with my wife, and I use the last.fm client in my account. My wife isn't a last.fm user, but the client keeps popping up in her account and prompting her to sign up. How can I suppress this? The last.fm forums, strangely, are no help.
posted by futility closet at 9:26 AM PST - 5 comments

Unique gift for Poppa

Giftfilter: please help me blow my sister's gift out of the water! [more inside]
posted by Brocktoon at 9:14 AM PST - 8 comments

What GPS unti lets me add contacts from a PC?

Help me find a standalone user friendly GPS unit that can have addresses or contacts loaded from a computer. [more inside]
posted by imjosh at 9:02 AM PST - 3 comments

Good DC-area mechanic?

Anyone have recommendations for a good mechanic in the DC/MD suburbs area? [more inside]
posted by averyoldworld at 8:56 AM PST - 14 comments

What makes a good classical recording?

What makes a good classical musical recording? [more inside]
posted by deeper red at 8:42 AM PST - 11 comments

URLs with ampersands (&) screwing up my website database calls.

URLs with ampersands (&) screwing up my website database calls. [more inside]
posted by arrowhead at 8:38 AM PST - 7 comments

How to choose a real estate agent after interviewing several?

Help me choose between realtors to sell a condo.

We have about six months to sell our condo, and have interviewed three real estate agents. All have experience in the area and a good sales record, all market with detailed listings on the main sites, but have somewhat different approaches. How do I decide? [more inside]
posted by Mr Bunnsy at 8:28 AM PST - 20 comments

How strong of a coffee can I make?

CoffeeFilter: Will recycling coffee through my coffee maker create a Super Coffee? [more inside]
posted by ian1977 at 7:50 AM PST - 44 comments

In investing, what is a structured note and what is it good for

Can you explain Structured Notes to me? Somebody suggested these as an investment vehicle that minimizes risk while magnifying the potential for gain. That's the kind of talk that makes my BS meter go off, and searching online produces a bunch of investo-speak that's probably clear if your a finance person but seems designed to muddy the waters of understanding for everybody else. Using non technical language, can you tell me what they are, what/who they're good for and what/who they are wrong for?
posted by willnot at 7:37 AM PST - 4 comments

Since the weekend, everytime I swallow I get an intense pain in my esophagus. What's that about?

Since the weekend, everytime I swallow I get an intense pain in my esophagus. What's that about? [more inside]
posted by misanthropicsarah at 7:37 AM PST - 20 comments

Help me get OSX and Debian (under VMWare) playing nicely together for web development

Trying to set up a development environment on my Macbook (running latest Leopard). I have VMware fusion running Debian etch, set up perfectly with the requisite LAMP stack. The problem is, I'd like to have Debian's /var/www/ available to OSX for actual editing. I've tried setting up NFS, but to no avail (though I'm admittedly novice at this sysadmin stuff). [more inside]
posted by inkedmn at 7:22 AM PST - 8 comments

Airline Woes: When should airline passengers expect compensation in the form of tickets or otherwise from an airline?

Airline Woes: When should airline passengers expect compensation in the form of tickets or otherwise from an airline? [more inside]
posted by boots77 at 7:11 AM PST - 20 comments

Help me with seasonal powerpoint backgrounds!

I need 4 backgrounds (ideally of the same scene) for powerpoint each depicting one of the four seasons. They are to be the backdrops for a skit where two people meet at a bus stop regularly to chat. AskMe, can you help?
posted by pinksoftsoap at 7:11 AM PST - 5 comments

how do you keep fingernails clean?

how do you keep fingernails clean? [more inside]
posted by krautland at 6:47 AM PST - 17 comments

"Double Vision" is not a good song

Please help me describe (diagnose?) my vision problem for the next ophthalmologist I see... [more inside]
posted by ohdeanna at 6:27 AM PST - 17 comments

Computer monitor turning off from 11:00 PM to 8:00 AM

Why does my computer monitor "go dark" between 11:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. each day? During that time, I've tried unplugging both the monitor and the computer and turning them back on. I've also tried moving the mouse, hitting keys on my keyboard, and pushing every button on the monitor. Restarting the computer (by unplugging it and plugging it back in) causes the computer to make noises like it's rebooting. But the monitor still stays black, as if it were in power save mode or something. Pushing the monitor's power button doesn't do anything except change the light on the monitor from yellow to green. It'll automatically turn itself back on around 8:00 the next morning. Frankly, I'm out of ideas here. Help? [more inside]
posted by gd779 at 6:01 AM PST - 13 comments

Why does a box fan scare my dog?

Why is my dog freaked out by my box fan? [more inside]
posted by dehowell at 5:39 AM PST - 5 comments

getting tea smell all over the place

What's the best way to get the smell of tea in the room or all over the House? [more inside]
posted by kall at 5:29 AM PST - 13 comments

Alternative (to Itunes) music transfer service for the Ipod Classic that doesn't suck?

Alternative (to Itunes) music transfer service for the Ipod Classic that doesn't suck? [more inside]
posted by mattholomew at 4:41 AM PST - 11 comments

How do I play DDR without upsetting the neighbors?

I'm in a second floor apartment with touchy neighbors. How do I play DDR more quietly? [more inside]
posted by ®@ at 3:47 AM PST - 18 comments

Recommend a brand worth researching

MeFites, please recommend a specific brand (a product or service, not a company) with easy access to key market information such as market size, market share and competitive scope. [more inside]
posted by JaySunSee at 3:43 AM PST - 10 comments

Historical revision filter

After watching BBC Horizon last night (a copy of the Prof. Hebb sensory depreivation experiments of the 60’s) a past thought came back to me. I am fascinated by double (and in the case of Agent Zigzag triple) agents – Philby, Burgess, Ames, Gordievsky…the list goes on and on. I recall reading George Blakes book ‘no other choice’ and remember being profoundly struck by the both psychological and physical torture he received for a period of three years during his captivity in Korea [more inside]
posted by numberstation at 3:35 AM PST - 1 comment

Will someone marry my keyboard?

I've just bought a Microsoft Wireless Entertainment Keyboard 7000, which comes with the matching mouse (8000). It works great with my Windows XP computer, as long as the computer is on. Once I switch the computer off and attempt to restart, the Bluetooth connection is lost and the computer won't start, citing the lack of a keyboard as the reason. Only by repeatedly fiddling and resynching can I get the computer started up. Can anyone suggest how I bond these three devices in permanent holy matrimony?
posted by skylar at 3:29 AM PST - 15 comments

How do I shop for a psychiatrist?

Is it appropriate to shop around for a psychiatrist? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 3:11 AM PST - 19 comments

Is a job in Education sheltered from the market?

I have just been offered a staff position at a large University of California campus. Given that my current job is with a small (employees<15) consulting company in the technology field, and given the current national (and global) economic situation; is a UC job more likely to be stable in the next 5 years when compared to one in a small tech company? Also, what's it like to work at a UC? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 3:11 AM PST - 16 comments

Best insurance in the Bay Area?

I'm a mid-20s male in the East Bay. I don't have health insurance, but am thinking about getting some. None is available through work. What are my best options? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 3:10 AM PST - 9 comments

Girl Seeks Traveling Companions

Best clothing for traveling in South East Asia in April and May? [more inside]
posted by liverbisque at 2:18 AM PST - 9 comments

Do I need to reregister for Alabama's Primaries?

I'm thinking about voting in the Alabama primary. This is something I've never done before. I'm already registered as a voter. I didn't vote in the last election but I did vote in the two (presidential elections) before that. According to UAB's Kaleidescope, I should register by January 25th. Is this the same registration as the last time I registered (for the general elections)? Should I register again? Should I just show up at my voting location? I haven't moved or anything. [more inside]
posted by robtf3 at 1:03 AM PST - 3 comments

a knock on the nobbin

What did doctors know about the brain in 1945? How would you describe brain injuries at that time? [more inside]
posted by stray at 12:21 AM PST - 9 comments

January 22

Laugh lines are not funny.

I'd like your real-life testimonials for wrinkle treatments that actually work. Bonus points if your skin is brownish. [more inside]
posted by pseudostrabismus at 10:51 PM PST - 14 comments

How did you get rich?

What did you do to change from poor to rich? [more inside]
posted by markovich at 10:39 PM PST - 55 comments

Brain go sleep now?

The back of my head is getting pins and needles / partial numbness like it is 'falling asleep' from the blood circulation being cut off. Does that mean the blood circulation is going to get cut off to my brain also? [more inside]
posted by GleepGlop at 10:38 PM PST - 11 comments

spiderman spiderman

Just tonight, I saw this spider in front of my neighbors apartment. it didn't move, and I didn't want to make it move to be honest. Is that thing real? or am I terrified by a toy. I live in Connecticut if it helps to identify.
posted by caelumluna at 10:07 PM PST - 28 comments

How can I frame my check?

I just got a check from one of my personal heroes. Not a huge enough hero that I won't cash the check but how can I frame the photocopy I made? [more inside]
posted by stewiethegreat at 10:07 PM PST - 15 comments

Where to go in the Northwest for a wonderful anniversary?

What should we do and where should we go to make our 15th wedding anniversary one to remember? It's in early March, and we'd like to stay in the Pacific Northwest area. We plan to take a 3-day weekend, so a bit of a drive or short flight is in order. [more inside]
posted by TochterAusElysium at 10:03 PM PST - 13 comments

22 year old vegetarian convert needs help

I’ve been pondering becoming a vegetarian for quite sometime. This is more or less for ethical reasons but I suppose converting may also have an added health benefit. I’m in college and my diet is horrible. At 6 foot 180 pounds I’m not over weight, but I’m most certainly not very healthy with this type of diet. My current diet consists of mostly processed foods like hotdogs, chicken patties with fast food thrown into the mix 1-2 times a week. I’m ready for a change though and I’m looking for suggestions. [more inside]
posted by my_impermanence at 8:40 PM PST - 41 comments

Help make me angry

I need angry music to work out to. [more inside]
posted by heavenstobetsy at 8:25 PM PST - 63 comments

Mid twenties male with medical dilemma needs some collective advice.

I'm a male in my mid-twenties, active, and have been for the most part healthy. A few months ago I started getting some strange symptoms, and pain in one of my testicles. I was uninsured so I went to the doctor anonymously and paid cash. His thoughts were it was probably just a standard infection, and gave me some antibiotics and told me to come back if the pain persisted. Around that time I also went to an anonymous city clinic to see if it could be an STD and everything up until then checked out OK. There was a test *Syphilis that I hadn't called back on for results, I did so today and they said the test was negative as well, but there was "something else was going on".. Apparently, the second part of the Syphilis test showed them this. I also asked again about the STD related stuff and they said all that was fine. [more inside]
posted by debu at 8:15 PM PST - 29 comments

Herbal Tea PLZ

Recommend me some strong herbal tea? [more inside]
posted by melissam at 7:55 PM PST - 27 comments

I love This American Life, but it's too long!

I need some short podcasts to listen to at work and the gym [more inside]
posted by reenum at 7:31 PM PST - 20 comments

My lips or yours?

Can I kiss you? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:23 PM PST - 61 comments

And who the hell is Mike, anyway?

For the past five days, I've been getting the same nuisance phone call three to four times a day: Phone rings, I answer. Male says "Hello, could I speak with Mike please?" and the line goes dead before I can get a word in edgewise. Caller has a vaguely Scandinavian accent, with the same inflection every damn time. I suspect it's a recording. What the hell is going on? [more inside]
posted by YamwotIam at 7:09 PM PST - 15 comments

What are the legal ramifications for the crew members of A&E's Intervention?

What are the legal ramifications for the crew members (camerapeople, producers, etc.) of a show like Intervention when the "stars" do illegal things? [more inside]
posted by nitsuj at 6:33 PM PST - 16 comments

How can my dreams of being a baseball player come back?

I need help finding goals and dreams for my life [more inside]
posted by stedman15 at 6:29 PM PST - 20 comments

Help! Shin splints.

Help, I think I'm getting shin splints! [more inside]
posted by Autarky at 6:01 PM PST - 11 comments

I need to move, when should I go?

I have been planning to move out-of-state for the last few years, and the time is getting closer, I'm almost ready to do it. I am currently on a lease for 2 more months, and I am going to the new state this week to check things out, go on some job interviews, and meet with possible roommates. But their are some problems that are making things difficult to coordinate. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:50 PM PST - 8 comments

Is my male friend in an abusive relationship?

I'm worried that my male friend might be in some sort of abusive relationship. He's my best friend and seems to have been in a "spend all time with new GF and not call or visit friends" mode for 3 months, and we are all far past the teenage years. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:50 PM PST - 16 comments

MARCH: Where to in the lower 48?

Where would you visit in the lower 48 during the month of MARCH for a long weekend? Through an airline bungle, I have two tickets to use. The whole trip will be 4-5 days. What events, conferences, shows, etc. are going on in MARCH that you would love to travel for? Alternatively, we could just do great "get away" spot that doesn't cost a fortune. Take me off the beaten path, folks. Show me the way. Background re ticketholders: He is an Apple geek engineer with a Pruis, she is an art/history buff and foodie that works in the legal field. Both live in Northern California.
posted by ohjustsayso at 5:39 PM PST - 13 comments

Western Australia - Perth or Fremantle? What to do when I get there?

I'm going to Western Australia and am trying to decide whether to find a hotel in Perth, or in nearby Fremantle. I want to be close to the best restaurants and sightseeing spots and am looking for an area with some charm and character. Which is the better place to stay? Any tips on cool places to see, eat, etc.?
posted by soulbarn at 5:37 PM PST - 14 comments

Help me hear the difference

Software to ABX audio files (on a Mac)? [more inside]
posted by JulianDay at 5:12 PM PST - 2 comments

Any experience of a Zoom H4

I want to start doing my own recordings. Does anyone have any experience/information about a machine called Zoom H4? Its seems suspiciously cheap (here in Sweden) for what it proclaims to offer - 2 built-in condensor mikes, small and portable, fits in your hand, recording on 4 tracks, CD-quality sound, can run on batteries etc Is this what am looking for? Or are there some major drawbacks. This is a new area for me - so grateful for any feedback. [more inside]
posted by jan murray at 5:04 PM PST - 12 comments

ModFilter: nothing to do with xbox whatsoever

ModFilter: I've been dating a gal for under a month. She's great! Her birthday's this weekend. What do I get her here in Chicago? Hint: She's really into '60s mod culture. [more inside]
posted by HeroZero at 5:00 PM PST - 18 comments

Time to play the matching game!

I have an image that I believe came from the Internet. With the digital version of this image, can I search for it online? [more inside]
posted by DMan at 4:56 PM PST - 12 comments

Oh, Bloody Ell-Lay!

Where can one get inexpensive blood work-ups in Los Angeles. [more inside]
posted by goalyeehah at 4:46 PM PST - 1 comment

one signal bar, two signal bar. three signal bar, four?

i live two floors above the wireless router, and my powerbook can't get a strong enough signal. what's the most cost-effective solution? [more inside]
posted by twistofrhyme at 4:45 PM PST - 12 comments

Octothorpeia

Excel 2003 question -- why do some of my cells show ####### in the contents? [more inside]
posted by crapmatic at 3:45 PM PST - 27 comments

Where to find software developers looking for creative joy?

Help me find sites where I can meet up with other people interested in developing software for fun or for profit [more inside]
posted by brandnew at 3:41 PM PST - 4 comments

Alternatives to Hotspot Shield

My ISP (Pipex) seems to cripple torrents. When I use Hotspot Shield it seems to get around whatever they are doing and gives me reasonably consistently speedier downloads. But Hotspot Shield has a monthly usage allowance. Are there any alternatives?
posted by lemonfridge at 3:26 PM PST - 5 comments

Where can two granola dykes get hitched in CNY?

I'm seeking a wedding location in Central New York, the closer to Syracuse the better. Details beyond... [more inside]
posted by wg at 2:38 PM PST - 9 comments

Help me find the world that's "In a world..."

CuriosityFilter: We all know that movie trailers that begin "In a world..." became so common that those three words became an in-joke thanks to Don LaFontaine. I know many spoof movies (like the Scary Movie series) have spoof-type trailers that start out with the voiceover, "In a world...". How many trailers actually have used that voiceover snippet in the beginning un-ironically, and what is the most famous one? [more inside]
posted by Unicorn on the cob at 2:05 PM PST - 13 comments

Sawing boards sans garage

What set of power tools can I assemble that will allow me to build things out of wood and will store in a closet? [more inside]
posted by Foam Pants at 1:52 PM PST - 23 comments

Yosigo's minimalist photos - how does he do it?

Really loving the super-wide angle, minimalist photo compositions of yosigo (Jose Javier) on Flickr. How does he do it? [more inside]
posted by junesix at 1:47 PM PST - 17 comments

Visiting New Orleans to Volunteer

I think that I'm going to visit New Orleans in a few weeks to enjoy some nightlife and some culture, and also to get dirty, work hard, and help out in any way that I can. Specific questions about my plan inside. [more inside]
posted by TurkishGolds at 1:47 PM PST - 12 comments

Gettin' ready for gettin' canned ...

My employer wants to fire me, but I've got a little time. How do I land on my feet before I'm thrown to the street? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 1:31 PM PST - 17 comments

How do I prevent change in access to my computer with a new server?

My computer at work is being changed to a new server - I'm concerned about tracking of information and lack of access. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 1:30 PM PST - 8 comments

Help me not get screwed by adding my house to the rental market in San Francisco!

How do I rent my house in San Francisco? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 1:30 PM PST - 9 comments

Advise me regarding my expensive laptop purchase.

I'm going to buy a really expensive laptop, and I'm scared. I would love it if some experienced MeFi computer experts held my hand a little bit. [more inside]
posted by Meatbomb at 1:09 PM PST - 22 comments

Where can I get a good deal on a Mac Mini Superdrive?

The CD/DVD drive in this Mini is dead. What's the best place to buy a replacement Mac Mini optical drive? [more inside]
posted by GS1977 at 12:59 PM PST - 8 comments

Are there any terms for "atheism" or "irreligious" that aren't negative?

Are there any terms for "atheism" or "irreligious" that aren't negative? That is, don't mean that someone is "not a believer." It doesn't matter what language the terms are in or if they're archaic or coinages that never took root. [more inside]
posted by Kattullus at 12:58 PM PST - 46 comments

Please sir, can I have some more?

How many tons of CO2 should I be allowed to emit each year? [more inside]
posted by greytape at 12:45 PM PST - 7 comments

How to be a True Professional

What are the marks of a true professional? [more inside]
posted by PinkButterfly at 12:27 PM PST - 41 comments

Jewelry

Where to get jewelry appraised in NYC? [more inside]
posted by octomato at 12:18 PM PST - 2 comments

How can I get the data off of these iOmega zip disks?

I just found a bunch of iOmega zip drive disks (the 100 meg kind) in a closet as I was cleaning it out. Obviously nobody has those drives anymore... is there a cheap, easy way to get that back, or should I just throw them out?
posted by BuddhaInABucket at 11:58 AM PST - 16 comments

Blood, guts and literacy.

What should I read after Jack Ketchum? [more inside]
posted by Bookhouse at 11:53 AM PST - 7 comments

Ohhh. Made in Britain! [/moss]

Recommend me some British comedy, please. [more inside]
posted by jtron at 11:40 AM PST - 86 comments

What's the startup community like in Korea and Japan?

What's the startup community like in Korea and Japan? I'm sorta wondering how I can find out how many small businesses there are (and what kind of moolah funds them) in Korea and Japan.. but just the ones that are sorta "Web2.0" or have a mostly online business. Any ideas? Are there government resources that track private companies and categorize them that way? Thanks in advance!
posted by mhh5 at 11:38 AM PST - 12 comments

to pitch or be pitched?

Is it better publicity to write an article, or to be a quoted expert in someone else's article? [more inside]
posted by arielmeadow at 11:36 AM PST - 13 comments

American citizen getting married abroad

We want to get married in Gibraltar. Among the documents we have to present to the registry office is a Certificate of Non Impediment which, from what we've googled, isn't a standard US document and is a requirement to get married in most European countries. Where can the future Mr. Dada, an American citizen, get one of these?
posted by lucia__is__dada at 11:26 AM PST - 11 comments

Preventive Medicine

Why don't insurance companies cover or help cover gym memberships? [more inside]
posted by MrMulan at 11:22 AM PST - 24 comments

Web Communities for Educators?

Web communities in conservative/educational climates: what are some good ones? [more inside]
posted by chinese_fashion at 11:10 AM PST - 3 comments

Is my landlord trying to screw me over?

[collegerenterfilter] My roommates and I were told that we were not eligible to renew our lease for next year. Can they take my security deposit? How will this effect my ability to get an apartment in the "real world?" [more inside]
posted by therumsgone at 11:04 AM PST - 8 comments

Should I Help Bail My Nearly Homeless Neighbor

My neighbor's husband is currently holed up at Riker's while his people are scraping bail money together... She's almost there and they both have asked me to cosign the bail bond or whatever it is... [more inside]
posted by eedele at 11:01 AM PST - 31 comments

Please help me find a temporary bike rack for my 1993 Saab 900 convertible.

Please help me find a bike rack for my 1993 Saab 900 convertible. [more inside]
posted by sequential at 11:00 AM PST - 6 comments

How can I get an "average" of several images?

How can I generate a "visual average" from a group of digital images?

A few years ago, I saw a BoingBoing post in which a guy had taken the pixel means of Playboy centerfolds for several decades. I'd like to use the same technique and am wondering if there's any off-the-shelf (preferably free) stuff that can do that.
posted by k7lim at 10:57 AM PST - 5 comments

Clothing/fashion analysis websites?

I enjoy watching What Not to Wear and find myself analyzing real people on the street through the lens' of Stacy and Clinton. Help me find a kindred website! [more inside]
posted by ml98tu at 10:39 AM PST - 14 comments

What to look for in a house share situation

Young (24) single female looking to sublet a room or share a house with strangers in a large US city. What things should I look for/insist on to maximize my chances of having a pleasant, safe, experience? [more inside]
posted by needs more cowbell at 10:22 AM PST - 12 comments

Safe pharmacies?

What are some safe online pharmacies to buy cheap generic drugs from? [more inside]
posted by anybirds at 10:14 AM PST - 11 comments

Plain backpack to carry MacBook

Need small-as-possible, simple backpack that will fit a MacBook. I love my little Eastpak bag (like this one) but it's not quite big enough. I want something that is super-plain in dark colours that is just big enough. It doesn't have to be padded or have a special laptop slot.
posted by maryrosecook at 10:05 AM PST - 6 comments

Need job. Need fun job.

[grownupfilter] What is the most unique job you've ever heard of - the one that made you say, "Damn, if I wasn't 5 years away from retiring, I'd TOTALLY do _________!" [more inside]
posted by damnjezebel at 10:05 AM PST - 70 comments

Can anyone recommend a great screen printer in the Kansas City metro area?

Can anyone recommend a great screen printer in the Kansas City metro area? (Lawrence is probably too far, but not out of the question.) Looking to do several small, high-quality, runs of 50 to 100 shirts. Willing to pay for great service and product.
posted by wmeredith at 10:02 AM PST - 5 comments

Crunches + Cardio. What more?

Are crunches and cardio three times a week going to get rid of undesired excess fat? And how soon can I expect results? [more inside]
posted by Phire at 9:58 AM PST - 29 comments

International Mail Forwarding Rec pls

Need a US mailing service that will forward my mail to South America [more inside]
posted by lapsang at 9:51 AM PST - 7 comments

Is my biological clock attached to a sex bomb?

One often hears about the mid-thirties "sexual peak" for women. I have some questions about that. [more inside]
posted by Ambrosia Voyeur at 9:37 AM PST - 23 comments

Video podcasts are supposed to be easy for everyone

I'd like a Flash video player of my video podcast on the web site, and a high-quality (960x540 should work) video file in the podcast feed. I'm currently using WordPress and PodPress to manage the feed and video. But I can see why some people who don't want to install QuickTime might not be able to see the show. [more inside]
posted by bryanjbusch at 9:35 AM PST - 1 comment

Help me get smart about smartphones

I'm looking to make the switch from a cell phone and PDA to a smartphone. You are not my personal IT department, but I'd love to hear your recommendations anyway. [more inside]
posted by shallowcenter at 9:17 AM PST - 29 comments

[CSS/Javascript] How do I create full page overlay ad that covers the page when user first enter (similar to news.com)?

How do I create full page overlay ad that covers the page when user first enter (similar to news.com)?
posted by parttimeninja at 9:08 AM PST - 5 comments

Blah, blah, blah: Help me find a website chat combined with internal chat software.

I'm looking for a web chat for visitors to my company's website... [more inside]
posted by chrisfromthelc at 8:50 AM PST - 8 comments

Can i read CSC (offline files)?

Can I crack the offline files windows creates in the winnt\csc folder? [more inside]
posted by daveyt at 8:46 AM PST - 3 comments

Relief for my dying Pug

My 13 year old pug has congestive heart failure, she's on Lasix and over the last few days her back legs have started to tremble very badly. [more inside]
posted by yodelingisfun at 8:39 AM PST - 7 comments

Stainless in DC

Where in the DC area would I get a custom-shaped piece of stainless steel for a kitchen countertop? [more inside]
posted by RandlePatrickMcMurphy at 8:20 AM PST - 2 comments

How to replace my Palm Tungsten E charger today?

I have lost the charger for my Palm Tungsten E. I know I can buy a replacement online, but I need to use my Palm quickly and don't want to wait for something to be shipped if I can avoid it. Most stores don't seem to stock the charger for the E, since it's an older model. My question: will the charger from any other Palm/Treo/Handspring model work with my PDA, and if so, what stores (in the greater Atlanta area) are likely to carry it?
posted by oblique red at 8:15 AM PST - 5 comments

Credit card cancellation consequences?

Posting for a friend: My friend was bad about paying bills on time for a credit card over a long period of time (multiple years). It's one of the major blemishes on their credit score right now and the issuer has just decided to cancel their card. The question is, how much will the issuer canceling the credit card be on my friend's credit score, and what can they do? [more inside]
posted by Eldritch at 8:14 AM PST - 4 comments

How do hotels get their artwork and how does an artist get his/her artwork into hotels?

How do hotels get their artwork and how does an artist get his/her artwork into hotels? [more inside]
posted by allelopath at 8:13 AM PST - 7 comments

Why can't my computer connect to the internet reliably?

I'm having an intermittent problem connecting to the internet, and the problem appears to be narrowed down to one computer, as others on the network are not affected. I say intermittent because if I click links or enter a url enough times, it eventually connects. [more inside]
posted by entropic at 7:56 AM PST - 13 comments

What's a Junior, when not a suffix?

When John Smith, Jr. has to fill out a form that has separate boxes for first name, middle name, and surname - and no box for suffix - where does the "Jr" go?
posted by Xere at 7:12 AM PST - 21 comments

Where to find radiator covers?

Looking for floor type radiator heat covers. Where can I find them? [more inside]
posted by fox_terrier_guy at 7:10 AM PST - 3 comments

Should I vote in the primary at home or abroad?

I currently live overseas but am registered to vote in Texas. If I want to help Obama's campaign the most, should I vote in the 4 March Texas primary, or the 12 February Democrats Abroad primary?
posted by grouse at 6:09 AM PST - 12 comments

hotairballoon not eco/green

Hot Air Balloons - Not Eco, Not Green - I find them noisy and a waste of gas - am I alone? has anyone got the science? [more inside]
posted by priorpark17 at 6:00 AM PST - 12 comments

The vault of imaginary movies?

Did I imagine that reference? Cloverfield got me thinking. Someone somewhere perhaps mentioned to me many years ago another "fake visual document" movie, this one involving a tv crew, a lake, a monster (or just a vague mystery?), and it might have been shot in black and white (perhaps to fake olden times?). Treat all preceding details as suspect, but feel free to go wild giving it a go. [more inside]
posted by Iosephus at 5:06 AM PST - 9 comments

Pat-Smoking

Pot-smoking etiquette: when someone smokes you out, how long are you obligated to hang out with them? [more inside]
posted by Christ, what an asshole at 4:12 AM PST - 22 comments

Need fake beans, need hot, fake beans.

Beans! I want to make a microwavable beanbag, something that I can nuke for 30 seconds or so and wrap warm around my neck - but I don't want to use beans. [more inside]
posted by roygbv at 1:02 AM PST - 28 comments

The tip of the tongue, taking a trip to the foreignerland.

I am in a search of a program that will help me memorize words... [more inside]
posted by GrooveStix at 12:51 AM PST - 14 comments

They are called Perfectly Normal Beasts because otherwise this would seem a bit odd.

Is the migration of the Perfectly Normal Beasts based on a real world occurrence?
posted by sushiwiththejury at 12:31 AM PST - 6 comments

January 21

Can I show you my exquisite collection of etchings?

What's the origin of/meaning behind the idiom of inviting a lady to inspect one's collection of etchings as a (euphemized/veiled?) sexual proposition? [more inside]
posted by juv3nal at 11:24 PM PST - 15 comments

What is the practical difference between a spinning and 'regular' stationary exercise bike?

If you take away the typical circumstances of a spinning/indoor cycling class (energetic music/instructor) what is the actual practical difference between a spinning and a regular stationary bike? [more inside]
posted by dinkyday at 11:21 PM PST - 9 comments

Greenhouse gas emissions per kg of fossil fuel

Given that, say, 100kg of fossil fuel is used in the making of a certain consumer product, I am interested in knowing - roughly - how much greenhouse gas emissions this might produce. Anyone know off-hand? [more inside]
posted by PercussivePaul at 10:49 PM PST - 6 comments

What's the best way to prove ongoing transit for the purposes of Thai immigration for the least amount of money?

What's the best way to prove ongoing transit for the purposes of Thai immigration for the least amount of money?
posted by matkline at 10:47 PM PST - 13 comments

What's sliming my carpet?

There are wee slime trails on our carpet every morning. What's making them and how can I get rid of them (preferably without nasty chemicals...) [more inside]
posted by xz at 10:25 PM PST - 23 comments

What is this smelly fungus?

Can anyone help me identify a mysterious plant or fungus from my childhood? [more inside]
posted by robstercraw at 10:07 PM PST - 5 comments

Medic alert bracelets are the new black.

Help me find a medic alert bracelet that doesn't suck. [more inside]
posted by ncc1701d at 10:01 PM PST - 16 comments

What are the best Wii games for klutzes?

What are the best Wii games for klutzes? I'm looking for games that rely primarily on gross motor skills for kids and adults with limited fine motor ability, which are still fun to play. Big successes so far have been Wii Sports and Excite Truck. Notable failures are Cooking Mama and Raving Rabbids. Extra points for an E or E-10 rating. What games do your recommend?
posted by moof at 10:00 PM PST - 9 comments

Where could I learn glass blowing in Melbourne, Australia?

Is there anywhere I can learn glass blowing in Melbourne, Australia? [more inside]
posted by tomble at 9:51 PM PST - 3 comments

If I were a lawyer, I would do...what, exactly?

What exactly would one do as a lawyer with a background in international law (specifically human rights, refugees issues, things of that nature)? [more inside]
posted by naoko at 9:38 PM PST - 8 comments

How to ship furniture

How do you ship furniture? [more inside]
posted by logic vs love at 9:38 PM PST - 7 comments

College Tour Packages

Are there companies or agencies that arrange college tours packages for parents and teens. I'd especially like a tour where they separate parents and teens (for part of the tour/info session) and customize the college info for each group.
posted by sandra194 at 9:36 PM PST - 6 comments

Self-referentiality is so meta.

I'm writing a book that is heavily self-referential. How can I place markers in some other part of the document (ex: "For more information, refer to "Foo" on page "Bar") throughout the entire document and have that page Bar change as the information anchor moves around? I'm using Google Docs, but I'm willing to switch software if need be. Solution needs to be compatible with OSX.
posted by SpecialK at 9:34 PM PST - 10 comments

Personal Statement Woes

Applying for a university summer school program, which requires a personal statement of 150 words. What could I say with such few words? [more inside]
posted by tickingclock at 9:33 PM PST - 12 comments

love?

I don't love the person I am married to. What can I do? I like my spouse but I don't 'love'. Is it wrong for me to stay with that person?
posted by Kilovolt at 9:06 PM PST - 31 comments

deciding to be a parent with chronic illness

Having kids or not when you have chronic health issues: how did you decide and come to terms with it? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:49 PM PST - 12 comments

Adjunct Instructor, Lecturer, Professor...?

My contract said "Adjunct Professor." My faculty ID card said "Adjunct Instructor." My paycheck said "Lecture/Adjunct." I never cared since this was just a two-year, part-time gig and I had no further interest in academia... but I do need to call it something in my bio. I don't have a terminal degree, suggesting and the contract was wrong and the ID card was right. I emailed the department; they said they'd check but didn't email back (I'll ask again). This was at a large private university in the U.S. I have to finalize a bio tonight -- should I just say Adjunct Instructor?
posted by anonymous at 8:49 PM PST - 25 comments

Stop my sump pump pipe from creating a fountain of ice next to my house

How can I repair my sump pump drainage pipes so that they'll withstand sub-freezing temperatures? [more inside]
posted by saffry at 8:43 PM PST - 5 comments

Med School Interview

Medical School Interview (MMI Style) Tips? [more inside]
posted by Orange Pamplemousse at 8:35 PM PST - 1 comment

Density? I'm dense.

Is there a chemical explanation for the density of an element or is it simply an innate physical characteristic? [more inside]
posted by beta male at 8:28 PM PST - 14 comments

Long Lasting Gum - How?

What has changed chemically in the process of these "long lasting gums?" Before a piece of gum would be flavorful for like 10 minutes tops. Now, I can chew on these newer gums like an hour before they are not flavorful. What happened?
posted by bigmusic at 8:22 PM PST - 3 comments

SyncServ.exe problem

What is SyncService.exe? I have a real S--L--O--W computer on my hands, and I suspect the problem is SyncService.exe. I say this because I am running only my Firefox browser, nothing else, and my CPU usage is at a steady and consistent 100%. [more inside]
posted by lometogo at 8:21 PM PST - 14 comments

How can I find out why games are dying on my pc?

How to get clue why programs are dying (XP)? [more inside]
posted by girlbowler at 8:19 PM PST - 13 comments

How can I move to Spain for a couple of years?

I think I want to move to Spain for a couple of years to experience life in another country. But, as a US citizen, I don't know how I would go about supporting myself over there. Can I get a job there? Should I become a student? [more inside]
posted by inatizzy at 8:17 PM PST - 11 comments

Pay at the Pump

Can gas station attendants access my credit card number when I pay at the pump? Similarly, can any normal cashier/bagger/checker/etc. at a store with a self-swipe console charge my account after I have left? [more inside]
posted by pheideaux at 8:08 PM PST - 13 comments

Why is McEnroe stopping me from picking up iron?

DamnTennisElbowFilter... Ok, I have tennis elbow in my left elbow. Got a cortisone shot (ouch!) about 3 months ago, but it's back...just let my elbow pain, there is... [more inside]
posted by keep it tight at 7:35 PM PST - 6 comments

RAID-5 Array on a new motherboard?

Can a RAID-5 array created on one computer transfer to another computer, data intact? The kicker: different SATA controllers. [more inside]
posted by cameradv at 7:09 PM PST - 13 comments

Holy Blithering $#&! I'm standing on the #*!@ing moon

I want to share the truth of the Moon Landing with my friends... But the site is down. [more inside]
posted by johnstein at 7:00 PM PST - 7 comments

pass the lobster?

help me with an ongoing prank involving a large plastic lobster [more inside]
posted by genmonster at 6:50 PM PST - 38 comments

How to connect a Nintendo NES to a computer monitor?

I have an old school Nintendo NES that I would like to use with an LCD monitor. Is there an adapter for this or am I SOL? [more inside]
posted by whycurious at 6:35 PM PST - 11 comments

How long can I put off getting my wisdom teeth pulled without ruining my teeth?

How long can I put off getting my wisdom teeth pulled without ruining my teeth? [more inside]
posted by whoaali at 6:22 PM PST - 38 comments

Need to help my 9 year old daughter make a toy using two simple machines.

Any ideas for a toy that is made out of two simple machines? [more inside]
posted by burhan at 6:18 PM PST - 8 comments

LJ 2100 to a 3500 - is there another way ?

Going from a LaserJet 2100 to a LaserJet 3500 has been disappointing - does that surprise LJ owners out there ? What should I do instead ? [more inside]
posted by southof40 at 5:58 PM PST - 8 comments

Estne volumen in toga, an solum tibi libet me videre?

If someone is French Algerian, can they call themselves "Latin?" [more inside]
posted by miss lynnster at 5:47 PM PST - 25 comments

Indie rock travel in the southwest...good guides?

Looking for good online or printed travel guides featuring local indie rock venues in the American Southwest...any recommendations? Should I write one? [more inside]
posted by octavia at 5:44 PM PST - 3 comments

Help me choose a cell phone (AT&T)

What cell phone should I buy? I have AT&T. I had a Blackberry Pearl, and it just broke. I have not been that happy with it, so am considering getting a new phone. Text messaging is the feature I use most, aside from the actual phone. [more inside]
posted by hazyspring at 5:33 PM PST - 13 comments

How to send the "Windows Key" over VNC from from Mac to PC?

How to send the "Windows Key" over VNC from from Mac to PC? [more inside]
posted by sockpup at 5:19 PM PST - 3 comments

i'll have the same as caesar

Is it possible to find wines similar in style to what the ancient Romans would have been drinking? Or were their vinification methods so crude that no one bothers trying?
posted by steinwald at 5:18 PM PST - 10 comments

are buses really safe without seatbelts?

Is it significantly safer to ride in buses without seat belts than in cars without seat belts? Conventional wisdom says yes (for example, many buses don't even have seat belts, presumably because it's safe enough without them) but is this perception accurate? Sources or statistics are appreciated but not strictly necessary.
posted by lgyre at 5:15 PM PST - 20 comments

How to say thank you to a musician

What thank you gift to present to an unwilling interviewee? [more inside]
posted by frosty_hut at 4:07 PM PST - 17 comments

Carbohydrate counts for specific wines? And which labels are lowest in carbs?

Carbohydrate counts for specific wines? And which labels are lowest in carbs? [more inside]
posted by mikeand1 at 4:02 PM PST - 1 comment

Tarot reading books?

What is the best book on tarot, and on doing tarot reading? [more inside]
posted by bubukaba at 3:29 PM PST - 20 comments

How do I sue someone in small claims court across state lines?

Despite my very best efforts, I got scammed on eBay. Now my only recourse is to sue someone who lives in Chicago, while I live in DC. I know YANML, but can people provide me with an idea of how difficult and expensive this might be? I would need to be able to subpoena information from a couple of companies. [more inside]
posted by procrastination at 3:17 PM PST - 17 comments

That Whole No-Contact Rule Thing

What is this whole no-contact rule for breakups and does it work? [more inside]
posted by idle at 3:12 PM PST - 26 comments

Kitty questions of a miscellaneous variety

A couple of kitty questions...about microchips, tail behavior, table scraps, bonito flakes, and catnip. [more inside]
posted by MeetMegan at 3:04 PM PST - 22 comments

Best discussion/debate sites

Which websites are the best at conducting vigorous, intelligent online debates and discussions? I'm especially looking for successful examples of collaborative filtering; sites where readers can quickly sort the best posts/arguments to the top of the heap. [more inside]
posted by grrarrgh00 at 2:43 PM PST - 4 comments

English for non-native kids

Please, i need links to useful web sites geared towards teaching English for pre-school kids.
posted by Yiba at 2:33 PM PST - 2 comments

Delivery in NYC for Valentines Day?

I would like to have something fun delivered to my SO at their office on V-Day. What sort of fun things could I get delivered in NYC? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:32 PM PST - 7 comments

I want to marry her, but at what cost?

My girlfriend and I have religious and cultural differences. How can our relationship work? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:30 PM PST - 48 comments

"You deserved better than that."

I have a date tonight with someone I blew off a long time ago. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:29 PM PST - 41 comments

Whatever you do, don't look at them on edge

What to do with a Rorschach ink blot set? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:27 PM PST - 22 comments

The cancer drug Sutent, and side effects?

I have a question about the cancer drug Sutent, and it's side effects, if anyone has any experience with it. [more inside]
posted by annieb at 2:10 PM PST - 5 comments

How does NPR's Road Trip work?

How does NPR's Road Trip application work? [more inside]
posted by schoolgirl report at 1:57 PM PST - 6 comments

Web remote control

Best web server/language for running remote tasks? [more inside]
posted by mphuie at 1:51 PM PST - 9 comments

Romantic (lacto-)vegetarian-friendly places in Manhattan on the UES?

I'm trying to book dinner reservations on Valentine's Day in Manhattan, as the really nice places are filling up fast. Suggestions for romantic (lacto-)vegetarian-friendly places on the UES? Budget of ~$100 per person, pre-tip. A restaurant with lots of mixed drink and cocktail options would be preferable. [more inside]
posted by NucleophilicAttack at 1:51 PM PST - 3 comments

Birthdate = legal signature?

We say, we don't owe it. They say, the birthdate equals a legal signature. Who's right? (more inside) [more inside]
posted by Jandasmo at 1:49 PM PST - 23 comments

Finding candy corn in February?

Is there anywhere online where I can order candy corn off-season? [more inside]
posted by dismas at 1:45 PM PST - 11 comments

Help me think up ways to soup up my tricycle riding experience.

Help me think up ways to soup up my tricycle riding experience. [more inside]
posted by actionpact at 1:34 PM PST - 28 comments

What's going on with the outside of my knee?

I have this recurring, temporary knee issue which happens and I'd like to know what it is and how to avoid it. [more inside]
posted by ktoad at 1:29 PM PST - 12 comments

Do allergens decay/die?

How long does an allergen remain allergenic? [more inside]
posted by philosophistry at 1:21 PM PST - 3 comments

IE6 css postioning bug

I am trying to get pure-css sidenotes to work, and have run up smack against a IE6 (but not 7) css-bug. [more inside]
posted by signal at 1:20 PM PST - 15 comments

Residuals for the working man

If Steve Guttenburg never, ever worked again, how much money would he earn yearly? [more inside]
posted by zerobyproxy at 1:09 PM PST - 21 comments

How to sync Palm and Google Calendar on Linux?

How can I sync my calendars with linux. [more inside]
posted by vilcxjo_BLANKA at 1:04 PM PST - 3 comments

Birthday gift from college

My brother is turning 10 next week and I'm at a loss for what to get him. He got all the stuff he wanted for Christmas and I want to give him some sort of experience. In the past I took him out to lunch and to the German import store to buy candy and just hung out with him for an afternoon. Problem is, this year I'm off at college in another state. What's something we can do together without actually being together? My budget is about $20.
posted by martinX's bellbottoms at 12:58 PM PST - 9 comments

Help me set my vodka free!

I bought a 750mL bottle of Vodka from Safeway. The cashier forgot to remove the black plastic security alarm topper from it. Boo! [more inside]
posted by iamkimiam at 12:25 PM PST - 29 comments

What are those newspaper holders called?

What are those french-cafe-looking newspaper holders called? You know, the kind that holds a newspaper in a stick that can then be hung on the rack?
posted by gilgamix at 12:14 PM PST - 7 comments

Reckless Birthday Fun: The Mad Hatter

Does anyone remember the mind-blowingly dangerous fly-by-night birthday event management company that brought us THE MAD HATTER parties in the mid-1980s? [more inside]
posted by CheeseburgerBrown at 12:10 PM PST - 5 comments

Play it again, Sam! Uh... Sam? Where'd Sam go?

Where would I look/advertise to find a improvisational keyboard player for an improv group in the Los Angeles area? [more inside]
posted by Shecky at 11:59 AM PST - 2 comments

Sharing MAc Screen with Linux

How do I change the resolution of my Macs desktop when sharing the screen and viewing on a linux machine using tightvnc? I am screen sharing my Mac Mini w/ leopard. I can log in and see the screen using TightVnc on a Linux machine. However, I can only get full resolution that is painfully slow over the Internet. The low quality options on the VNC viewer have no effect and I can't find anysettings on the Mac to lower the quality.
posted by nivekraz at 11:54 AM PST - 3 comments

China Study

Studying Traditional Chinese Medicine in China. [more inside]
posted by the cuban at 11:51 AM PST - 1 comment

That Goat Has Devil Eyes!

Goat is delicious. What are some other ways to cook it? [more inside]
posted by TheWhiteSkull at 11:12 AM PST - 23 comments

Specific, spoiler filled questions about the movie "Cloverfield

SPECIFIC, SPOILER FILLED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE MOVIE "Cloverfield". If you haven't seen it and don't want to know details, ignore this thread. [more inside]
posted by Brandon Blatcher at 11:09 AM PST - 40 comments

Kink in the neck. Pain in the neck.

Neck kinks: What are they? How can I get rid of them? [more inside]
posted by Weebot at 11:05 AM PST - 13 comments

USB ports stopped working - wtf?

I have a Dell laptop running XP (sp2) with two USB 2.0 ports that until yesterday were working fine. I made no system changes, but now the top one doesn't recognize anything and the bottom only works at USB1 speeds. Is this a hardware issue? [more inside]
posted by tirade at 11:00 AM PST - 5 comments

Getting WMP11 to play mp3 links immediately

Windows Media Player 9 used to begin playing an mp3 as soon as you clicked the link, so you didn't have to download the entire mp3 just to start hearing it. I can't seem to get WMP11 to do this - any ideas? [more inside]
posted by MarkLark at 10:44 AM PST - 4 comments

Where is RAM socket 1 on a Dell D820?

Where does RAM bank 1 (or A) live on a Dell Latitude D820? [more inside]
posted by mojohand at 10:37 AM PST - 7 comments

possible upgrades for an old computer

Potential upgrades to my aging desktop system- some advice from geeks would be greatly appreciated. [more inside]
posted by baphomet at 10:21 AM PST - 14 comments

Free the wherever-they-are 3!

Is there a legal defense fund for these kids?
posted by electroboy at 10:00 AM PST - 8 comments

What happens in Vegas Stays in Mexico?

What happens in Vegas, Stays In Mexico?? [more inside]
posted by MrTangent at 9:19 AM PST - 11 comments

XML to MYSQL

Is there a simple way to convert an XML feed into a MYSQL database? [more inside]
posted by alse at 9:19 AM PST - 6 comments

Eee PC?

Do I want an Asus Eee PC? [more inside]
posted by dersins at 9:16 AM PST - 22 comments

Fantastic fake science books and where to find them

I'm looking for recommendations for fake science books, or humoristic books in the style of a science book. Examples: the Haggis-on-Whey books, or J.K. Rowling's "Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them". [more inside]
posted by easternblot at 9:08 AM PST - 35 comments

A dependable movers in metro DC area?

I am looking for an efficient and dependable movers or load/unload helpers in Northern VA/Metro DC area. [more inside]
posted by notsogirliegal at 9:01 AM PST - 5 comments

Orangus Insectus?

Please help me find the name of the horrifying insect that scared me as a child. [more inside]
posted by proj08 at 8:52 AM PST - 13 comments

Where can I find a list of charities that do not advertise?

I'm looking for a list of charities that do not spend any of their budget on advertising. Is there a directory of them somewhere? I'm in the UK, but that's more of a starting off point; deserving non-advertising charities elsewhere, or lists of them, would be just as good. [more inside]
posted by fvw at 8:42 AM PST - 9 comments

Where does all the wood live?

Help me retain my sanity. Those of you who have a workshop in your house, please help me find a system. [more inside]
posted by stormygrey at 8:33 AM PST - 7 comments

Gymboree

What are some of your favorite and most creative exercises? I am looking for fun and effective things to mix up my routine. Stuff that will make the guy next to me say 'What the f*** is that?' Stuff like 'Wall Balls', 'Jumping Burpees', and 'Double-Unders'. Honestly I just like to mix it up to prevent boredom. I have already seen all the exercises on the CrossFit website. Extra points if it involves props like medicine balls and tires.
posted by kaizen at 8:21 AM PST - 7 comments

How often do you eat out and how much money do you spend on it?

How often/How much do you spend eating out, versus eating a home cooked meal? And what percentage of your net income do these categories end up being? [more inside]
posted by jujube at 8:21 AM PST - 38 comments

Is there anything I(we) can do for a terminally-ill co-worker?

A co-worker has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Treatments have stopped and Hospice is now involved. He is 61 years old and has been working at the company for 40 years. We are an engineering firm and most of the employees are kind of... well... not the type to try (self-start) and do something for our co-worker of his family. I was wondering if there was anything I could do and/or have the office do to help, comfort, etc Obviously sending 'get well' cards is out of the question. ... I just don't know what it is appropriate. Any ideas? Thanks.
posted by KogeLiz at 8:20 AM PST - 20 comments

An educated egg-dicator (for computers)

Mac OS X: External drive is dying, many corrupt files randomly strewn about it. What Mac utility can copy all the non-corrupt files to a new disk and provide a list of the files it couldn't copy? [more inside]
posted by Plug Dub In at 8:01 AM PST - 6 comments

Why blue and yellow?

Is there some significance to the colors blue and yellow in Peru? [more inside]
posted by sweetkid at 7:56 AM PST - 3 comments

Bargain Shopping!

I love Velvet Garden and have been stalking LJ sales communities for bargains. Where else can I find cheap but good thrift/second hand shopping sites online? (Doesn't have to be clothes.) [more inside]
posted by divabat at 7:46 AM PST - 3 comments

Finding an employment lawyer in London

Down to the wire: legal advisor to review UK employment contract [more inside]
posted by pengli at 7:45 AM PST - 2 comments

taxes in the UK

Can my wife claim my tuition as a tax credit in the UK? [more inside]
posted by arcadia at 7:37 AM PST - 2 comments

admin please hope me

Oh god please help. MacBook hard drive failure. Oh god. [more inside]
posted by lazaruslong at 7:19 AM PST - 28 comments

Assertiveness 101

Armchair psychologists and lifehackers: Please help me develop some basic assertiveness skills. [more inside]
posted by justonegirl at 7:17 AM PST - 24 comments

Is there a way to use a google calendar and outlook exchange without completely mixing the two and can they be synced differently on different computers?

Is there a way to use a google calendar and outlook exchange without completely mixing the two and can they be synced differently on different computers? [more inside]
posted by D Wiz at 7:12 AM PST - 6 comments

But it's the principle of the thing!

If you've been robbed, cheated, mistreated, or otherwise been a victim of injustice, how do you stop dwelling on it and get on with your life? [more inside]
posted by happyturtle at 7:03 AM PST - 28 comments

Is it safe to go to Kenya?

Should I go to Kenya next month? [more inside]
posted by KathyK at 6:55 AM PST - 13 comments

How to remove long hair on carpet?

How can I best remove long hair on carpet without breaking a vacuum cleaner? [more inside]
posted by icollectpurses at 6:29 AM PST - 20 comments

Baby shower gift for my boyfriend's sister? What does every first time mom want, but doesn't know it yet?

Baby shower gift for my boyfriend's sister? What does every first time mom want, but doesn't know it yet? [more inside]
posted by Carialle at 6:15 AM PST - 26 comments

Moving in London

Does anyone have any recommended movers for London? We are moving from Bloomsbury to St Johns Wood and have a studio apartment with some furniture to move. Any recommended packing services would also be good
posted by Mossy at 5:51 AM PST - 1 comment

How do I write a business proposal without coming across as a complete rube?

I've never had to orchestrate a business proposal before, any suggestions? [more inside]
posted by myodometer at 5:17 AM PST - 4 comments

Can't a child have a chance? (The best catchy headline I could find)

Gcompris on osx? [more inside]
posted by thedoctorpants at 5:09 AM PST - 4 comments

Should I buy a loft in Bridgeport, CT?

Should I buy a loft in a restored industrial building or the Columbia Records Tower in Bridgeport, CT? [more inside]
posted by rocketpup at 5:07 AM PST - 8 comments

What are the limits of couples on a break?

Should I give up getting back together with her? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:31 AM PST - 39 comments

Applescript MIA

My Macbook says my AppleScript version is outdated (1.1.0). How can this be? And how can I fix it/download an update? I know that I should at least have something like 1.10, but I'm guessing that it's bug. All roads travelled lead to release notes only.
posted by drea at 4:09 AM PST - 13 comments

resetting brain age 2 nintendo ds

Can someone tell me how to reset my nintendo ds game brain age 2?
posted by citybuddha at 2:41 AM PST - 3 comments

Great bars in Seattle

What bars can you recommend in Seattle? That will be open on Monday (Martin Luther King's day). [more inside]
posted by yt at 1:47 AM PST - 8 comments

What are good books on urban gangs?

What are some good books on gangs, gang activities, internal organization and structure? [more inside]
posted by MediaJunkie at 12:29 AM PST - 23 comments

Music to make Stations of the Cross by ...

Music to make Stations of the Cross by ... [more inside]
posted by ndaguiar at 12:05 AM PST - 14 comments

January 20

CELTA courses, Sydney

I want to do a CELTA course in Sydney, Australia this year. Anyone know 'The' place to do it at? I'm willing to wait a while if one provider is considered far superior to another. I've started researching, but I need some insider info so I can decide which Uni/College/Thingy is best for me.
posted by gerls at 11:11 PM PST - 3 comments

Would like Mac OS X versions of these Windows programs

Are there any OS X equivalents to Windows-only Volumouse and Keynote (the note-taking software, not the presentation program)? [more inside]
posted by estherbester at 10:52 PM PST - 6 comments

I can hear you typing...

Hi-tech key and datalogging: What crazy methods for remotely monitoring datastreams have you heard of? [more inside]
posted by disillusioned at 10:42 PM PST - 9 comments

Is living in a dirty house bad for children?

Sibling and sibling's spouse are living in squalor, and I think it's bad for their kids. Should I intervene? [more inside]
posted by red_lotus at 10:01 PM PST - 45 comments

Scary waffles

How do you know when sourdough starter goes bad? [more inside]
posted by umbú at 9:22 PM PST - 10 comments

Help for killing a mildew odor that I can't smell myself

How do I kill a mildew smell -behind- a sink? [more inside]
posted by The Giant Squid at 9:14 PM PST - 8 comments

Maximizing fellowship $ ethical?

Posting this ethics question on behalf for a friend: Friend has been offered two different fellowships and has to choose one. A is worth twice much as B. A good buddy is runner-up for A and does not have any other fellowship options. The buddy has offered to by my friend the difference if the friend takes B so the buddy can get A. So the end result is the friend would officially have fellowship B but cash from his buddy to give him the same as he would have gotten from A while buddy officially gets fellowship A with the net funding equal to B. Does this sound reasonable? ethical?
posted by metahawk at 9:14 PM PST - 31 comments

How do I get my Aperture Library into Lightroom?

How can I get my Aperture photo library exported into Lightroom? [more inside]
posted by BlackLeotardFront at 9:02 PM PST - 8 comments

How can I annotate and tag text within multiple documents, so that I can categorize and search through my annotations later?

How can I annotate and tag text within multiple documents, so that I can categorize and search through my annotations later? [more inside]
posted by lunchbox at 7:41 PM PST - 5 comments

iPhone Sync Help

iPhone Sync Help - I am helping move my wife to a new computer. She currently syncs her iPhone to the older XP computer. She wants to sync her iPhone on the new Vista computer. What is the best way to do this transition to ensure we do not lose her contacts and other non-music information?
posted by Argyle at 7:23 PM PST - 2 comments

Germy McGerm calling

At what point is an adult fever too high? [more inside]
posted by dancinglamb at 7:22 PM PST - 23 comments

wtf would you say wtf on a first date?

Am I a prude to be put off by cursing/swearing on a first date? [more inside]
posted by sherlockt at 7:11 PM PST - 93 comments

Need to keep the heat in and the cold out!

Does soundproofing material in a window also keep out the cold? [more inside]
posted by Melismata at 7:10 PM PST - 8 comments

How can I get all my research into one easy-to-use visual chart?

What is the best application (hopefully easy to learn) that will let me build an easy to create timeline of religions, myths, and cults, with the option to click on (or hover the mouse over) different highlighted words to show up more information? Or does anyone know where said timeline exists? [more inside]
posted by omnigut at 6:54 PM PST - 9 comments

Help me figure out if there's any way to claim a deceased family member's unclaimed property

Help me figure out if there's any way to claim a deceased family member's unclaimed property [more inside]
posted by mintchip at 6:22 PM PST - 8 comments

What's wrong with my brother?

I know this is not a medical board but 'just speaking in terms of human experience - my brotherr is 77, an ex-ultra marathoner, ex space shuttle designer now fallen on hard times, health-wise and emotionally. He sleeps all day, is up all night, has dizzy spells and is always angry and swears constantly at his wife. They lead a very isolated, survivalist existance. He hasn't been to the doctor in 20+ years and won't go now. He used to be a health food nut, ran in 50 marathons but had double knee replacement 10 years ago and 'never recovered, emotionally, in that he lost his old running lifestyle after the surgeries. Any ideas? He's also very forgetful. Thanks for any help.
posted by Tullyogallaghan at 6:14 PM PST - 14 comments

moving songs to hard drive

I'm trying to copy about 16,00 songs from the desktop of MacBook Pro to a new TrekStor 250 maxi x.u. GB hard drive. It does about 80 mb and then just stops (I can hear the drive sort of shut down). Then it becomes impossible to manipulate the icon. Any ideas? Is it a bum drive? Or are the songs protected in some way?
posted by dearleader at 6:08 PM PST - 11 comments

Any movies that deal with segregation in the southern United States?

Please name some movies that deal with segregation in the southern United States. [more inside]
posted by czechmate at 5:57 PM PST - 32 comments

In love with Slashfood, looking for alternative "food blogs".

In love with Slashfood, looking for alternative "food blogs". [more inside]
posted by Sufi at 5:46 PM PST - 21 comments

Where to stay for family vacation near Cancun?

Family vacation to Cancun area - where should we stay? [more inside]
posted by gottabefunky at 5:22 PM PST - 7 comments

Drug Use and Mental Illness Literature?

Does literature exist that describes a relationship between adolescent "hard" drug use and later development of mental illness? I am interested in peer-reviewed journal articles and reputable websites. [more inside]
posted by dendrite at 5:21 PM PST - 8 comments

Don't Smile 'Til Christmas

I'm going to be teaching less-than-enthusiastic students; help me keep their respect and attention. [more inside]
posted by AmbroseChapel at 5:05 PM PST - 18 comments

Which state am I a resident of? Where do I file my taxes?

I live in NH but still have a CT driver's license... due to a combination of supposed lack of need and laziness. [more inside]
posted by Jimmie at 4:49 PM PST - 9 comments

Need a PITBULL laywer north of San Fransisco please

My sister is in Petaluma CA and needs a divorce laywer...a classic legal pitbull would be best. [more inside]
posted by legotech at 4:36 PM PST - 6 comments

Driving is fun, for a while.

What's the best way to drive from Chicago to Seattle in February? [more inside]
posted by 517 at 4:24 PM PST - 13 comments

How can I make both the headline, and not just an entry, wrap around an image in a WordPress post?

How can I make both the headline, and not just an entry, wrap around an image in a WordPress post? [more inside]
posted by Unsomnambulist at 4:14 PM PST - 3 comments

Info about Berne Switzerland circa 1900?

I'm researching Berne, Switzerland, from approximately 1900 (although I could go as far back as 1880-90) to the First World War. I know that because of Switzerland's neutrality, a lot of international politics, diplomacy, activism and espionage was happening there. I have a few good general sources about Switzerland in about that era; a travel guide first published in 1919 by Frank Fox, John Addington Symonds' "Our Life in the Swiss Highlands," and I've just started tracking down information about the socialist International and the Berne International Women's Conference that took place in 1915. But I need to learn a lot more -- [more inside]
posted by ryansara at 4:05 PM PST - 3 comments

LibraryFilter

Is it usual for school librarians and teachers to have disagreements and conflicts over "appropriate" content and media in school libraries? [more inside]
posted by bad grammar at 4:00 PM PST - 12 comments

Why is orange such a popular marketing color?

Anybody know why bright orange is such a popular color when it comes to branding or advertising products?
posted by PostIronyIsNotaMyth at 3:25 PM PST - 24 comments

Stupidly Simple Recipe Management

What's a good, idiot-proof way for my mom to scan and manage her old recipes on her iMac? [more inside]
posted by SansPoint at 2:17 PM PST - 15 comments

Can a mini road trip be an awesome road trip?

On Friday, we're driving from San Francisco to Marshall for an oyster extravaganza at Nick's Cover. We're planning on leaving after lunch, so we'll have like five hours to do a 90 minute trip. What should we see or do to add a bit of road trip quality to the experience? [more inside]
posted by jaybeans at 2:02 PM PST - 5 comments

I am looking for programming information for Comcast Channel 36 (Public Access) in Bellflower, CA during March to June 2004 period.

I am looking for programming information for Comcast Channel 36 (Public Access) in Bellflower, CA during March to June 2004 period. [more inside]
posted by Mr_Crazyhorse at 12:15 PM PST - 5 comments

System recovery disk without a floppy drive

When doing a backup in Windows XP, how the heck do I create an "ASR recovery diskette" without a floppy drive? [more inside]
posted by sotalia at 11:49 AM PST - 12 comments

Can I seal furniture in plastic to prevent mold?

Is it possible to "seal" furniture in a plastic bag to protect it from mold while stored in a basement? Please help me protect my inheritance until I have a bigger house! [more inside]
posted by intermod at 11:44 AM PST - 15 comments

I want to have a garage sale. I lack a garage (or yard). Is there anywhere I could go to set up shop?

I'm cleaning out my Columbia, SC apartment and have a lot of stuff I'd like to sell. Is there a way to do a (non-online) "garage sale" without having a yard or garage? Would it be worth it to rent a stall at a local flea market? [more inside]
posted by zeph at 11:19 AM PST - 13 comments

Can this be fixed or is it better to move on?

My laptop either doesn't see the HDD on bootup (cannot find OS), or stops seeing it a few minutes into use (BSOD). Could this type of problem: a) be reasonably easily resolved by me for small amount of cash b) be easily resolved by a professional for a reasonable amount of cash c) be best resolved by selling it on ebay for parts or repair for a reaonably small amount of cash? [more inside]
posted by forallmankind at 11:10 AM PST - 3 comments

Finding a comedian by the joke

Trying to figure out which comedian came up with this joke about boo-ing. He has performed on Comedy Central, I think in his own special, but possibly on Premium Blend. [more inside]
posted by JamesJD at 10:53 AM PST - 9 comments

How to support tall bookcases without drilling into the wall?

I'm looking for any information on a method of support for tall furniture (bookcases, etc) that doesn't involve attaching it to the wall, but instead goes from the top of the furniture to the ceiling and fixes it in place without drilling. Anyone out there have any ideas? [more inside]
posted by muscatlove at 10:49 AM PST - 15 comments

Why won't this Xbox 360 stream media from this Windows XP SP2 machine?

I cannot stream media from my PC. The Xbox 360 will connect to Xbox Live, but will not pass the "Test Media" option. It always fails after successfully acquiring an IP address. This Xbox has successfully connected to streaming media before on another computer. The connection has been deleted from within the Xbox settings. [more inside]
posted by idledebonair at 10:34 AM PST - 8 comments

Exercises And Stretches To Do While Reading

Exercises And Stretches To Do While Reading? [more inside]
posted by chrisalbon at 10:22 AM PST - 14 comments

Help me sleep better at night.

Help me to sleep better at night. [more inside]
posted by dragontail at 10:06 AM PST - 30 comments

Doctorin' the house

Help my son get his Tardis on. I'm currently decorating my 7 year old sons bedroom, and he is a big Doctor Who fan. He has asked me for a giant (I guess 6 ft) tardis on one wall of his painted bedroom. My initial thought was to paint - but I don't have the requisite skills really, so I was looking for a Fathead / WallBangers equivalent. I'm not sure the custom option on WallBangers will allow me to use a copyright image. Do you have any other recommendations for giant Tardis resources? Or maybe a suggestion to get a large scale picture onto a bedroom wall - I'm in the UK if it makes a difference.
posted by mattr at 9:58 AM PST - 12 comments

Graduating from the Baby (Laptop) Monitor

How do I best ensure wedded bliss between my laptop and an external monitor? [more inside]
posted by Clyde Mnestra at 9:34 AM PST - 5 comments

What goods from the US should I sell in the UK?

I currently sell stuff (gun accessories, scopes, targets, etc) purchased wholesale in the US retail in the UK through Ebay. I want to expand the product line - what other items would be good to sell in the UK? Preferably something small to ship of high value that is not super competitive like computer parts or cameras. What would UK buyers like from the US?
posted by stbalbach at 9:16 AM PST - 13 comments

Coffee Drinks beyond the Basics

What are good espresso-based drinks beyond the typical lattes, cappuccinos, and mochas? [more inside]
posted by mccarty.tim at 8:53 AM PST - 28 comments

Just more subtle forms of consumerism?

How to find balance between consumerism and materialism, and taking care of needs and appreciate quality/craftsmanship/design? [more inside]
posted by Foci for Analysis at 8:53 AM PST - 25 comments

Anyone know the name of that mid 1990s Cracker instrumental guitar rave up jam?

Looking for an instrumental Cracker tune from about 10-12 years ago? [more inside]
posted by psmealey at 8:15 AM PST - 12 comments

Booting a USB flash drive without BIOS support

How do you boot via a USB flash drive using a floppy? [more inside]
posted by remi at 7:54 AM PST - 12 comments

What do I need to know to make a last-minute trip to Cadiz for Carnival and come out with my dignity, health, and belongings (mostly) intact?

Some friends and I are planning to spend a few days in Cadiz for Carnival. All the hostels and hotels are booked (and we're students so our budget is fairly tight to begin with), so we figured we'd just pack light and sleep on the beach. Any advice on how to do this comfortably, and without getting our stuff stolen while we're asleep? Should we plan on stowing our stuff in lockers at the train station? Should we bring costumes with us or get them there? Any scams, sketchy areas, etc. that we should watch out for? Any and all advice is welcome, we don't really know what to expect!
posted by slowcat at 7:29 AM PST - 8 comments

Did poor women wear corsets?

16th-18th Century (Western Europe): Did working-class women wear corsets? [more inside]
posted by grumblebee at 7:18 AM PST - 15 comments

Help a guy buy a swim suit.

I need suggestions for a men's swimsuit. I need the advice of the men and the women on this one. [more inside]
posted by Emperor SnooKloze at 7:07 AM PST - 31 comments

Creating a private wired network, but using a shared wireless Internet connection

Creating a private wired network, but using a shared wireless Internet connection [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:01 AM PST - 5 comments

Coping with balding at 19.

I'm losing my hair at 19 and I'm becoming an emotional wreck. A different person. How do I cope with this and become my old confident self again? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:59 AM PST - 57 comments

A Região Nordeste

I will be traveling throughout northeast Brazil for the next two months with this group. What books, movies and music should I read to better grasp the culture and political climate of this region? [more inside]
posted by quelindo at 6:11 AM PST - 12 comments

Moving to South Bend, Indiana

I am looking for a good area of South Bend, Indiana to live. I am moving for a new job (which I got thanks to mefi help!!) and am looking for apartments. I do not know the area whatsoever. I have around $700 a month to spend and need it to house two people. Any thoughts on locations and what areas to avoid? I know I can browse online but do not even know what are the better (safer) areas...
posted by snap_dragon at 5:27 AM PST - 4 comments

Japanese BBQ Sauce like at DOJO.

How can I make or buy "Japanese BBQ sauce" like they serve on the breakfast special at Dojo in NYC? [more inside]
posted by dirtdirt at 5:22 AM PST - 14 comments

Will 1/3rd of U.S. health care costs still go for resolution of adverse selection?

What U.S. presidential candidates have preferable positions on healthcare? [more inside]
posted by jeffburdges at 5:03 AM PST - 5 comments

Why do disks drive?

Can you explain the drive in disk drive? [more inside]
posted by unmake at 4:11 AM PST - 17 comments

Apartment Internet Access

What am I missing in my plan to take over the world network at the apartment building I live in? [more inside]
posted by yellowbkpk at 3:37 AM PST - 8 comments

Matrix engine into Scion xA?

I have an opportunity to purchase a Scion xA with a blown engine (blown as in "ruined", not supercharged) for a very reasonable price.(more inside) [more inside]
posted by motown missile at 3:24 AM PST - 19 comments

RAIDers of the nVidia Board

nvidia RAID: Can I just turn it off? [more inside]
posted by maxwelton at 2:27 AM PST - 5 comments

How can I transfer minidisc files to my Mac?

Really want to transfer files from MiniDisc to Mac and it's really not working... [more inside]
posted by fan_of_all_things_small at 1:44 AM PST - 5 comments

January 19

The world, it is mad.

Does the phrase "It's a mad, mad world" have an origin? [more inside]
posted by misozaki at 10:39 PM PST - 4 comments

Name that tune?

Can you help me identify a freakishly old (I think) song that I recently found? I know nothing about it other than it is old, and has been used for many years in a Maypole dance. [more inside]
posted by ooklala at 9:55 PM PST - 7 comments

make me an old school vegan foody for one weekend

I'm having vegans over for dinner. Vegans that know how to cook. Foodie vegans. Hip, cool, foodie vegans. Did I mention that I am not a vegan, vegetarian or hip? [more inside]
posted by brinkzilla at 9:47 PM PST - 34 comments

Temp or retail

What do I do to tide myself over until my next real job? Shitty retail work or temp work? [more inside]
posted by slow graffiti at 8:55 PM PST - 28 comments

I need 64-bit drivers!

I've got an Inspiron M1730 on the way, and I need 64-bit drivers for XP. [more inside]
posted by omnipotentq at 8:43 PM PST - 2 comments

So what's the current scoop on Linux on a laptop?

It's that Linux/laptop question again. Desperate geek seeks cheap, durable gear. [more inside]
posted by nebulawindphone at 8:25 PM PST - 20 comments

Excel texbox madness.

I'm an Excel idiot! Why won't my text boxes show that they have a solid fill? [more inside]
posted by Thin Lizzy at 8:23 PM PST - 3 comments

does it help to hold your breath to avoid second hand smoke?

I have never smoked in my life, and with every year my attitude and tolerance for smoking becomes worse and less (sorry, all smokers out there!). In the last little while, I realized that I actually unconsciously hold my breath every time I pass someone who smokes in the street. Does this significantly do anything in terms of benefiting me and helping to avoid the dangers of second-hand smoke, or am I just fooling myself?
posted by esolo at 8:19 PM PST - 24 comments

Can I put a drop cap on an italic paragraph?

Is it ever acceptable to put a drop cap on a paragraph of italic text? [more inside]
posted by bicyclefish at 7:34 PM PST - 13 comments

How so I get an Apostille done quickly from another state?

How so I get an Apostille done quickly from a state other than where the event occured? [more inside]
posted by brokekid at 7:32 PM PST - 5 comments

Are there any good book review sites?

Are there sites like Rotten Tomatoes and IMDB for books?
posted by dcrocha at 7:02 PM PST - 11 comments

Is Amazon Prime worth it?

I'm seriously considering joining Amazon Prime. Should I go for it? [more inside]
posted by streetdreams at 6:59 PM PST - 33 comments

Should I repaint my car?

Should I get my car repainted? I have a '97 Toyota Corolla, dark green. The clear coat on the hood and front bumper is starting to peel pretty badly, though the paint underneath seems okay. [more inside]
posted by exceptinsects at 6:17 PM PST - 7 comments

New iMac owner seeking advice

OK: i know there are tons of posts asking some of the same things, and i have waded through many of them but may i beg your indulgence and ask a couple of relatively straightforward newbie questions? 1) If I need to work with Office documents from a PC environment (mostly word, occasionally PPT and excel) from time to time , can i do so without installing VM Fusion (which most here seem to favor) along with my Windows XP? Will Mac Office work with them? 2) Any discussions on how to best deal with the glare of the new monitor? 3) How good is the mail program: should i abandon gmail, run them both or go back to firebird? 4) Any reason to use safari if i already know firefox? Or consider one of the other choices? Thanks for indulging me. I have a lot to learn about this. ( )
posted by dougiedd at 6:14 PM PST - 23 comments

Stop my tree swing from twisting!

How do you stop a tree swing from twisting? [more inside]
posted by zeoslap at 5:13 PM PST - 10 comments

VPN Interuptions

How to research micro-interuptions in Internet Provider? My husband works over VPN, and he is experiencing frequent and random log-offs. We blame this on the ISP. [more inside]
posted by ohshenandoah at 4:23 PM PST - 9 comments

Standalone NAS recommendations?

Does anyone have any recommendations for an off-the-shelf NAS that can handle at least 1TB and may be expanded as needed? Drobo, Buffalo TeraStation, etc.? [more inside]
posted by geoff. at 4:13 PM PST - 13 comments

trying to find THE most brutal whale picture

I've been trying to find a really brutal picture/print/woodcutting of an old-school whale/sea monster for awhile, as a potential tattoo. You know the kind, double blowholes that look more like horns, fangs, the kinds you see in the corners of old maps. Bibliodyssey has some ok ones, but I'm looking for the perfect one, because I know if I settle for another, I'll just find the perfect one the second I've permanently inked myself with a mediocre monster. Any ideas of where I could look?
posted by domakesaypat at 4:08 PM PST - 18 comments

Can a person taking a break from college get health insurance?

Health insurance for someone taking a break from college? My girlfriend is taking a few months off from college and so won't be eligible for her parents' health insurance. She doesn't have a job that provides benefits, either. She's in her early 20s and is pretty healthy, but has really awful luck when it comes to random health issues popping up and so it would be a good idea for her to have insurance in the next few months. She's off her parents' policy in the next week or two. What can she do? Would COBRA apply in this case? What other temporary insurance providers are there?
posted by Braeog at 3:41 PM PST - 10 comments

flip monitor horizontally

Is there a way to flip/ mirror what my monitor displays? [more inside]
posted by apdato at 3:10 PM PST - 6 comments

Laptop with trackpoint and good graphics?

Is there a laptop with a TrackPoint that is not objectively horrible for gaming? [more inside]
posted by JZig at 3:01 PM PST - 7 comments

Car Wont Start

My Car wont start, It just clicks when i try and eventually stops doing anything! [more inside]
posted by slowtree at 3:00 PM PST - 22 comments

Will a Pentax lens fit a Canon camera?

I can't seem to find this online anywhere, and it might be such a stupid question that is should be obvious, but I thought I'd ask anyway: Will a new pentax lens (75-300mm) fit on a slightly older Canon Rebel SLR camera? [more inside]
posted by Grither at 2:56 PM PST - 5 comments

I want to save the world... no seriously

I am considering going back to grad school. All I know is that when I get out I want to put myself in the position where I can do the most good for protecting the environment. What specific job should I shoot for (Government, Non profit, other?) and what degree do I need (MPA, MPP, JD other)? [more inside]
posted by DetonatedManiac at 2:42 PM PST - 22 comments

Let's get out of this country

I'm trying to renew my passport, which expired about six years ago and is now lost, but the government doesn't seem to believe this situation is possible. Is this process the same as replacing/renewing a still-valid lost passport? [more inside]
posted by Meg_Murry at 2:33 PM PST - 16 comments

Sundry Notes for an Abortive Ethnography of the Asadi of BoskVeld

Where can I find good science fiction about alien ethnographers (or 'xenologists')? [more inside]
posted by showbiz_liz at 2:31 PM PST - 31 comments

Which states will I have to file taxes in?

TaxFilter2007: I earned income at my job in StateA. However, all my bank addresses (permanent and mailing) are for StateB, where someone collects my mail for me. I used StateB for banks to not have to deal with remembering zip codes and changing addresses. Furthermore, I've worked in 2006 in StateC but didn't receive the last paycheck until 2007. Will I have to file state taxes in all these states? This is my first time doing my own taxes. [more inside]
posted by lpctstr; at 2:28 PM PST - 7 comments

Why doesn't ComEd know where I live?

I need help sorting out an issue involving my electric company, my electric bill, and the other apartments in our building. [more inside]
posted by youngergirl44 at 2:28 PM PST - 5 comments

Forgotten the name of a line of t-shirts

Can anyone remind me of the name of a line of t-shirts? I think they are all designed by one woman. The only one I know of has a fairly simple drawing of a child (girl?) clutching a teddy-bear.
posted by pollystark at 2:22 PM PST - 3 comments

Help me sell my home!

What do I need to know and do to sell my house on my own? [more inside]
posted by peripatew at 1:39 PM PST - 15 comments

Who first said "The Cossacks work for the Csar"?

What is the origin of the phrase "The Cossacks work for the Czar"? This guy is fond of the phrase, which seems to mean "there's no point blaming minor political functionaries - they're working on orders, explicit or implied, from the top". It's obviously a quote. But from whom?
posted by bonecrusher at 1:31 PM PST - 14 comments

When I burn a CD on my new IMAC, it doesn't play on my car's CD player.

Why won't the cd player in my car "read" cd's that I'm burning on my new I-Mac? [more inside]
posted by elf27 at 1:14 PM PST - 19 comments

My car is not running out of warranty!

An auto dialer seems to be calling my cell phone frequently about my vehicle running out of warranty. How do I stop it? [more inside]
posted by special-k at 1:01 PM PST - 16 comments

Is soda water soda or water?

Is soda water free at fast food restaurants? [more inside]
posted by hypocritical ross at 12:48 PM PST - 24 comments

Don't need the job for the money, do I need it for the insurance?

Recently moved to Boston. Can someone please explain the mandatory health insurance situation to me? [more inside]
posted by doppleradar at 11:32 AM PST - 2 comments

Not a portabello...

Is this a mushroom? [more inside]
posted by progosk at 11:31 AM PST - 5 comments

Small Form Factor PC in NYC?

Where can I buy a small form factor PC system in New York City? (I'm not interested in a Mac Mini.)
posted by Pinwheel at 11:16 AM PST - 16 comments

time tracking software?

I want a time-tracking software for Mac that does a few specific things... [more inside]
posted by raheel at 10:55 AM PST - 9 comments

Can I ship a Wii through the diplomatic pouch if it gets radiated?

Is it safe to ship electronics through the US diplomatic pouch? [more inside]
posted by k8t at 10:55 AM PST - 15 comments

Me No Speaky Good, Help Me MetaFilter!

[ConversationFilter] Me no speaky so good no more. Please help! [more inside]
posted by willie11 at 9:46 AM PST - 26 comments

Need advice and/or leads for buying a Taylor Acoustic/Electric Guitar or Big Baby...

Need advice and/or leads for buying a Taylor Acoustic/Electric Guitar or Big Baby... [more inside]
posted by caveat empress at 9:36 AM PST - 4 comments

How to create automator action to resize images to a certain width?

How do I create an automator action to resize images to a certain width? The "scale images" action only resizes the longest side, which is sometimes the height, not the width. [more inside]
posted by krunk at 8:37 AM PST - 7 comments

What's wrong with my car?

Two mechanics have given up. Help me diagnose my car. [more inside]
posted by frobozz at 8:13 AM PST - 19 comments

Help Me Find a Missing David Simon Stream

I'm looking for the (apparently gone) stream of David Simon's performance of "My Nemesis" at the Creative Alliance in Baltimore. Can you help me find it? [more inside]
posted by djacobs at 7:50 AM PST - 2 comments

Why can't my travel agent match ITA software's price?

I found a great price for a ticket using ITA software (thanks askmefi). After giving her all the booking details, my travel agent wasn't able to even remotely match the price. Is my agent just incompetent or is it really as complicated as she made it sound? I want that ticket! [more inside]
posted by juva at 7:10 AM PST - 9 comments

Will Langerado burn my "bun-in-the-oven"?

My wife and I saw the lineup for Langerado last night and both of us are dying to go. However, around that first weekend in march, she will be eight months pregnant (or seven, math is hard, we're due in early May). She has never had an experience like Langerado, i.e. festivals full of hippies and lots of music. I have, and we have been meaning to do one together but things like law school and jobs have prevented us from doing so. Should the pregnancy stop us now? [more inside]
posted by Palerale at 6:49 AM PST - 14 comments

Coughing after a shower?

Why do I always cough after a shower? And pretty much only after a shower? [more inside]
posted by puffmoike at 6:45 AM PST - 20 comments

Help me get away from the computer!

I am depressed, have elements of ocd, and one thing that seems to fuel both of these conditions is something I can't really describe as anything other than "internet addiction". [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:42 AM PST - 30 comments

Who writes videogames? (not in the programming sense)

Who writes videogames? [more inside]
posted by Ndwright at 6:12 AM PST - 18 comments

Can I eat this?

How long will deviled eggs keep in the fridge before they go bad?
posted by freshwater_pr0n at 5:21 AM PST - 8 comments

The Gallows, aka...?

What nicknames are there for the gallows? [more inside]
posted by Karlos the Jackal at 2:50 AM PST - 23 comments

January 18

Is it worthwhile to enter therapy if you're not in acute distress?

Is it worthwhile to enter therapy if you're not in acute distress? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 10:21 PM PST - 32 comments

How to prove that a web page that's there now, was really there, once it's not there anymore.

How to prove that a web page that's there now, was really there, once it's not there anymore. [more inside]
posted by ManInSuit at 7:48 PM PST - 48 comments

A/S/...anybody, anybody?

Other than #mefi, Are there any chat rooms or chat services still out there not full of spambots? [more inside]
posted by StrikeTheViol at 7:36 PM PST - 7 comments

How do I show off my pipes?

Does anyone have any experience or advice on building a clothing/display rack out of pipes? [more inside]
posted by wolfsleepy at 7:29 PM PST - 10 comments

what's the probability distribution, kenneth?

for the statisticians: what probability distribution do I want to fit to my data, and how? [more inside]
posted by russm at 7:20 PM PST - 17 comments

JG Ballard and a quote about Nature

JG Ballard said something about our pornography-addicted culture being due to a disconnect with nature, but I don't have an exact quote. So with hat in hand, I appeal to the hive mind. [more inside]
posted by survivorman at 6:38 PM PST - 3 comments

Any advice on continuous fluorescents for video?

Could anyone please help a fellow videographer out with advice on fluorescent lighting kits? Lengthy extended question is enclosed. [more inside]
posted by MeetCleaverTheatre at 6:07 PM PST - 5 comments

Why is my blog heating up?

Why is my MySpace blog suddenly so hot? [more inside]
posted by Camofrog at 5:05 PM PST - 11 comments

Looking to for contact information to secure property release...if even necessary??

Would anyone know the contact information for obtaining a property release of an image taken of Radio City Music Hall / Rockefeller Center? Thanks for any help!!
posted by Jujee at 4:58 PM PST - 3 comments

Do you own an HP Pavilion?

On an HP Pavilion laptop, how can I get rid of the Yahoo! Search box that sits in the taskbar, taking up valuable real estate?
posted by megatherium at 4:53 PM PST - 4 comments

Restoring old coins

I have a coin collection that has sat untouched for 50-60 years. At the time they were collected the coins were taken from circulation. They are from all over the world (no U.S. coins) and were minted in the early part of the last century. They were mounted on light cardboard pages with scotch tape. As you can imaging the tape has gotten quite brittle and sticky by now and may have interacted with the metal in the coins. I need advice on cleaning and restoring the coins in my collection. I understand that under normal conditions collectible old coins should not be cleaned.
posted by retiree at 4:45 PM PST - 8 comments

How do I script video/audio recording on Windows?

What is the best way to script video/audio recording on Windows? [more inside]
posted by esd at 4:37 PM PST - 1 comment

Feeding the ipod - name your favorite restaurants

So I used to use ipodnova.tv to get my fix of overseas tv shows configured for the ipod. But it's been down more than it's been up lately. Some simple googling has seemed to reveal a bunch of sites, mainly pay, for this purpose. But before I paypal someone in Nigeria, can you tell me what sites you like to use for this purpose?
posted by rileyray3000 at 4:30 PM PST - 1 comment

No, not Caledonian headgear...

Where can I find Scotch Bonnet peppers (not habaneros) to buy in the Puget Sound area; or alternatively online? Preferably fresh and not dried. Thanks.
posted by ramix at 4:11 PM PST - 9 comments

Finding out how to speak the original text of Rumi poems

Rumi poems online -- with both the original text and the English translation -- that would tell me how to speak his original texts? I would need either English transliterations (spelling in western alphabet of his original texts, with some way to know which syllable to accent) or an audio file of someone speaking them. Does this exist?
posted by lorimer at 4:02 PM PST - 2 comments

How do I plug this new USB headset into my computer?

I am teaching an online class and I want to put audio files into my class. To record, I bought a new Plantronics Audio 645 USB headset. It has a "mic" cord and a "headset" cord. I cannot figure out where exactly I should be plugging this into my computer. [more inside]
posted by answergrape at 4:01 PM PST - 6 comments

Deep Fried and Double Wide

Need White Trash Accouterments in San Francisco tomorrow! Where in SF can I get a Mullet wig and other white trash necessities? What else do I need? [more inside]
posted by bitdamaged at 3:41 PM PST - 9 comments

XML vs. Serialization

For database usage, is it better to store data in XML or serialized format? In particular, PHP serialization. [more inside]
posted by destro at 3:35 PM PST - 10 comments

How to organize scientific article pdfs?

Scientists: What's the best and simplest way to organize, annotate, and take notes from scientific journal articles on a PC? I'm starting a new project and ready for a new system that doesn't require four programs or being unable to find something when I can't remember the title or author. How do you organize your references, pdfs, and notes? [more inside]
posted by JustWandering at 3:21 PM PST - 19 comments

Looking for large womens shoes in Manhattan

I'm looking for suggestions for shoe stores in Manhattan that carry larger-sized womens shoes (European size 45) that are of high quality and appropriate for work. I have all day on Sunday to shop and I'd love to take 2-3 new pairs home with me.
posted by michswiss at 3:15 PM PST - 4 comments

Recommend me a data modeling tool

I'm beginning a project to document and restructure a set of existing Microsoft SQL Server databases, and need to quickly recommend a software package for data modeling and generating a data dictionary. I'm looking for a recommendation and/or general advice, pros, cons, etc. that will help to make and justify a selection. [more inside]
posted by Manjusri at 3:11 PM PST - 1 comment

The goggles do nothing.

I think I seriously screwed up my eyeballs. [more inside]
posted by Dormant Gorilla at 1:45 PM PST - 12 comments

Dogs and cats, snacking together...mass hysteria!

My dogs seem to like cat treats. Any harm in it? [more inside]
posted by foxydot at 1:38 PM PST - 13 comments

basement cracks

anyone have experience dealing with basement cracks? [more inside]
posted by Salvatorparadise at 1:29 PM PST - 10 comments

Hooked up my iPod with a cassette adapter, but it keeps rewinding or ejecting. Help!

Hooked up my iPod with a cassette adapter, but it keeps rewinding or ejecting. Help! [more inside]
posted by 0217174 at 12:56 PM PST - 19 comments

Coaxingly close

Get this coax signal into my computer. [more inside]
posted by mike_bling at 12:49 PM PST - 4 comments

External vs internal hard drives and speed

Please explain to me how a 7200rpm SATA external hard drive (USB 2 or Firewire 800) can be written to / read from as expediently as a 7200 RPM SATA internal hard drive? It doesn't seem to make sense. Isn't the USB/Firewire a bottleneck? Why would an external drive be as suitable for audio recording as an internal?
posted by xmutex at 12:21 PM PST - 16 comments

Date protocol: when the check comes

First date etiquette: Going to dinner on a first date. I'm always uncomfortable about what to do when the check comes. I always offer to pay for my portion/split the bill. Some guys are offended by this, and even those who aren't typically refuse so I put my money away. I always worry that my offer seemed disingenuous because I didn't persist (I hate making a scene, especially about money. What is the best/appropriate way to handle the situation when the check comes?
posted by birdlady at 12:19 PM PST - 94 comments

Which pen is mighty (workable and inexpensive)..?

Thanks to the community's help with this question, I was able to order a set of Wacom tablets for my computer lab. Now I've been asked how I could get replacement pens if any are lost or stolen. I need help identifying which pens will work with my tablet and what are good options in terms of cost. [more inside]
posted by Slothrop at 12:00 PM PST - 4 comments

teach your children well (legally?)

If I were a private tutor for children, what laws would pertain to me? What credentials would I need? [more inside]
posted by cloudgazer at 11:56 AM PST - 4 comments

scsi pci raid server died, urgent data recovery?

Got a 2000 server with PCI SCSI RAID card (Mirror) and the mobo seems to have died. I just want to recover the data and host it on another machine. How do I do that? [more inside]
posted by tslugmo at 11:46 AM PST - 4 comments

My videocard is rusty. What the hell, science? I thought we were friends.

All the screw holes on my video card are corroded. Is it worth my time to return it, or should I just clean it off? [more inside]
posted by tracert at 11:44 AM PST - 11 comments

Homemade bed that withstands non-sleep activities

Woodworking filter: What steps can I take to ensure a home-built bed can withstand, umm, nocturnal escapades? [more inside]
posted by toomanyplugs at 11:21 AM PST - 17 comments

how to get apache called python scripts working

how do I get apache to call local python script that calls modules that are in a different place? [more inside]
posted by brent_h at 11:19 AM PST - 3 comments

Monsoon amp replacement

Can I replace the subwoofer/amp for my trusty old Monsoon external speakers? [more inside]
posted by Armitage Shanks at 11:03 AM PST - 1 comment

Please help me remember the name of a childhood toy.

Please help me remember the name of a childhood toy. [more inside]
posted by mockjovial at 10:54 AM PST - 5 comments

help with excel 'paste special'

excel n00b question: why is paste special not working for me? [more inside]
posted by emmatwofour at 10:41 AM PST - 7 comments

How to get international re-directs to a .com?

How to get .ru , .cn, .mx, .ve, .br, and possibly other country URLs as a re-direct to my company's .com? [more inside]
posted by ZenMasterThis at 10:14 AM PST - 10 comments

Average Salary for French Cities

I am looking for some information on average salaries for french cities. I read an article in a french magazine about a year ago but I can't find any reference to it online. Anyone know of a resource in French or English that will give me average salaries for French cities.
posted by tirebouchon at 10:08 AM PST - 2 comments

Peanut Allergies- surely not something new?

A then-and-now type question on food (specifically peanut) allergies. Mrs. Worker_bee and I were watching a TV show last night on which paramedics were treating a small boy for an allergic reaction to peanuts. We know many kids at our sons school that have allergic reactions to peanuts and know that it is best to ask before serving stuff or making cookies, etc. for friends. But we were talking about the show and neither of us could recall any of our friends or friends of friends that had an allergy to peanuts when we were at school (elementary thru high school). [more inside]
posted by worker_bee at 10:00 AM PST - 43 comments

How do I remove this parking-deck-drip stain from my car's paint and windshield?

How can I get this parking-deck-drip-residue off of my car's paint and windshield? [more inside]
posted by Askr at 9:57 AM PST - 7 comments

Help me remember this quote about people using technology?

I'm trying to remember a quote from a science-fiction writer (I think Ray Bradbury), about how computers are tools for humanity to express their imagination, or something very much like that. I googled with no luck, but I swear I read (and used) this quote previously, I just can't find it. [more inside]
posted by canine epigram at 9:38 AM PST - 12 comments

Please help me locate these books from childhood.

Another books from childhood question. Can you help me find these two books? I remember them from the early 80's or so, U.S. [more inside]
posted by kookywon at 9:30 AM PST - 12 comments

Different URLs based on day of the week?

Javascript question: How can I make a link point to different URLs based on the day of the week? [more inside]
posted by jbickers at 9:24 AM PST - 7 comments

Organizing Ideas for a company brainstorm: Wiki, blog, what?

I work in a subdivision of a large music entity. There are many high-level ideas and challenges that float around every week. I'm trying to research a system that would allow for our staff of several hundred people to be able to both post ideas and solicit feedback on improving our products, our relationships, etc to a central website as well as being able to respond to others ideas. (for example: "how do we better provide value to cd purchasers" or "what can we do to optimize communication between department") Challenges: - Many of the people involved are not computer-savvy (not sure they'd be able to figure out how to use a wiki) - The individual items will need to be easily categorizable and accessible (this is why i hesitate to use something like Wordpress or Blogger, because after something's no longer on the home page, its out of peoples heads) - There will need to be an intuitive 'global' view I guess I'm kind of asking for something like AskMeFi, actually. But with an additional summary layer. Ideas would be greatly appreciated!
posted by softlord at 9:23 AM PST - 7 comments

Can you be my Bartlett today?

Is there a quote by a Founding Father about how the First Amendment really protects religion from the government, not the other way around? I know about Jefferson's letter to the Danbury Baptists ... but I have this feeling that there's another famous quote. Maybe it's by a more modern judicial person rather than a Founding Father? [more inside]
posted by mccxxiii at 9:23 AM PST - 3 comments

Low-carb tortillas in Washington DC?

Where can I buy low-carb tortillas in Washington, DC? Pretty simple, just looking for Mission brand low-carb tortillas, in a DC grocery store. I have looked in Safeway & Giant, in Adams Morgan and Columbia Heights, but no luck. Anyone know? [more inside]
posted by allen8219 at 9:13 AM PST - 21 comments

What are some good websites for intelligent discussion and analysis of the NFL?

What are some good websites for intelligent discussion and analysis of the NFL? [more inside]
posted by ibmcginty at 8:41 AM PST - 10 comments

this game needs help

Help me remember how to play A-Train! I downloaded FreeTrain, but don't remember how to play it.
posted by parmanparman at 8:33 AM PST - 5 comments

How do I revive a brown sugar stone?

How do I revive a brown sugar stone? [more inside]
posted by 100watts at 8:30 AM PST - 6 comments

Mail no candy there

A couple of years ago – post-911, maybe in 2002 or 2003 – my local post office in Canada was handing out a list of things that could no longer be mailed into the U.S., which included any commercially made candy, even in small amounts as personal gifts. [more inside]
posted by zadcat at 8:23 AM PST - 5 comments

Looking for a reliable, high-mpg car that's NOT a Civic/Accord

I need to buy a low-mpg, reliable, manual transmission, four-door used car for under $3500. What models should I look at besides Civics and Accords? And do you know of any other major car classified websites besides Cars.com, Carmax, Autotrader, Edmunds, and Craigslist? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:10 AM PST - 22 comments

Chess Is War

Help me find an article about chess, might have involved Garry Kasparov, might have been in Smithsonian magazine and/or on the Blue likening chess playing to a really violent sport with quotes like this "There is nothing cute or charming about chess; it is a violent sport, and when you confront your opponent you set out to crush his ego." from this article but I recall it being longer and in a more general magazine.
posted by terrortubby at 8:06 AM PST - 8 comments

Is our 401(k) protected? How?

Is our 401(k) protected through ERISA (or anything else) if the institution where funds are housed goes belly-up tomorrow? [more inside]
posted by quinoa at 7:58 AM PST - 9 comments

Bike commuting in Boston -- best route between Cambridge/East Boston?

For a friend: commuting by bike, need to get to Cambridgeport half the week and East Boston the other half. Best bike routes? Best places to live? [more inside]
posted by olinerd at 7:28 AM PST - 13 comments

Squirrel Story

I would like help finding a book from my childhood. It's about a female squirrel that takes up residence in an attic, and the toy soldiers in the attic defend her from a pack of bad male squirrels.
posted by Irontom at 7:23 AM PST - 5 comments

What could be causing morning leg soreness?

What could be causing morning leg soreness? [more inside]
posted by damn dirty ape at 7:17 AM PST - 18 comments

Woodwind ensemble masterpieces?

Classical Music lovers, what great chamber music pieces feature predominantly woodwinds (esp. flutes)? (I'm also interested in great solo parts in larger orchestras) [more inside]
posted by cowbellemoo at 7:15 AM PST - 11 comments

Does my dream job exist?

Does my dream job exist? [more inside]
posted by I_Love_Bananas at 6:53 AM PST - 12 comments

Risks of forgoing health insurance?

Risks of forgoing health insurance when one has limited assets? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:14 AM PST - 11 comments

logical fallacy identification

Is there a formal name for the logical fallacy shown by the following statement; "We don't have to worry about lead paint in our homes because we grew up in such homes and turned out fine."? Thanks.
posted by lyam at 5:50 AM PST - 17 comments

Picking teams for the upcoming interspecies tournament of death...

At a cocktail party last weekend, an Anthropologist was telling me about an experiment/study where people were shown videos of various animals preying on one another, and then measured their reactions. The findings, he contends, were that humans were largely more sympathetic to the deaths of animals more similar to themselves (i.e. sharing a more recent common ancestor). What is this study, what is this area of research called, and where can I read more about it? [more inside]
posted by jjjjjjjijjjjjjj at 5:02 AM PST - 8 comments

Brokeback Desert

Help me convince the man I love that he doesn't have to marry someone else. [more inside]
posted by xanthippe at 3:36 AM PST - 63 comments

Help me improve my pushups.

Help me improve my pushups. I've been doing martial arts 5 nights a week (M-F) for 9 months now. We do anywhere from 30-150 pushups a night, but I'm incapable of keeping up with the rest of the class and have not really improved much since I started. [more inside]
posted by bindasj at 3:35 AM PST - 21 comments

Snow shoeing from the bay area?

Recommendations for snow shoeing trails (and gear) driveable from the bay area? [more inside]
posted by iamabot at 12:28 AM PST - 3 comments

online portfolio creation?

i'm a freelance writer and want to create a simple website with an online portfolio for my work. [more inside]
posted by sacho at 12:26 AM PST - 9 comments

January 17

Help me find a book of Daemon's

I was told of a book of Daemon's, where the protagonist is a C coder who gets transported to a magical world where his code can do magic. [more inside]
posted by Pontifex at 11:29 PM PST - 12 comments

Too much of a good thing

I've made an unfortunate nutritional mistake; am I in for a world of hurt, and is there anything I can do about it? [more inside]
posted by davejay at 11:12 PM PST - 17 comments

Office Chairs for Short Girls?

Are there any office chairs out there for petite women? I have a short inseam and rarely can touch the ground when I'm sitting all the way back in my seat. [more inside]
posted by arnicae at 10:57 PM PST - 13 comments

Why does my desktop keep crashing?

Why (and how do I fix it) does my Windows desktop keep crashing? [more inside]
posted by ZaneJ. at 9:48 PM PST - 15 comments

Vista Windows Explorer default opening window?

Can you change the default opening window on Vista Windows Explorer? [more inside]
posted by rexruff at 9:46 PM PST - 2 comments

Help me with triangle math.

Triangles.math.Filter: Its been a while since algebra - I am trying to calculate the linear length of material required to fabricate a repeating V pattern out of sheet metal in various lengths. [more inside]
posted by dripped at 9:36 PM PST - 8 comments

Being a class-A busybody on an effort budget

Wall-of-sheep type network monitor for user-configurable interesting traffic (URLs, IM conversations)? [more inside]
posted by datacenter refugee at 9:30 PM PST - 3 comments

I signed a contract in Spanish!

Am I bound by the terms of a contract that I signed if that contract was written in Spanish? I'm in California and a native English speaker. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:21 PM PST - 12 comments

How do I not know what lights look like?

Possibly the stupidest question ever: what are lights at night supposed to look like? That is, street lamps, stoplights, porch lights, etc. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:21 PM PST - 29 comments

How to make a magazine in Adobe Photoshop?

Also following up on this old question of mine, this time regarding how to make something look like a magazine in Adobe Photoshop. [more inside]
posted by Corduroy at 8:23 PM PST - 13 comments

Happy books!

Can you recommend good books on the study of happiness? [more inside]
posted by missjamielynn at 8:21 PM PST - 33 comments

I want to sleep in your womb, Shanghai

Following up on my last question, what is the most reasonable accomodation I can get in Shanghai for 100 Yuan a night? [more inside]
posted by markesh at 8:09 PM PST - 3 comments

The only reason I identify with Hilary Clinton

Please help me make my legs not disgusting. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:05 PM PST - 30 comments

How to not be treated like a criminal at a pharmacy

My pharmacy screwed up on my Xanax prescription, and I'm afraid they're going to hassle me for what might appear to be drug seeking behavior. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:04 PM PST - 22 comments

vegan cold weather shoes?

What kind of shoes should I buy for my short trip to the New England? I don't buy animal products. [more inside]
posted by low affect at 8:03 PM PST - 12 comments

Too cold to snow?

I've noticed that when the air temperature drops below a certain point that it won't snow. Is there any truth to this? [more inside]
posted by C17H19NO3 at 7:57 PM PST - 8 comments

item stolen at airport from bags?

does anyone know if you can get items back that were lost in your checked bags at the airport? [more inside]
posted by tessalations999 at 7:38 PM PST - 10 comments

Where to vacation with the whole kaboodle

I need some help in planning a vacation for a large number of people. [more inside]
posted by repoman at 7:30 PM PST - 5 comments

They make sound so easy on What Not to Wear!

I think I need a seamstress or seamster, but I am not sure how to find one. [more inside]
posted by waywardgirl at 6:58 PM PST - 7 comments

Did you go to crazy hippie school? Awesome!

Did you go to a Sudbury school? Do you have contacts with a Sudbury school? Can you help me? [more inside]
posted by InnocentBystander at 6:55 PM PST - 4 comments

Reusing XML objects

Can I somehow reuse elements in an XML doc (e.g. - like the way you can use a ref tag to resuse elements in an XML Schema)? [more inside]
posted by badstone at 6:11 PM PST - 3 comments

People search engine

A few months ago I saw a people search engine where you typed in a name and it returned profiles of online personalities matching that name, complete with contact information. Any idea what it was? [more inside]
posted by chips ahoy at 5:54 PM PST - 13 comments

My computer hurts my eyes in the morning.

I'm looking for a mac program to gradually brighten my screen to full brightness after it is awoken or the screensaver is bothered. [more inside]
posted by jjbb at 5:53 PM PST - 3 comments

What are the implications of buying an existing LLC in Massachusetts?

What are the implications of buying an existing LLC in Massachusetts? [more inside]
posted by pikaboy202 at 5:48 PM PST - 4 comments

Yet another Yahoo! Pipes/RSS question...

I'd like to create a feed of all references to my web site (by searching for the domain name) on popular link farms such as reddit. [more inside]
posted by qvtqht at 5:38 PM PST - 2 comments

Best forums/groups/resources for windows administrators?

Best forums/groups/resources for windows administrators? [more inside]
posted by the ghost of Ken Lay at 5:00 PM PST - 8 comments

why did the check i deposited come back to me?

i deposited my roommate's rent check into my account via atm at a branch of my bank, but not my branch, although it's one in the same city. why did they mail the check and my deposit slip back to me? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:54 PM PST - 10 comments

How do I keep the "Popularity" Column Always Active in ITMS?

How do I keep the "Popularity" Column Always Active in ITMS? I like to check out all the new music every week and for efficiency start with the "popular" songs for that album. Each time I go to a new album in the music store I have to reselect that column. Is there any way to have it always selected?
posted by LC at 4:40 PM PST - 3 comments

HTML to RSS without your own server?

Can anyone help me create an RSS feed, using Yahoo Pipes, from a list on an HTML page? [more inside]
posted by krisjohn at 4:06 PM PST - 6 comments

Can I hear you now?

Suppose I told you I'm "left-eared". Would you get it? [more inside]
posted by wafaa at 3:56 PM PST - 57 comments

ur paprz pls

Is the chip in my new Electronic Passport (US) an issue? [more inside]
posted by papakwanz at 3:53 PM PST - 21 comments

Video of Space Waves

Can you think of any good video clips of waveforms in space that you've seen? They don't necessarily have to be copyright free (this is for a personal project), but they do need to be good quality and accessible to me within a few days - I'm doing this project at DVD resolution, 720 X 480... [more inside]
posted by wavejumper at 3:23 PM PST - 3 comments

How much dirt can I haul in a Ford Ranger?

How much dirt can I safely haul in a Ford Ranger? [more inside]
posted by worstkidever at 3:06 PM PST - 11 comments

What to make under the broiler?

What's your favorite thing to make under the broiler? [more inside]
posted by sugarfish at 2:55 PM PST - 44 comments

Fantasy Baseball for lazy retards

So my friend and I want to do fantasy baseball this season, but we don't know the first thing about running one. Compounding the issue is the fact that we're too lazy to rank players, and too busy to constantly be tracking stats. What's the easiest, most low-impact fantasy baseball system for a couple of lazy fanatics?
posted by c:\awesome at 2:37 PM PST - 7 comments

We Got What You Don't Got

Help me make my US friends jealous enough to visit me in Canada. [more inside]
posted by the dief at 2:21 PM PST - 35 comments

Decent Adult club in San Francisco?

Last minute bachelor party in San Francisco. Anyone know of a decent adult club? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:19 PM PST - 8 comments

How to deal with loss of loved one.

Please suggest resources for dealing with the loss of a loved one – how to cope with grief. When you moved to the area just before it happened, you’re now all alone, and don’t have friends established, or anyone to talk to - it’s hard to cope with the enormous bills, the life change and deep emptiness. You go to work and pretend all is fine, but it’s not. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:17 PM PST - 8 comments

I hear some people pay taxes. Not me though. Oh, damn.

I haven't filed (US and NJ) taxes in... hm. Possibly ever. I'd like to fix that, but have no idea what I made and when, and how to start. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:16 PM PST - 16 comments

Mexican Vacation?

Travel recommendation: short, authentic stay in Mexico? [more inside]
posted by cgs at 2:04 PM PST - 17 comments

client sees fuzzy pixels!

I can use document properties to make a pdf file open at 100% on my mac, but its all blown up and wonky in reader on PCs. Anyone know how to make 72dpi pdf files open with a 1-1 px ratio on a PC?
posted by muscat at 2:01 PM PST - 1 comment

Don't Tase Me, Hasbro

In light of the recent Mattel/Hasbro suit against Facebook's Scrabulous application, what witty sayings can I spell out in Scrabble tiles to voice my perturbation with the suit? [more inside]
posted by vanoakenfold at 1:21 PM PST - 17 comments

How could fantasy football games be improved?

If you could could develop the next generation of a fantasy fantasy football games how would you change/improve them? [more inside]
posted by specialk420 at 1:20 PM PST - 18 comments

How do I make cheap slide captions?

I'm after for a cheap solution to create very (very) basic captions and turn them into slides for a clunky carousel projector. Lo-fi is the aesthetic - it's for a theatre show. [more inside]
posted by klaatu at 1:18 PM PST - 5 comments

Looking for examples of genious cover letters

Help me find examples of great cover letters. I have been looking trough the internet and all the kind of books for help with my cover letter. The trouble is all i come up with resembles the standard boring business cover letter. I am applying for very competetive jobs so i need to stand out. [more inside]
posted by ilike at 1:04 PM PST - 10 comments

wall warts for free - who wants 'em

Three mysterious power adapters. How to get rid of them? [more inside]
posted by amtho at 12:47 PM PST - 13 comments

Should a divorce really cost this much?

Scots Law: We've been told that a friends divorce could cost her £30-40,000 in fees if it needs to go to court (Glasgow Sheriff Court), to be resolved. Is this possible or is it an exaggerated figure? More inside.. [more inside]
posted by Nugget at 12:46 PM PST - 3 comments

Do I get half the fo'c'sle and most of the poop deck?

Is fractional boat ownership all it's cracked up to be? If you have first- or second-hand experience with it, would you recommend it? [more inside]
posted by HE Amb. T. S. L. DuVal at 12:41 PM PST - 6 comments

Help me unbrick my friend's PSP

Bricked my friend's PSP while trying to get it updated to firmware 3.80 M33. Help me get it back to working order. [more inside]
posted by porn in the woods at 12:40 PM PST - 2 comments

Getting an auto dealer license just to access dealer only auctions- worth it?

Are there significant savings at dealer-only options for used cars? Enough to make the effort and cost of getting a dealer licence worth it? [more inside]
posted by upc_head at 12:35 PM PST - 10 comments

sharing internet over airport

(mac network filter)- sharing internet over airport? [more inside]
posted by ddaavviidd at 12:33 PM PST - 6 comments

Taking my compliance training from the insurance industry to ...somewhere else

So I accepted this compliance job in the life insurance/annuities industry. I'm happy I've done it but I want to know about my expected career trajectory. [more inside]
posted by notjustfoxybrown at 12:23 PM PST - 2 comments

Distilling Pittsburgh to its very essence

Pittsburgh: Can anyone familiar with the city give me some basic info and pointers and help shape my loose itinerary to best use my short time in the city? [more inside]
posted by zennoshinjou at 11:46 AM PST - 26 comments

If I had a rhyming dictionary I could make this title rhyme

Which rhyming dictionary would you recommend? And why? [more inside]
posted by Slam I Am at 11:42 AM PST - 11 comments

How do I easily create .pdf photo-book?

How can I easily create a .pdf photo book? (More inside) [more inside]
posted by xammerboy at 11:33 AM PST - 5 comments

Lamb breast recipes?

Anybody have any good recipes for lamb breast? [more inside]
posted by vorfeed at 11:21 AM PST - 8 comments

ISO site that does TV recommendation based on interests

Is there a cable tv listing site that suggest shows based on interests (tagging perhaps?) [more inside]
posted by seeminglee at 11:15 AM PST - 6 comments

DocumentaryFilter: In search of BBC's "What is Religion?"

DocumentaryFilter: In search of BBC's "What is Religion?" [more inside]
posted by mjklin at 11:15 AM PST - 3 comments

Cardio for gimps

Are there any good bare-bones cardio workouts I can do while staying off an injured foot? [more inside]
posted by the luke parker fiasco at 11:07 AM PST - 11 comments

Free NHL stats??

I want NHL (2007/08) stats. I want as much data as I can get my hands on, in a nice, easily parsed format. But I don't really want to pay for it. Can you help me find this data on the cheap? [more inside]
posted by cgg at 10:49 AM PST - 6 comments

Xbox Controller Filter

Xbox Filter: Does the black controller for the Xbox 360 really have better grip than the white one that comes with the Pro version? I'm debating weather or not the $50 is worth spending on a black one.
posted by gmodelo at 10:38 AM PST - 10 comments

How does the math work that drives an RPG?

I'm trying to program a role playing game, but I'm not sure how to do the math. [more inside]
posted by SpacemanStix at 10:28 AM PST - 15 comments

Should I apply to an internship if failing the interview imperils future prospects at the company?

Should I apply for an internship in Goldman Sachs, even though they have a reputation for blacklisting candidates that fail interviews from further openings? [more inside]
posted by bsdfish at 10:06 AM PST - 9 comments

For the love of Greek yogurt

Anyone know where to find a very, very fine mesh chinois or strainer? I seek one that will hold about a half gallon of liquid with a mesh similar in "fine-ness" (is that a word?) to those metal coffee filters. [more inside]
posted by cuddles.mcsnuggy at 10:00 AM PST - 20 comments

Ingredients and nutrition facts

I am working on a label for a steak seasoning container. I have an ingredients list but need to have a qualified entity analyze and finalize it. Where can I find a service that can do that and give me other stats like calories, sodium content, total fat, etc.
posted by Mr_Zero at 9:54 AM PST - 3 comments

Looking for citizenship education resources

Creating a citizenship class for ESOL students: any web resources, books, or other forms of support out there? [more inside]
posted by imposster at 9:43 AM PST - 1 comment

Beautiful and cheap wedding ceremony around Chicago?

Beautiful and cheap options for a wedding ceremony around Chicago? [more inside]
posted by shotgunbooty at 9:42 AM PST - 11 comments

"Views" count on Flickr rising despite that all photos have been set to private

Flickr newbie question: All of my photos are private. Why does the number of "views" at http://www.flickr.com/photos/[my Flickr username]/ keep going up despite that at http://www.flickr.com/photos/[my Flickr username]/popular-views/ it says nobody has viewed my photos? [more inside]
posted by electric water kettle at 9:37 AM PST - 13 comments

a week of day hiking in March

need suggestions for a week of day hiking in March [more inside]
posted by annoyance at 9:35 AM PST - 10 comments

Sing in Me, O Hivemind

What should a modern, semi-professional a capella choral group wear as concert attire? [more inside]
posted by greekphilosophy at 9:25 AM PST - 19 comments

Would you trust your data to me??

I am thinking about signing up for a service like Mozy, but I am just scared to pull the trigger? I have a lot of trouble trusting that there's no way anyone can get to my data. I'm not that important, but I suppose it could be useful to someone. Can someone explain in technical detail why I can or cannot completely trust the security surround a service like Mozy. I asked them, but they say their service is the best and it would never be compromised! Never ever! Ever!
posted by tcv at 9:10 AM PST - 11 comments

If I were to sneak a third question in the title, it'd be about where to hide a fourth one...

[computerpurchasefilter] Okay, I'm going to buy not one, but two computers in early February and I need some advice. I know this question has been asked before, but the market has changed a bit recently and I need to know for now. I want a cheap laptop that can run text edit and surf the internet and a macpro for under a 3k. [more inside]
posted by history is a weapon at 9:05 AM PST - 9 comments

Da da da da da da-da-da da da! Freeze Frame!

Help me freeze my VGA video signal...as cheaply as possible. [more inside]
posted by ostranenie at 9:02 AM PST - 1 comment

How can I keep my track lighting from catching fire?

You are an electrician. But you are not my electrician. Question about low-voltage track lighting system inside. [more inside]
posted by ook at 8:46 AM PST - 9 comments

Help us get our crappy cars fixed.

Where in Chicago can I get the brakes on a '99 VW Jetta and '98 Ford Escort replaced reliably and cheaply? [more inside]
posted by santojulieta at 8:37 AM PST - 3 comments

Whip-Whop: Wrapping luggage at Heathrow?

Can I get a piece of luggage wrapped in plastic at Heathrow terminal 3? [more inside]
posted by louigi at 8:12 AM PST - 6 comments

Getting out while the getting's good

Should we try to sell our house in a down market? [more inside]
posted by libraryhead at 7:41 AM PST - 37 comments

What's an RTS game for me?

Is there an RTS game out there for me? [more inside]
posted by kbanas at 7:00 AM PST - 23 comments

Please help me climb Kili on a volunteer's budget...

Kilimanjaro-filter. I want to climb it. I don't want to pay $3k pp. Help, please. [more inside]
posted by allkindsoftime at 6:59 AM PST - 6 comments

Water vs. Tea

Is drinking unsweetened, decaffeinated tea equivalent to drinking water in terms of health benefits? [more inside]
posted by amro at 6:44 AM PST - 18 comments

Don't push me, 'cause I'm close to the edge...

I just received an anti-Huckabee push poll. Who was it from? [more inside]
posted by ND¢ at 6:35 AM PST - 12 comments

Toy Drums sets in popular recordings?

What popular or well known recordings use toy drum sets for percussion? [more inside]
posted by chillmost at 5:14 AM PST - 16 comments

Help me keep data out of the wrong hands

What are some good resources for designing an access control and permissions system? [more inside]
posted by Nothing at 4:35 AM PST - 1 comment

Where can I get feedback on my programming?

Is there some community where programmers can submit their work to each other and get feedback? [more inside]
posted by giggleknickers at 4:27 AM PST - 6 comments

Car stalkiing

Is my old car still on the road? [more inside]
posted by artdrectr at 12:43 AM PST - 7 comments

To check or not to check?

Will Southwest Airlines count my messenger bag as a "personal type item" or as another carry-on item? [more inside]
posted by indyz at 12:29 AM PST - 14 comments

Advise a tomboy about some skincare essentials.

I received a $75 gift certificate to a fancy-schmancy LA beauty shop for Christmas, and could use some help to get the most bang for my gifted buck. [more inside]
posted by Scram at 12:10 AM PST - 9 comments

January 16

How do they do that??

How do you judge large horizontal or vertical distances visually, with no (or few) other objects around to compare as a reference? [more inside]
posted by brain cloud at 10:21 PM PST - 14 comments

Corcovado Breakdown

What if Getz and Gilberto were, you know, cousins? Would they still have made beautiful music together? [more inside]
posted by Acari at 10:21 PM PST - 11 comments

Have ears, have brain, willing to learn.

Where can I learn about music history and music theory for free? [more inside]
posted by Chris4d at 10:00 PM PST - 26 comments

I want my desktop and I want it on my iPhone. Please?

Does a free (read: no subscription fee) equivalent to Files2Phones (for the iPhone) exist?
posted by mezzanayne at 9:52 PM PST - 2 comments

Can I make an Ikea product

I need plans to make my own ikea inspired furniture, do these even exist ? [more inside]
posted by carefulmonkey at 9:35 PM PST - 6 comments

Help me identify this short story!

Help me identify this short story! It is a story told from the perspective of an infant as he is free-falling through the garbage chute of a multi-level housing complex after being discarded by his teenage mother. The story is divided into nine parts, with each part signifying the baby's arrival at each floor until he finally reaches the trash compactor at the ground level. [more inside]
posted by sansgras at 9:09 PM PST - 5 comments

How to "fix" a mattress indentation?

How to "fix" a mattress indentation? I have a fairly new mattress that has slight indentation where I sleep. I analyzed it today and determined that it was caused by the box spring being slightly sagging. I don't want to return it (just cause of hassle). I'm thinking of putting plywood between the box spring and mattress. What do you all think/have done?
posted by sandmanwv at 8:58 PM PST - 7 comments

Help with black tie event accessories for the style impaired

I have to attend a black tie gala on Saturday. Help with accessories, please! [more inside]
posted by pitseleh at 8:45 PM PST - 13 comments

Florida vacation Ideas

Where is a good (NO, GREAT!) place to vacation in Florida for two old ladies, one of whom is sick and cannot bear the airport hassle. We will drive from Virginia, lay on the beach all day and let the water lap at our feet whilst we kvetch. Sis and I like art, history and snorkeling, and the ex-hippie in me always wanted to explore Key West but understand it's beaches are less than desireable. Need to rest yet hunger for knowledge and new adventures. Have looked at cruises but there are none that float my boat (excuse the pun) at this time. I really want to miss spring break crowds too.
posted by ~Sushma~ at 7:51 PM PST - 31 comments

My laptop is killing my sanity!

Okay, hive mind wise ones, please help save my sanity. I have an HP Pavilion dv9000 laptop that I bought in September. In general, it works great... except at random times, when I'm online, and the whole damn thing freezes up. [more inside]
posted by sarcasticah at 7:43 PM PST - 7 comments

Help me handle this complicated crush.

What to do now? I'm a single, mid-thirties female, and I have a crush. Oh, wait. It's a lot more complicated than that. I'm sorry this is so long... [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:38 PM PST - 37 comments

Commitment Issues

I can't commit to anything. Please help. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:37 PM PST - 23 comments

How long do "First Class" stamps work?

I have U.S. postage stamps labeled as "First Class" (no monetary value), which are dated 2006. Will one stamp still get a letter to its destination?
posted by mkultra at 7:32 PM PST - 13 comments

I need inspiration for my letterpress projects.

I'm taking a letterpress class and need inspiration for things to print. [more inside]
posted by melodykramer at 7:20 PM PST - 20 comments

Help me with Excel, please.

Can someone help me come up with an Excel formula? I have a column, and each row in the column has a 9 or 10 digit number. I want to apply a formula that will recognize only those numbers with 9 digits and when one is discovered, it should place a "0" in front of the number to make it a 10-digit number. I will explain why inside. [more inside]
posted by foxinthesnow at 7:13 PM PST - 7 comments

Are all US postage stamps now self-adhesive?

Are all US postage stamps now self-adhesive? [more inside]
posted by Tube at 7:08 PM PST - 12 comments

a massive book of freaky beasties

Massive, gorgeous book of illustrated biological species and specimens, possibly Victorian-era, found at Z Gallerie a year or so ago -- help! [more inside]
posted by changeling at 6:34 PM PST - 8 comments

How can I get a macintosh to recognize a digital camera again?

What can I do to have a Macintosh G4 laptop to recognize a Pentax Optio 33WR digital camera? It once did, but it has since stopped. [more inside]
posted by humannaire at 6:19 PM PST - 7 comments

How to get rid of small bumps on forehead?

I seem to have a perpetual set of quite small, flesh-colored or slightly red, acne-like bumps on my forehead. These are not too obvious (though they show when I tilt my forehead in the light as imperfections in the skin), and don't look grotesque or anything. They are not pus-filled nor do they hurt when touched. How do I make them go away? Daily face-washing doesn't do much, and the one time I had a facial didn't really help either.
posted by Malad at 6:15 PM PST - 12 comments

The mass of neutrons versus protons? The existence of matter?

Why do neutrons have more mass than protons? [more inside]
posted by bookish at 5:33 PM PST - 31 comments

Which prosumer (ack) HDV camera should we purchase?

My friend and I are looking at HDV cameras and trying to decide right now between Panasonic's HVX200, Canon's XL H1, Sony's V1U, and JVC's HD110U (an upgrade of the HD100U, I believe). We're leaning toward the HD110U because of what we've seen of its picture quality, ability to switch lenses, and reported ease of use. Which one should we buy, what are the pros and cons? [more inside]
posted by christopherbdnk at 5:30 PM PST - 3 comments

help my mom refinance her home?

Assuming that the feds are indeed going to cut rates significantly at the end of this month, should my mom wait until after that to refinance her home mortgage? [more inside]
posted by robotdog at 5:14 PM PST - 12 comments

Installing software on an OLPC?

Can anyone help me put Celtx on an OLPC? [more inside]
posted by dobbs at 4:50 PM PST - 14 comments

Boston Neurologist Request

Does anyone know a neurologist in the Boston, MA area that they have had good experiences with? [more inside]
posted by wittgenstein at 4:39 PM PST - 3 comments

How to cook beans?

Is there a way to cook beans that will reduce the amount of gas I will "produce" after consuming them? [more inside]
posted by oldlies at 4:21 PM PST - 20 comments

Is there an restaurant called Indus Valley on Queen West in Toronto?

Is there a restaurant called "Indus Valley" on Queen St. West in Toronto, west of Bathurst? [more inside]
posted by modernnomad at 4:18 PM PST - 2 comments

Can't a girl get her upgrade?

Is the iPod touch update out in the UK yet? Because I can go to it on the itunes store, but it seems to be completely greyed the *((&! out! [more inside]
posted by By The Grace of God at 4:11 PM PST - 4 comments

Help us have a few adventures together before we're parents!

My husband and I are due to have our first child in May. We're thrilled, but starting to realize how much our lives will change once the kid arrives. We'd like to do a few things in these next few months that we won't be able to do once we have the baby. Any ideas? [more inside]
posted by christinetheslp at 4:10 PM PST - 34 comments

Words and pictures, together at last

Taking text notes with incorporated image thumbnails: there's gotta be an application that does exactly what I need. [more inside]
posted by doift at 3:55 PM PST - 4 comments

throwing a wintry party

What are some cheap & lovely ideas for a winter-themed house-party here in Montreal? [more inside]
posted by Marquis at 3:52 PM PST - 10 comments

Djangos closed

Does anyone know what happened to Djangos, the online retailer of used CDs and DVDs?
posted by Kirth Gerson at 3:44 PM PST - 4 comments

Don't leave your archives on the balcony.

What is the movie that makes Richard Roeper's "heart ... so cold"? [more inside]
posted by seldomfun at 3:34 PM PST - 2 comments

How to limit daughter's access to wireless internet

Please help my friend limit his daughter's access to the internet at night. [more inside]
posted by Turtles all the way down at 3:13 PM PST - 27 comments

Salvaging my Swatch

I have several Swatch watches that have all lost a small piece of glass set in the knob used to change the time. Can this be replaced? I've been to several Swatch stores that have told me they can't fix this. What about a jeweler?
posted by anonymous78 at 3:11 PM PST - 2 comments

When is formal offensive?

In a discussion with a co-worker today, it was mentioned that I seemed too "formal," and that another, unnamed co-worker, had brought it up and said that they found this formality offensive. [more inside]
posted by kaseijin at 3:05 PM PST - 30 comments

Help me create a database to give money away

Help me design a small Access application to run a prize drawing. As I see it, the MC will open the application and click the Draw button, which will select from the available prizes for that month. Once drawn, that prize becomes unavailable. MC will then type in the winner's name and click Save, setting the form ready for the next contestant. Specs and examples follow. [more inside]
posted by kc0dxh at 2:41 PM PST - 8 comments

SO LOSER

whats the best way to go up to a girl in a club?
posted by kowboy at 2:29 PM PST - 35 comments

So small you could trip over it....

Today's post about Niagara Falls reminded me of a place I'd been as a teenager. Help me find the mini Niagara Falls! [more inside]
posted by jdfan at 1:56 PM PST - 3 comments

peru vs unknown destination in central america?

travelfilter: Peru vs. elsewhere: best places to go/things to do in central/south america? [more inside]
posted by nerdcore at 1:15 PM PST - 9 comments

Give up career for life abroad following spouse?

US Foreign Service filter: What's it like to leave school and future career to become a trailing male spouse? [more inside]
posted by lockestockbarrel at 12:59 PM PST - 19 comments

Best way to archive my music?

How can I archive my music? [more inside]
posted by drezdn at 12:55 PM PST - 17 comments

Which essay does David Foster Wallace mean?

To which essay is David Foster Wallace referring in his final footnote in the introduction to "Best American Essays 2007?" [more inside]
posted by rjacobs at 12:51 PM PST - 12 comments

Bali-based DJ requires wardrobe assistance.

How can my Bali-based US DJ friend improve and extend his wardrobe? [more inside]
posted by urbanwhaleshark at 12:41 PM PST - 4 comments

Pandora's box

Oh, Christ. I just clicked on someone's profile on Facebook. I really don't want them to know I found them there. If it's an open profile, meaning a relative stranger could find it and open it with no restrictions, will this person get any kind of notification that I viewed it?
posted by pomegranate at 12:41 PM PST - 23 comments

Alternatives to vet's recommended (expensive) treatment for puppy?

Puppy has developed bald patches on head and face. Antibiotics prescribed by vet a month ago haven't helped. Should the puppy's owner have a very expensive biopsy done, or just leave it alone and hope it goes away? [more inside]
posted by Ruby Doomsday at 12:40 PM PST - 19 comments

Dude, where's my stock?

Help me find my lost stocks [more inside]
posted by Thorzdad at 12:34 PM PST - 6 comments

Shoppingfilter: new mum wants a posh leather backpack, is getting a bit neurotic about it

I used to have nice purses. Now I have a baby. I want a posh, probably leather, backpack to tote around for the next few years. [more inside]
posted by kmennie at 12:18 PM PST - 9 comments

How do I best reapply to a job I really want ?

Last October, I applied for a library job that I really want. In December, they sent me a nice letter saying they weren't hiring anyone right then, but might relist it in 2008, and if they did, please reapply. (There are some comments that suggest they liked my application quite a bit, but that might just have been a pleasant form letter.) They've now relisted the job: how do I put my best foot forward on the reapplication? [more inside]
posted by modernhypatia at 12:16 PM PST - 8 comments

Must...stop...eating. (Oh, and shopping, too.)

I've come to the conclusion that I might have an eating disorder. Or an addiction problem. Or perhaps ADHD. Or is it OCD (minus the C). Help me make sense of this. [more inside]
posted by missuswayne at 12:12 PM PST - 20 comments

vacation compatible RSS: how can I cache one month of feed items?

Say that I will go travelling for one month without internet access. For my email that poses no problem. All incoming mails wait for me in gmail when I get back. But how can I similarly avoid missing content in the many RSS feeds I regularly read? Can some online service cache all the feeds for me? [more inside]
posted by nolnar at 11:58 AM PST - 14 comments

Green Tea health

Can green tea be blended? I empty a pack of green tea leaves into my morning smoothie, so my question is.. do the leeaves have to be immersed in hot water for me to absorb the benefits of it? Or do I get the same benefits as long as the leaves are inside my body and being digested? It's much simpler to simply empty a bag into a smoothie rather than wait for water to boil and steep it. I want to know if I'm sacraficing any antioxident absorbtion.
posted by princeofpersiaxz at 11:55 AM PST - 15 comments

Normalize a survey on multiple variables

Help me hivemind: What methodology should be used to weight survey sample data, using two weighting variables (for example age and gender), to reflect an actual population? [more inside]
posted by mtstover at 11:46 AM PST - 4 comments

What are my options?

What usually happens to vested stock options when a private company buys a public company (or a part of the company)? [more inside]
posted by tdischino at 11:46 AM PST - 6 comments

ftp

I'm trying to use smartftp or filezilla to get files on my computer to my website. I use A Small Orange for hosting and I can connect to the servers using the clients, but I'm not sure what I need to do then to get my site up. Please help. [more inside]
posted by amsterdam63 at 11:45 AM PST - 8 comments

Canadian nurses in Engalnd? Anglophone nurses in Montreal?

How easy is it for a Canadian nurse to work in England? And how easy would it be for an anglophone nurse from Ontario to find work in Montreal? [more inside]
posted by TheyCallItPeace at 11:35 AM PST - 13 comments

Tennis shoes, anyone?

My boyfriend needs a pair of tennis court shoes, but heartily dislikes shopping. He has narrow feet, and his last shoes gave him an ingrown toenail, so fit is really important. Tennis magazine has recommended Adidas Barricade IV, KSwiss Ascendor SLT or Nike Air Vapor, but we can't seem to find any stores in Austin that have them so that he can try them on, and it just seems stupid to buy a shoe in which fit really matters online. Basically, we're looking for recommendations for other shoes for narrow feet, as well as help finding a store that sells decent tennis court shoes so that he doesn't have to go to a bunch of different places. Thanks!
posted by odayoday at 11:33 AM PST - 7 comments

Help me spoil my little apple monster

This year when I host the Swan family's Easter celebration as I always do, I'd like to serve an apple-based dessert for the sake of one of my nieces, who LOVES anything apple. She doesn't seem to much like cake of any kind. She does love apple pie and apple crumble/crisp, but they seem too ordinary. What recipes do you have for a *special* apple-based dessert?
posted by orange swan at 11:20 AM PST - 21 comments

Becoming a Strategy Consultant.

I'm almost finished with my Masters in International Business and have started sending out job applications to a number of companies, nearly all of which are involved in strategic consultancy. The top companies, quite understandably, are fiercely competitive. I know I have what it takes, but I want the best chance possible of showing them that too. [more inside]
posted by Zé Pequeno at 10:57 AM PST - 9 comments

Fall Feast Day?

A friend of mine says that schools are starting to use the label Fall Feast Day instead of Thanksgiving. Is that true? And if so, what was wrong with Thanksgiving?
posted by rsol44 at 10:50 AM PST - 28 comments

What is the most popular soft drink?

What is the most popular carbonated soft drink in the US or UK? [more inside]
posted by roofus at 10:38 AM PST - 16 comments

How can I view all my brokerage accounts at once?

Are there any websites which will access several different online brokerage/401k accounts and display the information all in one place? [more inside]
posted by iknowizbirfmark at 10:23 AM PST - 6 comments

Stomp stomp stomp, KILL

Some new neighbors just moved into the flat above us. How do I reduce the noise of their constant stomping? Would asking them nicely render a solution? And more importantly, is there some stomping disorder in modern psychology that I should know about? Because their flat is the same size and layout as ours, which isn't that big at all (you can walk across the hall to the door in about 10 steps) and I am genuinely baffled at how much stomping can indeed be done in such a capacity.
posted by bondgirl53001 at 10:21 AM PST - 35 comments

Some rather clueless questions about using undocumented APIs in Windows

Some rather clueless questions about using undocumented APIs in Windows [more inside]
posted by RustyBrooks at 9:56 AM PST - 17 comments

Do Europeans/NON U.S. citizen read more than Americans?

Do Europeans read more books than U.S. consumers? How about the rest of the world versus the U.S.? [more inside]
posted by UMDirector at 9:38 AM PST - 14 comments

Powerbook charging troubles

Help me diagnose my Powerbook’s power supply woes. [more inside]
posted by rtha at 9:32 AM PST - 11 comments

What Percentage of Equity for Soft. Eng. at a fresh startup?

What Percentage of Equity to expect from a Startup in Options? [more inside]
posted by morallybass at 9:23 AM PST - 3 comments

Clean, upbeat, non-love songs

I'm looking for clean, upbeat songs that are NOT about love. I just need one business-appropriate one to edit a "Candids" video of business people at a sales meeting to. The client is super picky and wants pop music with exactly the right lyrics and a "high-energy" tempo. They liked the lyrics to "Oh Yeah" by Macy Gray but didn't think it was upbeat enough. Any ideas?
posted by nicholm at 9:18 AM PST - 30 comments

Up, up and away!

Well, I did it. Due to most unfortunate circumstances, I flew on an airplane for the first time in 8 years. As awful as the reasons were, the entire world has been opened up to me and I am now extremely excited by my renewed ability to travel the skies, and seek advice. Much length follows. [more inside]
posted by Cat Pie Hurts at 9:12 AM PST - 28 comments

eggs are yucky, what isn't?

What is a good breakfast? [more inside]
posted by mustcatchmooseandsquirrel at 9:09 AM PST - 56 comments

How to use The Mouse?

Copyright filter, again! There have been lots and lots of threads discussing trademark vs. copyright, etc, but in my searching I did not find the answer to this question: what will happen when Mickey Mouse goes out of copyright? [more inside]
posted by gregvr at 9:08 AM PST - 11 comments

How can I be cheap and have a good website?

Anyone know where a pair of clueless artists can find some free website design templates? [more inside]
posted by Bageena at 9:05 AM PST - 9 comments

Leather Wallet Care: How do I stop the breakdown of my wallet?

Leather Wallet Care: How do I stop the breakdown of my wallet? [more inside]
posted by birdlips at 8:51 AM PST - 6 comments

How do I create a TV schedule based on a topic?

How do I create a TV schedule based on a topic? [more inside]
posted by bristolcat at 8:44 AM PST - 4 comments

How to be a good PM.

Help me be a good product manager. [more inside]
posted by StephenF at 8:41 AM PST - 17 comments

Should I keep investing in this policy?

I've had a North Western Mutual Variable Life policy for a few years. How bad of an investment is it? Does it make sense to keep it, or should I get out now? What penalty would I have for getting out now? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:40 AM PST - 3 comments

Creating an easy-to-import photo archive for iPhoto?

How can I make it really easy for someone to import my photos into iPhoto? [more inside]
posted by tocts at 7:53 AM PST - 8 comments

787 WTF?

What's the skinny on the latest 787 delay? Any good insider-y blogs available covering that mess? Thanks.
posted by matteo at 7:20 AM PST - 14 comments

Co-op letter writing help

I need to write a friend a recommendation letter for a co-op where he is trying to buy an apartment here in NYC. I've never done this before. What kinds of things should I say in the letter besides the usual "I've known him for ten years and he's a stand up guy" sort of thing?
posted by josher71 at 7:10 AM PST - 8 comments

Virtual Windows

How do I make fake windows? [more inside]
posted by Lord_Pall at 6:55 AM PST - 7 comments

Shuffling a pile of papers

I have a moderately-sized pile of papers (say, several dozen) in front of me. What's a quick way of getting them thoroughly shuffled by hand? I am familiar with lots of shuffling algorithms, but they don't work well by hand, and techniques like riffle shuffle that work well with small, stiff cards don't work well with standard sheets of paper.
posted by Wolfdog at 6:54 AM PST - 13 comments

Movies with Mysterious Jews?

My wife (raised Catholic) and I (raised Jewish) were watching The Exorcist the other day, and she turned to me and asked me if there was any movie where Jews were depicted as secretive, mysterious, and spooky. The best I could do was Lenny Meyer and his fellow Hasids in Pi. [more inside]
posted by Plutor at 6:25 AM PST - 27 comments

How do I stop a sibling from disposing of property before the estate has gone to probate?

I need probate law advice. My sibling is acting unilaterally to dispose of personal property and accessing our father's bank account before the estate has gone to probate. How can I stop this? [more inside]
posted by pussyfoot at 6:20 AM PST - 13 comments

Help me find a church for me and my family.

Churchfilter: How can i find out which church is for me and my family? [more inside]
posted by flipmiester99 at 6:18 AM PST - 12 comments

Should I call the Secret Service over credit card fraud?

My credit card info was stolen by someone in Nigeria. Should I contact the Secret Service? [more inside]
posted by uvaleg at 6:14 AM PST - 19 comments

How long can I listen to The Archers (using mobile 'phone streaming media)?

I've just changed mobile 'phone provider to T-Mobile's Web'n'walk Max, which allows me 'unlimited' web access (up to 3Gb/month which is their 'fair use' limit). So, this means I can now listen to Radio 4 online (at 20.7Kbps live, I'm informed by my PDA) - but how much radio can I listen to before I exceed my limit (bearing in mind I'll be wanting to do a bit of surfing etc. too)?
posted by timpollard at 6:11 AM PST - 5 comments

Very fine dining recommendations in DC with young kids?

Our kids are 1 and 4. It's my folks' 40th anniversary as well as the one year old's birthday and my folks are treating, so this means going somewhere really nice, expensive, and five star. But where in DC? [more inside]
posted by poppo at 5:40 AM PST - 12 comments

Pinnacle Video Card and Old Pc - Can they work together?

I'd like to get some Hi-8 videos into to my PC via a Sony Handycam using a video S cable through a Pinnacle DC10 plus card. [more inside]
posted by watercarrier at 5:34 AM PST - 1 comment

How can I focus on tedious tasks?

Sometimes at my job I have to do boring things. I want to be able to hunker down and just get things done, but I just can't focus. [more inside]
posted by Dec One at 5:22 AM PST - 18 comments

online program to send photo batches

Help me send batches of large photos online for free without downloading software [more inside]
posted by mateuslee at 5:01 AM PST - 11 comments

Awesome bt defunct record labels?

Can you think of any brilliant but now defunct or disestablished record labels? I'm looking for labels that were innovative, successful, fondly remembered or way ahead of their time. [more inside]
posted by takeyourmedicine at 3:37 AM PST - 52 comments

How can I encourage my talkative boss to stick to a meeting agenda?

How can I encourage my talkative boss to stick to a meeting agenda? [more inside]
posted by katala at 3:24 AM PST - 17 comments

Tendering proof of divorce online

I would like to be able to prove whether somebody I've met online is actually divorced (or not). What are the ways I can do this? [more inside]
posted by JaySunSee at 3:12 AM PST - 12 comments

Unknown upcoming actors/actresses

Does anyone know where can I find information on the internet about unknown actors(even though you recognize their faces) that appear on certain commercials on national TV spots? [more inside]
posted by idontpay at 2:20 AM PST - 2 comments

January 15

Where/how do I smoke and remain social?

Illinois' statewide smoking ban went into effect January 1st. Now, instead of being warm and cozy inside the bar, I'm cold and grumpy outside. Does anyone have any tips and tricks, preferably someone who's "lived" through a smoking ban of their own? (e.g. New York) [more inside]
posted by kpmcguire at 11:10 PM PST - 25 comments

How to get tickets to an invite-only debate?

How can I get tickets to the Democratic debate in Los Angeles on January 31, 2008? [more inside]
posted by kingjoeshmoe at 10:00 PM PST - 9 comments

Boating; which are the best online discussion forums for motor boats?

I just moved onto the Puget Sound and need a small, affordable, transportable power boat and want suggestions from you about the best online boating discussion forums to ask further questions! [more inside]
posted by Ligament at 9:52 PM PST - 4 comments

Yoga in Spanish or sign language in the San Francisco area

Know of any yoga classes in the San Francisco Bay Area that are in Spanish or in sign language? [more inside]
posted by salvia at 9:32 PM PST - 3 comments

Grilled recipes wanted for volunteer meals

I need new recipe ideas for our grilled volunteer meals [more inside]
posted by F Mackenzie at 9:11 PM PST - 12 comments

Gmail, IMAP, and Outlook: a ménage à trois of questionable proportions.

Two questions regarding the use of Outlook 2007 and Gmail's IMAP. Here are the questions; detailed explanations inside. -I use Gmail to pull mail and send from two other e-mail accounts. Is there a way to set Outlook up to do the same? -When I open Outlook, it creates a label called "Junk E-mail" in Gmail. Is there a way to stop this? [more inside]
posted by phaded at 9:07 PM PST - 2 comments

Advice in applying for a mortgage

I'm applying for a mortgage, my wife is European and has debt in a foreign country but has been living here for 3 years and has a green card and a short credit history. If I don't report her foreign debt in our financial disclosures when applying for the mortgage will the bank here be able to find out? will they look?
posted by anonymous at 9:06 PM PST - 9 comments

How can an attached girl make friends with single guys? Or can she?

Help a girl make guy friends with a minimum of misunderstandings. (Despite a history of misunderstandings.) I am female, in my late 20s. I am in a committed relationship that is about to temporarily become long-distance. I am about to enter an environment (MBA program) where male students outnumber females three to one. [more inside]
posted by Mr Bunnsy at 8:11 PM PST - 58 comments

I love him, but can I forever?

The only thing scarier than the thought of being without my wonderful boyfriend in ten years... is the thought that I WILL still be with him. Help me make sense of this feeling! [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:36 PM PST - 40 comments

Help me kill the hum

MusicGearFilter: I've got a hum in my recording/performance setup. I think I know how it's getting in -- a balanced mic cable going into a piece of gear with an unbalanced jack. How do I fix it? Full details within. [more inside]
posted by Artifice_Eternity at 7:31 PM PST - 6 comments

A sip of hot (not boiling) water, anyone?

TeaFilter: where (in Europe) could I find an electric kettle with a temperature control? Do such things actually exist? [more inside]
posted by _dario at 7:31 PM PST - 7 comments

Pink eye

Can pink-eye cause permanent blindness? [more inside]
posted by Steven C. Den Beste at 6:29 PM PST - 27 comments

Wait! Wait! I've run out of episodes!

I am madly in love with NPR's Wait Wait Don't Tell Me. Please recommend similar shows, preferably available via podcast. [more inside]
posted by CaptApollo at 5:47 PM PST - 27 comments

Personal recommendations-- swedish massage in Seattle

Seattle Mefis: Anyone know a top-notch swedish style masseur/eusse? Was just in NY and my friend had me meet him for a few hours at the famous Russian steam baths on E. 10th. I booked a massage, explaining that "I have sciatica problem, and woujld like Swedish style, and someone who will be good working on a specific problem". Well, it was FANTASTIC. She kneaded, pounded, pressed out the most painful point where the sciatica is enflamed, then soothed, stretched out my hands, legs, etc. Wow. It was 30 minutes, but the greatest. She was so thorough in only 30. Anyone in Seattle? ... hopefully someone highly professional who might even have a hot shower/steam room in their place of business. (I once had massage in Sea. where the man did have his whole basement level fixed up like that.) [more inside]
posted by yazi at 5:12 PM PST - 2 comments

Soldering a leaky flask-bad idea?

Thinking of solder to fix a broken flask. Tell me why I shouldn't do this. [more inside]
posted by ®@ at 5:05 PM PST - 12 comments

How do/does prayer and meditation differ?

What are you thinking about when you pray? [more inside]
posted by Rash at 4:45 PM PST - 38 comments

MBP: I cloned my old HD to a new (larger) one, and OS X only sees the older (smaller) space.

The disk in my MBP was upgraded from 100GB to 250GB. They used a hardware disk to disk copier that just cloned the drive, bit for bit. Now, I want to grow my 100GB partition to fill up the new space, however Disk Utility only sees the drive as 100GB. I know there are some $100 utilities out there, but I am a geek and want to do it for free. [more inside]
posted by dhammala at 4:29 PM PST - 17 comments

On antidepressants. Need to lose weight. How to get started?

I'm taking SSRIs. I've experienced significant weight gain while on them and am now trying to work it off. How to get started? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:28 PM PST - 13 comments

ITs a Jungle Out There

What's a reasonable size/makeup for an IT department/Software development shop? more inside... [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:27 PM PST - 6 comments

How do I put a presentation in my pocket?

If I am looking to play videos off a USB key at presentations, what software should I load onto it for maximum compatibility? [more inside]
posted by perpetualstroll at 4:14 PM PST - 6 comments

"When asked what gift he wanted for his birthday, the yogi replied: "I wish no gifts, only presence."

Yoga-centric gift giving: My sister is opening her own yoga studio and wellness center next month in South Carolina! [more inside]
posted by Sassyfras at 4:10 PM PST - 9 comments

Tell me Rico, what's this song called?

In the TV movie The Hunley the doomed Confederate submariners sing a song together. I remember it sounding like an Irish folk-type tune but my Googling has failed to indentify it. Can you find the title and lyrics of this song? [more inside]
posted by kurtroehl at 3:52 PM PST - 3 comments

Is there a good alternative to the AppleTV?

Is there a good alternative to the new Apple TV 2? We just got a new HDTV as a gift for the holidays, and I've been connecting my laptop (Windows) to it in order to watch downloaded TV shows & movies. It works ok, but the gfx card on the laptop's a bit old, & doesn't really support HD resolution. Now that the Apple TV's (re)released today, I was wondering if there's a good alternative ....something small that'll playback hd video files in divx, xvid, etc, super easy to connect to the wireless network, plays back in full hd res., etc. Storage space isn't really an issue, just a few gigs is ok considering we usually delete a video file or backup to dvd-r after watching it. I'm also concerned the AppleTV won't playback all the random video formats that VLC & a codec pack handle with ease. ...oh, and definitely cheaper than the AppleTV - think grad student income. Thanks!
posted by itchi23 at 3:45 PM PST - 13 comments

Custom client-side CSS to change background colours.

CSS, greasemonkey, sunglasses? Is there a way to stop white web pages hurting my eyes (firefox, osx). [more inside]
posted by pompomtom at 3:38 PM PST - 14 comments

Insulating coatings for steel

Insulating paint? Anyone have any personal experience with such products? [more inside]
posted by Carbolic at 3:13 PM PST - 6 comments

Help me converse intelligently with computer guys at cocktail parties.

Help me converse intelligently with computer guys at cocktail parties. [more inside]
posted by Enroute at 3:09 PM PST - 33 comments

Two-speaker TV setup for non-audiophiles?

We have an LG LCD tv with some not-very-good speakers, and they are starting to sound "blown". Is there some kind of amp-speaker set designed for people who just want decent audio, rather than surround sound? [more inside]
posted by everichon at 3:08 PM PST - 12 comments

I'd like some Wordpress functionality, please?

I want 2 things from my self-hosted Wordpress blog - to be able to save a published post I'm editing with a keyboard shortcut, and to have a "reply" button on the comments. How can I get these things? [more inside]
posted by Rabulah at 2:17 PM PST - 3 comments

ATA cable confusion

Computer question: Last week I posted this question trying to replace a hard drive. Now I have a new problem... the hard drive uses a connector type that I've never seen before and it doesn't agree with what Wikipedia shows. [more inside]
posted by crapmatic at 2:08 PM PST - 8 comments

Mold in the US.

I have a two part question, about mold in the US, in buildings and the like. I'm thinking of moving, and I'm also allergic to mold. So this is a huge concern for me. a. What parts of the US is mold rare? and b. What parts of the US is mold commonplace? [more inside]
posted by spinifex23 at 1:59 PM PST - 18 comments

When can we expect new MacBook Pros?

I've been planning an upgrade to a MacBook Pro for a few months, but had been waiting for MacWorld, assuming that there would be a hardware revision. Now that the keynote has come and gone, sans even a spec bump, how long can I expect to wait for the next revision? [more inside]
posted by tweebiscuit at 1:57 PM PST - 13 comments

If a song wants to get stuck in MY head, it should learn to speak MY language!

Help me identify this joyous yet infuriatingly non-English choral song! [more inside]
posted by Rhaomi at 1:54 PM PST - 9 comments

BYOVacuum

Can anyone recommend a good (one-time, may become every few months) apartment cleaning service in Brooklyn, NY that brings their own supplies and equipment?
posted by undercoverhuwaaah at 1:39 PM PST - 2 comments

Need to find a pulse/ox monitor

Pulse-Ox monitors (the little dealies that fit over your finger and measure oxygen saturation in the blood). Need to buy one for an asthmatic person. What are reputable brand names, places to order, etc? I'm in Canada, so shipping availability to Canada is essential (if ordered online), or local resources in Toronto.
posted by dirtynumbangelboy at 1:27 PM PST - 7 comments

Dirt Floor

I need a carpet cleaner that won't break the bank. What current model do you recommend? (UK models/links only, please) [more inside]
posted by chuckdarwin at 1:16 PM PST - 9 comments

Where's my bread machine mix?

Where can I buy ready-made mix in bulk for my bread machine? [more inside]
posted by maryn at 1:07 PM PST - 8 comments

Help me record loud, annoying, unlistenable crap

I am starting a solo no-wave/noise project. I know nothing about recording. Please help me assemble the barest, cheapest necessities. [more inside]
posted by unknowncommand at 1:06 PM PST - 9 comments

What percentage of Hindus are vegetarian?

Is there a reliable source (preferably online) for the percentage of Hindus in India who are vegetarian? [more inside]
posted by peacheater at 12:58 PM PST - 11 comments

MacBook hex screws

What's the proper hex screwdriver to use to remove the four hex screws on the metal sleeve in a (black) MacBook hard drive? 5/64" seems the closest, but it's been a real struggle. 1.5mm is too small and 2mm seems too large.
posted by Lucy2Times at 12:58 PM PST - 6 comments

Always looking for a better bank...

I used to consider Commerce the 'poor man's bank' because virtually everything was free. Not so anymore, since I just noticed I'm paying $15/month for a checking account. So, hive mind, where am I opening my new checking account? Requirements within... [more inside]
posted by infinityjinx at 12:50 PM PST - 35 comments

good landline phone

Old school question here, folks, but can anyone recommend a good landline (not cordless) phone for an office setting? I had an AT&T 955, but it's gone buggy (buzzy, actually) on me. I like the aesthetics of it otherwise, but if anyone has any ideas...
posted by jgballard at 12:41 PM PST - 6 comments

Does interferential electrotherapy work?

What is, and how useful is, if at all, interferential electrotherapy? [more inside]
posted by Smedleyman at 12:40 PM PST - 8 comments

I want this NYC Public School to give me a piece of furniture they might be throwing away in the near future.

I want this NYC Public School to give me a piece of furniture they might be throwing away in the near future. [more inside]
posted by AnyGuelmann at 12:21 PM PST - 11 comments

comfortable = comfortable?

Why are we comfortable with the thermostat set at 70 (Fahrenheit) in winter for heater, but we would be cold if it was set that low for the air conditioner in summer? Also, in winter here in SW Fla., on days it's warmer outside than what the thermostat is set on, my husband turns the heat off and opens the house, and then the temperature inside drops. Same thing in summer - if it's cooler outside he turns the air off, opens up, and the temperature inside goes high. He says the heat/air won't come on when it's nicer outside. I say that's the thermostat's job - to keep the inside temperature steady regardless of what's happening outside. Who's right?
posted by viva viola at 12:12 PM PST - 12 comments

How long can I drive a car before turning it over to the insurance company?

Someone hit my car. Their insurance company wants to total it. How long can I drive it before they take it away? [more inside]
posted by tss at 12:07 PM PST - 21 comments

Big BIG Books

Where to find those VERY large storybooks that children's librarians use for storytelling hours? I've searched for "large", "big" and "oversized" storybooks to no avail.
posted by jeanmari at 11:39 AM PST - 9 comments

How do I record 40 people on a budget?

Equipment for recording a roundtable discussion, on a budget? My office is hosting a roundtable discussion seminar and we would like to audio record it. The venue does not have any AV equipment, so it looks like we need to purchase or rent something, but there's not a huge budget for this. Any recommendations for recorders that would be likely to pick up all audio in a room with 40 people sitting in a large circle, or equipment rental places in San Francisco that would be able to do this?
posted by occhiblu at 11:19 AM PST - 5 comments

Waiting Games

Give me your best games to play while waiting in line, going on long car trips, or on airplanes. Requirements: 2 or preferably more players, minimal, self-made or no equipment necessary (deck of cards is OK), and fun! So far I have: rock/scissors/paper tournament, Mafia/Werewolf, 20 questions. I need more! [more inside]
posted by agent99 at 11:12 AM PST - 45 comments

Slightly morbid science question

Let's say someone dies and is cremated. What are the odds that an atom that was part of their body when they died becomes part of your body over the next 100 years that you live?
posted by snoogles at 11:07 AM PST - 15 comments

Are IT band straps just snake oil?

Are those IT band straps for running worth a damn? [more inside]
posted by middleclasstool at 11:05 AM PST - 19 comments

Should you judge a religious community based on its leader?

How can you trust a temple/church/etc if its leader has had moral failings? [more inside]
posted by desjardins at 10:52 AM PST - 23 comments

Help me see my friends on MSN!

How can I get MSN Messenger (or Windows Live Messenger, I guess it's called now) to show other peoples' webcams when I'm surfing behind an SSH tunnel proxy? [more inside]
posted by antifuse at 10:50 AM PST - 2 comments

What's so special about the hot sand?

What's so special about the hot sand that opticians use? Do I need this to make adjustments to my glasses frames? [more inside]
posted by Caviar at 10:48 AM PST - 22 comments

This is my depressed stance.

How do people who's depressed get better? More specifically, how do they get the motivation to get better if they are depressed and, therefore, not really caring about anything? I'm not sure how to phrase this question better. If it's chatfilter, feel free to delete it.
posted by Memo at 10:44 AM PST - 29 comments

How can I replicate data between several IIS 6.0 WebServers ?

IIS 6.0 Replication/Failover Software Suggestion/Recommendations ? [more inside]
posted by hboogz at 10:38 AM PST - 1 comment

Why so many Indians at Niagara Falls?

Is there some special historical / cultural reason that (South Asian) Indians are really big on Niagara Falls? [more inside]
posted by Meatbomb at 10:31 AM PST - 25 comments

Best DBA certification?

What DBA certification should I pursue? MS, Oracle, something else? [more inside]
posted by davar at 10:26 AM PST - 3 comments

Epi or Gretsch?

Comparing an Epi to a Gretsch. [more inside]
posted by sailormouth at 9:52 AM PST - 9 comments

Murder Ballads with a beat?

I'm looking for hip-hop songs that function as crime fiction, like "Shaky Dog." [more inside]
posted by Bookhouse at 9:46 AM PST - 33 comments

Adam Gopnik's essay on Mafia

Anyone know where online I can find the Adam Gopnik essay on playing the game Mafia? It's from the book "Through the Children's Gate," but I need an electronic version, not a hard copy. [more inside]
posted by Ollie at 9:19 AM PST - 8 comments

Profane language translation request

During a stupid Reply-To All e-mail storm at my huge international corporation, someone responded with this (which I assume is profane): [more inside]
posted by mmascolino at 9:12 AM PST - 7 comments

Where are all the cool dancers?

Where are all the interesting dancers? [more inside]
posted by sully75 at 8:51 AM PST - 18 comments

Pedal Powered Computer?

Help me find a website about a human powered computer. Not the MIT supercomputer. [more inside]
posted by [insert clever name here] at 8:17 AM PST - 7 comments

Help identify cool mystery bike rack?

Help me identify/locate the manufacturer of a cool hitch-mounted bike rack I saw last summer. I want one. The google goggles, they do nothing. [more inside]
posted by de void at 7:53 AM PST - 8 comments

MOLD

What are the real dangers of mold?? Our master bathroom with something leaking somewhere and it has damaged the wood floor under the vinyl. [more inside]
posted by beccaj at 7:38 AM PST - 11 comments

Homelessness how-to?

How to be homeless? Yes, step one, lack a home. Then what? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:57 AM PST - 93 comments

Is there a database of lawyers that can be used to find one without a conflict of interest?

My mom is worried she won't be able to find a lawyer who doesn't have a conflict of interest. How can I help her? [more inside]
posted by bleary at 6:48 AM PST - 7 comments

Target specific IP ranges with ads?

Is there a major online advertising network that allows targeting of specific IP ranges like those assigned to a company? [more inside]
posted by Mo Nickels at 6:43 AM PST - 7 comments

You dirty jade! Wait, what?

"He's a dirty jade!" "Go ahead and sleep with him you dirty jade!" This insult was used repeatedly in the Zola book I was reading last night. When I searched for it this morning, Google returned results for other uses in at least three other Zola novels. What does it refer to? (As the more inside explains, I think it's actually an English-language insult, as the original contains something else.) [more inside]
posted by OmieWise at 6:42 AM PST - 17 comments

Sleeping/exercising/getting teh sick

Can a minor change in sleep schedule (as opposed to a reduction in sleep hours) make you sick? Or is her body just reacting badly to an increase in exercise? [more inside]
posted by 2or3whiskeysodas at 6:24 AM PST - 10 comments

Boxing Lessons in NYC

Looking for boxing lessons in NYC, open to group lessons or a personal trainer. [more inside]
posted by glooper at 6:15 AM PST - 3 comments

Kids' toothpaste for a big baby

What's the difference between adult and kids' toothpaste? [more inside]
posted by twine42 at 5:46 AM PST - 14 comments

How do I make myself want to go to bed earlier?

What techniques can I use to help motivate myself to go to bed earlier? [more inside]
posted by dyslexictraveler at 5:38 AM PST - 16 comments

How do I not screw up the rest of my life?

How do I not screw up the rest of my life? I've just turned 24 and my life is a mess. [more inside]
posted by matryoshka at 4:54 AM PST - 37 comments

Music from Spike Lee's 25th Hour v2

Does anyone know the music that is playing in Spike Lee's 25th Hour in the scene in the nightclub where Philip Seymour Hoffman's character kisses his student in the toilet. It is playing throughout the whole segment where they are talking on the couch, she goes to the toilet, he follows her, goes in, kisses her and then comes out shocked at what he's done. It's fantastic music throughout the whole bit and I'd love to get it.
posted by bp79 at 4:52 AM PST - 6 comments

Beardless Impostor Effect filter

Is there a word or phrase (preferably in English, but all languages welcome) to describe the distinct feeling one gets when a man whom one sees often shaves his beard and his face looks uncomfortably different? [more inside]
posted by holympus at 3:12 AM PST - 20 comments

Creating language from scratch.

If left entirely without adult supervision from birth, would a group of newborns develop a new language? [more inside]
posted by greytape at 3:02 AM PST - 30 comments

Football on Sat TV and AM radio way out of sync? Speed of

Football on Sat TV and AM radio way out of sync. Is it a technical thing or a maths issue? Speed of light, azimuth, etc [more inside]
posted by priorpark17 at 1:30 AM PST - 12 comments

That one day, robots shall call out from the mountain tops!

I have a dream! A dream of a robot laboratory. What steps can I take towards one day achieving my dream? [more inside]
posted by markovich at 1:18 AM PST - 11 comments

January 14

"Ma'am, if you didn't have a vagina, these repairs would cost you considerably less."

[Automotive-Repair-Filter]: I dropped off my car at the dealership for it's scheduled maintenance and to have some loudness checked out. Now I'm being told that despite wheel-bearings being the noise-culprit, my car needs $1000+ worth of repairs. Am I getting shafted? [more inside]
posted by numinous at 11:55 PM PST - 27 comments

Which drum practice pad set should I get?

Any experiences with drum practice pad sets? After moving into a small apartment and considering my options, I've decided to get a practice pad set. These are two sets that I'm considering: Remo and DW. Anyone know anything about these, or others? Thanks!
posted by k7lim at 11:23 PM PST - 7 comments

Looking for a very temporary art space in Chicago

Looking for a relatively last-minute DIY-style gallery space in Chicago. [more inside]
posted by macrowave at 11:08 PM PST - 4 comments

POD xt and The Smiths "How Soon is Now?"

POD xt and The Smiths "How Soon is Now?" [more inside]
posted by kjl291 at 11:06 PM PST - 8 comments

How do allergy meds work, while having different side effects?

How do loratadine and diphenhydramine HCI work? Specifically, how is it that both can help control allergies, yet have different side effects? I'm particularly interested in how loratadine works without causing sleepiness, while a single 25 mg capsule of diphenhydramine is able to knock me out in a matter of minutes.
posted by invisible ink at 10:22 PM PST - 7 comments

How does one get on a headhunter list?

How do I get on a headhunter list? [more inside]
posted by jseven at 9:45 PM PST - 12 comments

Why why is is Firefox Firefox repeating repeating words words??

Why does Firefox occasionally repeat the right-click spellcheck suggested words? [more inside]
posted by nitsuj at 9:24 PM PST - 6 comments

A comparative (also contemporary) text for Henry D. Thoreau's "Civil Disobedience?"

What contemporary text (including, books, newspapers, magazines, music, movies, or television) can I compare to Henry David Throreau's "Civil Disobedience." The text must no more that 25 years old. [more inside]
posted by meta.mark at 9:21 PM PST - 23 comments

No agent, no pride

Question for pro screenwriters...since the strike is on right now, would this be an abnormally good time, or an abnormally bad time, to try to get an agent? [more inside]
posted by Ziggurat at 9:11 PM PST - 19 comments

Financial couples counseling in L.A.?

Looking for a financial (not debt/credit) counselor in Los Angeles area for a couple with different financial approaches/backgrounds. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:55 PM PST - 7 comments

Speech Anxiety - What to do?

How do I survive a presentation-laden semester w/ social-anxiety? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:54 PM PST - 15 comments

Very short nonconsensual sexual activity: confused, upset, guilty, anxious, please advise!

I had a bad, less than entirely consensual sexual experience that I'm confused about and having difficulty moving past. I'm hoping for insight about resolving this and moving on, because it's causing me some anxiety and I want to feel good about my sexuality. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:54 PM PST - 51 comments

Chicago hotel bars?

Good hotel-style bar in Chicago for a low-key birthday party? [more inside]
posted by HeroZero at 8:44 PM PST - 3 comments

Making daylight?

What is the cheapest, most cost-effective way to have a lamp (or lighting fixture of some variety) mimic (roughly) daylight hours, including fading in slowly in the morning and going off slowly in the evening? [more inside]
posted by jferg at 8:24 PM PST - 15 comments

Help! Seasick transmitters!

I need to do some highly sophisticated pitch-correction on some old reel-to-reel recordings. What software to use? [more inside]
posted by mykescipark at 8:09 PM PST - 13 comments

Applying custom CSS styles inside a DIV without touching existing tags

Is there a way to alter a CSS property but only within a specific section of a website, WITHOUT touching the content's tags? [more inside]
posted by arrowhead at 8:03 PM PST - 3 comments

Where can I get a listing of possible tracking number formats for all the major couriers?

Where can I get a listing of possible tracking number formats for all the major couriers? [more inside]
posted by JPigford at 7:58 PM PST - 8 comments

Pre-gapped sparkplugs

Is there any difference in performance between pre-gapped sparkplugs (such as these) and ones that you have to gap yourself? [more inside]
posted by Aanidaani at 7:54 PM PST - 7 comments

Fun Vegas Restaurant

Need help finding a fun restaurant in Las Vegas, preferably off the strip. [more inside]
posted by GregWithLime at 7:37 PM PST - 9 comments

Factory Testing of Dishwashers Leaves Water?

Is it normal to a brand new dishwasher (Kenmore), still in its box, to have water leak? Does Kenmore run some type of factory test that leaves water in the dishwasher before they send it out? [more inside]
posted by kajj at 7:30 PM PST - 9 comments

How to shrink my presentation?

What is the most elegant solution (.ppt, .key, other) for shrinking my presentations to less than 5 mb on a mac? [more inside]
posted by arabelladragon at 7:29 PM PST - 12 comments

What are you doing to my computer?

I'd like to have a log file of everything an application does to my Windows (XP) system. All files added/removed, all changes to the registry, and everything else it does to the disk. Can this be done free or cheaply? [more inside]
posted by DarkForest at 7:23 PM PST - 8 comments

I just don't know WHAT to call it!

What is the visual 'style' of this video called? [more inside]
posted by matty at 6:59 PM PST - 6 comments

Student loan consolidation- so what?

I'm trying to evaluate student loan interest rates for possible consolidation as I get quotes. All the consolidated rates (so far) seem to be the same. What am I looking for? [more inside]
posted by rryan at 6:35 PM PST - 4 comments

Cheap Shoji?

I need a large sheet of thin but durable, mylar-ish translucent material in Toronto. [more inside]
posted by chococat at 6:31 PM PST - 13 comments

Money for nothing ...

Should I do an uneccessary PET scan for money? [more inside]
posted by ouchitburns at 6:16 PM PST - 23 comments

Films conceived by High Schoolers

What popular movies were conceived of and/or written by the screenwriter when he or she were still in high school? [more inside]
posted by np312 at 6:10 PM PST - 17 comments

Am I actually going to get in trouble if I drive this car?

My girlfriend and I are taking a trip. She's 27, I'm 24. We're renting a car in her name. What are the consequences if she doesn't tell Hertz about me, but I drive anyway? [more inside]
posted by soonertbone at 5:41 PM PST - 23 comments

Stressed, only one week into term.

I burst into tears in front of a professor today. I need to learn how to relax. Please help. [more inside]
posted by flibbertigibbet at 5:37 PM PST - 28 comments

Chicago chalk?

Where can I find climbing/weightlifting chalk in Chicago? [more inside]
posted by AceRock at 5:25 PM PST - 5 comments

They came from outer space!

Why is my snow covered yard crawling with caterpillars? [more inside]
posted by donmateo at 4:50 PM PST - 5 comments

Teaching under the table in Brazil: what's the worst that could happen?

So, due to some random circumstances, I've been offered a chance to go teach English in Brazil for a few months. However, the school is just starting and is not licensed yet, so I would be paid under the table. I would be on a tourist visa so this would be illegal. How much trouble could I get into? [more inside]
posted by octavia at 4:49 PM PST - 13 comments

COBRA vs. out-of-pocket group insurance?

I left my prior job in December and was hired by a temp agency. The agency offers an out-of-pocket health insurance plan. Does this mean I can't opt to continue my old coverage with COBRA instead? [more inside]
posted by ahimsa at 4:40 PM PST - 5 comments

Free alt to NTI Shadow backup

I'm looking for a free alternative to NTI Shadow Backup on Windows. The features I'm most interested in are "Backup whenever the file is changed" and file versioning.
posted by bumper314 at 4:31 PM PST - 4 comments

Instrumetal Breakdown

What are the best cinematic movie soundtracks you've ever heard? [more inside]
posted by Christ, what an asshole at 4:26 PM PST - 116 comments

Best of Both Worlds

Where can I go in NYC that serves both ice cream AND hard liquor-- as many varieties of both as possible?
posted by hermitosis at 3:55 PM PST - 8 comments

What's the Wall-E music?

What is the music used in the Wall-E trailer? [more inside]
posted by Mwongozi at 3:48 PM PST - 3 comments

Catfish & Tilapia recipes?

Give me your favorite simple Catfish or Tilapia recipes! [more inside]
posted by cashman at 3:48 PM PST - 23 comments

Arabic tattoos

Tattoo filter; My second tattoo question. I would like to get an Arabic themed sleeve on my arm. What sort of things can I look for inspiration. Any Arab art that might be a good start? My goal would be to show the artist pieces that I liked and have him draw his own interpretation of it. Any help is truly appreciated.
posted by boyinmiami at 3:46 PM PST - 11 comments

Is my mom's behavior towards my little brother inappropriate?

My mom's quasi-incestuous behavior towards my younger brother seriously squicks me out. Is her behavior actually quasi-inscestuous? And what should I do? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 3:41 PM PST - 29 comments

What to do with all that money?

I will soon receive an inheritance of about $100,000-$150,000 (numbers are vague right now). I'm looking for tips and advice for managing that money. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 3:41 PM PST - 16 comments

how do I find a cheap place in london quickly?

how do I find a cheap place in london quickly? [more inside]
posted by krautland at 3:27 PM PST - 17 comments

Find myself a city to live in (NYC isn’t doing it for me)

I need some suggestions for a place to live that fits me better than NYC – somewhere liberal, outdoorsy, and friendly. East Coast preferred. Further explanation inside. [more inside]
posted by SampleSize at 3:11 PM PST - 42 comments

"If I can make it there..."

Is living in New York really that hard? [more inside]
posted by lunasol at 3:01 PM PST - 75 comments

How do I unlock a downloaded podcast?

How do I unlock a downloaded podcast? [more inside]
posted by kristymcj at 3:01 PM PST - 4 comments

Intuition Puzzles

How do you improve your intuition? Is there an equivalent to logic puzzles for developing the ability to think inuitively? Not the "ah ha" type of puzzle like 88 K on a P. Some other structured activity that goes beyond philosophical advice like "listening to your inner dialog." I already believe in intuition; I'm just looking for ways to exercise it.
posted by Jeff Howard at 2:22 PM PST - 13 comments

Make admissions go "wow"

Resume filter: I'm applying to the business program at my university and I need to include a resume with my application. I want admissions to say "wow." [more inside]
posted by 913 at 2:15 PM PST - 8 comments

What does the construct "?/" refer to in Ruby?

What does the construct "?/" refer to in Ruby? [more inside]
posted by nakedcodemonkey at 2:09 PM PST - 6 comments

My little pumpkin is leaving--in 2 years!

How do parents of an only child let them go when it's time to leave the nest for college? I have a 15 yr. old and I'm already dreading her going out into the big bad cruel world--(ok, so its just college). But I don't want her to see how worried I am and not have a nervous breakdown in front of her ;-) So how can I prepare myself for this big milestone?
posted by sandra194 at 2:04 PM PST - 34 comments

Help my engagement and wedding rings get along!

Is there a name for the ring you wear between a mis-matched engagement ring and a wedding ring that serves to adapt the round form of one to the flat form of the other? Where do I get one? In San Francisco, preferably. Bonus if the jeweler specializes in vintage pieces. [more inside]
posted by otherwordlyglow at 1:56 PM PST - 15 comments

Waffles beyond breakfast?

I just got a waffle iron. Is there anything I can make with it besides the obvious? [more inside]
posted by Metroid Baby at 1:49 PM PST - 22 comments

Spreadsheet average help

I'd like a spreadsheet (OpenOffice Calc) to give me the average of the numbers in a certain row that will be filled over a period of months, and I'd like the formula for the average to remain valid even as I fill it, cell by cell. How? [more inside]
posted by regicide is good for you at 1:39 PM PST - 7 comments

I'm my mother's favorite. Now what?

My mother recently told me I'm her favorite child. How can I deal with the guilt? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 1:04 PM PST - 42 comments

Creative ways to distrubute flyers and laws against them.

I want to start up my own computer repair business on the site. What are some creative ways to distribute flyers? Also does anyone know if there are laws against distributing them in a certain way?
posted by deadparrot at 12:59 PM PST - 11 comments

How do I relieve this pain in my shoulders?

I'm having a pretty standard tight pain in my shoulders (most likely due to stress), kind of like my shoulders are stuck in the tensed up shrug position. Can the hivemind recommend some remedies? I found some exercise sites from past posts, but anything would be helpful.
posted by miasma at 12:47 PM PST - 17 comments

Help me plan/budget a 1-week Spain or Greece vacation!

Help me figure out a budget and an example itinerary for a February trip to Spain or Greece! [more inside]
posted by sdis at 12:44 PM PST - 6 comments

My MacBook desktop is suddenly too big for the screen!

My MacBook desktop is suddenly too big for the screen! [more inside]
posted by donovan at 12:22 PM PST - 8 comments

Please help me save years of digicam pics!

How can I save my digicam pics (retrieved from various old CDs and DVDs) and not spend weeks on it? Currently many of them crash (Windows) Explorer. [more inside]
posted by ClarissaWAM at 12:15 PM PST - 6 comments

How much will a bankruptcy cost?

How much should a personal bankruptcy cost in Michigan? [more inside]
posted by Bjkokenos at 11:59 AM PST - 3 comments

I'm not sneaker-obsessed, but I'd like to learn.

To all the sneaker pimps* out there: what can you tell me about sneaker culture? *no, not the band [more inside]
posted by lekvar at 11:55 AM PST - 8 comments

How to best protect electrical equipment in a underground utility room?

How to best protect electrical equipment in a underground utility room? [more inside]
posted by colecovizion at 11:26 AM PST - 5 comments

Need some advice for flying with 2 toddlers

Air Travel Noob: I need some advice for traveling with my 4 1/2 year old daughter and 2 year old son. I have flown ONCE in my whole life and now I need some advice. [more inside]
posted by ShawnString at 11:23 AM PST - 30 comments

Any sellers of glass paperweights in the NYC area?

Where can I buy a glass paperweight in the NYC area? [more inside]
posted by May Kasahara at 11:17 AM PST - 3 comments

Semester in SEA.

A friend wants to spend 3 or 4 months in South East Asia. His budget is US $3000 (including transportation). Is this enough money, if he stays in mid-range guesthouses? He is a writer, and is wondering if bringing his laptop is a good idea. He's been to China before, but is completely unfamiliar with South East Asia, and hasn't traveled extensively in the past. Any itinerary ideas would be appreciated.
posted by jne1813 at 11:04 AM PST - 13 comments

Can anyone recommend a decent URL blocker for IE along the lines of Leechblock or somesuch?

I'm descending into procrastination-by-browsing meltdown and finding it nigh on impossible to drag myself away from certain sites but it's draining my productivity. I'm covered for firefox with Leechblock but I have to use IE to access our CMS. I checked other answers here, and googled a bit but all I could find was temptation blocker, I installed it but as far as I can see it only blocks apps rather than urls. Anyone know of any other options (beyond developing some backbone!)? I don't have any admin access to my PC so I can't meddle with the settings and I don't really want to alert my employers to the fact that I'm trying to curb my non-work usage!
posted by freya_lamb at 10:38 AM PST - 13 comments

Where should we look to find my guy a creative/tech job in Austin, TX?

Austin, Tx help! What jobs are available for and/or which companies would be interested in a person with a current job that's variously described as creative, educational, social, entertaining, games-, media- and/or tech-related? [more inside]
posted by lhall at 10:33 AM PST - 8 comments

Toronto Pottery Throw-Down

Recommendations for good pottery/ceramics courses in Toronto? [more inside]
posted by prophetsearcher at 10:33 AM PST - 3 comments

Can I force wireless to only function via VPN?

How do I force WiFi to only work through VPN on company laptops? [more inside]
posted by bartleby at 10:24 AM PST - 4 comments

A traveler without observation is a bird without wings.

Hey, business travelers! I've got some questions for you. :) [more inside]
posted by miss lynnster at 10:04 AM PST - 35 comments

How can I see pages side-by-side in Acrobat 8?

How can I open multiple pages at once in Acrobat, so I can see them side-by-side? [more inside]
posted by penciltopper at 9:52 AM PST - 3 comments

Bespoke in the Windy City

Is this a reputable tailor for (mail-order) bespoke suits? [more inside]
posted by davidriley at 9:47 AM PST - 3 comments

help me give a presentation on "new media/web2.0" by suggesting books, articles and exercises.

I need to give a presentation on "new media". Help me by suggesting articles, books, and exercises that best demonstrate how electronic communication has changed the way we communicate. [more inside]
posted by unless I'm very much mistaken at 9:24 AM PST - 8 comments

The best and worst volunteering organisations...

Im interested in doing some Camp America/BUNAC/GAP year type programmes over the next year hopefully including one that gives me a Teaching English as a Foreign Language qualification... [more inside]
posted by Neonshock at 9:23 AM PST - 2 comments

Hi, I'm AWKWARD! (But how awkward am I?)

Do people with under-developed social skills know that their skills need work? If so, how? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:19 AM PST - 24 comments

I knew this dame was trouble...

Police procedural/gumshoe, sandbox games? [more inside]
posted by Happy Dave at 9:07 AM PST - 8 comments

Old-Timey Shave in Chicago?

Where can I get an old-timey shave in the city of Chicago? [more inside]
posted by KevinSkomsvold at 9:07 AM PST - 6 comments

What happens if you fight

What are the repercussions for getting into a fist fight outside of a bar? [more inside]
posted by hexxed at 9:04 AM PST - 18 comments

...In the past, with my granddad, in a warm kitchen, with ginger ale...

Help me find a certain juice glass... [more inside]
posted by oflinkey at 8:40 AM PST - 3 comments

delta machine music

Is there such a thing as industrial-blues? [more inside]
posted by signal at 8:39 AM PST - 16 comments

Where to find great beer in NYC

What brewpubs are there in NYC? What bars have good selections of beers brewed by local breweries? [more inside]
posted by nowonmai at 8:21 AM PST - 19 comments

My desk always gets overrun with creeps.

How can I beat Desktop Tower Defense on hard mode? [more inside]
posted by COBRA! at 8:20 AM PST - 16 comments

Caller id woes: no ones knows it's me

I have terrible cell reception in my house so I have been forwarding my cell calls to my home phone when I'm at home. This has worked great. There's a problem though. [more inside]
posted by jdl at 8:18 AM PST - 7 comments

A Little Beauty Help for an African Queen?

Manchester, NH: Where can I find beauty salons that cater to African hair (braids, weaves, extensions, texture)? [more inside]
posted by mynameismandab at 8:14 AM PST - 7 comments

Excitement

How can I add more novelty and adventure into my life? [more inside]
posted by kaizen at 7:51 AM PST - 23 comments

Porn for girls. That isn't gross.

I'm looking for porn a girl might like. But apparently I'm picky. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:51 AM PST - 32 comments

No ovaries, now what?

I recently had an operation to remove my remaining ovary. I just turned 40 and am now on hormones. What should I expect? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:50 AM PST - 2 comments

I love it, but it makes me smell

I was going to post this as myself, but I bottled out. I can be contacted on cabbagebreath68 @ googlemail.com. What can I do to limit the amount of gas produced by eating foods such as beans, cauliflower, radishes, etc? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:50 AM PST - 16 comments

To Live and Dine in L.A.

I'll be spending the next week in L.A. I'm from the Midwest, unremarkable smallish town with zero culinary culture. Help me find places to to eat during the trip, but they have to be quick/take-out places. [more inside]
posted by sourwookie at 7:45 AM PST - 23 comments

Strong real females in movies

Pamela Landy, in the 2nd and 3rd Bourne movies, is an uncomplicatedly powerful female character and I'm looking for other fiction movies with similar characters. (Inside I explain a little more what I'm looking for.) I don't have any spoilers inside for the Bourne movies, and please avoid spoilers for any movies you recommend, thanks! [more inside]
posted by sparrows at 7:20 AM PST - 51 comments

PatentFilter

PatentFilter: When das a patent expire? [more inside]
posted by yoyo_nyc at 7:12 AM PST - 7 comments

Thanks for sharing

Can anyone recommend a good place for rijstafel in London(UK)? [more inside]
posted by sagwalla at 6:25 AM PST - 2 comments

Research on effectiveness of exercises in learning.

Does anyone know of research on the effectiveness of non-theoretical exercises (i.e.: finding a derivative of a simple polynomial when learning calculus, adding numbers when learning arithmetic, etc.)? [more inside]
posted by tehgeekmeister at 6:11 AM PST - 6 comments

you CAN always get what you want...

i'm looking for songs about selfishness. the tricky part is, i'm looking for lyrics that celebrate or accept selfishness as the way the world works nowadays. with all apologies to the rolling stones, you CAN usually get what you want nowadays -- if you live in a first-world nation. where's the music about that?
posted by rubberfish at 5:57 AM PST - 46 comments

Should I buy winter clothing in Utah or London?

Would I be better off buying a winter coat and heavy shoes in Park City, Utah or London? [more inside]
posted by caek at 5:36 AM PST - 17 comments

How much food do my pills need?

My prescribed medication needs to be taken "with or after food". How much food and how long after? [more inside]
posted by talitha_kumi at 5:23 AM PST - 4 comments

Can I save my job?

I am 99% sure I will be out of a job this week...am I on the right track professionally? What next? [more inside]
posted by sweetkid at 5:11 AM PST - 13 comments

How can I justify needing a non-XP system?

I work in a digitally backward environment (locked down XP builds), and am constantly frustrated by it. However, if I can make the business case, they will, I believe let me run my Mac on the network (and let my boss run his Linux machine). Can anyone help me make that case? [more inside]
posted by imperium at 3:15 AM PST - 29 comments

Coffee + Laptop? Never again.

Another laptop + spill question. Am I in the clear or have I simply screwed things over now? [more inside]
posted by Phire at 2:52 AM PST - 6 comments

They have humor in London...right?

Where can I find my beloved "The Onion" in London? Just moved to London from California where I could find an Onion newspaper on almost every street corner. Short of paying the $200 a year for a subscription, does anyone know where I can find the satirical newspaper in London?
posted by cubedweller at 2:43 AM PST - 20 comments

Basic textbook for understanding GMO?

Is there a concise, up-to-date textbook on biotechnology and the techniques for genetic modification of plant varieties, which will give me enough knowledge to talk to an expert on the subject? [more inside]
posted by YouRebelScum at 2:38 AM PST - 11 comments

Damn cats again

Please help me settle a discussion with my boyfriend: he says that panthers are always leopards. In Wikipedia I have read that the word "panther" can mean several kinds of big cats: [more inside]
posted by Skyanth at 2:05 AM PST - 13 comments

Themed menu ideas

Can someone give me suggestions for my menu for one of my cooking classes? [more inside]
posted by lundman at 1:34 AM PST - 4 comments

Back to The Grind

Every night at 12:10AM, the brand new primary hard drive in my computer begins grinding away for a duration of 10-60 seconds. Why? [more inside]
posted by Danelope at 12:54 AM PST - 12 comments

hard to identify Simple minds ripoff

what's that song ? Who ripped off "new gold dream" keyboard line ? [more inside]
posted by Baud at 12:39 AM PST - 3 comments

January 13

Non-distracting music for reading?

What music can you listen to while reading, and not get distracted from your text? [more inside]
posted by comwiz at 11:55 PM PST - 43 comments

Is magicjack VoIP worth getting?

Anyone familiar with MagicJack? [more inside]
posted by exlotuseater at 10:42 PM PST - 3 comments

How to check beer on a plane?

What is the best way to take an entirely legal quantity of beer across the continent, on a plane? [more inside]
posted by geodave at 9:48 PM PST - 12 comments

My hard drive asplode! Anyone know of any free utlities I can use to repair damaged directory structures?

Recently, one of my hard drives failed, with bad sectors all over the place. I've gotten the partition repaired, but some of the directories are damaged. What free tools can I use to reconstruct them? [more inside]
posted by ignignokt at 9:25 PM PST - 6 comments

Books on India

If you please—I urgently require a few good recommendations of novels that have India as a backdrop. [more inside]
posted by hadjiboy at 8:32 PM PST - 55 comments

Is there any place in the Caribbean that has a backpacker vibe?

Is there any place in the Caribbean that has a backpacker vibe? Or do you have to go to Central America / Mexico to get that?
posted by smackfu at 8:18 PM PST - 8 comments

Help me get my truck fixed up

What should I ask the mechanic to do to get my 1995 truck running smoother again? [more inside]
posted by Mid at 8:14 PM PST - 10 comments

Video capture on a ThinkPad T42?

Is my ThinkPad laptop capable of video capture? [more inside]
posted by stleric at 8:03 PM PST - 2 comments

How to fund small film?

Having asked this already, and having followed some of that really great advice, I've found that I'm only 50% Hollywood compliant. So I want to do my own film, here in San Diego. Any advice for getting funding for a couple of cameras and some sound? [more inside]
posted by snsranch at 7:36 PM PST - 2 comments

I'd like to breathe again, please.

Apartment life. The smoker downstairs is making it very difficult for me to breathe! [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:05 PM PST - 17 comments

Nice rack.

Design for a home-made wooden snowboard/ski/snowshoe rack? [more inside]
posted by unSane at 7:01 PM PST - 4 comments

Arrgh, cap'n! Thar be a boat-shoe-y issue amidships

Are Rivers' boat shoes any good? [more inside]
posted by oxford blue at 6:40 PM PST - 10 comments

Is congealed milk solids the norm for glass-bottle milk?

I bought some Meadowbrook Farms whole milk in a glass bottle a couple of days ago. Expiration date: Jan 21. I noticed today when I opened it and poured milk out that some of the milk solids had congealed on the inside of the top of the neck of the glass jar (and some of that came out with the poured-out milk). Is this a sign of rottenness, or of some kind of extremely wholesome milk? I can't tell from the smell.
posted by shivohum at 6:35 PM PST - 22 comments

I know there is a way to do this! There HAS to be!

MS Excel question: Creating a master spreadsheet that dynamically updates when information is updated from any one of six other spreadsheets. Possible? [more inside]
posted by Diskeater at 6:31 PM PST - 6 comments

My god, it's full of Stars

I'm looking for a series of hardback science fiction anthologies I dimly remember from childhood (sometime in the mid 80s). I think it had a one word title with a number, and the series went up to at least number five. I remember two stories in particular... [more inside]
posted by Artw at 6:27 PM PST - 11 comments

*(&wtfdoesthismean);

I can handle Ruby, Python, PHP, Perl, and, sigh, Java. My C and C++ are purely academic. How do I get into 'real' programming as an undergrad. [more inside]
posted by tmcw at 6:21 PM PST - 23 comments

Where to learn Spanish in Boston?

Where should I take beginning Spanish lessons in Boston or Cambridge? [more inside]
posted by There's No I In Meme at 6:14 PM PST - 6 comments

Helpe me make lemonade from this lemon.

My practically-new car is having serious problems, but the dealers don't believe me. What can I do to get the car fixed once and for all, or else get out of my lease? [more inside]
posted by Lillitatiana at 6:12 PM PST - 18 comments

What music is similar to the main theme from HBO's Rome?

I love the Main Title Theme (composed by Jeff Beal) from the HBO series "Rome." Unfortunately, it is only about 1.5 minutes long. Can any of you think of some music that is similar? Strong on percussion, interesting rythms, period sounding, etc. (FYI, I have checked out Jeff Beal's other music.)
posted by shifafa at 5:44 PM PST - 9 comments

Fluorescent flat caffeine lights / It's furious balancing

What online reads can you recommend on the subject of circadian rhythms and rituals, preferably from an anthropological and/or historical point of view? [more inside]
posted by goodnewsfortheinsane at 5:40 PM PST - 6 comments

How do I make my Excel equations pretty?

Is there a way to format equations in Excel so they are more readable? [more inside]
posted by bchaplin at 5:31 PM PST - 10 comments

Looking for music recommendations similar to Lily Allen, Kate Nash and Anna Nalick

Looking for music recommendations similar to Lily Allen, Kate Nash and Anna Nalick
posted by jesirose at 5:29 PM PST - 25 comments

Call Me: Anytime Anyplace Anywhere Anyway

Novel Research Filter: Help me describe phone culture/ etiquette in the 70's prior to the advent of answering machines. [more inside]
posted by Xurando at 5:05 PM PST - 16 comments

Help me keep my vinyl (record) clean, please. ;)

Anyone know a good traffic attorney in New Hampshire? [more inside]
posted by wierdo at 5:02 PM PST - 3 comments

Two simultaneous users on one computer

PCTech: I would like to have two users on one desktop, simultaneous with two monitors, keys, and mice experiencing independent environments. Can I achieve this in Windows without two OS? [more inside]
posted by Kensational at 4:55 PM PST - 14 comments

Looking for an algorithm for decomposing an image to best-fit of arbitrary templates

I'm looking for an algorithm to come up with a good match for an input image by overlaying a number of smaller template images from a library of templates. For a simple example, if I give my algorithm a picture of a red lollipop with a white stick, I'd like it to search its library and find, say, a red circle and a skinny white rectangle and overlay them. [more inside]
posted by moonmilk at 4:04 PM PST - 11 comments

Is DeVry for me?

Given my situation, could DeVry be a good idea? [more inside]
posted by clcapps at 3:46 PM PST - 25 comments

Does Pitt hold classes in the Nationality Classrooms?

Are classes actually run in the "Nationality Classrooms" at the University of Pittsburgh? If so, has anyone here had a class in one, and what was it like? I'm interested in acoustics, distraction, etc. -- i.e. things you'd think of as a classroom designer or a teacher.
posted by media_itoku at 3:35 PM PST - 8 comments

Help me choose a hot/cold smoker.

Need a smoker for both salmon and pork shoulder. [more inside]
posted by charlesv at 3:19 PM PST - 6 comments

How do you measure progress in war?

What are some objective criteria/metrics by which to measure progress towards success or failure in a war or other extended conflict? [more inside]
posted by EatenByAGrue at 3:19 PM PST - 18 comments

Who's that (porn) girl?

For porn connoisseurs: Can you tell me the name of this girl? [link Safe For Work]
posted by fjom at 2:45 PM PST - 9 comments

Need help with photoshop workflow

I'm a photoshop newbie. I recently came back from vacation and have close to 1500 pictures on my harddrive. It's overwhelming just thinking about filtering, organizing, and editing the pictures. What is you guys' workflow when it comes to managing and editing large amount of pictures. I don't want to edit all of them. I just want to pick out the ones I like and edit those but there are just way too many pictures to go through.
posted by willy_dilly at 2:37 PM PST - 14 comments

Now there's noise, now it's quiet

I'm looking for a splitter that will allow me to have my headphones and my speakers plugged into the same port on my PC. Where can I buy one from? [more inside]
posted by Solomon at 2:25 PM PST - 8 comments

Make my '65 Deluxe Reverb Reissue Sing

What tricks/tips do I need to know about my new Fender '65 Deluxe Reverb Reissue Amp? [more inside]
posted by Ironmouth at 2:25 PM PST - 8 comments

Basic web development?

Basic web development for a non-technical user? [more inside]
posted by LordSludge at 2:11 PM PST - 11 comments

What games are set in Los Angeles?

What video games feature Los Angeles as the setting? [more inside]
posted by serial_consign at 1:30 PM PST - 14 comments

Members Only!

What are some retail credit card accounts (ie Macy's Card) that deliver good freebies, coupons, discounts or other promos for members? [more inside]
posted by Ambrosia Voyeur at 1:23 PM PST - 13 comments

Better Online Bank

I'm wanting to move to a bank with a better online experience (and solid features). I'm currently in Tampa, FL though I'm hoping to move to Orlando in the near future. I like my current back, but the online experience is... lacking. Anyone really like their bank and it's online interface?
posted by Ikazuchi at 1:16 PM PST - 28 comments

Help me find Serbian snacks in the UK

Does anyone know of any shops that sell Eastern European food (Serbian or Croatian) in England? [more inside]
posted by mooreeasyvibe at 1:13 PM PST - 4 comments

Cleaning grease off a wall

How do I clean grease off a kitchen wall? [more inside]
posted by lackutrol at 12:21 PM PST - 27 comments

Splitting posts

I have a blog and using blogger but the blog is hosted on my own site. I'm having a problem splitting up posts. [more inside]
posted by lilkeith07 at 11:43 AM PST - 1 comment

Unable to reach site from home, but fine elsewhere!

Since around new years eve I have been unable to reach my website from home. Email has also stopped working. BUT, if I can reach it from work and other places, just not at home. What's going on and how do I fix it? [more inside]
posted by lemonfridge at 10:25 AM PST - 8 comments

Why is kitty trailing her poo?

Why is kitty trailing poo from the litter box--and how do we get her to stop? [more inside]
posted by weatherworn at 10:09 AM PST - 14 comments

Big Business Unwilling to Change

On the way to Henry's Market to buy the avocados for guacamole, I was listening to a story on NPR about the automobile industry's unwillingness to adopt stricter mileage standards at a time when gas is $100 a barrell yadda yadda. There are plenty of examples of companies that are unwilling to adapt their business practices in changing times, like the recording industry's fiasco with peer2peer file sharing and drug companies' ip battles. I imagine three hundred years in the future we will all be driving our garbage-powered plastic flying cars (or working at home) looking back on the time when oil was this hypervalued commodity and people were willing to kill other people over it and we will think how sad a time that was. My question, then: Are there examples from the past of companies or whole industries that used to be in a situation similar to oil, big pharma, RIAA, etc. that are now less causing of worry among the general public than they used to be? My roommate suggested railroads, and that makes sense to me. Any other examples?
posted by billtron at 10:07 AM PST - 21 comments

Can I get into America with this ID?

Can I, a Canadian citizen, get through the American border, by car, with the following pieces of ID: [more inside]
posted by ITheCosmos at 9:30 AM PST - 19 comments

Cheap but bombproof

I'm looking for examples of insanely overbuilt, reasonably-priced consumer goods: "Cheap, bombproof...XXXXX" [more inside]
posted by oalocke at 9:27 AM PST - 97 comments

How to get over a really bad breakup?

Fell in love with a prostitute. Lasted 3 years; ended badly. How to get over it? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:13 AM PST - 35 comments

Travel dates in the months before passport expiration

My U.S. passport expires 13 Oct 08 and I need to book one international trip before then: leaving New York 17 July 08, returning 2 Aug 08 (one destination country, a non-EU-member in Eastern Europe, plus stops for flight transfers in one or two EU member countries). Is it even worth researching various countries' and airlines' how-close-to-expiration-date safety ranges for travel, or should I just assume I MUST renew my passport before then?
posted by anonymous at 9:12 AM PST - 16 comments

Nipping crazy in the bud

I'm young and new at relationships...but already noticing some bad tendencies. How can I stop them before I get blacklisted as a psycho girlfriend? [more inside]
posted by idle at 8:58 AM PST - 34 comments

Need a paradigm for falling in love!

How does one fall in love in one's late 30's, when one's head is full of mortgage payments, favorite restaurants, and past ex's? What does it mean to fall in love? (A bit complicated) [more inside]
posted by Melismata at 8:50 AM PST - 25 comments

Freelancing in different fields

Tell me about people who freelance in different fields simultaneously, in order to increase their income, based on skills, talents, hobbies etc. Personal stories preferred. [more inside]
posted by spacefire at 8:36 AM PST - 5 comments

Legal to just use a few seconds of a copyrighted song?

Is there a certain number of seconds below which it is okay to use copyrighted music without permission? [more inside]
posted by Idiot Mittens at 8:02 AM PST - 15 comments

looking for texas wedding venue

I live in Austin Texas and just got engaged. I am trying to find a venue that offers an outdoor ceremony site and an indoor or covered reception area. My budget is no more than 2,000 dollars. [more inside]
posted by madmamasmith at 7:35 AM PST - 11 comments

Great books about China?

Please recommend books about China and the Chinese. [more inside]
posted by ClanvidHorse at 7:33 AM PST - 28 comments

Nightlife in Berlin suggestions?

Going to Berlin in March with some Friends was wondering if anyone new a cool website that might detail whats going on between March 27th -31st. [more inside]
posted by swisspotter at 6:27 AM PST - 7 comments

Can you recommend examples of presentations using Keynote?

Can you recommend examples of presentations using Keynote? [more inside]
posted by jouke at 6:07 AM PST - 10 comments

Do I want my MTV?

Help me choose my Canadian cable television channels. [more inside]
posted by picklebird at 5:10 AM PST - 18 comments

Feeding the beast – on time

Journalists of Metafilter – hit me with your tips for fast filing. My job (as a reporter at a daily newspaper) has gone really well and I just got a promotion!!!! Hurrah! But soon I'm going to have to do a lot more work in a lot less time. So I need to file my copy much, much faster. [more inside]
posted by t0astie at 4:00 AM PST - 12 comments

Cigars make life worth living

How do I move my cigars across an ocean? [more inside]
posted by cmonkey at 3:59 AM PST - 4 comments

How do I Windowsfy Mac OS X?

There are lots of tutorials and software on how to Macify Windows but is there anything out there on how to Windowsfy a Mac? [more inside]
posted by dazzle at 1:01 AM PST - 6 comments

Last Chance to See the Best Parts

Recommend me the best passage in Last Chance to See (Douglas Adams). [more inside]
posted by whatzit at 12:38 AM PST - 6 comments

January 12

Is there an animated inspirational quote screensaver?

Is there a Windows screensaver that animates text of inspirational quotes (allows me to add my own quotes)? [more inside]
posted by agrandy at 11:49 PM PST - 6 comments

Where can I buy an adult seat for the back of a bicycle?

Where can I buy an adult seat for the back of a bicycle (like a boda boda)? [more inside]
posted by chrisalbon at 11:35 PM PST - 7 comments

What is that glove-thing Leonard Nimoy/David Kibner wears in Invasion of the Body Snatchers?

What is that glove-thing Leonard Nimoy/David Kibner wears in Invasion of the Body Snatchers? Fashion accessory? Therapeutic device? Latest in pod couture?
posted by mph at 11:31 PM PST - 3 comments

Please help me find a cool piggy/coin bank

Is there a term for when you see something you like, later on consider going back to get it, and when you finally decide to buy it, it is no longer available? "Non-buyer's remorse"? Anyhow, I digress: [more inside]
posted by theperfectcrime at 11:13 PM PST - 11 comments

I want those entries gone!

I deleted every single entry from my blog so that I can start fresh. But all the old entries are showing up in RSS and Atom feeds. How can I make those go away too? [more inside]
posted by misanthropicsarah at 10:58 PM PST - 6 comments

Mr. Smith, this was your life. Now pay up!

I'm looking for some information and tips on how to create and successfully run a business to create video memorials and tributes for weddings, anniversaries, funerals, parties, and other events. [more inside]
posted by joshrholloway at 10:24 PM PST - 2 comments

Why the drop in incarceration for public order crimes?

According to these pages on the U.S. Bureau of Justice site, imprisonment for public order offenses suddenly fell by a third in 2002. Why?
posted by painquale at 9:43 PM PST - 11 comments

Why do my rosemary plants die every winter?

Help my rosemary plant live through the winter! [more inside]
posted by slogger at 9:22 PM PST - 15 comments

Syncing a Razr? More like STINKING A RAZR

iSync question: I'm trying to use a USB cable to sync a Razr V3 with iSync 2.4 on an iBook G4 running Tiger, but something's not clicking. iSync recognizes the phone and it claims to Sync it, but nothing gets added to Address Book. What's the deal? The iBook doesn't have Bluetooth capability, so I can't use that. [more inside]
posted by Sticherbeast at 8:24 PM PST - 3 comments

How do I feel okay about being alone?

How can I feel better about being alone? [more inside]
posted by 235w103 at 8:24 PM PST - 18 comments

Name That Vintage Camera

Please help me identify my father's old 35mm camera from my horribly vague description. [more inside]
posted by LastOfHisKind at 8:15 PM PST - 15 comments

Help me get to know Brooklyn

Send me on a tour of Brooklyn that will help me decide which part of it to live in. [more inside]
posted by bingo at 7:38 PM PST - 38 comments

how split a string in bash?

using bash, i need to split a variable in two, on whitespace, but with just the first word in one variable, and the rest in the second variable. this is a one liner with perl. how in bash? [more inside]
posted by jimjam at 7:21 PM PST - 19 comments

Nokia's Exchange Mail as a bridge to iCal work sync

I use Nokia's Exchange Mail push technology on my E61i. Pretty happy with how it works. I am considering getting a new MacBook. Given the luck of any more reliable means of syncing my iCal with work's Exchange, (no, Entourage is not an option) I was wandering if any one has experienced with the Nokia phone working as a bridge between iCal and Exchange. I hope to sync my iCal with the phone and the phone should automatically should replicate the events to exchange. Sounds like it should work?
posted by mchmarny at 6:49 PM PST - 3 comments

Looking for non-WYSIWYG web-based file editor app

Old-school, non-WYSIWYG web-based file editor apps. Do they still exist? [more inside]
posted by scottandrew at 6:47 PM PST - 6 comments

American Blu-Ray Player; European TV - Will it blend?

Will a Blu-Ray player purchased in America work with a TV purchased in England? [more inside]
posted by jab at 6:44 PM PST - 4 comments

How to teach myself computer science?

I want to teach myself computer science. I know that teaching myself is far from a university education on the subject, but I'd like to try. How can I teach myself? What are books/lectures/tools/websites/anything that I could use to do this? Covering everything from the programming languages themselves, to algorithms, software development, and the mathematics background necessary for this. [more inside]
posted by petah at 6:41 PM PST - 22 comments

How do I get a new job ASAP?

So I just quit my job at the local cookie cutter super book store (think Barnes and Noble... except not). How do I get a new job pronto and make rent this month? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:23 PM PST - 18 comments

Use the Hivemind, Luke

Help me create a new score for Star Wars. [more inside]
posted by Parasite Unseen at 6:09 PM PST - 17 comments

Tascam USB box vs. Martin D-16

Tascam USB 122 + onboard factory-installed Martin acoustic pickup = lost signal. Wha? [more inside]
posted by mwhybark at 5:45 PM PST - 6 comments

mod_rewrite, modern delight.

I'm moving a website from one host to another and adding a level to the directory structure. How can I do this with mod_rewrite? [more inside]
posted by piro at 4:50 PM PST - 2 comments

Family Budget Decision-making

Look, I truly do get the “know your income, know your expenses” bit about budgeting. And I’m pretty frugal in my habits. My problem is this, as the financial head of this family, I have to decide what we will spend our inadequate resources on. So in general, how to prioritise discretionary spending in a fair and efficient manner? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:37 PM PST - 27 comments

Why does my computer keep freezing?

Why does my Windows XP machine freeze every half an hour? [more inside]
posted by chorltonmeateater at 4:05 PM PST - 15 comments

Why would siblings who don't know they're siblings be attracted to each other?

Why would siblings who don't know they're siblings be attracted to each other? [more inside]
posted by AmbroseChapel at 3:30 PM PST - 29 comments

DIVX/XVID from PC to TV by DVI

I want something just like an Apple TV, but without the reliance on iTunes. Specifically, I want to view DIVX/XVID content from my Vista PC, wirelessly, with DVI output. With a $200 budget, have I no hope? [more inside]
posted by onshi at 3:08 PM PST - 14 comments

Where do the quilters hang out?

What are the preeminent online resources for quilters? [more inside]
posted by Naberius at 2:42 PM PST - 9 comments

First time visit to Chicago

What should I do in Chicago this Monday from 3 pm until bedtime? [more inside]
posted by CiaoMela at 2:32 PM PST - 10 comments

Why "scrub"?

Why is "scrub" suddenly the most popular insult among 12-year-olds? [more inside]
posted by dagnyscott at 2:07 PM PST - 28 comments

It happened to this one lady one time

Theory: Cancerous skin cells from your lips, when aspirated, can give you lung cancer. [more inside]
posted by Countess Elena at 1:57 PM PST - 16 comments

Quest for the perfect bag

I recently fell in love with this satchel at Sundance and wanted to replace my Timbuk2 Metro bag with it. Unfortunately, it lacks interior pockets. [more inside]
posted by Coyote at the Dog Show at 1:52 PM PST - 4 comments

Reconstructing cost basis on gifted bonds while I was an infant

I was given (gifts) federal savings bonds throughout my early childhood. When I was starting college, I cashed the bonds. Then, we had a devastating home fire disaster. I lost ALL of the paperwork for these bonds. The IRS came back regarding my taxes and wants to tax me on ALL of the redemtion. How can I construct the proper cost basis with NO information? Continue on for more details ... [more inside]
posted by Ryaske at 1:44 PM PST - 7 comments

Help. My mac runs slow.

Help me, my mac is running slow! I have a theory that this relates to not utilizing the full amount of memory that is available. [more inside]
posted by hazyspring at 1:37 PM PST - 23 comments

How hard is the MD bar?

How hard is the Maryland bar?
posted by footnote at 1:25 PM PST - 7 comments

Help me sync my phone!

What's the best-case scenario for syncing my cell phone with a Linux desktop? [more inside]
posted by mindsound at 1:05 PM PST - 1 comment

How to Change my Worrywort Perspective

How do I Change my Worrywort Perspective? [more inside]
posted by gb77 at 12:58 PM PST - 34 comments

Great Adjustable Height Desk?

Anybody have an adjustable-height sit/stand desk they love? [more inside]
posted by ivarley at 12:43 PM PST - 9 comments

How do I make a blackcurrant and Guinness?

How do I properly add blackcurrant to Guinness? [more inside]
posted by champthom at 12:36 PM PST - 7 comments

Should I ditch my Air Miles card?

I'm in Canada, and have an Air Miles card, which I use sporadically on grocery purchases..and that's about it. I just checked my total, and it turns out in seven years, I've earned a paltry 474 miles (less than half of what I'd need to get, say, a free blender). Needless to say, I'm not thrilled with those returns. Should I scrap the card, or try to use it more wisely - maybe get an Air Miles credit card, or go to different stores? Suggestions welcome. [more inside]
posted by lindsey.nicole at 12:36 PM PST - 10 comments

Build/Promote a Non-Commercial Web Site

How do I build and promote a totally non-commercial web site to disseminate useful and creative tricks for fixing a number of supposedly incurable health problems? [more inside]
posted by Quisp Lover at 12:28 PM PST - 16 comments

Does my ass look good in these?

Anyone know where I can find Cheap Monday jeans in Toronto? [more inside]
posted by TheWhiteSkull at 11:58 AM PST - 5 comments

Best saw blade to cut LDF?

What type of saw blade should I use to cut LDF (light density fiberboard?) [more inside]
posted by howling fantods at 11:43 AM PST - 6 comments

Help me make it through the sunshine

Anyone here familiar with the polar opposite of SAD disorder? Or to be more specific it seems a majority of people in every culture suffer varying degrees of sadness and 'the blues' during short and/or inclement weather days. Any number of studies confirm this But what if so called 'beautiful' days depress you? [more inside]
posted by dawson at 11:24 AM PST - 23 comments

What tools exist for OS X to manage my music library?

What tools exist for OS X to manage my music library? [more inside]
posted by Loto at 11:17 AM PST - 9 comments

Firefox javascript tab closure command?

Firefox javascript command: how to close a tab? Last week you helped me create a toolbar bookmark for scrolling down a half page in Firefox using the command javascript:self.scrollBy(0,300); as seen here. Now I'd like to add a second command to that bookmark: a command to close the active tab. The button then would close the active tab and subsequently scroll down a half page of the next tab that appears. In my reading there appears to be some difficulty making using javascript to close tabs in FF 2.0, and not all pre FF 2.0 solutions currently work. Ideas?
posted by bbranden1 at 11:13 AM PST - 5 comments

Transportation and domestic help options for an elderly couple in Stamford, CT

Transportation and domestic help options for an elderly couple in Stamford, CT? [more inside]
posted by sotalia at 11:04 AM PST - 8 comments

VINfilter

I blew my motorcycle engine. I found a good, cheap replacement from a salvage yard. Do I have to worry about the VIN not matching my bike after I have it installed? [more inside]
posted by sonicbloom at 10:57 AM PST - 4 comments

Diplomats who wrote plays?

Looking for examples of diplomats who were/are also involved in the performing arts. [more inside]
posted by jrb223 at 10:42 AM PST - 35 comments

Upgrading Hard Drive beyond PCs recommended capacity?

Would upgrading my hard drive again be pushing my luck? I'm already beyond my laptop's specifications. [more inside]
posted by Alabaster at 10:31 AM PST - 11 comments

Going on Safari (Ultimate E-book Edition)

Is O'Reilly's Safari bookshelf a good substitute for printed computer books? As the walls of shelves in my office close around me, I need to either get rid of a lot of my old books, or stop buying new ones. I like to print things and annotate them, and it looks like O'Reilly doesn't let one print much without additional charges.
posted by lukemeister at 10:17 AM PST - 6 comments

Looking for a definitive list of Tom Waits's spoken word tracks

I'm looking for a definitive list of Tom Waits's spoken word tracks. [more inside]
posted by TheDonF at 10:17 AM PST - 14 comments

All I wanna do is listen to Cheap Trick ive at Budokan

Does anyone else have problems with their cat attacking the record or the turntable every time they try and play vinyl? She likes that it spins. [more inside]
posted by travosaurus at 10:01 AM PST - 8 comments

I don't like the way my dry-cleaned shirts feel

Will my cotton shirts ever feel soft again? [more inside]
posted by mpls2 at 9:52 AM PST - 6 comments

PayPal considered right-wing?

Do PayPal's profits still go to right-wingers? [more inside]
posted by Zarkonnen at 8:31 AM PST - 16 comments

Fashion resources for South Asians

What good fashion/style/beauty resources are out there for South Asian (Indian/Bangladeshi/Pakistani) women that aren't all about saris and lenghas? [more inside]
posted by divabat at 8:22 AM PST - 8 comments

Bomber? WWIII? Someone ejects? Help me remember this movie.

A bomber movie - I remember it from childhood. WWIII, drama, I'm pretty sure it was in color. [more inside]
posted by jimmyhutch at 8:19 AM PST - 4 comments

I've been to SLC & Vegas, but not LA.

I'm going on a business trip to LA week after next. Having never been there, I have no idea how to pack. [more inside]
posted by Medieval Maven at 8:18 AM PST - 13 comments

Ghost bit-torrent tracker

How do torrents work? [more inside]
posted by daksya at 7:50 AM PST - 6 comments

Suppliers to the trade

What sorts of items do individuals commonly buy for personal use from "B2B" catalogs or suppliers that primarily sell to industrial or commercial customers, or to professionals in particular industries? "Tactical clothing" is an example that comes to mind. And what are the reasons?
posted by Eater at 7:27 AM PST - 18 comments

Meaner Little Pix

Experimental lit recommendations please.
Also: Do you know of any female fiction experimentalists? [more inside]
posted by sushiwiththejury at 4:56 AM PST - 35 comments

Wyh can't I produce coherent speech any more?

Why do I seem to be increasingly mixing up my words/letters in writing and speech? [more inside]
posted by jacalata at 4:50 AM PST - 30 comments

Academic politics are vicious because the stakes are so low?

Does anyone have a decent citation for the idea that academic politics are so cruel/brutal/intense/vicious because the stakes are so low? [more inside]
posted by cgc373 at 12:50 AM PST - 4 comments

Image Transfer Automation for the Lazy

On Windows, what are my freeware or cheap options for image transfer? Preferably something that automates the image transfer from flash card, usb, etc. into folders such as "January 2008", according to the EXIF data. Picasa doesn't seem to do this. The bloatware that came with my HP printer/scanner does, but it's ... bloated.
posted by Xere at 12:03 AM PST - 8 comments

January 11

A wallpaper changer that works

I'm looking for recommendations for a wallpaper changer or desktop photo viewer that's compatible with Vista. It must be able to change photos at least every 10 seconds or so, resize large photos properly, work with locally stored images, and be able to fill the screen. [more inside]
posted by aerotive at 10:49 PM PST - 7 comments

Any recommendations for a classic cocktail/mixed drink recipe book?

I'm looking for a recipe book for cocktails/mixed drinks. A good starter-ish/basic book that contains plenty of recipes, maybe a bit of background. Perhaps a sort of classic, definitive recipe book? Thanks.
posted by jroybal at 10:37 PM PST - 15 comments

How and if to extend an olive branch... ?

A few years ago, I wrote a nasty letter to someone I loved who'd wronged me. I shouldn't have done it; it was a very mean letter. I apologized profusely, but was asked by this person to never contact her again.

I miss her friendship desperately. Given that it's been two and a half years, would it be unconscionable for me to pen her a short letter asking if we can make peace? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:45 PM PST - 78 comments

Salary Negotiation

How do I determine what my salary should be and prepare for salary negotiation in a job interview? [more inside]
posted by gm2007 at 8:30 PM PST - 14 comments

IF YOU DO NOT RESOLVE OUR CLAIMS AGAINST YOU WITHIN

It appears my sister is being sued by the RIAA. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:26 PM PST - 37 comments

Come with me to the Casbah, Cherie

Nontoxic, non burning fur lightener for cats? Is there way to painlessly, stinklessly give Ms. Black Kitty a light skunklike stripe for her own protection? She lurks in dark, high traffic areas on dark carpet and consequently gets tripped over occasionally at night. [more inside]
posted by fish tick at 8:05 PM PST - 25 comments

How do I pay off losses at a home sale?

What is the best option for paying off a mortgage when I take a loss on a condo sale - and are there any tax deductions I can take? [more inside]
posted by reckman at 7:45 PM PST - 6 comments

Two be or not 2 be

How would you go about proving that numerals are more "readable" than numbers? [more inside]
posted by YamwotIam at 7:28 PM PST - 27 comments

external hard drive erased when plugged in after a fresh xp install!!!

short history: I started to get blue screens on my outdated laptop so I decided to just buy a new one. My new laptop came, I installed a fresh version of xp, rebooted, and plugged my old external in. I got the "Installing drivers for you new hardware" bubble in the task bar then after opening the external drive none of my files were there, but there was the four following: clean (Windows nt command script) install (folder ) windows (folder.. with a windows installation I didn't do!) $$ rename (text document) 230 gigs gone :( The only thing I can think of is the initial blue screens on my OLD laptop were caused by a virus that had infected my external drive? This had all my school notes, notes on books I've read, photos, backups of my old laptops partitions, all that kind of stuff from the past 3 years. I'm feeling kinda, sick, pissed off, and am wondering what the crap could have happened? Any help on this one would be VERY appreciated.
posted by debu at 7:27 PM PST - 17 comments

How fast will you lose thyroid hormone from your blood if you stop taking synthroid/levoxyl?

How quickly will your TSH lower if you stop taking daily thyroid hormone pills such as Synthroid/Levoxyl? [more inside]
posted by bitterkitten at 6:40 PM PST - 5 comments

Do seatbelts on horses improve safety?

If you wore a seatbelt on a horse, would you be safer or less safe than if you didn't use a seatbelt?
posted by UbuRoivas at 6:31 PM PST - 31 comments

Looking for a good Mailman mailing list host

Looking for a good web host that supports Mailman mailing lists. Really supports it, not just has it installed. In my experience, at most places that have it installed (e.g. as part of cpanel), it works poorly and they don't know how to fix it. Ability to assist in transfer of mailing lists (e.g. use the config files fromt he old host) is also good. [more inside]
posted by winston at 6:21 PM PST - 6 comments

How can I seamlessly loop video in flash cs3? And how can I put titles in flvplayback menu?

How can I make a seamless FLV Video loop using flash cs3? Also! How can I put a title in the playback bar? [more inside]
posted by austinlee at 6:13 PM PST - 5 comments

How can you check what a DVD's region code is set to?

How can you check what a DVD's region code is set to? [more inside]
posted by doomtop at 6:07 PM PST - 4 comments

You're going...skiing!

Many years ago, Saturday Night Live used to showcase short films as interstitial material between skits. One of these was a take off of In Cold Blood, done in black-and-white, and depicted two men waiting outside a house in the dark, smoking, then donning ski masks and going up to the house, ringing the doorbell, and when the startled home owner opened the door announced "You're going...skiing!". At this point the film cut to stock footage of skiiers at a ski resort, uh, skiing. Does anyone remember this short film? What was it called, who made it, and most importantly, where can I get a copy, preferably on DVD?
posted by motown missile at 4:56 PM PST - 9 comments

here stinky stinky

Why does my dog smell nice for a long time after a PetsMart bath, but stinks the next day after I give her a bath? [more inside]
posted by striker at 4:49 PM PST - 25 comments

waiting for godot.

is it foolish to wait for the fantasy of meeting someone and "instantly" knowing you want to marry them? [more inside]
posted by violetk at 4:42 PM PST - 60 comments

Help with a Westie's nose

Crusty top of dog nose... what could it be? [more inside]
posted by FergieBelle at 4:33 PM PST - 11 comments

Clutch Help

Home mechanic question: changing a clutch. I'm changing the clutch in my wife's 1996 Jetta. I've almost gotten the transaxle off, but it's just barely hanging onto the engine. How do I get it off? A few more related questions inside-- any mechanics familiar with changing clutches, please help. [more inside]
posted by koeselitz at 3:54 PM PST - 32 comments

How to use Wii Virtual Console

I bought a Wii in Japan, but will use it in Canada. Can I still download Virtual Console games? Two questions inside.... [more inside]
posted by KokuRyu at 3:53 PM PST - 5 comments

Will the wrong adress on a W-2 be a problem at tax time?

We got our W-2's today and my address is wrong. The street number and name and state is right, but the city and zipcode are wrong. When this was pointed out to the office manager, he suggested scratching out the bad address and writing in the correct one. Will this be a problem? Would having the wrong address be a problem? The office manager seemed reluctant to fix it.
posted by anonymous at 3:47 PM PST - 10 comments

D/s: Help me be a good dominant

D/s: Help me be a good dominant. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 3:47 PM PST - 8 comments

An ounce of prevention ...

What should I know about trademarks and copyrights before launching a web comics site? [more inside]
posted by EatTheWeek at 3:07 PM PST - 5 comments

I'm looking for the least-expensive camcorder I can get my hands on.

I'm looking for the least expensive camcorder I can get my hands on. [more inside]
posted by Quidam at 3:07 PM PST - 12 comments

Low cal, low fat, low carb, high fiber, high protein foods?

One serving of lentils has only ~120 calories, 0 grams of fat, 10g of protein (20% of daily recommended amount), and 11g of fiber (44% of daily recommended amount). What are other superfoods with similarly high levels of protein and fiber, and low levels of carbs, fat, and calories?
posted by HotPatatta at 3:06 PM PST - 18 comments

How to find images of the first German edition of Wittgenstein's Tractatus?

How might I obtain images or facsimiles of the first and last page of the very first German edition of Wittgenstein's Tractatus? [more inside]
posted by treepour at 2:36 PM PST - 10 comments

Budget Dating Without Being Cheap

I am currently off work until my mental health improves and will shortly have one of my welfare payments suspended (I made some some from selling my half of a jointly owned house, but I'll need all of it to get a small apartment) so I will not have the money I used to for going to cinema or pub or restaurant. My girlfriend/ partner will be similarly impoverished but we don't just want to stay in and watch TV every night. So I was wondering if the group mind here could come up with suggestions for activities that don't cost a lot of money. I would like to be able to treat my partner to nice things but I won't be able to do that much, so I wondered what people here thought would be cheap things to do without seeming cheap, if that makes sense. [more inside]
posted by AuroraSky at 2:31 PM PST - 33 comments

How can I get Indesign CS3 to search multiple subdirectories for missing links?

My goodness! All the linked files in these InDesign CS3 layouts are scattered all over creation. How can my users relink them quickly? [more inside]
posted by dosterm at 2:27 PM PST - 6 comments

What is a good gift for a newly divorced friend?

What is a good gift for a newly divorced friend? [more inside]
posted by thebrokenmuse at 2:14 PM PST - 13 comments

An executive call screener?

What is this called: A little terminal (not part of the phone) on an executive's desk that says who is on the line. [more inside]
posted by Futurehouse at 2:00 PM PST - 7 comments

What's the best laptop available at Best Buy for about $1000?

What's the best laptop available at Best Buy for about $1000? My girlfriend has a credit to spend on a new laptop at Best Buy that will come to about $1000. This means that her options are limited to brands they carry: Acer, Compaq, Gateway, HP, Sony, and Toshiba. She would like something for basic email, internet, and word processing use. A light laptop is preferred over a speedy one, if that trade off is necessary. [more inside]
posted by scottso17 at 1:11 PM PST - 28 comments

Desperately seeking nice, thin t-shirts/undershirts for women

Where can a woman buy nice t-shirts to wear under sweaters and other tops? [more inside]
posted by iguanapolitico at 1:10 PM PST - 33 comments

NiMH AA and AAA batteries are 1.2V?

What's the deal with NiMH AA and AAA batteries being 1.2V? [more inside]
posted by knave at 12:50 PM PST - 32 comments

Primp my car

Austin/SubaruFilter. I'm in Austin TX and drive a Subaru. It's time for its 30,000-mile tune-up, and it probably needs some work. Obviously I could take it to the dealer, but I'm wondering if anyone has a recommendation for a local shop, particularly one specializing in Subarus.
posted by adamrice at 12:48 PM PST - 5 comments

Ignition Lock Assembly Repair

Apparently the ignition lock assembly on my 1999 Honda Accord is fried... [more inside]
posted by jtajta at 12:37 PM PST - 12 comments

Do I need an RF mouse?

I want to be able to click through some Powerpoint slides in a really large room when my computer is at the other end of it (about 100 ft away). There are no physical boundaries in the way (it's in direct sight). Do I need an RF mouse for this? If so, does anyone have recommendations of good ones to buy? and where? It doesn't need to be overly fancy, probably a click and maybe a RMB click would be sufficient...
posted by royalchinook at 12:26 PM PST - 8 comments

How to handle "No Solitation" signs...

No solicitation signs... [more inside]
posted by Mrs. Smith at 12:21 PM PST - 21 comments

Wanna-be web editor freelance ISO clued-up financial guru.

How much should I quote for a daily rate working freelance as a web content editor? [more inside]
posted by electriccynic at 12:12 PM PST - 6 comments

She'd have such a lovely face, except...

SkinFilter: What skin care regimen would help my oily, zit-prone face? Are there EFFECTIVE lighteners that aren't hydroquinone to get rid of old brown marks? [more inside]
posted by droplet at 12:07 PM PST - 22 comments

Help me use my cell phone to audiojournal.

How can I set up an audio-journaling scheme with my cell phone? [more inside]
posted by twins named Lugubrious and Salubrious at 11:58 AM PST - 7 comments

How important is perfect hardwood to selling a house?

Do we really need to refinish our hardwood floors before we list our condo? [more inside]
posted by AgentRocket at 11:50 AM PST - 23 comments

How to stop robotic collection calls (that aren't even for me?)

I'm getting repeated collection calls for somebody who used my phone number when running up high bills. Here's the kicker -- the calls are multiple times a day, and BY COMPUTER. Basically, they're asking ME to call THEM to get this sorted out. Is this legal? Is there anything I can do?
posted by taumeson at 11:39 AM PST - 15 comments

What is the deal with Roman's speech?

Days of Our Lives question: I watched Days of Our Lives years ago and today caught an episode for the first time in quite a while. I noticed Roman sounded as though he had a stroke or something that interfered with his speech. Has the actor had a stroke or is this something in the story line? I googled the actor but found nothing. Thanks.
posted by GlowWyrm at 11:39 AM PST - 4 comments

How can I pull one over on Outlook?

How can I trick Outlook into thinking an e-mail has just arrived in my inbox when, in fact, I'm really off-line? [more inside]
posted by JPowers at 11:35 AM PST - 6 comments

dvorak, leopard, textexpander/typeit4me

How do I get Dvorak, Leopard and either Typeit4me or TextExpander to work? [more inside]
posted by cg2 at 11:22 AM PST - 1 comment

Where are the comparison charts of Projectors?

Is there such a thing as a 1440x900 resolution projector? Better yet is there a nice grid for any of the manufacturers that shows that resolution, and the models it's available in? [more inside]
posted by niteHawk at 11:21 AM PST - 11 comments

Once upon a time we bought a house...

What options are available to two individuals who co-own a house and one wishes to buy the other one out? [more inside]
posted by J-Garr at 11:18 AM PST - 7 comments

censure, said the tenser

A) "At the next stage in the process, the tea leaves ARE blended". B) "At the next stage in the process, the tea leaves WERE blended". Is A correct from a formal grammar standpoint? If so, which tense is it using, and how is it using the past tense of "blend"? If not, why not?
posted by Jon Mitchell at 11:07 AM PST - 19 comments

There Are Too Many of Us in Our Bed

How Do I Tell Him I Don't Want Her In Our Bed? Should I Tell Him At All? I’m having a difficult internal discussion with myself this morning, in anticipation of a real discussion I think I should have later this evening. To wit: my S.O. brought a fantasy into our bed last night that disturbs me a lot. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 10:55 AM PST - 22 comments

No more roast worms! Or worm-icicles, for that matter.

My amazing awesome husband got me a composter! Yeah! Now what do I do with it? [more inside]
posted by jujube at 10:45 AM PST - 8 comments

Help finding a DVD

Help my friend find a DVD [more inside]
posted by mrthotep at 10:43 AM PST - 8 comments

What are the best resources for learning how to master the "time remapping" feature of After Effects (CS3)?

What are the best resources for learning how to master the "time remapping" feature of After Effects (CS3)? [more inside]
posted by jeremias at 10:38 AM PST - 2 comments

We adore our cat and we're good parents to her. Do we have to give her up?

Our former roommate had a cat, which he was babysitting for his ex. He lived with us for 6 months and barely acknowledged this wonderful, personable animal - they hadn't bothered to give her a name - and my girlfriend and I became close with her and kept her for 2 months after the roommate moved out. Now he has reappeared and wants to take her back to a lonely, neglected existence. We want to say no. How can we do this? [more inside]
posted by empty commercial spaces at 10:35 AM PST - 96 comments

Help me explain what I call "cat mouth" to my boyfriend.

Help me explain what I call "cat mouth" to my boyfriend. [more inside]
posted by letahl at 10:31 AM PST - 23 comments

Where do my car and I belong?

Help me figure out what to do about my driver's license and my car's tag & title (mainly FL but also GA). [more inside]
posted by dondiego87 at 10:30 AM PST - 1 comment

Can you help Amish looking for a lawyer?

Can you help Amish looking for a lawyer? [more inside]
posted by mamaraks at 10:20 AM PST - 14 comments

Lease or own, which is a better experience?

What's the best way you've found to evaluate whether to lease or buy when financing the purchase of a car? Can I treat it as a forward or future contract? Can I negotiate the strike price? Does anyone have experiences on which worked out cheaper for them (lease, buy)? [more inside]
posted by geoff. at 10:16 AM PST - 6 comments

What should I know about hosting an unconference

What should I know about hosting an unconference? Have you organized or attended one before? What worked, what didn't? [more inside]
posted by Wolfie at 10:09 AM PST - 6 comments

cheap car transport method?

Hi. I have have a sticky problem I hope some can give me a few suggestions about. My 21-year-old nephew is trying to find an economical way to transport his (not running) car from Twentynine Palms, CA to Albuquerque, NM. [more inside]
posted by annsunny at 9:45 AM PST - 14 comments

iTunes, iPod, Winamp, Zune... let's call the whole thing off

Zune, iTunes, and Winamp: is an (apparent) lack of support a deal-breaker? [more inside]
posted by Muffpub at 9:35 AM PST - 10 comments

Help me reduce the reflection on my laptop lcd.

How can I make my laptop's lcd screen less reflective? [more inside]
posted by exphysicist345 at 9:28 AM PST - 8 comments

Extremely simple SQL, Access, .ASP help.

How can a fool make a table in an Access database reference another table, using SQL and ASP? [more inside]
posted by dirtdirt at 9:13 AM PST - 10 comments

mac or pc ?

which is the best laptop if you're working with graphics ? [more inside]
posted by sgt.serenity at 8:51 AM PST - 21 comments

Where's my traffic singularity?

If I wanted to extrapolate how many years it's going to take before traffic fatalities were reduced to a statistically insignificant occurrence, how would I do that? I would use the data from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System.
posted by bigmusic at 8:36 AM PST - 15 comments

Fading Sheets

why are my blue sheets fading to grey? [more inside]
posted by Lylo at 8:05 AM PST - 14 comments

Rainy days and mondays always get me down.

What are some fun things to do in the Columbia, SC area (especially this weekend)? [more inside]
posted by Glitter Ninja at 8:00 AM PST - 12 comments

I Wish I Had a Diffy

I'm searching for the ultimate in hand-holding, peel-my-grape recursive directory diff tools for the lazy. [more inside]
posted by adipocere at 7:46 AM PST - 15 comments

YouTube without the comments

Can I send someone a YouTube video without the comments? [more inside]
posted by billysumday at 7:01 AM PST - 9 comments

Lost user settings on a win XP machine

Please help me restore my user settings (Win XP Pro). All of my wife's personal settings (also folders and files) have beem sent to the recycle bin upon restart. I tried to use the recycle bin restore feature, but to no avail. There is only one user account, and that seems to be set to new machine status. She wants her desktop back ! Last time, you guys saved my butt...can you do it again? Thanks.
posted by lobstah at 6:59 AM PST - 4 comments

Scion xB or minivan?

Minivan or Scion xB? [more inside]
posted by The corpse in the library at 6:36 AM PST - 31 comments

XBox as media center w/ OS X?

I have an XBox 360 that I'd like to use to play divx/mpeg/mov files on the TV. I have a house full of Apple machines. Lastly, I don't want to violate the XBox warranty (and lose XBox Live). Is there anything I can do?
posted by xmutex at 6:35 AM PST - 15 comments

Authentication across Windows, Linux, and Mac

How do you use a single authentication system for different kind of servers, systems, and workstations? [more inside]
posted by remi at 6:22 AM PST - 6 comments

Net carbs - is fibre included in the UK?

Net carbs question: In the UK, where fibre is listed separately from carbohydrate on food packaging, does the concept of net carbs still apply? [more inside]
posted by deeper red at 6:22 AM PST - 3 comments

Green Tortoise-like but on the East Coast?

Is there anything like Green Tortoise that has East Coast and/or Eastern Canada trips? [more inside]
posted by lorimer at 5:17 AM PST - 9 comments

Debit to Credit transfer

Can a person add money to their checking account buy using a credit card balance transfer offer online and entering their Visa CheckCard number as the account to be credited?
posted by Pater Aletheias at 5:06 AM PST - 9 comments

Wipeout Pulse boost start

I have played previous versions of Wipeout on PS1 and PS2 and I seem to remember the ability to Boost Start at the beginning of a race. I now have Wipeout Pulse on the PSP and don't seem to be able to do this, or find any information on how to do it. Am I missing something?
posted by jontyjago at 2:31 AM PST - 3 comments

Does direct bus/mass transit service from NJ to Brooklyn or Queens exist?

Is there any *direct* bus/van/shared ride service between New Jersey and either Brooklyn or Queens? [more inside]
posted by Ashley801 at 1:51 AM PST - 4 comments

Stories about healthy, "normal" marriages?

Stories about healthy, "normal" marriages? [more inside]
posted by callmejay at 12:29 AM PST - 45 comments

January 10

"He always plays himself."

What are some examples of actors "playing themselves" (not someone purposefully featured as themselves, but someone whose personality is so powerful that it overwhelms the character he/she is supposed to be playing)? For instance, some people say that no matter what movie he's in, Jack Nicholson always plays "Jack Nicholson." Other people say the same for Robert DeNiro or Clint Eastwood. I'm looking for some actors and roles that are the embodiment of this notion.
posted by amyms at 11:02 PM PST - 120 comments

Going rate for apartments in San Francisco

What's the going rates for apartments in San Francisco? Is it as bad as it looks on craigslist? [more inside]
posted by PercussivePaul at 10:32 PM PST - 27 comments

Blood Test: Legal in Canada?

In Canada is it legal to require a blood test for (A) employment; (B) group insurance eligibility? [more inside]
posted by five fresh fish at 10:26 PM PST - 15 comments

Starting Off Negative

Someone opened a credit account in my name a few years back; it is now overdue. What do I do? [more inside]
posted by Phyltre at 9:50 PM PST - 12 comments

How do we go from NYC to LA in a week in the most interesting way?

My brother is moving to LA and I'm going to drive out there with him. I can only take about one week off of work so we want to keep it within 8 or 9 days. Where should we stop on the southern route from NYC to LA? We're thinking route 81 south then another highway west to California. [more inside]
posted by minicloud at 9:38 PM PST - 6 comments

Help me hide my YouTube shame!

How do I get a specific video to stop showing up as a related link to videos I post to YouTube? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:19 PM PST - 8 comments

To shoot the messenger, press 1

I'm not cut out for call center work, but I'm stuck in one for seven more weeks. How do I deal with the many angry callers? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:18 PM PST - 35 comments

Help me find a book about a troubled young gay man.

I'm trying to find the name of a book I read several years ago. The book told the life story of a young gay man who might have been British. Further, possibly only half-correct, details inside. [more inside]
posted by MadamM at 9:04 PM PST - 6 comments

Looking for an alternative to Nerve Magazine

I am looking for a magazine that would be interested in a story I've written about being in love without sexual attraction. Nerve is the only magazine that I can think of, but from the looks of things, I doubt they accept anything from writers outside of sunny California. My story isn't sexual explicit, but I don't think a mainstream/family-friendly publication would be interested in this. Does anyone have any suggestions for a Nerve-esque magazine (or zine) that accepts non-fiction that isn't supposed to make you horny?
posted by haasim at 8:56 PM PST - 14 comments

How to secure a bike on a porch?

How to cheaply secure a bike on an unlocked porch? [more inside]
posted by justkevin at 8:43 PM PST - 14 comments

Short story about a barber who learns how someone will die?

What is the short story where there is a barber who, upon touching a person's head or hair, is able to see how the person will die? That's all I can really recall about the story. I read it years ago when I was in high school in one of the literature books that some classes use for instruction.
posted by mulligan at 8:40 PM PST - 9 comments

Vancouver kind

Ok, I know there is a lot of info out there about this already but haven't found what I'm looking for. Any Vancouver"ites" know about the current status of the New Amsterdam cafe? I havent found a web site for them, and I hear that in the past few years several of the "pot cafes" have been shut down. [more inside]
posted by Benzle at 8:35 PM PST - 3 comments

Long lost short story: A pride of lions. She looks so tiny in her isolette. A flock of doves.

I'm trying to find a vaguely remembered short story. The story was about a woman whose baby was in the NICU and then passes away. What I distinctly remember is that peppered throughout the story were phrases such as "A pride of lions. A gaggle of geese. A flock of doves." Lists of names for collectives of animals started and ended the piece, I think. In between was a very sad story about a baby, including the line "unplug my baby like he's a toaster?" or something very similar. Sound familiar to anyone?
posted by bonheur at 8:34 PM PST - 5 comments

How does hair know how long to grow?

How does hair know how long to grow? [more inside]
posted by slavlin at 8:16 PM PST - 9 comments

ImmigrationFilter: Can I stay to appeal?

ImmigrationFilter: Can I stay to appeal? [more inside]
posted by sweetlyvicious at 8:15 PM PST - 7 comments

Who wrote the book of love?

Has there been higher criticism (such as the documentary hypothesis) or textual criticism of religions other than Christianity and Judaism?
posted by Pants! at 7:43 PM PST - 10 comments

Give them the money faster!

What's the safest way to send money from US to a city in Romania by tomorrow? [more inside]
posted by vocpanda at 7:32 PM PST - 11 comments

Tasty turnips?

A crate of homegrown turnips showed up in my life yesterday. I've never cooked with turnips before (hell, I don't recall ever eating them before). Do you have any particularly delicious ways of using turnips? I know I can treat them like mashed potatoes, which sounds good. [more inside]
posted by mediareport at 7:17 PM PST - 25 comments

Bank error in my favor?

The mystery of the missing check: I wrote a check for December's rent. My apartment management company deposited it on December 11, and apparently it cleared. A month later, the money still has not been taken out of my checking account. The transaction did not show up on last month's statement either. What's going on? [more inside]
posted by gueneverey at 7:03 PM PST - 12 comments

Smelly cat it IS your fault!

How can I get my 4-month-old kitten to stop laying with poop? [more inside]
posted by missjamielynn at 6:41 PM PST - 7 comments

Help capture stills from a DV Camera.

Looking for a windows method to take stills from a DV camera. [more inside]
posted by TheDukeofLancaster at 6:07 PM PST - 2 comments

name that sound!

What did they use to make that fuzzy, rattly percussion sound in the Sanford & Son theme? [more inside]
posted by Koko at 5:42 PM PST - 11 comments

my simple two computer network stopped working and I don't know why, do you?

I use to have a home network and now I don't. Why? Google turns up many similar problems and a few answers but no solution that works for me. [more inside]
posted by Grod at 5:41 PM PST - 7 comments

Help me find other bilingual bands

I'm a big fan of Dengue Fever, the LA-based band that has songs in both English and Khmer. Can anyone recommend other bi- or multilingual American bands (preferably, but not necessarily, indie)?
posted by chicainthecity at 5:10 PM PST - 31 comments

How do I meet interesting people in Vancouver?

Help me meet geeks in Vancouver! [more inside]
posted by MaxK at 4:58 PM PST - 6 comments

Where can I go to try and hurt people safely?

Where can I go to let my rage out by really trying to hurt people, but safely for me and for them? Ideally, this would be like a self-defense scenario, with two or more padded and armored attackers I can go all out against, but who are willing to accommodate my individual scenario over just an hour or two. Difficulty: I am a big guy with martial arts experience. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:27 PM PST - 28 comments

Who wrote this scifi story abount kids who couldn't grow up?

Help me figure out the title/author of this short science fiction story. It was about a world where everyone stopped growing. [more inside]
posted by hjo3 at 4:20 PM PST - 6 comments

Why is my mustache mostly white on one side?

Why do I grow substantially more white hairs on the left side of my mustache than on the right side? [more inside]
posted by chudmonkey at 4:08 PM PST - 14 comments

How are Stewart and Colbert back on the air when the strike is still on? (derail follow-up)

Piggybacking on the derail in this question, and solipsophistocracy's question therein, why are the Daily Show and Colbert Report making new episodes with the writer's strike still going on? [more inside]
posted by paddingtonb at 4:07 PM PST - 12 comments

Pimp my walls

The original wallpaper in my house was applied directly to the drywall. I'm guessing this is/was a pretty popular builder's trick, at least in the 80s (and oh, the horror of the peach and navy wallpapers), but even with careful scoring and steaming I am losing the very outer epidermis of the drywall paper in a lot of places. [more inside]
posted by Lyn Never at 3:56 PM PST - 18 comments

What do I do now that I've graduated?

Please help me figure out what to do with myself now that I've graduated. I have tons of questions and may be over looking all the obvious answers. [more inside]
posted by grablife365 at 3:55 PM PST - 4 comments

Goddamn it, I want my money back!? Please.

Why does the recent legislation passed to patch the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) affect the applicability of Education Credits (IRS Form 8863) and delay my ability to file? [more inside]
posted by Asherah at 3:46 PM PST - 3 comments

How are things? Sorry to hear you've been laid off.

I worked at a newspaper for five years. I quit three years ago. Now, about 25% of the staff is getting laid off, including some friends. I don't have a problem talking to those friends about any of this. But then there are other people I liked but haven't kept in touch with (at most, I've seen them at a few gatherings). What do I say to those former co-workers I liked who are now getting the ax? I figure they could use a kind word and a vote of confidence. [more inside]
posted by veggieboy at 3:29 PM PST - 6 comments

Krafty crafts?

What cool things can I do with a big roll of brown kraft paper? [more inside]
posted by craichead at 3:26 PM PST - 16 comments

Help me make a group page that people will want to go to!

I'd like to create a website for my fellowship along the lines of wikispaces or pbwiki but neither of those have all of the features I want. [more inside]
posted by pinksoftsoap at 3:22 PM PST - 4 comments

How do I file a (very late) tax return?

I haven't yet filed my taxes for 2006. What is the cheapest/easiest way to do it? [more inside]
posted by whataboutben at 3:20 PM PST - 8 comments

Battery pack for SAD lightbox (Apollo Health P1)

Where in northern Virginia can I get a battery pack for my SAD lightbox? It's the P1 from Apollo Health, and I'm hoping for a battery pack before a trip this weekend. Thanks for any help!
posted by selfmedicating at 2:54 PM PST - 1 comment

Is Car-Dancing Exercise?

Is there any exercise/fitness benefit to car-dancing? [more inside]
posted by joannemerriam at 2:48 PM PST - 12 comments

Wanted: Epic London Venue

Epic gig venue required in London. For 25th party slash album launch in March. Capacity 150-300. Must have stage, bar, PA, preferably lights too. [more inside]
posted by armoured-ant at 2:31 PM PST - 12 comments

Catchy name needed for our "Lighten Up" team

My office is participating in a wellness program and we need a name for our team. The emphasis for our team is on exercise rather than dieting, but losing weight is most definitely a goal. At the moment there are 12 of us, but one other person might join. So far most of the suggestions have included "dozen" in the name, and are pretty lame. Other info that might or not help: our department's name is Central Transcription Services (as in medical transcription), we’re part of a large university hospital, and we are, of course, referred to as CTS. I suck at coming up with catchy names, but I know quite a few of you are good at this. I'd love to be the one to submit a fun name, any ideas?
posted by redheadeb at 2:27 PM PST - 21 comments

Make me a Robert Palmer girl!

Help me dress like a Robert Palmer girl! [more inside]
posted by justonegirl at 1:54 PM PST - 21 comments

Mystery Sneakers from the past

What's the name of these sneakers? [more inside]
posted by nnk at 1:53 PM PST - 4 comments

Details of a case?

LawFilter: So I have a name, birthday, and dates of conviction -- How can I find the details of the case(s)? I assume I know the state. This information was presented on a state's sex offenders list and I would like more details as to the case.
posted by SirStan at 1:53 PM PST - 11 comments

Internet Sales Tax?

I know you're not my accountant but... the small company I work for wants to set up an e-commerce area on our website to sell books. We're just talking about one or two specialized titles at the moment to just a few customers. Now the question of Internet sales tax has arisen. [more inside]
posted by worker_bee at 1:38 PM PST - 3 comments

Help a multimedia newbie do a cool birth announcement

What would be the best/easiest way of creating 50-100 copies of a CD Birth Announcement that contains both music and photos? I am not talking about a slide show presentation set to music. The wife and I have chosen, and purchased on CD, fun songs that have the baby's name in the title, that we want people to be able to listen to on their CD/DVD players. We would also like to include some photos of the baby, they could be files on the CD or printed on paper as part of an insert/cover. I have EXPECTANT FATHER BRAIN please help. [more inside]
posted by SMELLSLIKEFUN at 1:36 PM PST - 5 comments

Help me cite a Camus quote!

Looking for a (essay, book) source for the quote, "Don't walk in front of me; I may not follow. Don't walk behind me; I may not lead. Just walk beside me and be my friend" by Albert Camus. [more inside]
posted by ethel at 1:32 PM PST - 15 comments

Earth's water vs land volume (shown in spheres) image?

ISO: Photo-like diagram of the ratio of total volume of water to total volume of land on Earth. NOT the surface area - the TOTAL respective volumes of the planet. [more inside]
posted by yoga at 1:09 PM PST - 9 comments

Don't give up the day job

Before they were stars (pre-fame jobs of celebs please) [more inside]
posted by Iteki at 1:05 PM PST - 54 comments

Help me find in studio music podcasts

Help me find podcasts with musicians in the studio [more inside]
posted by markblasco at 12:58 PM PST - 3 comments

Car advice needed

Help me find my car. [more inside]
posted by Nathanial Hörnblowér at 12:58 PM PST - 20 comments

Buying Bells of Sarna

Where can I buy brass Bells of Sarna, Christmas editions from previous years (approx. 10" high, 4-6" in diameter)? I already have an eBay alert. Does anyone still manufacture these bells?
posted by rasputin400 at 12:50 PM PST - 0 comments

Too many splinters in my chopped garlic

Where can I find a nice, custom, slide-out cutting board? [more inside]
posted by rhizome at 12:50 PM PST - 6 comments

BEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP

Why can't I use power standby mode on my computer anymore? [more inside]
posted by Justinian at 12:38 PM PST - 10 comments

What will happen should I decide to change my Xbox Live gamertag?

What will happen should I decide to change my Xbox Live gamertag? [more inside]
posted by elavender at 12:19 PM PST - 6 comments

Received Guitar Hero III for PS3..but i need another guitar controller...

Received Guitar Hero III for xmas and wanted an extra controller. I've noticed they don't sell individual controllers marketed for the PS3 but there are separate guitars marketed for PS2. Has anyone tried any of these? Do they actually work for PS3? I've been reading some reviews and some people comment that when a second controller is added the buttons work but it doesn't generate sound.
posted by LiquidKarma at 12:09 PM PST - 2 comments

How can I get Keynote to print slides in multiple columns?

How can I get Keynote '08 to print slides in more than one column? [more inside]
posted by 4ster at 12:00 PM PST - 2 comments

Sister city pen pals!

Help me find pen pals in each of my city's sister cities! [more inside]
posted by Astro Zombie at 11:57 AM PST - 5 comments

Any chemists know what I made?

What the heck did I make? [more inside]
posted by geekhorde at 11:31 AM PST - 15 comments

Dear Diary:

Help me find an attractive 2008 diary for a friend. She wants 365 dated pages, one page per day to write in. In Vancouver BC, or online would be fine. Thanks.
posted by weapons-grade pandemonium at 11:30 AM PST - 13 comments

Getting a grant writer position

The non-profit I work for is undergoing economic changes of the painful contraction type. People are worried, layoffs are looming. I've known for some time my position was not secure and have been looking at moving to a vacant grant writer's position that has come available. I think I have the prerequisites. How can I nail this job? [more inside]
posted by diode at 11:11 AM PST - 9 comments

L.A.-area picnic spot?

what's an awesome picnic spot in L.A.? [more inside]
posted by drjimmy11 at 11:08 AM PST - 14 comments

Nostalgic photos near Norwich?

Help me find the closest photo booth to Norwich, VT. I'm looking for a booth that takes pictures in vertical strips of four. I'm willing to go anywhere be it roller rink, movie theater or country and western bar. There isn't a google maps for this, is there?! (I wouldn't be surprised.)
posted by B-squared at 10:59 AM PST - 11 comments

Huckabee on Colbert Report

Was Mike Huckabee actually live on the Colbert Report last night (1-9-08) or was that interview just a bunch of spliced footage? I missed the intro, and I couldn't figure it out as it was going on.
posted by Science! at 10:22 AM PST - 20 comments

All NY-ers: recommendations in Washington Heights?

Have any of you lived in Washington Heights, in Manhattan? I just moved to 162nd St. would appreciate any recommendations of a good local hardware store, handyman, pet store, supermarket or farmer's market, 24-hour bodega, good delivery or absolutely anything else that is worth seeing/knowing about around here. [more inside]
posted by jdruk at 9:59 AM PST - 17 comments

Overdriven iPod?

Can a 5G iPod develop sound distortion in one channel? [more inside]
posted by Danf at 9:31 AM PST - 9 comments

Didn't Clinton and Obama tie in New Hampshire?

If the point of a Presidential Primary is to determine how many delegates will vote for a given person in the next phase of picking a nominee, and both Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama got 9 pledged delegates in New Hampshire, didn't they tie? [more inside]
posted by bryanjbusch at 9:25 AM PST - 24 comments

What's Wrong With My 10-Year-Old Speakers?

About 10 years ago, I bought a pair of Bose 301 Series 2 speakers. They've now been through a number of moves and they're sounding not-as-good. I'm not sure how to define the difference--they sound muddier, and less three-dimensional. I pulled off the front grill and didn't see any visible damage. How can I determine the cause, and then repair it? [more inside]
posted by yankeefog at 9:02 AM PST - 11 comments

What happens to the Democratic delegates from FL and MI?

What's going to happen to the delegates from the Michigan and Florida Democratic primaries? [more inside]
posted by jaimev at 9:02 AM PST - 6 comments

"Placeholder" for Google Reader?

Many of the feeds I follow have a lot of activity (such as the one for ask.mefi), so by the time I get a chance to look through them, there may be hundreds (thousands?) of items. If I'm not able to get through all of the items at a time, the next time I come back to the feed, I have to scroll through the items I did get to before I can reach the older items. Is there a way to "mark my place" in a feed and skip directly there, rather than having to scroll through all the already-read items? [more inside]
posted by illflux at 8:53 AM PST - 7 comments

BadCetera Experience

Recently, I was shopping at BedCetera.com and ran into some trouble when their website stated shipping time of five days but was then told that things take around a month. Is this a scam to pull people in hoping that they'll pay and then just be bare the extra time? I tried to ask them, but they told me that if I didn't like it to shop elsewhere. If they know of the extra time, shouldn't it be reflected on the website? Is this something that would go to the Better Business Bureau? (I'm in Vancouver Canada) If this issue is justified for a complaint, are there other places that I could warn other consumers. Are there other consumer websites that I could investigate a company before I buy something from them?
posted by Knigel at 8:26 AM PST - 8 comments

A new way to look at the world...

Looking for books that talk about aspects of society or culture in new and interesting ways. [more inside]
posted by reenum at 8:23 AM PST - 20 comments

CAA - cosi addicts anonymous

Help me make Cosi bread at home! [more inside]
posted by kidsleepy at 8:23 AM PST - 11 comments

Lyme Disease / Borrelia advice needed!

Lyme Disease / Borrelia adviced needed... I finally got the results back from all the tests I had done right after I posted a question on AskMeFi about which tests I should ask for. Everything came back negative except the ones I already knew about (I'm allergic to pollen and dustmite) and, to my great surprise, the bacteria that causes Lyme Disease (Borrelia). [more inside]
posted by dinkyday at 8:05 AM PST - 14 comments

Please save me from spending money on a new laptop.

I have a Dell 8600 laptop on which it seems that the power switch has slowly died. Is there any way to save him? [more inside]
posted by merocet at 7:50 AM PST - 3 comments

Rock my meeting Like a Hurricane!

Help me open a week long sales meeting with a BANG! [more inside]
posted by doorsfan at 7:44 AM PST - 16 comments

Can I safely do business with a Mexican pharmacy?

Should I order Aricept from a Mexican pharmacy for my senile, old mother? The doc gave her a month's worth of free samples and, for the first time in years Mom seems much better. The thing is, at $165.00 per month the stuff is very pricey. I've found it on the web in Mexico for $125.00 per month. She's on a fixed income. I've pretty much exhausted avenues for additional aid. Would the feds show up at my door? Should I risk it?
posted by anonymous at 7:38 AM PST - 17 comments

Revocable trust busting

Is it easy to break a revocable trust? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:37 AM PST - 15 comments

How to make a router work like a wireless card?

I need to make a linkys WRT-54G router act like a wireless card. [more inside]
posted by omnipotentq at 7:03 AM PST - 9 comments

Integrating CBT and mindfulness

Can cognitive behavioral therapy be reconciled with mindfulness into a single, integrated approach to the world? [more inside]
posted by Gordion Knott at 6:47 AM PST - 18 comments

How'd the California guy get to Washington?

American history question: before modern transportation, how much time did congressmen spend in Washington and how much in their home states? Especially those from, say, California. And how long did the journey take? [more inside]
posted by creasy boy at 6:41 AM PST - 13 comments

Good items for an auction?

I'm looking for ideas for items I can solicit as donations to an auction at a professional conference. [more inside]
posted by Shohn at 6:39 AM PST - 7 comments

Game Over: When There's No Joy Left in Your Schtick

Blue Gamer Needs Help Badly: Please Deposit 2 Cents [more inside]
posted by aftermarketradio at 6:15 AM PST - 19 comments

Why did Quebec go to QC?

When (and why) did the postal abbreviation for Québec change from PQ to QC? Was PQ too closely associated with the Parti Québécois? [more inside]
posted by Chrysostom at 6:02 AM PST - 13 comments

What (web) application should I use to create and maintain a multilingual operations manual for a restaurant chain?

What (web) application should I use to create and maintain a multilingual operations manual for a restaurant chain? [more inside]
posted by einarorn at 5:58 AM PST - 11 comments

'Prosumer' digital camera recommendations?

Greetings Photo-Hive. It's finally time to retire my DSC-V1, but I've ignored the camera scene since I bought it in 2003. Help me pick a new camera! [more inside]
posted by Kreiger at 5:35 AM PST - 12 comments

Bought a Tagine. Now What?

So, I have just purchased this tagine, and I've got a few questions (and wouldn't mind a recipe or three either)... [more inside]
posted by peacecorn at 5:07 AM PST - 10 comments

A good 'ol-fashioned driver hunt

Here's a long shot: I'm looking for drivers for a super obscure piece of hardware from early in the decade. Specifically, a PCI souncard made by SeaSound called the SeaSound Solo EX. More specifically, the Mac OS 9 version of the drivers. [more inside]
posted by tumult at 5:02 AM PST - 6 comments

Etymology of the word `book' meaning `go'.

Another etymology question : what's the origin of the term `book' meaning `to go'. For example `Let's book on outta here", or "I'm gonna book down to the 7-11". [more inside]
posted by tomble at 2:49 AM PST - 39 comments

More sex & crime, please!

Robert B. Parker, Carl Hiaasen, Janet Evanovich, Tim Cockey, Patrick Quinlan, James Crumley, Elmore Leonard - NOW WHAT? [more inside]
posted by ollsen at 2:24 AM PST - 55 comments

January 9

What does browser encryption protect me from?

When my browsing and downloading is "encrypted," who or what am I protecting myself from? [more inside]
posted by Avenger50 at 11:57 PM PST - 19 comments

Is it possible for gluten to transfer into the air and harm a celiacs sufferer?

Is it possible for gluten to transfer into the air and harm a celiacs sufferer? [more inside]
posted by isopropyl at 11:24 PM PST - 7 comments

Hong kong for cheap

What's the cheapest way to stay in Hong Kong? Assuming one is willing to brave all discomforts (within reason of course, no sleeping under the bridge), what is a cheap cheap way to stay for 10 days in Hong Kong, including accomodation and food? [more inside]
posted by markesh at 11:01 PM PST - 6 comments

The software you always wanted? (or, "Pony Signups!")

I'm going to write some software, for fun and profit. What kind of software would you pay for that isn't out there already? What's missing in your current software? Where's the pain? [more inside]
posted by RikiTikiTavi at 10:57 PM PST - 22 comments

Translate a political flier to Chinese?

Could you help me reach out to the predominantly Chinese elderly voters in my neighborhood? [more inside]
posted by stewiethegreat at 10:46 PM PST - 4 comments

San Fran Bag Ban: Is it working?

San Fran Bag Ban: Is it working? [more inside]
posted by Vavuzi at 10:34 PM PST - 17 comments

Does grilling change cheese?

My SIL insists that cheese somehow gains more fat when it is heated, because "the fats are unstable and more fat is released when cheese is grilled". Therefore, according to her, a grilled cheese sandwich is more unhealthy than a plain cheese sandwich. I think this is bonkers, but can't find any evidence to wave in her face. Any ideas?
posted by indienial at 10:31 PM PST - 52 comments

Etymology of the term 'lunch out', ie 'freak out'?

Can anyone tell me the etymology of the term "lunch out," meaning 'to freak out'? [more inside]
posted by toomuchkatherine at 10:24 PM PST - 8 comments

NOT constantinople

Vacation in Turkey + love of folk music and instruments. What to do? [more inside]
posted by outsider at 9:56 PM PST - 3 comments

What is the name of the song playing in the IDM "Ideating" tv commercial?

The new IBM "Ideating" commercial...What is the music in the background? [more inside]
posted by Apo11o at 9:44 PM PST - 16 comments

To re-send or not to send?

I have applied to many marketing and PR jobs since last month. Now, I have a great case study writing sample. Should I submit it with my resume to companies I have already applied to but have not heard back from?
posted by parmanparman at 9:35 PM PST - 3 comments

What is it that gives early 60s TV its distinctive look?

Why does early 60s black and white television look so good? [more inside]
posted by Andrew Brinton at 9:16 PM PST - 16 comments

omg I drank charcoal!

my brita filter leaves little bits of charcoal in the filtered water. are these harmful in any way? [more inside]
posted by negative1 at 9:04 PM PST - 15 comments

Healthy drinking: Red Wine vs. Pomegranate Juice, help me choose

Healthy drinking: Red Wine vs. Pomegranate Juice, help me choose [more inside]
posted by torpark at 8:16 PM PST - 26 comments

Help me move to a new host

My boss assigned me the task of moving his churches web site to our own server. LINK our server currently has 2 other pages hosted on it with Server 2003 and IIS. I created a new website in IIS and have copied the the original website files to our server. [more inside]
posted by tradeer33 at 7:59 PM PST - 6 comments

How can I keep a long talk interesting?

I've been invited to speak at an event - for an entire hour. How can I keep the audience awake? [more inside]
posted by so_necessary at 7:58 PM PST - 21 comments

Help me find my next new All-in-one Printer!

Help me find my next new All-in-one Printer! [more inside]
posted by SlyBevel at 7:52 PM PST - 13 comments

Help me be a creative feature writing teacher!

I'm teaching a college-level feature writing class this spring, and while I've taught the class before, I'm looking for new ideas for in-class writing exercises and short assignments. [more inside]
posted by printchick at 7:27 PM PST - 4 comments

what is the best mountain bike under 10k

i want to rediscover the joys of mountain biking - what bike should i buy (in china!) [more inside]
posted by edtut at 7:12 PM PST - 4 comments

How do I deliver live training video online with interactive Q&A?

How do I broadcast live (video) training online? Most webinar solutions focus on sharing slides + webcam + teleconference. I need streaming video (primarily) + interactivity... not slides. [more inside]
posted by nicknd23 at 6:57 PM PST - 3 comments

Ashtrays in planes

Why are there still ashtrays in airplanes?
posted by citybuddha at 6:20 PM PST - 22 comments

"I'm leaving Venessa [for you?]"

This is a question about the movie Juno (probably spoilers inside) [more inside]
posted by Corduroy at 6:02 PM PST - 53 comments

How often and how hard do I have to work out to maintain my current fitness level?

How often and how hard do I need to work out in order to maintain the level of aerobic fitness I have right now? [more inside]
posted by slenderloris at 6:00 PM PST - 9 comments

Where do you buy/sell "used" scientific equipment online?

A friend of mine is trying to sell a piece of scientific equipment online (a UVB sensor and radiometer that is brand new but not returnable; over $2000 retail). Other than eBay, craigslist, or some random Google result, can anyone vouch for a website people use to buy and sell stuff like this?
posted by pwb503 at 5:55 PM PST - 7 comments

Does the Robert Rodriguez Mexico Trilogy box set come with artwork on each of the slimcases?

Does the Robert Rodriguez Mexico Trilogy box set come with artwork on each of the slimcases? [more inside]
posted by snowleopard at 5:46 PM PST - 1 comment

Where to find viscoelastic rubber...?

Can anyone tell me where to research/find bulk viscoelastic rubber, or molded rubber that has viscoelastic properties? I'm looking for a material that when stretched, takes its sweet time in returning to its original size/shape. Turns out there are no rubber stores in my area to browse, thus no experts to turn to. Most info I've found online is scientific discussions about rubber properties.
posted by pallen123 at 5:37 PM PST - 3 comments

What to expect at the end of a car lease?

What to expect at the end of a car lease? [more inside]
posted by mjger at 5:14 PM PST - 14 comments

"Me and My Dog" song in a tv commercial

There's a tv commercial that I can't get out of my head! I think it was for heartworm med. There's a little girl singing, "me and my dog. . ." It describes all of the fun things they do together. I think she was a redhead. It hasn't been on in a few years. Does anyone else remember this?
posted by beachplum at 4:52 PM PST - 3 comments

Pimp my too-spicy chicken!

Following a recommended recipe, we cooked a number of chopped chicken breasts in a sauce that contained a large amount of "buffalo" sauce - you know, the hot stuff that people put on wings. After serving them we discovered that the sauce was actually the 'fire' version and the chicken was inedibly spicy-hot. We now have two pounds of fire-engine red, top-notch, ultra-buffaloed chicken breast sitting in the fridge. I'd hate to waste this much food - especially high-quality breasts like the ones we purchased. What can we do with this chicken? [more inside]
posted by unixrat at 4:52 PM PST - 20 comments

guided medidation cd's

Can you please let me know some guided medidation CD's and MP3's which you use regularly and feel very helpful ?
posted by tom123 at 4:49 PM PST - 13 comments

Pregnancy Filter: Home Test Says Yes, Doc's Pee Test Says No

Home test says wife is pregnant, doctor's pee test says she isn't. 2 weeks late on period, "feels pregnant", what gives? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:31 PM PST - 24 comments

You Got Your Jellyfish in my Peanut Butter

So, Mrs. Wittgenstein read an article that says that shrimpers are now keeping the jellyfish they catch, becuase they can be dried and turned into edible crackers that are high in protein with no cholesterol. She wants some of these crackers. Where can I get some?
posted by wittgenstein at 4:18 PM PST - 9 comments

What kind of plywood should I buy fo a desktop?

What plywood is guaranteed to be straight and rigid? i.e., suitable for use in furniture construction? [more inside]
posted by robotdog at 4:15 PM PST - 14 comments

Aloha?

Help an Anglo guy get by in Hebrew and Arabic [more inside]
posted by Acari at 4:12 PM PST - 14 comments

A feminist mom looking for appropriate doll for daughter.

What other options for dolls do I have outside of Princesses and Barbies and Bratz for a little girl? [more inside]
posted by dnthomps at 4:01 PM PST - 37 comments

Do you hear what I hear?

Need tips on recording a lectured class [more inside]
posted by dancinglamb at 3:58 PM PST - 6 comments

It's square, it's brown, we call it food.

Where can I buy Worthington Stakelets (Frozen Vegi-steaks) in or around Madison, WI? [more inside]
posted by thanotopsis at 3:10 PM PST - 5 comments

Help for Compulsive Hoarding

Compulsive Hoarding – Seeking advice on treatment options & how I can help myself. **Please do not pass this question by if you have helpful information. My problem is not simply a matter of “go see a doctor”. I am on a waiting list to see a specialist (medical doctor) and have seen another doctor this week** [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 3:10 PM PST - 37 comments

Anal on Saturday night, how to prepare Friday or Saturday?

I'm going to have anal sex, for the first time, on Saturday night! What do I do on Friday night or Saturday morning? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 3:09 PM PST - 32 comments

Suggestions for veggies I can grow on a deck or inside?

I'd love to grow some vegetables this year. However, I don't have much in the way of outdoor space OR sunlight. What are my best bets? [more inside]
posted by Rosie M. Banks at 3:02 PM PST - 12 comments

How to buy a book?

Does anyone have any tips for choosing a good edition of a given novel or collection of poetry or short stories (when more than one exists)? [more inside]
posted by anonymous78 at 2:57 PM PST - 11 comments

Funky Front Doors

Where can I buy a nice front door in Toronto? [more inside]
posted by gesamtkunstwerk at 2:52 PM PST - 4 comments

I don't want to have Jack Dangers nightmares...

What was this Meat Beat Manifesto song with a long voice sample talking about prison life? [more inside]
posted by ostranenie at 2:43 PM PST - 5 comments

mental health professionals near malden ma who're likely to have availability like omg NOW

Okay, situation. I need a 'yes this kid is messed-up' note from a doc/therapist/something to stay enrolled in the context of a history of major stretches of no-shows-to-class, no-turning-stuff-in etc. I'm extremely unfamiliar with the institutional health system so pardon me if this is a stupid question but is there such a thing as providers who'll diagnose/vouch for you with depression/ADD/whatever the eff my problem is within DAYS? like a week in ultimate maximum? And how do I find them? (Around Malden, MA) [more inside]
posted by raisons de coeur at 2:22 PM PST - 27 comments

US Internet service providers - prices? options?

American high speed internet: what are the options? What is the price range? Why are the websites of the major companies so bad? [more inside]
posted by jb at 1:46 PM PST - 17 comments

Medium format photo lab help needed

What is the correct way to deal with a professional photo lab for medium format photography? [more inside]
posted by cazoo at 1:31 PM PST - 10 comments

Help me with these french lyrics!

AMgoldFilter: On Rod Stewarts classic um.. deflowering mantra "Tonight's the Night", what is Britt Ekland saying in french at the end? [more inside]
posted by jtoth at 1:28 PM PST - 8 comments

Am I experiencing synesthesia?

Do I have synesthesia? [more inside]
posted by tumbleweedjack at 1:23 PM PST - 25 comments

Looking for FTP server software with an HTTP interface.

I'm looking for FTP server software that, in addition to standard features like email notification and user management, can serve files to a web page rather than a ratty looking list of filenames in a browser window. If you have any experience with such a beast, I'd appreciate your recommendations. [more inside]
posted by disclaimer at 1:07 PM PST - 4 comments

Tiny little packages, they seem all alike to me

What Wii game is most like Zork? [more inside]
posted by Eringatang at 1:07 PM PST - 11 comments

This won't hurt a bit!

Let's say I want to go to Dental School. At age 38. With no medical or dental background at all. Is this foolish? [more inside]
posted by spicynuts at 12:44 PM PST - 19 comments

Unstick Me

I'm experiencing a strange bug on my macbook pro: with little cause (perhaps a slight mouse gesture, though I have no mouse gesture programs installed), the os will switch to the Stickies application (and sometimes iTunes, when I quit Stickies). I can't figure out what's going on. [more inside]
posted by pinto at 12:21 PM PST - 3 comments

Help trash our bathroom

HomeRenovationFilter: What smaller and more transportable options are there to a roll-off dumpster? [more inside]
posted by ubu at 12:16 PM PST - 10 comments

I can't believe I'm asking a question about Tater Mitts.

Do Tater Mitts work? Yes, I love mashed potatoes. No, I am not joking. Yes, I'm generally very skeptical of infomercials. [more inside]
posted by beaucoupkevin at 12:13 PM PST - 14 comments

Use Hotmail, Provide iPhones to Nigerians!

My girlfriend's Hotmail account has been hijacked. For real. Repeatedly. Help. [more inside]
posted by mudpuppie at 12:09 PM PST - 19 comments

outlook frustrations

outlook 2007 easy question: How do I switch to outlook using the keyboard only, if its minimized in my system tray? [more inside]
posted by jak68 at 12:01 PM PST - 12 comments

I want my home-made microwave foods to be crisp, but how?

I want relatively crisp reheated food from the microwave. Can can I buy or make something to do this for me, like that silvery-coated paperboard that comes with frozen foods? [more inside]
posted by vytae at 11:50 AM PST - 15 comments

Gemstones for Fertility

Are there any gemstones/crystals that are traditionally tied to increasing fertility? [more inside]
posted by Ynoxas at 11:39 AM PST - 10 comments

Car accident. "I will write a cheque" turned into "Who are you?"

Car accident in Sept. Swapped info; didn't call police. Now the guy who hit us has never heard of us. What can I reasonably expect? [more inside]
posted by kmennie at 11:35 AM PST - 12 comments

Please help me with a CD cover idea! I'm having trouble visualizing it.

Please help me with a CD cover idea! I'm having trouble visualizing it. [more inside]
posted by bostonhill at 11:31 AM PST - 13 comments

Recently published Mesopotamian history

Looking for recently published (in the last 10 years) sources for Sumerian and Old Babylonian history. [more inside]
posted by Riemann at 11:27 AM PST - 3 comments

Be there ST:TNG fans on this here interweb?

If you wanted to formulate the dorkiest/nerdiest/most obsessive "Star Trek: The Next Generation" question, what would it be? [more inside]
posted by whitewall at 11:08 AM PST - 40 comments

Color me Confused

Help me figure out my color profile woes, please! [more inside]
posted by sprocket87 at 10:45 AM PST - 6 comments

History of Puerto Rico

I am looking for a comprehensive history of Puerto Rico. Any recommendations? [more inside]
posted by philmas at 10:38 AM PST - 3 comments

How can I improve my odds of getting into graduate school for economics?

I want to get a Master's in Economics in a few years, probably focusing on real estate finance and affordable housing finance. How good are my chances of getting into a good program, and what can I do to improve them? [more inside]
posted by boots at 10:32 AM PST - 10 comments

Swimmingfilter: Lap swimming leaves me motion sick.

Swimmingfilter: Lap swimming leaves me motion sick. Ideas? [more inside]
posted by sisquoc15 at 10:32 AM PST - 7 comments

A head-spinning dilemma

Working at my laptop makes me dizzy. But I have a deadline and my work must be done on my laptop. Help?? [more inside]
posted by mothershock at 10:31 AM PST - 18 comments

Can MS Outlook forms update a report?

How can I create an microsoft outlook form where the submissions automatically populate some kind of report? [more inside]
posted by visual mechanic at 10:16 AM PST - 5 comments

Why does my Tanita body fat monitor consistently show that I've lost approximately one percent of body fat after I shower?

Why does my Tanita body fat monitor consistently show that I've lost approximately one percent of body fat after I shower? [more inside]
posted by sequential at 9:54 AM PST - 11 comments

Can I aggregate multiple RSS feeds onto a single page?

I'm looking for a way to aggregate multiple RSS feeds to a single web page, but I'd like the ability to filter which articles are displayed. [more inside]
posted by andrewdunn at 9:43 AM PST - 6 comments

Making a point with a Facebook avatar.

Can you help me find a good, conceited, self-important looking avatar? [more inside]
posted by Tbola at 9:38 AM PST - 23 comments

Help me find some swinging bachelorettes

Since I seem to be hurtling towards old maidhood, I’d like enjoy the ride as much as possible. It irritates me that single women are so often portrayed as sadsacks just marking time until they can get married, or as being eaten up with bitterness and neuroses because they never found a man. So, I’m looking for positive role models and inspiration. What examples of fabulous freewheeling women can you think of in fiction, movies and real life? [more inside]
posted by orange swan at 9:36 AM PST - 55 comments

Name my obscure movie from probably thirty-forty years ago based on nothing but a vague description! (...?)

Name my obscure movie from probably thirty-forty years ago based on nothing but a vague description! (...?) [more inside]
posted by kittens for breakfast at 9:14 AM PST - 29 comments

How to keep a doormat from being stolen?

How can I keep a welcome mat/doormat from being stolen? Our previous one was taken. We rent an apartment, so any structural modification of the surrounding area is probably off-limits.
posted by luftmensch at 9:13 AM PST - 18 comments

Macbook External Speaker Buzz

Why do my speakers randomly begin to hum/buzz? [more inside]
posted by benji at 8:58 AM PST - 9 comments

Best software to monitor internet usage?

What's the best software to monitor internet usage on specific desktop computers? [more inside]
posted by miqueltegler at 8:52 AM PST - 8 comments

Spraypaint, plastic, weather, shall they be mixed?

Spray painting plastic curtains for outdoor display. Advice needed. [more inside]
posted by otolith at 8:25 AM PST - 5 comments

Who Whacked Cheeseburger Brown?

Appropriate steps to take in light of a credible death threat? [more inside]
posted by CheeseburgerBrown at 8:21 AM PST - 25 comments

I'm allergic to Vegas!

What in Vegas am I allergic to? Both times I've been to the Vegas Strip, around the 3rd day in I get a rash on my legs. I've never had this rash before, and I'm perplexed. [more inside]
posted by cgg at 7:59 AM PST - 12 comments

"What's your religion?" Why do they care?

Why did the emergency-room clerk want to know my wife's religion? [more inside]
posted by grumblebee at 7:13 AM PST - 30 comments

What language does a monkey speak?

In the Wii game Zack & Wiki: Quest for Barbaros' Treasure (the best game yet for the Wii), does Wiki actual speak Japanese words? I occasionally hear some English words, but I was wondering if some of her babbling was in Japanese? Same questions for Captain Rose, the goons and Barbaros.
posted by Beaufort at 7:09 AM PST - 2 comments

Why doesn't Word work right?

Word 2003 won't open after double-clicking on a document, and the mouse doesn't work in the document area. [more inside]
posted by BeerFilter at 6:56 AM PST - 5 comments

Easement Options

The city in which I live called me this morning and "asked" me if I would be willing to create a 10' x 10' easement in my front yard. This 10'x 10' section will be more than 25% percent of my yard given up to the city for electrical boxes. They offered me $100. What are my options??
posted by thepressdelete at 6:50 AM PST - 34 comments

I'm so lonely I could cry...

I need friends... [more inside]
posted by sephira at 5:52 AM PST - 48 comments

Can a workplace offer selective 401k benefits?

Can a workplace (in PA) offer selective 401k benefits? [more inside]
posted by rinosaur at 5:36 AM PST - 5 comments

Where to download this song?

help-my-girlfriend-figure-out-the-song-filter: OK, I know for a fact the song is called "Stay," but I have no idea where to find it. I think it had two rappers on the verse, and I know it had a female on chorus. It was released between 2000-2003. Here's the tricky part: The song title is a variation of "6-0" I only heard it on the radio, so when the DJ would say "6-0" I don't know if that means "6-Zero," "six-0," or any other combination. This is driving her nuts, all she wants is to download that song or find out wheat CD it is on.. she has tried every variation of the song title in Limewire to no avail.
posted by princeofpersiaxz at 4:02 AM PST - 11 comments

Tiiigggeeeerrrrrrrr.

I feel like I might have food poisoning, but haven't started throwing up yet. Can I do anything to ameliorate the awfulness that might be on the horizon? [more inside]
posted by The Monkey at 3:22 AM PST - 31 comments

Never thought I'd ask this, but: Name that song!

help-my-dad-figure-out-the-song-filter: The song is about a breakup by an African-American singer, which seems to be a couple of years old. The music video is about the breakup with 2 kids in it, left by the husband. The tune is somewhat fast and rhythmic.
posted by drea at 1:20 AM PST - 3 comments

HOWTO: keyboard shortcuts (not access keys) on websites?

Any idea how keyboard shortcuts on websites are implemented, a la Google Reader and ffffound.com? [more inside]
posted by jruckman at 1:18 AM PST - 6 comments

Survival of the Wettest

Do you or anyone you know make use of graywater. If so, how? [more inside]
posted by bonobo at 12:23 AM PST - 35 comments

January 8

Help a generalist in a specialist economy

Help this jack-of-some-trades find a job. [more inside]
posted by McBearclaw at 11:57 PM PST - 5 comments

I'm looking for net t-shirts.

I'm looking for a particular kind of t-shirt, the most comfortable that I've ever owned. [more inside]
posted by Tube at 11:55 PM PST - 5 comments

Human exceptionalism in science fiction

I'm looking for examples of how humanity is depicted as "exceptional" in science fiction - like how in Saberhagen's Berzerker books, humans are seen as uniquely ferocious and warlike, or how in Star Trek they seem to have a talent for diplomacy, or how in David Brin's uplift novels humans alone possess scientific curiousity. Anyone got more examples?
posted by nicolas léonard sadi carnot at 11:54 PM PST - 48 comments

Where can I find cool boots for men?

Are there any men's boots similar to Mark Nason but cheaper? [more inside]
posted by atmu at 11:47 PM PST - 2 comments

Should I get my Master's in Accounting instead of MBA?

I am contemplating on pursuing a Master's degree in Accounting. I am hoping to eventually be a CFO of a public company one day, and it seems having a CPA is better than spending additional year or two getting an MBA in Finance or something. I'd very much appreciate any feedback on this! [more inside]
posted by icollectpurses at 11:46 PM PST - 4 comments

Great, just what I needed... a hot HTML injection.

Pages on my website are getting strange javascript, iframes, & links placed in them... This isn't affecting the other sites I host... what's going on? [more inside]
posted by aristan at 11:18 PM PST - 12 comments

how do i push th' little daisies and make 'em come up?

push th' little actress [more inside]
posted by camdan at 10:17 PM PST - 1 comment

How to get MIT course readings?

Is there an easy way to get the reading materials (mostly articles) for an MIT course? [more inside]
posted by neuron at 9:59 PM PST - 10 comments

Help me satisfy my Tim Sale (art) urges

Anyone know of a source for prints (or a schedule for their release) of the very cool Tim Sale pieces from NBC's 'Heroes?' I'd love to have a few in my office, but have sadly only found references to the charity auction that was run last year, and a sketchy UK front for mass oil reproductions from Chinese artists. Any insiders on the MeFi?
posted by liquado at 9:48 PM PST - 2 comments

Do to Fend Off Attacks From Unleashed Animals?

Any tips for fending off attacks from loose, unleashed, untagged dogs? [more inside]
posted by The Gooch at 9:30 PM PST - 30 comments

Sweatpants. Green. Yellow writing. Help.

Sweatpants emergency! Help me find an online retailer that will custom-print on a pair of sweatpants, and ship to Canada. Very specific specifics included. [more inside]
posted by gursky at 9:10 PM PST - 9 comments

Good piano teacher for kids in Tulsa?

Looking for a good piano teacher for my six-year-old son in Tulsa, Oklahoma. [more inside]
posted by greenmagnet at 9:04 PM PST - 5 comments

Can My Corporation Protect Me From Identity Theft?

Banks, stores and other businesses can't be trusted with personal (and especially financial) data. Nearly every week, a hacker breaks into a website or steal a laptop with 100,000 social security numbers. Since the US has inadequate data protection safeguards (compared to the EU), could forming a corporation or trust help me? [more inside]
posted by amfea at 8:38 PM PST - 10 comments

too bad they don't make kitty dentures

help me find soft "dry" cat food for my aged, toothless kitty. [more inside]
posted by thinkingwoman at 6:56 PM PST - 14 comments

How do we establish causation?

We've all heard correlation does not imply causation. What does? Are there any statistical methods for showing a causal relationship? If there are, when/by whom were they developed? [more inside]
posted by whimwit at 6:09 PM PST - 35 comments

USB IDE

What's a good product for reading old IDE and EIDE drives through USB? [more inside]
posted by king walnut at 5:47 PM PST - 15 comments

Free access to "American Philosophical Society" journal?

Is there a free website when I can view and print articles from old copies of the journal of "The American Philosophical Society?" Even my local public library doesn't offer it for free in that they charge for printing each page and I have some very long articles from the 1800's I need to print. No emailing to another location is allowed. Thank you.
posted by Tullyogallaghan at 5:27 PM PST - 7 comments

Help: I'm a landlord

New York City Landlord Filter: I just began a new job as a manager of some residential buildings in NYC, and I think I'm a bit under qualified for the position. Anything that can help me out with learning the intricate legal requirements as well as general tenant management would be quite helpful. Any ideas?
posted by curiocity at 5:22 PM PST - 4 comments

Sublets in London?

LondonFilter: Thinking of subletting a place in London for 3-6 months. How would I go about doing this? Is there a good website for sublets (preferably furnished)? [more inside]
posted by vacapinta at 4:47 PM PST - 12 comments

How do you know if someone is dead?

How do you know if someone is dead? [more inside]
posted by Felicity Rilke at 4:45 PM PST - 23 comments

Help me create a new secret identity

What's a playful and interesting but still respectable online handle for an "official" identity I'm creating on the website I work for? [more inside]
posted by mostlymartha at 4:42 PM PST - 20 comments

What do I buy a 15 year old kid who wants to make movies?

What do I buy a 15 year old kid who wants to make movies? He already has a camera, lenses and Final Cut. [more inside]
posted by rocco at 4:36 PM PST - 36 comments

How to handle a negative reference without giving up the referencee?

How to bail on a Job Interview due to bad reference for the employer (doing the hiring) without stepping on toes? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 3:36 PM PST - 8 comments

Accutane killed my pride

Dealing with post-accutane hair loss. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 3:36 PM PST - 4 comments

how to become a genius application developer overnight!

Second-Day-on-the-Job Panic: How can I get my mostly-self-taught, LAMP-loving self to be more confident and capable with developing corporate/enterprise applications? [more inside]
posted by logic vs love at 3:34 PM PST - 11 comments

What have we lost forever?

What significant items have been irretrievably lost? [more inside]
posted by MrBCID at 3:14 PM PST - 88 comments

Hair follicle drug test

What is the best way to pass a hair follicle drug test? [more inside]
posted by robot at 3:01 PM PST - 16 comments

Name this (illustration / graphic design) style!

I know you've seen this style of illustration (example, another example). But what's it called? There are a bunch more illustrations in the same style on each site, but I can't for the life of me figure out what the style is called. Any ideas? [more inside]
posted by zpousman at 2:54 PM PST - 17 comments

Taken your kid up the Amazon?

Anyone taken their kid up the Amazon? [more inside]
posted by fcummins at 2:49 PM PST - 13 comments

Problems with Delibar

Anyone know of any issues with Delibar 0.9.0 and Mac OS 10.4.11? [more inside]
posted by cahlers at 2:47 PM PST - 3 comments

Can I reset the password in my cached Active Directory profile?

Can I somehow reset my profile's cached Active Directory password in XP? [more inside]
posted by sideshow at 2:45 PM PST - 8 comments

Music blogs spanning 1920s-1960s?

Where are the music/mp3 blogs for music spanning the 1920s-1960s? [more inside]
posted by Robot Johnny at 2:21 PM PST - 9 comments

Damn you Boston sports

Dallas expat spots in Boston: Where can I watch Dallas Mavericks games in the Boston area? [more inside]
posted by doppleradar at 2:20 PM PST - 7 comments

Help with cat that sheds ashy particles

My cat is shedding fine dark particles that look like ash... [more inside]
posted by frosty_hut at 1:45 PM PST - 23 comments

Temp Agencies for Do-Gooders?

What temp agencies serve the non-profit community in the Bay Area? [more inside]
posted by ilikecookies at 1:42 PM PST - 4 comments

Project Management Software For Frequently Changing Variables

It's time for yet another round of "What is the best project management software!" Come meet the final contestants. Particularly if you have used Microsoft Project or Open Workbench. [more inside]
posted by salvia at 1:07 PM PST - 3 comments

Asbestos water heater?

Asbestos water heater? [more inside]
posted by ian1977 at 12:56 PM PST - 23 comments

Overworked & Underpaid: The Payrise Question

I've been leading a sales team for about a year now in NY and I'm about to have my review. We've been beating targets and just actually beaten the other team in the firm to win the whole year. Great. Or so you might think. I have a boss who seems to think a 'thanks' and pat on the back are reward enough for this. Which would be fine, but for 12 months I haven't been paid any more money for playing my part in running the team. I'm concerned that the boss will think this is acceptable for the coming year as well. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 12:56 PM PST - 7 comments

Information for a First Time Egg Donor

I'm looking for advice or experience about egg donation [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 12:55 PM PST - 9 comments

What's the least rude way to un-invite a weird lady?

I'm having a gathering, and a really strange woman has declared that she'll be there wearing a face mask, rubber gloves, and wielding hand sanitizers. How can I politely tell her I don't want her there? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 12:54 PM PST - 73 comments

Dealing with memory loss in older people

How can I constructively discuss my grandmother's short-term memory loss with her? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 12:54 PM PST - 8 comments

What type of yoga should I take?

I'm interested in improving my flexibility, balance, and body control. Which type of yoga class should I take (if any)? [more inside]
posted by christonabike at 12:52 PM PST - 16 comments

Piano Accordion vs. Chromatic Button Accordion

Accordions: Piano vs. Chromatic Button. In the long term, which is better to learn? [more inside]
posted by rottytooth at 12:48 PM PST - 10 comments

Does a freelancer really need a brand, identity and/or logo?

This one's for the Mrs: As a successful freelancer in a creative industry (writing-ish), is it enough to have a decent website and nice business cards, or is it worth it to a hire a graphic designer to come up with a business "brand" or "identity" for you? (And what should this involve besides just a logo?) [more inside]
posted by gottabefunky at 12:21 PM PST - 11 comments

Blood pressure, caffeine, and thou

Why would I be getting anxiety from caffeine when I never used to have such a problem? [more inside]
posted by mr. creosote at 12:14 PM PST - 22 comments

Thunderbird Filters and Wrap

Two quick Thunderbird questions: 1. Outgoing mail filters (work-arounds). 2. Incoming mail line breaks. [more inside]
posted by zenpop at 12:13 PM PST - 6 comments

Should we attend The Daily Show while the strike's still going on?

Months ago, my wife and I got tickets for the Jan 17th episode of The Daily Show. She's unlikely to cross a picket line - is there likely to be one? Either way, should we go? [more inside]
posted by These Premises Are Alarmed at 12:02 PM PST - 28 comments

What does a marketing director do?

My firm is trying to decide whether to hire a marketing/sales director. I have been tasked with gathering information about marketing and sales in general and presenting that information to the team, so that we can make a decision. So, what are the key responsibilities and duties of a marketing/sales director? What will such a person bring to our team? What's a good way to go about finding the right person for the position? What qualities should we look for in the hiring process? I am particularly interested in service marketing, for small consulting firms. [more inside]
posted by faustessa at 12:00 PM PST - 9 comments

What to charge for a website redesign that will never go live?

How much do I charge a client for a website refresh that will never go live? It's almost been 6 months. Countless production hours. Dozens of emails and conference calls. They can't agree, I want it out of my hair, the site isn't going live. [more inside]
posted by impactorange at 11:21 AM PST - 18 comments

Help me find great science, environment, and food blogs (please!)

I have a book (non-fiction) coming out that combines environmental history with science and food culture. (The book is about bananas; I don't know if I'm allowed to post a link to my Web site, so I'll refrain.) I've been reading about "blog book tours," where authors work with bloggers to provide interviews, excerpts. or just about anything else relevant to a specific blog's audience. So...I'm asking for people's favorite science (specifically natural science), environmental, and food (food culture and eclectic stuff) blogs. Thanks.
posted by soulbarn at 11:18 AM PST - 18 comments

The Greatest Bachelor Party in Sin City

How can I throw my other best friend the greatest bachelor party ever in Las Vegas around Spring Break time? [more inside]
posted by ZackTM at 11:16 AM PST - 7 comments

Recommendations for "nokill" mousetraps please.

Recommendations for "nokill" mousetraps please. [more inside]
posted by damn dirty ape at 11:12 AM PST - 18 comments

What can I feed my dog to get rid of his diarrhea?

My little dog has had diarrhea for three days...all over the house. What can I make for him that will settle his stomach and bulk up his poop? [more inside]
posted by oldlies at 10:57 AM PST - 21 comments

Philosophy is worthwhile... I promise

In the new Edge question Karl Sabbagh talks about how he used to think there were experts and non-experts, and an experts judgment was superior to his own... but he has since changed his mind. [more inside]
posted by pwally at 10:54 AM PST - 9 comments

Is this the right time to buy a HDTV?

Is this the right time to buy a HDTV? [more inside]
posted by Vindaloo at 10:52 AM PST - 24 comments

Crunchy Granola Pizza?

I want to make pizza from scratch. I mean From Scratch. Just how far can I go? [more inside]
posted by bondcliff at 10:41 AM PST - 36 comments

How should I pronounce "February?"

Did you ever receive explicit instruction on how to pronounce "February" from someone who is considered an authority on such things? Is saying FEB-roo-air-y more common than FEB-you-air-y? [more inside]
posted by DarwinianDan at 10:33 AM PST - 51 comments

Recycle rags?

Is there a place in Los Angeles (preferably the South Bay) where I can take (recycle) clothing and rags that are in too poor shape to donate?
posted by sLevi at 10:30 AM PST - 6 comments

Lifestyle changes post modern day 1929-style market crash?

If the stock market were to completely crash this year, how would the effects differ from 1929? [more inside]
posted by raikkohamilonso at 10:16 AM PST - 17 comments

I'm looking for help compiling a top 20 "must play" list of essential videogames.

I'm looking for help compiling a top 20 "must play" list of essential videogames. [more inside]
posted by monkeyagent at 10:10 AM PST - 66 comments

Seattle Allergists?

Looking for recommendations for allergists in Seattle. I'm not suffering like I did last spring! [more inside]
posted by rouftop at 9:50 AM PST - 4 comments

Seeking women's clothing online

Seeking women's clothing online. Please help me get out of my Target / Old Navy rut. [more inside]
posted by kmel at 9:21 AM PST - 31 comments

WHOIS that? It's nobody...

I recently registered a .co.uk domain name. I've since found out that my full name is visible on a WHOIS. What can I do to hide it? [more inside]
posted by Don-da-lah at 9:14 AM PST - 16 comments

How should I preserve newsprint pages from old literary magazines?

How to best preserve pages taken from old issues of *Fantasy and Science Fiction*, a book-sized literary magazine printed on newsprint? [more inside]
posted by cadge at 8:56 AM PST - 6 comments

How does Heston Blumenthal create drinks that are hot on one side and cold on the other?

How does Heston Blumenthal create drinks that are hot on one side and cold on the other? [more inside]
posted by chill at 8:28 AM PST - 22 comments

Help me find the forms to file for divorce.

What's the best way to get a divorce without a lawyer? [more inside]
posted by grapefruitmoon at 8:10 AM PST - 11 comments

Aramaic Translation

MetaTranslation: I need help translating English to Aramaic - Immanuel and El Shaddai [more inside]
posted by birdlips at 8:08 AM PST - 12 comments

Some men are islands

I don't want to die alone. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:37 AM PST - 53 comments

Desperatly wanting to pay down my sleep debt

I'm totally sleep-deprived, but still have a hard time falling asleep. Any tips? [more inside]
posted by jbickers at 7:17 AM PST - 34 comments

Is Easter a bad time to visit Iguazu Falls?

Is Easter a bad time to visit Iguazu Falls? [more inside]
posted by Bezuhin at 7:08 AM PST - 7 comments

Can I put a mortgage on hold for 1 to 2 month due a medical circumstance?

We're expecting our first child in a matter of months. My wife's employer doesn't provide paid leave so we've tried to rearrange the budget so we can soften the blow of lost income. I had a thought... can you delay a mortgage payment 1 or 2 months and add those months on the end? [more inside]
posted by timmins at 6:51 AM PST - 14 comments

How do I get a cut on my eyelid to heal?

I've had a cut on my left eyelid for about two weeks. It still stings. How do I get it to heal? [more inside]
posted by tapeguy at 5:42 AM PST - 7 comments

What "can't miss" movies actually missed?

What "can't miss" movies actually missed? I need help coming up with a list of movies that have been "Hollywood-ized". A promising film with a great story gets transformed into something worse during the film making process. Such as the ending gets changed, an obvious mis-cast of key characters, poor editing, whatever. I would like to keep the list of movies contemporary (within the last 25 years or so) Explanations for each movie listed is encouraged.
posted by unceman at 5:10 AM PST - 75 comments

How many electrons in each processor cycle?

In a modern CPU, how many individual electrons, approximately, are "let through" in each clock-cycle of, say, an individual transistor or logic gate? [more inside]
posted by Jimbob at 5:04 AM PST - 8 comments

Cover or reduce an old scar

I've been looking for a way to help my girlfriend cover, or at least reduce the visibility of, a scar on her stomach. She is quite self-conscious about it, especially when we make love. I've searched up and read many discussions of similar topics here on AskMeFi, but most of the suggestions seem to assume that the scar is recent. My girlfriend's scar dates from 2002. We know that surgery will eventually be necessary, but for various reasons it isn't practical at this time. What techniques have MeFites found successful when trying to cover or eradicate older scars?
posted by zainsubani at 4:31 AM PST - 21 comments

The double click just isn't always good enough

Is there a fast and easy way, in Windows XP, to open a file in another than the default application? [more inside]
posted by ijsbrand at 3:23 AM PST - 13 comments

Need a new computer - can it be green?

It’s that time again – I need a new computer, as my old one struggles with Windows XP and Word and basic functions. However, with all the publicity the Green lobbyists have been getting, I was wondering just how green I can realistically make my new computer? [more inside]
posted by philsi at 3:16 AM PST - 12 comments

Calling all hydrologists

Calculating soil moisture balance using the Penman and Grindley method. Please help! [more inside]
posted by hazyjane at 1:34 AM PST - 1 comment

How to delete Vista

How can I wipe my hard drive and delete Vista (so I can install another copy of Vista)? oh - DBAN isn't working. [more inside]
posted by Joseph Gurl at 1:12 AM PST - 7 comments

Sex Therapists/Counselors in Seattle?

Short version: sex therapists/counselors in Seattle?, WA [Slightly longer version after the break] [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 12:31 AM PST - 9 comments

What do you call your meals?

For those who have 4, 5, 6 or more meals a day, what do you call your meals? [more inside]
posted by gttommy at 12:09 AM PST - 33 comments

January 7

It itches!

STI / Urethritis question. Details may be NSFW. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:45 PM PST - 4 comments

Should I be tipping my dealer?

For traveling drug dealers (specifically door-to-door marijuana delivery services in NYC), what is the etiquette for tipping? Yes? No? If yes, is there a standard accepted rate?
posted by anonymous at 11:44 PM PST - 14 comments

What do I do with a big check?

I'm about to receive $40,000. How do I deal with this much money? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:44 PM PST - 19 comments

Rats!?

Rats!? Found some droppings at home, freaked out. Now what? [more inside]
posted by drpynchon at 11:35 PM PST - 17 comments

Shipping medication from Canada to México

A friend of the family urgently needs some medication shipped from Canada to México. [more inside]
posted by edmz at 11:19 PM PST - 4 comments

Did the toothpaste make my teeth hurt?

I have bad teeth. So how come the flouride toothpaste my dentist prescribed to decrease cavity formation and problems is making my teeth actually hurt? [more inside]
posted by arnicae at 11:00 PM PST - 18 comments

Can I plan an original bachelor party?

4 men. 3 days/2nights. 1 bachelor party. Fun and originality are the priorities. Money is tight. Help me, hive mind? [more inside]
posted by mrmcsurly at 10:53 PM PST - 8 comments

Tell me about Internet-connected Wireless Weather Cameras?

I'd like a cheap Weather cam connected to the net, but without a computer attached. I'm looking at wireless web cams. Is this the best approach? Are there other devices which might help? [more inside]
posted by kaydo at 10:46 PM PST - 6 comments

Looking for psychologist/therapist recommendations for Portland, Oregon

Looking for a psychologist/therapist recommendation for the Portland, Oregon area. (more details inside) [more inside]
posted by Auden at 10:41 PM PST - 1 comment

How do I keep the French out (or is that in)?

How do I secure french doors open enough to let air in, but not the boogey man? [more inside]
posted by taff at 10:03 PM PST - 16 comments

Why won't Google save my preferences?

Why won't Google save my preferences? [more inside]
posted by CrazyLemonade at 9:52 PM PST - 5 comments

Firefox browser windows spawn too low

Whenever I open a new browser window in Firefox (2.0.0.11) on my Macbook (OS 10.4.10), the window opens one title bar too low. How can I force all new browser windows to spawn in the upper-left corner? [more inside]
posted by Admiral Haddock at 9:24 PM PST - 8 comments

Limits on Roger Clemens pleading the fifth before congress?

What are the limits to "pleading the fifth" when providing testimony to Congress? This has come up in the context of a friendly debate at a bar about Roger Clemens impending testimony before Congress. A few folks have suggested that he's suing Brian McNamee for the sole purpose of providing himself cover - i.e., that he can refuse to answer questions asked by Congress because of his civil suit. As I understand it, this isn't correct - he can "plead the fifth" if he's afraid of incriminating himself, but the fact that HE is suing someone else doesn't provide any additional cover. On the other hand, if McNamee was suing him, then he might be able to use THAT as the basis for a fifth amendment excuse. Is this correct? Obviously, I'm not looking for legal advice - just a credible opinion that might help settle a friendly bar debate... [more inside]
posted by stuehler at 9:14 PM PST - 6 comments

Can you help me track down the man who introduced football to Iceland in 1895, a Scotsman by the name of James B. Ferguson?

In 1895 a Scottish printer by the name of James B. Ferguson introduced Icelanders to football (soccer) and gymnastics. Is there any way to find out what happened to Ferguson after he left Iceland in 1896? [more inside]
posted by Kattullus at 9:02 PM PST - 8 comments

iPhone jailbreak, almost done. Need help with Tmobile sim card issue

I jailbroke my iPhone. Now when I put in my tmobile sim it says that the it's incompatible! [more inside]
posted by nonstopflights at 8:45 PM PST - 5 comments

What do I do with this bond?

How do I go about collecting interest on, and/or selling, a US Patriot bond, series EE? [more inside]
posted by zavulon at 7:51 PM PST - 6 comments

How to get my mouse to wake up faster?

Macfilter: Why does my wired USB mouse take a second to start responding on my Macbook? [more inside]
posted by Magnakai at 7:49 PM PST - 2 comments

Como se dice en ingles

In a conversation consisting entirely of English speakers, how should I pronounce the name Jorge Luis Borges? [more inside]
posted by ludwig_van at 7:44 PM PST - 51 comments

Photography trips in NYC area

I'm looking for ideas for interesting, off-the-beaten-path places to go and take photographs in New York or the surrounding areas. It would be good to take photographs that not absolutely identical to things you see in travel books, so no touristy or centrally located areas. Recent visits been to the abandoned buildings of Ellis Island, the recently-collapsed smallpox hospital on Roosevelt Island, Astroland, Vinegar Hill, and Washington Rock (in NJ). What are some other photo-worthy places?
posted by lsemel at 7:36 PM PST - 8 comments

Curse my gigantic head!

I love these glasses, except that they're too narrow for my face! Any sources for larger versions of that frame? Or failing that, does this style of frame have a more specific name than "plastic half-rim"? [more inside]
posted by joshuaconner at 7:33 PM PST - 6 comments

How can I load up my iPod from my wife's computer without disrupting her iTunes?

How can I load up my iPod from my wife's computer without disrupting her iTunes? [more inside]
posted by Faint of Butt at 7:13 PM PST - 10 comments

How many and which foreign leaders were born in the United States?

How many and which leaders of foreign countries were born in the United States? [more inside]
posted by brokekid at 7:10 PM PST - 17 comments

Real Madrid CF, $$$

Real Madrid Tickets, Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, More inside... [more inside]
posted by priested at 7:00 PM PST - 9 comments

Hoo! Ha! Hey! Looking for an old Finnish song.

I'm looking for words/music/recordings of an old Finnish song. Unfortunately I don't have much to go on. Hardly anything, really. Only that the verses end with a "hoo! ha! hey!" and it is a "lively" song. [more inside]
posted by quarterframer at 6:52 PM PST - 11 comments

Should I be compensated for using my own personal equipment at work?

Should I be compensated for using my own personal equipment at work where there is none supplied by my employer? [more inside]
posted by kilohertz at 6:45 PM PST - 16 comments

Side-by-Side Website Design?

Other than Metafilter, what are some examples of cross-domain branding, where one company with several divisions (or a parent company and its child companies) have multiple sites that are the same, but different? ( I'm looking for something more substantial than slashdot's differing color schemes.) Or, what are some design elements that I can exploit in this project to unify two websites? [more inside]
posted by fvox13 at 6:17 PM PST - 15 comments

Gmail cursor issue

Gmail is behaving really annoyingly for me lately: when I type an email, the cursor suddenly jumps into the text of the email I am answering and/or into something I have previously typed, thereby making it wrong. So, in this question, it might suddenly jump from here to the paragraph above or below rather than going sequentially. I am using firefox. It only does this on the "new version" but it won't stay set on "older version" when I navigate away. Also, it sometimes sends suddenly when I'm working on an email. Google's Help and Newsgroup didn't help. Any thoughts? Thanks in advance!
posted by Maias at 5:16 PM PST - 12 comments

Minnesota Sales Tax on a Gifted Vehicle

Did I have to may Minnesota sales tax on the car my mom gave me? [more inside]
posted by Coffeemate at 5:11 PM PST - 5 comments

Opinions/experiences with LightCMS?

CMSFilter: Does anyone have any experiences to share about LightCMS? [more inside]
posted by redshifter at 5:09 PM PST - 2 comments

Fountains of Trouble

I recently went out of town for 10 days and had a sprinkler valve fail, and flow for about a week. I just got the water bill 257,200 gallons in water usage (good thing we had a lot of rain this year in Austin) and around a $2000.00 bill not including wastewater. So, I'm going to call the city to see if they'll cut me some slack. Does anyone know if there are any magic words to say that would make the city of Austin ( experience with other municipal utilities would be helpful, I'm sure a lot of them have similar policies) wave some of all of thier charges?
posted by TahitiBlue at 4:19 PM PST - 20 comments

Office Space?

I am thinking of taking a job selling insurance for Progressive. Do any of you have any experience with this company or type of job? [more inside]
posted by Brandon1600 at 3:59 PM PST - 9 comments

How can I prevent this bird from migrating to, and damaging my house?

How can I prevent a bird from damaging my house? This exact bird (or family of birds) arrives every winter and uses the area under the roof above my window to next. I'm amazed by the stunning accuracy of the on-board navigation system on this crow-like bird, but it keeps ripping grates off my house and tossing insulation out.
posted by k7lim at 3:38 PM PST - 6 comments

How should I erase my hard drive?

Asking for a friend: I guess I should erase my Macbook's hard drive before sending it back to Apple. How should I do it? [more inside]
posted by bassjump at 3:22 PM PST - 33 comments

Talking to the dying

A good friend just received a brain cancer diagnosis with an estimated one year survival time. She wants to talk about death and time. She thinks I have something to teach or tell her worth hearing. I'd like to be helpful, but have no confidence in my ability to say or do anything meaningful. What I've said so far she appreciates. What can I read that might help me frame discussions. I don't need pop psychology stuff, or advice dealing with the health care system or funeral arrangements. I like the idea of Zen notions of letting go but am too ignorant to know what to say. Advice, experience, suggestions for gathering information please.
posted by NorthCoastCafe at 3:12 PM PST - 65 comments

Mmm, wheat germ!

Wheat germ! I have some! Now, what should I do with it? [more inside]
posted by Ms. Saint at 3:06 PM PST - 29 comments

Nausea

My good friends suffers from severe nausea during pregnancy. She is seven weeks pregnant now. It is not just morning nausea, and she is very sick. She went to the doctor and tried most home remedies already, but nothing works. [more inside]
posted by davar at 3:05 PM PST - 24 comments

Professional Insecurites with Apache

Is deny all, allow (my.ip.add.ress) good enough in Apache over Windoze? [more inside]
posted by foxydot at 3:00 PM PST - 6 comments

Tip Jaw

My friend is a server at a privately-owned restaurant, and she received a big tip from a patron ($40 on a $100 bill). However, it turns out days later that the card used was stolen, and now the restaurant owners have asked for her to return the tip money. Do they have any legal ground to do so? [more inside]
posted by Mach3avelli at 2:59 PM PST - 34 comments

Why am I finding it so difficult to determine my future?

It’s that time - the beginning of the last semester before I graduate from collee. It’s time to find a job or graduate school program and plot out the rest of my life. A renewed interest in charity and decreased interest in psychology, my chosen field of study, have led me to question my planned life course. Open my mind to what I might be able to do with my life. [more inside]
posted by charmston at 2:57 PM PST - 9 comments

Weee-Waaah-Weeee-Waaaah

CopFilter: In TV shows and movies cops (usually homicide detectives) often have lights and siren installed in their personal cars. Doe this really happen? [more inside]
posted by sycophant at 2:56 PM PST - 15 comments

Indoor herb garden

Last summer, I was walking through Boy's Town here in Chicago when some guys handed me a mint plant to advertise some new plant delivery service in the area, focusing on plants for cooking. I did not want to raise fresh herbs last summer, but now I do and, although the mint is thriving in my mom's garden, I have lost the business card that came with it! My websearch skills are not helping me find them; anyone know the company? [more inside]
posted by crush-onastick at 2:47 PM PST - 3 comments

Seattle jazz group recommendations: Sax in the Rain?

Seattle area jazz/swing bands (for a wedding reception)? Google offers a big-ass list. But you have thoughtful, intelligent recommendations. Please to hope me?
posted by fatllama at 2:39 PM PST - 2 comments

Help me solve this difficult riddle

Help me solve this riddle.... "There's something special about Washington, and the heart sometimes rules the head which can often affect ones health, but thats not all, discover and calculate the end result." It's possible that the answer is one word. Please help.... [more inside]
posted by foodybat at 2:37 PM PST - 35 comments

Montezuma's Revenge

Where can I find a downloadable version of Michael Murphey's classic, "Temple of the Sun" to download? Of course I am willing to pay for the copyrighted, legal, etc. version. But I would rather not have to buy the entire Swans Against the Sun CD to get this one song. Also, HUGE Bonus Points if you can lead me to similar(?) songs which might interest my sons (see inside for more on this challenge). [more inside]
posted by misha at 2:24 PM PST - 14 comments

Where to buy models of molecules?

What is a bricks-and-mortar store at which I could buy a set of model elements / bonds - the molecule model things that students use as they are learning organic chemistry? [more inside]
posted by Chanther at 1:55 PM PST - 14 comments

How Can I Extract Video From A Corrupt VOB?

How can I extract video from corrupt/poorly burned VOB files into a format that is editable? [more inside]
posted by sciurus at 1:33 PM PST - 5 comments

Lunch in Nashville?

I'm looking for some lunchy type places in SW Nashville to try - more details inside. [more inside]
posted by finitejest at 1:28 PM PST - 12 comments

Firefox Plug-in similar to Apple's Spaces?

Are there any plug-ins for Firefox similar to the concept of "spaces" on Apple Leopard? For those not familiar with Spaces, I'm looking for a plug-in that will optimize my Firefox browser for different tasks, in other words, show certain bookmarks, plug-ins, etc.. while hiding others, depending on what task I'm doing at the time. Perhaps I have one set of plug-ins and bookmarks just for business tasks and another for entertainment, etc... This would be of GREAT benefit to me. I'm sure you all know how cluttered a browser can get when you do a lot of internet activities.
posted by ISeemToBeAVerb at 1:21 PM PST - 14 comments

Can my company deduct annual leave instead of sick leave?

My company has the following leave policy: If you take a week's vacation and then, the following week are ill without returning to work (Mon & Tue say), the extra days will be deducted from your vacation / holiday balance rather than your sick leave. Is this legal? (This is for both UK and USA offices so responses from either side of the Atlantic invited.) [more inside]
posted by NailsTheCat at 1:07 PM PST - 28 comments

Looking for a simple art-hanging solution

Looking for an art hanging system using wire and clamps/clips for unframed work - any ideas? [more inside]
posted by razorfrog at 1:05 PM PST - 6 comments

Best book publication methods?

I have a web site. I want to write a book based on the topic. I have publishers/agents asking to talk to me, but I don't know if I'm ready. For one thing, I'm not convinced traditional publication is best — I'm intrigued by self-publishing and e-books. I'm looking for general advice: What are the pros and cons of each method? It seems that unless I'm lucky, traditional publishing offers the lowest dollar return. But are there other, intangible benefits I'm missing? Exposure? Having somebody who knows what they're doing guide me along? And how do I approach a discussion with agents/publishers so as to get the best deal? [more inside]
posted by jdroth at 12:56 PM PST - 13 comments

credit card service fee/waitstaff

lawfilter: is it legal in minnesota for credit card service fees to be deducted from a waitstaff's tip? [more inside]
posted by andywolf at 12:37 PM PST - 17 comments

Will the PowerShot Meet My New Camera Needs?

I have never owned a digital camera, and am finally ready to get one. I am in love with PowerShots. Except though I'm new and clueless about photography now, I would eventually like to not be and I've heard the lack of zoom in compact cameras will become a problem. So are there any compact cameras out there with sufficient zoom function? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 12:31 PM PST - 20 comments

All the men are dead. Bang.

After reading Y: The Last Man I'm finding myself haunted by the questions posed by the series. Where might one go (preferably online) to find statistics or evidence of how many women currently excel in various industries? [more inside]
posted by ZachsMind at 12:26 PM PST - 40 comments

Debt charged off and reported without asking me for payment

Is a company required to make a good faith effort to collect on a debt before reporting it as charged off? Do I have any recourse for my credit report? [more inside]
posted by 0xFCAF at 12:16 PM PST - 4 comments

Picking out a hard drive

I have a very old laptop whose 3 GB (!) hard drive died. Can I put a fresh new 100 GB hard drive in there or should I replace with the exact model I took out? Details inside. [more inside]
posted by crapmatic at 12:15 PM PST - 6 comments

How do doctors remove a person's tongue?

What is the procudeure for a total glossectomy? [more inside]
posted by Bookhouse at 12:13 PM PST - 3 comments

Help me find this old Kewpie tattoo!

Please help me find a Kewpie tattoo from the 40s/50s! [more inside]
posted by fabesfaves at 12:12 PM PST - 4 comments

How can I soundproof an old, unused door?

Help my soundproof the door between my room and my roommates' room. [more inside]
posted by deafmute at 12:09 PM PST - 13 comments

I wash my ears regularly, I swear...

How do I wash / clean foam earplugs (specifically, these ones) without completely ruining them? [more inside]
posted by allkindsoftime at 11:59 AM PST - 17 comments

A movie in under two months

Can you give me examples of good movies that were filmed in less than eight weeks of shooting? [more inside]
posted by BE ADEQUITE at 11:55 AM PST - 30 comments

Should we submit a claim for an accident between two cars we both own?

I backed into my husband's car today with my SUV, and I think I caused about $3000 in damage. Are we better off submitting a claim to our insurance company, or handling this out of our own pocket? [more inside]
posted by Ostara at 11:39 AM PST - 20 comments

TNF Down or TriClimate

Skiers: NorthFace down or TriClimate? [more inside]
posted by jma at 11:38 AM PST - 14 comments

I was left an antique clock by my grandmother. How do I get a reliable appraisal?

My grandmother left me a clock that our family has very little information about, other than it was an antique that was passed down from her mother. I've done some searching online, but I haven't found anything that seems like a good contact. It's rather heavy, so an initial appraisal would have to be done via pictures, if this is possible. Is there anyone who can give me some good advice on how to go about this, and how to know if I've made a contact with someone who actually knows what they are talking about? Any direct contacts to knowledgeable appraisers would be especially appreciated.
posted by SpacemanStix at 11:26 AM PST - 1 comment

Im being impersonated on yahoo

I am being impersonated and misrepresented by someone who is using a Yahoo ID similar to my name and using my photo. Could get NSFW inside. [more inside]
posted by sandra_s at 11:23 AM PST - 6 comments

Help me open an Apple Mail attachment on my Windows PC.

Help me open an Apple Mail attachment on my Windows PC. [more inside]
posted by analogue at 11:16 AM PST - 6 comments

What to do with all that beautiful stained glass?

I have recently acquired an old church and it has three huge 17’ x 24’ stained glass windows. These windows were installed in 1911 and are very beautiful but I am not interested in keeping them for various reasons. I am looking for suggestions as to where to start to find a gallery or collector that may be interested in buying them also I would like to find who the original artist was that designed them. Any advice and guidance is appreciated.
posted by scooters.toad at 11:10 AM PST - 14 comments

Alll riiight!!!

Every Bachelor Pad must have a ?????? Moving into my own apartment after a few years of living with a roommate. What things do I need to make sure to have the coolest, most comfortable, awesome bachelor pad ever?
posted by boyinmiami at 11:08 AM PST - 52 comments

How the hell to get IE to print properly?

When using IE 6 or 7 and printing a page from the same website using two different computers, but the same printer, one prints at half a page length and one prints the desired full page. The print preview for each matches the way each prints. I can't figure this out for the life of me. Anyone?
posted by gman at 11:00 AM PST - 3 comments

Club soda is a drink, too, isn't it?

Due to health reasons, I cannot drink alcohol. However, I still want to ask girls out for drinks because it's a good first date. What to do? [more inside]
posted by Elmo Oxygen at 10:49 AM PST - 76 comments

Sausage stuffer recommendations

What is the best sausage stuffer? [more inside]
posted by sulaine at 10:38 AM PST - 3 comments

Funny "burn the microwave popcorn" sign?

Anybody remember where (the URL) to find the funny sign you can put near the workplace microwave about BURNING THE FREAKING MICROWAVE POPCORN? (At the risk of ending up on Passive-Aggressive Notes, I could use one right now.)
posted by spock at 10:27 AM PST - 10 comments

Do two wins make you the nominee?

How many US presidential candidates, democrat or republican, have lost the first two primary/caucus contests and come back to become their party's nominee? [more inside]
posted by cjoh at 10:22 AM PST - 4 comments

Changing the speed on an old drill press

How do you change the speed on an old belt driven drill press? [more inside]
posted by drezdn at 10:17 AM PST - 10 comments

Rogers is trying to silence me

I have several domains for my business and obviously several email addresses. How to use my smtp server settings with Rogers Cable? [more inside]
posted by Umhlangan at 10:16 AM PST - 5 comments

My GoogleFu has failed me.

I've been trying to find an image of Helena Bonham Carter in the picnic scene of Sweeney Todd. Or, more specifically, the pinstripe corset she was wearing in that scene. Having no luck so far, as every image online is of the dress she wears for most of the begining of the movie. Am I stuck waiting for the DVD?
posted by Kellydamnit at 9:53 AM PST - 12 comments

I just found out the car (2006 model) I looked at the dealership's used to be a rental car. Help me understand/decide.

I just found out the car (2006 model) I looked at the dealership's used to be a rental car. Help me understand/decide. [more inside]
posted by icarus at 9:44 AM PST - 14 comments

Blinded by the (fluorescent) office lighting

My cube is as bright as an operating room. Help me save my eyesight and sanity. [more inside]
posted by desjardins at 9:41 AM PST - 17 comments

He's no blue blood, but it's still worth something.

What's the value of blood donations? Is some blood worth more than other blood? [more inside]
posted by kendrak at 9:29 AM PST - 14 comments

MySQL Query from 2 Tables?

How do I query data from one MySQL table, but I also need to get a single piece of data from a second table too? Should I be doing a JOIN, or a separate query? [more inside]
posted by gramcracker at 9:07 AM PST - 9 comments

What's the best way to organize and edit Raw files on OSX?

CS3 vs. Aperture? More inside... [more inside]
posted by bronxteacher at 9:03 AM PST - 8 comments

What can my dog chew on?

Chewfilter: My dog, a year-old or so terrier mix, loves to chew rawhide bones. Seriously LOVES to chew them. But she goes through them fast enough that I worry about it. What can I get her instead? [more inside]
posted by YoungAmerican at 9:00 AM PST - 30 comments

What happens to campaign contributions after a campaign ends?

What happens to campaign money when a candidate bows out of a campaign? Does the money funnel to the party?
posted by Hantra at 8:56 AM PST - 8 comments

Help me find a behind the ear bluetooth phone headset with good sound for people on both ends!

I often make calls that I need to take notes during, and have up until now been using the speakerphone function on my cell so I can type. A good friend told me that it sounded unprofessional, it picked up too much other sounds around me, I should consider getting a bluetooth headset for my phone. I did, getting the Jabra BT500, which was the top recommendation in Consumer Reports. It's a stylish behind the ear one. I really liked the looks, the intuitive use of it, that you could get it on your head quickly (I don't want/need to wear it all the time) and that it felt like it would stay on your head. However, in talking with that same straight shooting friend, they said, after two calls, that it was picking up the external sounds even more so, and often even more then my own voice! They suggested looking for one with good noise filtering abilities. That's where you come in. I'd like to know some of your favorites, that you've used for more then a day. [more inside]
posted by healthyliving at 8:54 AM PST - 17 comments

Looking for indie ambient tracks.

Looking for excellent indie ambient music. [more inside]
posted by crickets at 8:49 AM PST - 32 comments

"I am a member of no organized political party..."

The Democratic party in Michigan has seen fit to royally screw up the upcoming primary. Will my vote really be worthless? [more inside]
posted by kc8nod at 8:34 AM PST - 14 comments

How to learn about the platforms of US political candidates.

US Politics: how do you get information about the actual platforms of the candidates in a race? All I see is blather about their poll numbers and haircuts. [more inside]
posted by nebulawindphone at 8:22 AM PST - 22 comments

Video games suddenly make me sick?

So, I guess I'm getting motion sick now? [more inside]
posted by kbanas at 8:09 AM PST - 16 comments

Help this domino tattoo fall into place.

My grandma passed away last year and I've decided that I want to get some sort of memorial tattoo because she was a very important part of my life. I need help coming up with ideas for a domino themed tattoo. [more inside]
posted by boreddusty at 7:37 AM PST - 20 comments

Nightmarish kid's telly

oldtelevisionprogramfilter. Please help me remember this old half-forgotten British children's show... [more inside]
posted by fearfulsymmetry at 7:13 AM PST - 4 comments

MS Word's Undo is Making Me Come Undone

Another infuriating episode with your favorite source of aggravation and psychological trauma: MS Word! Experts and embittered veterans, click here and help me figure out where my "Undo" function went. [more inside]
posted by foxy_hedgehog at 7:08 AM PST - 10 comments

Inexpensive Pilot G6 gel pens (or at least as good alt)?

Help me find webshops with inexpensive Pilot G6 gel pen cartridges, or at least as good alternatives, that ship to private customers in Europe? [more inside]
posted by nolnar at 7:05 AM PST - 4 comments

Help me locate this photo of atmospheric scientists in dorky helmets

I'm trying to find a quality version of this poorly-scanned picture of two atmospheric scientists in zany helmets. My understanding is the photo was somewhere in a 2007 "Discover" magazine, but I can't find it online. At a minimum, a link to the Discover page would be nice, but if I can get a link to the original, that would be superb! BTW: the caption reads "Atmospheric scientists in the 1930s, when their kind proudly donned white lab coats and rigorously designed helmets" Thanks for any help!
posted by mjbraun at 6:23 AM PST - 3 comments

How to edit photos remotely?

How best to work with my photo library from two different Windows laptops? [more inside]
posted by wheat at 6:23 AM PST - 5 comments

Remember me while you're away

Help me come up with the perfect "remember me while you're away" gift. [more inside]
posted by mcarthey at 5:08 AM PST - 23 comments

Address in one postal district, PO Box in another?

Can I get a PO Box without proof of an address that's *in that post office's district*? [more inside]
posted by sparrows at 4:53 AM PST - 14 comments

Please recommend me a dentist in Cambridge, UK?

Please recommend me a dentist in Cambridge, UK? [more inside]
posted by talitha_kumi at 2:57 AM PST - 6 comments

Help me find an online reminder

I need an online reminder which will send me an email reminder for one task one 4 different dates: tomorrow, after 7 days, after 15 days and after 30 days. I tried Remember the Milk, but it seems it only works with one date.
posted by leigh1 at 2:05 AM PST - 7 comments

How to build a dinosaur.

I'm considering getting a cheap PC that I can slap Windows 98 and/or 3.1 one solely for the purposes of playing older games. Would this satisfy my needs, or is there a better option? [more inside]
posted by phaded at 1:40 AM PST - 16 comments

Using a KVM switch with a Macbook

First time using a KVM switch. PS/2 keyboard,mouse, Macbook and Desktop. Need help :( Full details inside. [more inside]
posted by mebibyte at 1:38 AM PST - 3 comments

Buy & Learn Guitar

I've decided to start taking guitar lessons. Where should I buy my guitar? Know any good instructors? I'm in San Francisco. [more inside]
posted by BeaverTerror at 1:15 AM PST - 8 comments

Eat it or no?

I left my blue cheese in the fridge for a month- will eating it kill me? It's moldy already, right? [more inside]
posted by T.D. Strange at 1:00 AM PST - 18 comments

mystery string quartet

Could somebody help identify this contemporary-sounding string quartet? [more inside]
posted by archagon at 12:27 AM PST - 4 comments

January 6

What should I put in my china cabinet?

I recently received a large, beautiful china cabinet/buffet, and it's now the focal piece in my living room. It's wonderful, but seeing as I have no china, I have no idea what to put in it. [more inside]
posted by Hot Like Your 12V Wire at 11:43 PM PST - 13 comments

The Razor's Edge Notes

Does anyone know of a site that can provide me with SparkNotes-like information on the novel: The Razor's Edge by W. Somerset Maugham? If not then perhaps one of you MetaFilter members will be willing to share some information on the book :] Much thanks!
posted by meta.mark at 10:04 PM PST - 7 comments

What is this short story?

What is the name of this short story that I am thinking of? [more inside]
posted by jModug at 9:40 PM PST - 6 comments

How do I make songs?

I can make music. How do I make songs? [more inside]
posted by squidlarkin at 9:03 PM PST - 19 comments

Words that mean female or feminine?

Words that mean woman/girl/female? [more inside]
posted by giggleknickers at 8:46 PM PST - 48 comments

B. Rich

What are some popular criticisms of presidential candidate Bill Richardson? [more inside]
posted by time to put your air goggles on! at 8:36 PM PST - 25 comments

A repository of large flashcard-suitable translation lists?

A repository of large flashcard-suitable translation lists? [more inside]
posted by tkolar at 8:24 PM PST - 2 comments

A bento box of questions about having a baby!

A bento box of questions about having a baby! [more inside]
posted by Enroute at 8:22 PM PST - 11 comments

IMAC purchase

Would like to finally buy an IMAC and wondering about the Timing of a purchase? [more inside]
posted by dougiedd at 8:15 PM PST - 18 comments

I love big *, I cannot lie

Why do people like certain body types - depending on what culture they grow up in? [more inside]
posted by markovich at 8:11 PM PST - 12 comments

It's been 24 years. I give up.

My geometry teacher in high school in 1984 showed us this puzzle. I was only half paying attention, but I believe the goal was to draw a line that intersected each segment only once. [more inside]
posted by mecran01 at 8:03 PM PST - 15 comments

What do you actually get for the price of a fancy spa pedicure?

What is the difference between a $75 pedicure at a fancy spa and a sub-$25 pedicure at some hole-in-the-wall storefront? Is it just about the ambience and the expensiveness of the products, or are the services qualitatively different?
posted by matildaben at 7:58 PM PST - 20 comments

My iPod doesn't tell iTunes about music I listened to. But only sometimes!

I sync my nano with iTunes. I play a few podcasts on my iPod, plug it in to my computer, but iTunes doesn't notice they've been played, and resets all my podcasts. But only sometimes! Infuriating! [more inside]
posted by the_W at 7:54 PM PST - 4 comments

Building the Credit

I am trying to build up my credit. I would like to pay my rent by charging my credit card and then paying it off each month. Is there a service that will mail a check for you by charging a card? Can any one thing how to make this work?
posted by Morgangr at 7:22 PM PST - 11 comments

Half-remembered DOS game from the early '90s

Can you help my sister & me identify this half-remembered DOS game? [more inside]
posted by Johnny Assay at 7:00 PM PST - 14 comments

college+moving= ???

As a high school senior going to a Chicago-land school in fall 2008, what should I know to plan for my first apartment? [more inside]
posted by shesaysgo at 6:59 PM PST - 11 comments

name of a movie?

looking for the name of a movie - opening scene is some guy who goes back to his hometown for a funeral - meets a high school friend who is working in the cemetery digging graves -- can't think of the name of the movie.
posted by boscord at 6:30 PM PST - 8 comments

Help us coat our floor in something deliciously hideous!

Vinyl flooring that is either NOT ugly or hideously ugly in a way we like: does it exist? [more inside]
posted by InnocentBystander at 6:09 PM PST - 25 comments

I will not walk 5000 miles

Backpacking question about the I & M canal corridor near Joliet...can I take the Amtrak in? [more inside]
posted by aetg at 5:47 PM PST - 6 comments

Hairy question

Debunking a story about unintentional hair transplants... [more inside]
posted by blue_wardrobe at 5:33 PM PST - 13 comments

Where can I find empty 2 liter bottles?

I am an 8th grade science teacher in New York State interested in doing an "ecosystem in a bottle" experiment very soon. I'm looking for ideas on where I can get empty 2 liter bottles, quickly and cheaply. I tried the local supermarket, but they wouldn't let me buy the returns. Any ideas?
posted by mikeweeney at 4:55 PM PST - 26 comments

Would you live near train tracks in a nice apartment?

Given a choice between two nice apartments with the same rent, would you take one that is directly next to a train track (just moving people-- no freight) and about two floors up, but with nicer interior and better appliances, or would you take one that's slightly smaller and without any train noise? Along the same lines, do you get used to the noise? I was in the apartment when an express went by and it was quite loud...
posted by phaedrus441 at 4:54 PM PST - 40 comments

Gas Puzzler

OK, I know this is a little silly but it's really beginning to bug me. Is there a way to get the nozzle from a commercial gasoline dispenser out of my car without spilling a few drops of gasoline onto the car or the ground? I have tried shaking the nozzle every which way, i have tried fiddling with the hose, but nothing seems to work. Is spilling a little gas every time I fill up a law of nature, or am I missing something that everyone else knows somehow?
posted by ubiquity at 4:43 PM PST - 14 comments

Older, Married, and Childless? May we hear your story?

Looking for stories of satisfaction or regret from older married couples who decided not to have children. [more inside]
posted by bmosher at 4:26 PM PST - 28 comments

Why does e^pi * i + 1 = 0 ?

I heard about a book that covered philosophical questions at the core of mathematics. This interests me, but I'm really interested because if I remember correctly it used understanding of euler's identity as an example. What was this book?
posted by phrontist at 4:23 PM PST - 9 comments

Where can I find a summer job away from home?

Where can I find a summer job away from home? I'm 18 and this will be my last summer before college. [more inside]
posted by willmillar at 4:10 PM PST - 21 comments

A worthwhile idea hitting an expensive wall...a philanthropic idea in trouble

I am currently involved in setting up a website, and it is proving to be a Herculean task. However, thanks to an instilled sense of guilt and a desire to feel worthful, for a change, I have decided to give back to those that may not be as lucky, as rich, or as pretty as me, namely New York’s starving (or just struggling) artists. My goal, through this website, is to give them a helping hand for free, but obviously need some sort of funding and business plan to move forwards with. I have no experience with any of this. Please help! My main concerns, not having ever done this before, are worrying about how to get funding/donations, whether I need to turn it into an NPO, and whether I should be worried about business-minded people stealing my idea, commercializing it, and basically shoving me out of the way. The following are a list of problems for the immediate future. I have listed them all here because of AskMetafilter’s one-week policy on posting new threads. [more inside]
posted by omnigut at 4:01 PM PST - 9 comments

WP Blog gone blank, Admin section is fine

WorpressFilter Blog gone blank, Admin section is fine - help ! [more inside]
posted by Baud at 3:53 PM PST - 8 comments

wonkish question about Washington state civil procedure

[Washington State Law question] How do the following differ? Motion for Summary Judgment. Motion for Judgment on the Pleadings. Motion for Judgment as a Matter of Law. [more inside]
posted by Capri at 3:46 PM PST - 4 comments

Why does the British Army still have a Brigade of Gurkhas?

Why does the British Army still maintain a force of Gurkhas? [more inside]
posted by pravit at 3:13 PM PST - 15 comments

Manuals for a Technics SU-G91 amp?

Old-skool AmpFilter: Who can provide links and/or guidance for us to find manuals / technical info for an older Technics amp and 5-CD changer? [more inside]
posted by lonefrontranger at 3:01 PM PST - 8 comments

Victorian illness

What is the 19th Century illness that disfigures Esther Summerson of Dicken's Bleak House? [more inside]
posted by oneirodynia at 2:13 PM PST - 9 comments

How do i enable a javascript widget with Wordpress

I've set up a self hosted blog. I've got it looking pretty much how I want it, but I want a javascript based "advert" (it's an animated Kiva.org thing) in the sidebar. The blogging platform is Wordpress, which doesn't allow javascript if the blog is hosted on their servers. [more inside]
posted by Rabulah at 2:02 PM PST - 5 comments

trying to have an unusual time in new york city

Trying to plan a honeymoon in New York City-looking for an affordable (150$ or under) hotel that is decent, in a good location for someone trying to find their way around the city, and maybe with some character(although the character is definitely not as important as having my own bathroom). I would really like some suggestions of good sites to see with a surreal or fortean/paranormal flavor. My fiancee loves to do grave rubbings(charcoal rubbings of old or unusual graves), so any pointers on what cemeteries would have the oldest gravestones would also be appreciated. [more inside]
posted by donabean at 1:58 PM PST - 19 comments

Help me figure what song this is and who sings it.

SongFilter: What is this song? [more inside]
posted by whimsicalnymph at 1:42 PM PST - 5 comments

What are the Names of all the riders involved in the disastrous Charge of the Light Brigade led by Lord Cardigan during the Battle of Balaclava on 25 October 1854 in the Crimean War?

Names of all the riders involved in the disastrous Charge of the Light Brigade led by Lord Cardigan during the Battle of Balaclava on 25 October 1854 in the Crimean War? [more inside]
posted by complience at 1:32 PM PST - 1 comment

Simple puzzles that require time travel to solve?

Can you think of time-travel puzzle rooms for my D&D mini-campaign? (2 other categories of puzzles I'd like are described inside) [more inside]
posted by TimeTravelSpeed at 1:13 PM PST - 10 comments

If I could think of a witty title, I wouldn't have to be wasting a question.

I need a cute catchphrase for a gift I'm giving. [more inside]
posted by thebrokedown at 1:11 PM PST - 5 comments

Name that tune.

Help me identify the song at the end of the new Juno commercial. [more inside]
posted by EnormousTalkingOnion at 12:50 PM PST - 6 comments

starting a career in digital post-production / photo retouching

I would like to do digital post-production / photo retouching as a career. Is this realistic, i.e. something I can actually make a living at? And, if so, where do I start? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 12:44 PM PST - 8 comments

Mental health & petty theft

What is the pathology of a person who steals small personal items such as shoes, underwear and sunglasses in order to remember or think of someone?
posted by GoodJob! at 12:39 PM PST - 16 comments

How well do we really trust the French?

What is the policy of the British M.O.D. regarding the Channel Tunnel in case of war in continental Europe? [more inside]
posted by greytape at 12:26 PM PST - 14 comments

Must a NYC landlord pay to repair an oven?

Is our New York City landlord responsible for repairing our broken oven? [more inside]
posted by rustcellar at 11:34 AM PST - 14 comments

When do I start looking for an apartment in NYC?

I accepted a job in New York City that starts midsummer. I'm in school until the end of May. When do I start looking for a place to live? [more inside]
posted by goingonit at 11:31 AM PST - 8 comments

Vista it's been fun, don't let the door hit you on the way out...

HP TX1220 (TX 1000) downgrade to XP filter; Hi hivemind, I have a HP TX1220 hybrid tablet PC I wish to downgrade from Vista to XP. Any comments on your own experiences or links to others who have ventured down this path as well? Thanks
posted by strangelove at 11:00 AM PST - 6 comments

Decatur truck repair?

Anyone have any recommendations on where to have a GM Diesel truck fixed in east Atlanta? [more inside]
posted by TheNewWazoo at 10:33 AM PST - 4 comments

Furnace inspection regulations, New York State?

Are there any laws or regulations requiring a landlord to make periodic inspections of the furnace (oil burning) in a single family house in New York State, Suffolk County, Long Island? It seems to fall under a generic 'Duty of Care' but I'm not sure if there is anything that compels an inspection before the thing blows up or expels toxic gas.
posted by rocketpup at 10:28 AM PST - 3 comments

How to order a book for a friend in Switzerland

How to order a book for a friend in Switzerland [more inside]
posted by ManInSuit at 10:23 AM PST - 5 comments

Looking for specific Lambert Hendricks and Ross lyrics

We're about to purchase the Lambert, Hendricks and Ross CD "Sing a Song of Basie", but need to know if John Hendricks lyrics are included in the remastered CD liner notes.
We know that they were there with the original vinyl, but online retailers are annoyingly vague about the CD.
Does anyone have this CD? Could you let me know?
posted by iTristan at 10:12 AM PST - 3 comments

Are eBay meteorites real?

My friend has received some good-natured abuse for purchasing this supposed meteorite on eBay for $79. In his defense it did come with an official ink-jet certificate. How can we determine if this really is a meteorite? We'd like to continue goofing on him only if it is deserved. If it turns out he's right, we will gladly stop and apologize. (And go back to making fun of his curious interest in American Doll stores.)
posted by thesneeze at 9:52 AM PST - 17 comments

Searching for a realtor south of Boston

Looking for a realtor in Weymouth/Hanover/Pembroke/Southfield MA... [more inside]
posted by UMDirector at 9:49 AM PST - 4 comments

Not exactly taming the shrew, it's more like tolerating her.

My very emotional former boss has become my friend. Please help me learn how to deal with her/mine/our issues. Long explanation follows. [more inside]
posted by mitzyjalapeno at 9:06 AM PST - 23 comments

Will properly sized TECRE button/mirror parts work on a Badge-a-Minit hand press?

i was just a dork and after purchasing an entry level Badge-a-Minit 2 1/4 inch button press from the Badge a Minit store, i purchased 2 1/4 inch mirror parts (for pocket mirrors) on ebay intended for a TECRE brand button press. If they're not compatible, I'm kind of SOL...but if anyone can tell me they WON'T be compatible, I need to buy some compatible mirror parts ASAP in addition to the TECRE ones i purchased and will not be able to return. FYI I did see this post http://ask.metafilter.com/19714/Badger-badger-badger and followed all links and couldn't find the info I wanted. Any advice would be appreciated.
posted by Soulbee at 9:03 AM PST - 1 comment

What resource suggestions would you suggest to someone starting their own freelance business?

What resource suggestions would you suggest to someone starting their own freelance business? [more inside]
posted by sully75 at 8:50 AM PST - 9 comments

Silicone cupcake liners arent nonstick

I just recieved a set of silicone cupcake liners, v silimar to these , and tried them out yesterday. However, the cupcakes wouldn't come out in one piece - every single one broke and crumbled when I tried to release it. Does anyone know how to prevent baked goods from sticking to these things?
posted by darsh at 8:49 AM PST - 11 comments

Name that Central Texas wasp

Central Texas wasp ID? Small, gray, found indoors hovering around lights? [more inside]
posted by fructose at 8:08 AM PST - 11 comments

I've made a blackened mess of things 3 times now...

Help- I keep burning my chana dal in the crock pot..... [more inside]
posted by mistsandrain at 7:30 AM PST - 6 comments

SEATTLE: Help us find a nice rental home with a soul!

SEATTLE: I'm looking for internet resources to find rental apartments, condos, houses [more inside]
posted by Bob Dobbs at 5:52 AM PST - 10 comments

Can anyone give some advice on starting up a website?

Can anyone give some advice on starting up a website? Anyone out there with experience of setting up a website or websites but wasn't actually technologically capable of making the website them self? [more inside]
posted by swisspotter at 5:24 AM PST - 26 comments

Help me enjoy my iMac!

I'd like to move my 20" iMac from one country to another, but I'm not sure what the most cost-effective and safest method is. [more inside]
posted by dance at 4:38 AM PST - 10 comments

Can'tdoaspace,can'tdeleteortab

Very odd Macbook keyboard issues filter: Why have specific keys stopped working on my friend's Macbook? [more inside]
posted by Happy Dave at 2:47 AM PST - 7 comments

Online quest for Ushuaia vanilla shower gel!

Awesome, supermarket-available, vanilla-scented shower gel from France - bought online and shipped to Latvia? [more inside]
posted by mdonley at 1:53 AM PST - 3 comments

Best online resources for exotic backpacking destinations?

What are the best online resources for adventurous backpacking to obscure places? [more inside]
posted by deern the headlice at 12:36 AM PST - 8 comments

January 5

Who sounds like a recent Tom Waits?

All right, so, I love Tom Waits. A lot. Like most people love their grandmothers, I guess, except I've never made a turkey out of my handprint in some finger paint for Tom. What are some bands/artists who sound like that? Particularly latter-day Waits: Bone Machine, Mule Variations, Real Gone, etc. I've never been that big on the ballads, I confess (there goes my hipster cred).
posted by katillathehun at 11:16 PM PST - 54 comments

Advice on how to protest well

Advice on protesting Alberto Gonzalez speaking at my campus. [more inside]
posted by davidstandaford at 11:02 PM PST - 34 comments

Looking for a good fabric marker.

I'm looking to make a pair of DIY Vans and I need help in deciding what to use. [more inside]
posted by MaryDellamorte at 10:49 PM PST - 6 comments

Girl alone

I often want to see bands that none of my friends want to see, but I stay home because I'm afraid to go to clubs all by myself. What do you do when you go to a club all alone? [more inside]
posted by freshwater_pr0n at 10:44 PM PST - 72 comments

What to do with currants?

I just bought a package of red currants at the grocery store. Help me figure out what to do with them! [more inside]
posted by arianell at 10:27 PM PST - 17 comments

How can I get the USDA's nutrition data into excel?

How can I get data from the USDA's food database into excel? [more inside]
posted by Nish ton at 10:25 PM PST - 8 comments

stop gsm static

How can I make the damn GSM clicking from my iphone stop attacking my baby monitor? [more inside]
posted by brent_h at 10:15 PM PST - 15 comments

Assesssing employee value

How can I assess the economic value of an employee (namely me)? [more inside]
posted by Palaverist at 9:44 PM PST - 8 comments

Translate?

Please help me translate this wonderful american indian song into english... [more inside]
posted by revbrian at 9:38 PM PST - 2 comments

A story from childhood

I once had a record of a child's story read by I think peter ustinov, the title I believe was Thundar the Giant. [more inside]
posted by nola at 9:26 PM PST - 2 comments

Chip-pop?

Where can I find covers of popular songs done in the style of c64/amiga/mod/xm etc? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:03 PM PST - 9 comments

Vietnamese lullabies?

Where can I find recordings of Vietnamese lullabies? Preferable in downloadable format.
posted by Etaoin Shrdlu at 9:02 PM PST - 2 comments

How to find information on an old business?

How can I find out information about corporations from the early 20th century (1910-1950)? I'm looking for info on several different companies (none of them public I think), most of them based in New York City. [more inside]
posted by Lactoso at 8:48 PM PST - 10 comments

Art Lies magazine

Where can i buy a copy of the magazine Art Lies in or around Dallas?
posted by djuna at 8:31 PM PST - 1 comment

Radiohead novice

I'm new to Radiohead's music. If I want to get one album of theirs, which one should I buy?
posted by SallyHitMeOntheHead at 8:06 PM PST - 53 comments

Open Source Video

Who provides the best Open Source video editing? [more inside]
posted by McLir at 7:57 PM PST - 7 comments

Children's book about a flying ship?

Does anyone know of a kid's book about Admiral Benbow and a flying ship? [more inside]
posted by drycleanonly at 7:56 PM PST - 3 comments

Romantic symbolism: conflict-free and on the cheap

Help me find a quality, non-diamond engagement ring that wont plunge me deeper into debt. [more inside]
posted by kyleg at 7:32 PM PST - 32 comments

Re-direct to another Domain?

How do I redirect all results to a directory on my website to a totally different domain? [more inside]
posted by SansPoint at 7:25 PM PST - 4 comments

Deducting Child Care Expenses

TAX-Filter: Please help me understand the difference between: (a) Deducting child care expenses from my taxes, (b) claiming the Child and Dependent Care Credit on my tax return, and (c) Using a section 125 Flexible Spending Account to pay for child care expenses. [more inside]
posted by yet.another.boston.question at 6:24 PM PST - 6 comments

How to fix a malodorous laptop?

How do you remove an odor from a laptop without killing the laptop (or yourself)? [more inside]
posted by speek at 6:23 PM PST - 8 comments

Where can I hear live grime in NYC?

Where can I hear live grime in NYC? [more inside]
posted by dvjtj at 6:03 PM PST - 3 comments

Help me understand my pants

Short waisted? Long waisted? How do you find out? I *think* I'm short waisted, since the crotch on most of my pants and tights hangs down to my knees. How do you measure? Where oh where could I find pants that don't either show my posterior or make me feel like M. C. Hammer? Please help me settle this once and for all. [more inside]
posted by pywacket at 6:03 PM PST - 18 comments

love, doubt, & alcohol : is it worth going back anyway ?

love, doubt, & alcohol : is it worth going back anyway ? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:57 PM PST - 23 comments

Public grounds arbitrarily closed?

Can a public building arbitrarily declare its grounds closed on the weekends and not accept any public visitors? (Talking about the Diamond Ranch High School in Pomona, CA specifically) [more inside]
posted by bryanboyer at 5:17 PM PST - 14 comments

Japanese Passive Aggressive Bento Blog?

I am looking for a Japanese blog about a woman who left passive aggressive notes for her husband and son as part of the food in the bentos she made them. [more inside]
posted by duckierose at 4:44 PM PST - 11 comments

How do I watch tonight's ABCNews/Facebook debate live online?

How do I watch tonight's ABCNews/Facebook debate live online? There doesn't seem to be any option on ABCNews.com to do this...?
posted by frogan at 3:50 PM PST - 2 comments

Need help w/symbol of keeping "the proverbial rug" in place

Clever gift ideas for someone who has had "the proverbial rug" pulled out from under him a few times? [more inside]
posted by meindee at 3:40 PM PST - 10 comments

Haunted by a Crooked Boss

It's probably too late to do anything about a crooked boss, but I'd still like the Hive Mind's opinion... (long story inside) [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 3:31 PM PST - 19 comments

CFL or similar for recessed lighting?

What's the best CFL or similar for recessed lighting? A previous question didn't quite provide the direct recommendation I'm looking for. [more inside]
posted by aladfar at 3:29 PM PST - 5 comments

Drat, my free car is acting up...

Our 1995 Geo Metro seems to be having electrical problems [more inside]
posted by vernondalhart at 3:24 PM PST - 8 comments

Thunderbird won't work. How can I reinstall everything or change my password?

How do I completely uninstall thunderbird from a computer running xp? Or, better, how do I change my password for SMTP authentication? [more inside]
posted by tangyraspberry at 3:16 PM PST - 3 comments

I want to track books I've read and books I want to read.

Where can I keep track, online, of my current list of books read/owned and books I want to read? [more inside]
posted by CwgrlUp at 2:58 PM PST - 21 comments

Typefaces and Visual Details for Teaching Materials

Need suggestions for graphic design elements related to 3 historical periods: early modern England, Neoclassical France, and the US in the cold war '50s. [more inside]
posted by Mngo at 2:26 PM PST - 7 comments

Help my dad enjoy eating again

My father is several years on from surgery to remove a lymphoma in his neck (between his trachea and his esophagus I think). He has recovered wonderfully except for some scarring that has affected his voice (minor) and ability to eat much solid food. I want to help him find new ways to enjoy eating again. [more inside]
posted by jethrographic at 1:41 PM PST - 10 comments

Someday we'll find it, the film grain connection.

Why are films from the 70s so grainy? [more inside]
posted by eschatfische at 1:24 PM PST - 7 comments

Medical Malpractice Insurance Coverage

Does medical malpractice insurance typically cover all damages of injured patients? I'd like a citable source on this if at all possible, but searches so far haven't turned up anything worthwhile.
posted by chriswarren at 1:00 PM PST - 11 comments

claymation short about totalitarian vegetables?

Anyone know the title of and where I could locate a claymation film from the early '90's about vegetables living in a communist or totalitarian regime? [more inside]
posted by 8699oriel at 12:54 PM PST - 6 comments

novelfilter

New Year resolution: write a novel this year. Need some resources [more inside]
posted by spacefire at 12:48 PM PST - 24 comments

Help us Find a simple Wedding Ceremony and Reception Location in Southern California!

Help us find the right place for small wedding ceremony / reception in Southern California [more inside]
posted by matthelm at 12:44 PM PST - 14 comments

Where should we have our reception?

Help us find a place for our wedding reception! [more inside]
posted by explosion at 12:42 PM PST - 6 comments

Wheat free question

My girlfriend was recently diagnosed with coeliac disease. Do I have to get a new chopping board? [more inside]
posted by popcassady at 12:11 PM PST - 12 comments

What should I do with my life post law school?

Another chapter in the ongoing saga of "what should notjustfoxybrown do with her law degree since she really, really doesn't want to retake the bar exam but feels societal pressure to do so." [more inside]
posted by notjustfoxybrown at 11:58 AM PST - 18 comments

Calling all (semi) esoteric foodies ...

What can I do with all these black cardamom pods? [more inside]
posted by the luke parker fiasco at 11:40 AM PST - 12 comments

Why does my Google Desktop Sidebar look like this? (Funny Squiggles and no text)?

Why does my Google Desktop Sidebar look like this? (Funny Squiggles and no text)? [more inside]
posted by ssimon82 at 11:16 AM PST - 5 comments

15-minute stir fry recipes?

What are some good combinations of ingredients for stir-fry? The fewer ingredients and shorter prep time, the better. [more inside]
posted by jasminerain at 11:06 AM PST - 24 comments

Can you show me some amazing literary descriptions of the pleasures of tasting food?

Can you show me some amazing literary descriptions of the pleasures of tasting and eating food? [more inside]
posted by laumry at 10:44 AM PST - 15 comments

Movies similar to "incident at Loch Ness"

I just watched "Incident at Loch Ness" for the third time and seriously think this is one of the best movies ever made. The spoof-documentary is not so much the draw compared to the transition from serious film to comedy and the intelligent character humor. What other films do you think i would like?
posted by ilike at 10:32 AM PST - 11 comments

The Thomas Pynchon/Harry Potter/collective unconscious phenomenon

Is Albus Dumbledore's surname really some archaic English noun? [more inside]
posted by hwestiii at 10:13 AM PST - 11 comments

French phonebooth disaster

We called the USA from a France Télécom phonebooth. Following the instructions on the poster, we dialled *808 and gave our Visa card number. Turns out they charged more than $100 for a call lasting about 10 minutes. Is there anything we can do to contest this?
posted by East Manitoba Regional Junior Kabaddi Champion '94 at 10:09 AM PST - 23 comments

Help me sell some books for fun and slight profit.

I'd like to make a little pocket money off selling books on half.com. What should I know? [more inside]
posted by santojulieta at 10:00 AM PST - 8 comments

Where can I get rubber letters, and how do I order them?

If I wanted some pre-cut letter shapes made for me out of a material similar to a tire inner tube, what sort of request would I make? What would I call the material so that the manufacturer understood? What, if anyone has ordered similar, is a decent place to order from? Thanks!
posted by Kickstart70 at 9:43 AM PST - 6 comments

rebel without a car.

I want to go on vacation in March to a place with beaches. Problem: We can't drive! [more inside]
posted by suedehead at 9:32 AM PST - 16 comments

Camera for travel in high-theft area?

I'm going to be traveling to Rio, where the chances of my digital camera getting stolen are, by all accounts, pretty high. What's the best solution given that I'd really like to be able to take pictures and bring them back with me? [more inside]
posted by agent99 at 8:41 AM PST - 18 comments

What is the perfect 25-track mix-cd of mostly-modern classical music?

If you were to give someone a 25-track crash course on classical music (a "mix-cd/playlist"), what compositions would you include? [more inside]
posted by beelerspace at 8:06 AM PST - 13 comments

Painted

Problem: bored artisticly inclined teenage daughter on school holidays til end of January. I handed over my tin of 72 Derwents but it wasn't enough. [more inside]
posted by goshling at 7:24 AM PST - 8 comments

I like my pimples and my hunchback, thanks.

Satisfying my inner fashion maven: Is it possible to experiment with style & fashion without getting caught up with its superficiality? [more inside]
posted by divabat at 7:18 AM PST - 50 comments

Food and Film

Do you know any movies in which food is a major theme? [more inside]
posted by sushiwiththejury at 4:37 AM PST - 57 comments

The skinny on scanning

I'm intending to self-publish a short run book of photography - I need advice on image preparation (from original neg and tranny) for what will most likely be an offset printing process. [more inside]
posted by strawberryviagra at 12:52 AM PST - 12 comments

Can I hook up my speaker system to both computer and stereo?

I just bought a "Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 THX Certified Computer Speaker System," thanks to recs from another post on mefi. I'm wondering if I can buy a cable that will connect the system to my computer AND my stereo--some kind of splitter? I'm pretty clueless about this stuff, so the more detail the better. Thanks.
posted by prior at 12:40 AM PST - 5 comments

Help me get my meager rental deposit back

My old landlord has not returned my deposit after more than three months and several phone calls and emails. Help. [more inside]
posted by FlamingBore at 12:05 AM PST - 15 comments

January 4

I suck at IKEA.

How do you get a plastic IKEA rivet out of a half-built drawer? [more inside]
posted by hellbient at 11:20 PM PST - 4 comments

"not a big truck," but a "series of tubes"

What other cities (worldwide) have installed subway systems long after being "established?" [more inside]
posted by cdmwebs at 10:03 PM PST - 52 comments

BollockBuster

How much do late fees/oustanding fines from video stores affect my credit score? [more inside]
posted by pilibeen at 9:51 PM PST - 10 comments

5300 miles equals what, hive mind?

Where else could my dog and I have driven 5300 miles to? [more inside]
posted by Dr. Lurker at 9:13 PM PST - 11 comments

Installing MediaWiki on XP with an Existing Apache Webserver

MediaWiki install: Apache, MySQL, & PHP already on my machine? [more inside]
posted by jjsonp at 8:20 PM PST - 5 comments

Extremely well printed, state of the industry, paper "poster" - Calendar Recommendations

Extremely well printed, state of the industry, paper "poster" - Calendar Recommendations [more inside]
posted by Infernarl at 8:20 PM PST - 2 comments

I need Dr. Who watching advice.

Help me order my queue. [more inside]
posted by tractorfeed at 8:18 PM PST - 22 comments

Shoe buttons are rare, where can I find some?

I have shoes that look sort of like these, but the strap on one of them came unattached and I lost the button. Where can I find a replacement button (either online or in the Washington, DC area somewhere)? [more inside]
posted by echo0720 at 8:17 PM PST - 6 comments

Medication for Panic Attacks?

Anxiety medication for panic attacks? What should I look out for / expect. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:06 PM PST - 32 comments

Propose or hint?

[Proposal Filter] We've lived together for 7 years, been together for 9. We've discussed the future, kids, plans, etc. I was always okay with our living-in-sin/unmarried status until recently. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:05 PM PST - 35 comments

I need help repaying a personal debt.

I've owed someone some money for many years. I keep forgetting to repay it and then I remember later. Repeat cycle ad infinitum for almost 18 years. Help me figure out how to repay it. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:10 PM PST - 32 comments

I don't smoke, but my other personality does...

Today, my employer game a form to fill in regarding my health. On it were the usual questions about diabetes and epilepsy and such. But there were also questions about things like whether I've had/currently have irritable bowel syndrome (WTF?), how much alcohol I drink per week, whether or not I smoke, etc. Looooong question.... [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:09 PM PST - 15 comments

What do I need to know about cycling on the streets in San Francisco?

What do I need to know about cycling on the streets in San Francisco? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:08 PM PST - 35 comments

2008 Toyota Camry Hybrid Battery Replacement

2008 Toyota Camry Hybrid Battery Replacement [more inside]
posted by endlessknot at 7:02 PM PST - 4 comments

AirCard internet access with no plan? Possible?

Do any of the services that offer aircards for wireless anywhere access to the Internet also offer a pay as you go or prepaid plan? [more inside]
posted by susandennis at 6:35 PM PST - 5 comments

Cookingfilter

Are there any askmefi-like forums that revolve around food and cooking? [more inside]
posted by xaire at 6:31 PM PST - 18 comments

British mystery TV shows/movies?

Great British mystery television shows/movies? My girlfriend and I are both rabid fans of good, old-fashioned British whodunnits. Nothing like a rainy Sunday curled up in the sofa to watch an insufferable amateur detective line up a bunch of eccentric upper-class Brits by the fireplace to expose their innermost red herrings: Poirot, Miss Marple, Jonathan Creek, Cadfael, Inspector Alleyn, Sherlock Holmes, Gosford Park -- we have pretty much watched them all, including numerous Agatha Christie movie adaptations. What else is out there? Must be British, or feature mainly Brits; extra points for smoking jackets, quaint little villages in Dorset, vintage automobiles and funny little Frenchmen. (We don't like modern police procedurals that much, though; Inspector Morse is all right, but not quite our cup of tea.)
posted by gentle at 6:26 PM PST - 34 comments

Where to find travel insurance for a dialysis patient?

My Dad does hemodialysis 3-times a week. He is a Canadian, but we have found a great dialysis clinic that will treat him here in Louisiana when he visits. The problem is that it now looks like we are going to have trouble finding travel insurance for him. Mom and Dad won't travel to the States without it. Has anyone got any ideas how we can best find this insurance for him? Do you know any dialysis patients who have found travel insurance for a U.S. vacation?
posted by MotorNeuron at 6:26 PM PST - 6 comments

I'm a sucker for a sucker! Here's my money!

Why do banks have free lollipops (for suckers?) [more inside]
posted by @homer at 6:15 PM PST - 21 comments

I have no evidence for this hypothesis.

Is it possible that lactose intolerance is correlated in some way with the consumption of pasteurized milk? [more inside]
posted by clockzero at 5:55 PM PST - 8 comments

What are the best websites / blogs where I can keep up to date on cool things to do with Smartphones and PDA's?

What are the best websites / blogs where I can keep up to date on cool things to do with Smartphones and PDA's? [more inside]
posted by GleepGlop at 5:50 PM PST - 10 comments

Kid rock!

My teenage son (fifteen) has decided he wants to play the guitar. What guitar? [more inside]
posted by cedar at 5:31 PM PST - 23 comments

Can you name any non-violent movies for 2-3 year olds?

Non-violent, non-scary movies for 3 year olds? My daughter likes watching movies as a special treat but is scared by Disney's trademark ultra-villains and even shouting or dark scenes are a bit much for her. So far the only two movies she loves beginning to end are the newish Curious George movie and My Neighbor Totoro. I looked long and hard and can't find any others. Any ideas? [more inside]
posted by mathowie at 5:20 PM PST - 79 comments

Is there a site to track showings of my to-see films?

Is there a site that will enable me to compile a list of movies I want to see and notify me if any of them show in a configurable fairly wide area? Yahoo Movies lets me build a to-see list, but I have to laboriously plug in a bunch of zip codes for each film (because its range is very narrow). For example, I've only seen LOTR on DVD, and every once in a while a theater revives them as a special thing and I miss it. And, just generally, I'm interested in obscure indie flicks that release only sporadically, and I lack the patience to search each title every few days. Now.....if there were such a site that could do the above plus track showings of my top-predicted films at MOVIELENS, that'd be great (but way too much to hope for). FYI, movielens (movielens.umn.edu) is an awesome groupware prediction engine.
posted by jimmyjimjim at 5:15 PM PST - 7 comments

PowerDoppler 17 comin' atcha LIVE!

Why does it seem like every local TV station has their own radar (usually with a ridiculously flashy name like MegaDoppler 3000)? Is it just for bragging rights or are they actually better/faster than the National Weather Service's radar? [more inside]
posted by zsazsa at 5:03 PM PST - 6 comments

How do I know which fats are which?

Nutrition label says food has 5 grams of fat, 3 of them are saturated. There is no other information. Would the other fat be trans, polyunsaturated, or monounsaturated? [more inside]
posted by Defenestrator at 4:40 PM PST - 7 comments

Making money in politics (without being corrupt)

Is it possible to make a decent, relatively steady living in (liberal to center left) politics in Raleigh NC? If so what job(s) should I start looking for? [more inside]
posted by DetonatedManiac at 4:30 PM PST - 5 comments

My phone keeps turning off!

My brand new Sprint Mogul Pocket PC will restart itself, but only when I'm walking with the phone in my pocket. Why? [more inside]
posted by DMan at 4:29 PM PST - 9 comments

Looking for a kid's book that has sailing and cooking

Bookfilter: looking for a book I read as a kid involving a sick kid and sailing. The wrinkle? I read it in German, so I don't even know if this book exists in English. Obviously, there's [more inside]
posted by yggdrasil at 4:23 PM PST - 1 comment

Looking for a good Photography editing software.

Looking for a good Photography editing software. [more inside]
posted by bamassippi at 4:13 PM PST - 19 comments

A real live person at UPS?

Can someone point me to a phone number for UPS where I can get a real person on the line? I've tried navigating their annoying phone menus and sent an email (easier to ignore than a phone call), but can't get to a real person. [more inside]
posted by blaneyphoto at 4:03 PM PST - 14 comments

Historical car pricing.

Are there any websites that compile historical MSRPs for cars? Like if I wanted to know how much a dude had to pay for a new Camaro in 1979. [more inside]
posted by punkfloyd at 2:26 PM PST - 3 comments

Apply to low-level positions while out of state?

I am 22 and one year out of undergrad. I would like to get a paraprofessional library job in NYC. I live in Seattle. Is it stupid to expect that I could set up interviews before moving? Will employers even look at my resume now? [more inside]
posted by beefetish at 2:01 PM PST - 11 comments

What's my name?

Changing my name for marriage: Does FirstName HisLastName MyLast Name make things too complicated? [more inside]
posted by otherwordlyglow at 1:56 PM PST - 39 comments

Saturday night in Paris

Things to do in Paris tomorrow (Saturday) evening? For a couple of adults, a couple of children (11 & 12) to do together. [more inside]
posted by londongeezer at 1:50 PM PST - 9 comments

TravelFilter: Travel options in southern Japan

What is there for a married American couple to do in southern Japan / Kagoshima? [more inside]
posted by zephyrian at 1:50 PM PST - 8 comments

Help me find fun plates and cups.

I want to buy funky plates and cups (different for each place setting) The more eclectic and weird, the better. Do you have a favorite plates/cup that you got online that are cheap, funny, and safe for human consumption?(no traces of any chemicals that may cause blindness, irritability, etc..)
posted by melodykramer at 1:49 PM PST - 12 comments

M-Audio or E-mu cheapie 61-key USB MIDI controller?

I want a cheap 49 or 61 key USB MIDI keyboard for under $300. M-Audio Oxygen or E-mu Xboard? [more inside]
posted by stleric at 1:42 PM PST - 5 comments

How Can I Best Deal With Working Around a Pregnancy?

What is the best way to deal with informing my employer of my pregnancy? The benefits situation is questionable at this point. Details below. [more inside]
posted by tk at 1:32 PM PST - 7 comments

When do you floss?

Where does flossing fit in to your routine? [more inside]
posted by Cordelya at 1:27 PM PST - 39 comments

Scroll control?

How do I make Firefox scroll down only half a page (i.e., half the height of my screen) when I hit the spacebar, rather than down a full page?
posted by bbranden1 at 1:24 PM PST - 9 comments

How can I have secure internet conversations with my girlfriend at her work that won't raise suspicions with her employer.

How can I have secure internet conversations with my girlfriend at her work that won't raise suspicions with her employer. [more inside]
posted by doppler68 at 1:22 PM PST - 27 comments

Because I can.

I am a geek, not a businessman. Help me sell my 'albums.' [more inside]
posted by laughinglikemad at 12:49 PM PST - 10 comments

Should I start over, with a new career in computer networking?

Help me with my mid-career freak out: should I change directions and move into the exciting world of computer networking? [more inside]
posted by rosswald at 12:31 PM PST - 15 comments

Is there a Bible for liberals?

Is there a specialty Bible for liberals? [more inside]
posted by HotPatatta at 12:25 PM PST - 31 comments

What is the best way to realtime-render 3D images on a server?

Does anyone have experience using DirectX in a server-side application? Is it practical? If not, what alternatives are there? [more inside]
posted by Vorteks at 12:22 PM PST - 10 comments

Help me get the tips I earn!

I've been working as a waitress at a restaurant. People leave tips for the waitstaff. The restaurant takes these tips; I never get any. This cannot be legal, can it? What can I do about it? [more inside]
posted by bookish at 12:21 PM PST - 59 comments

I can haz reminder?

Help me get organized: I am looking for a small, very portable PDA-ish device that makes it really easy to program, display, and check off all sorts of reminders (hourly, daily, weekly, monthly etc.) with the option to set alarms. [more inside]
posted by Krrrlson at 11:50 AM PST - 16 comments

Name that tune: I drive cars that shift themselves!

Anyone know the name of a hip-hop song that uses the quote "I drive cars that shift themselves. My cars shift themselves. They're luxury cars," from the movie Buffalo 66 ? I'm not sure if the artist sings this line or actually samples the clip from the movie. Oh, and the song seems like it might also sample Sir Mix A Lot.
posted by scrumtralescent at 11:48 AM PST - 4 comments

Do newspapers normally ask for all rights from freelancers?

What are the usual practices of major (and minor) print publications when entering into contracts with freelance writers and photographers (stringers)? The publication can certainly force (or request) stringers to enter into contracts that say their articles are a "work for hire" or purchase "all rights" in the material. Is this the norm now or do only the major newspapers do this? [more inside]
posted by QuantumMeruit at 11:31 AM PST - 5 comments

Dentist/Oral surgeon recommendations in the Buffalo area?

I need to get my wisdom teeth out this year. Can you recommend me a good dentist/oral surgeon/whatever somewhere in Western New York? [more inside]
posted by Verdandi at 11:29 AM PST - 2 comments

Swimming upstream?

Anyone have experience with "treadpools"/swim-in-place pools? [more inside]
posted by cocoagirl at 11:23 AM PST - 7 comments

Cell Phone for Canada from States?

I'm looking to get a cell phone from some provider in the States that has good States and Canada coverage and decent long distance rates. [more inside]
posted by royalchinook at 11:20 AM PST - 6 comments

Yet Another Empty Box for Christmas

What more can I do to maximize my chances of recompense with regards to an eee pc stolen during shipment from Newegg via UPS? [more inside]
posted by Skwirl at 11:11 AM PST - 17 comments

Just one cook is spoiling the broth.

How do you avoid chef's stomach? [more inside]
posted by oflinkey at 11:01 AM PST - 32 comments

What's my motivation?

"Forum" (Sondheim)Filter: What's my motivation? [more inside]
posted by I_Love_Bananas at 10:58 AM PST - 4 comments

Dentistryfilter: will time "heal" my teeth or did my denstist mess me up?

Dentistryfilter: will time "heal" my teeth or did my denstist screw me up? [more inside]
posted by nooneyouknow at 10:55 AM PST - 5 comments

Old videotapes

What do people do with old videotapes? [more inside]
posted by A-Train at 10:44 AM PST - 13 comments

Dave Chappelle's next marathon gig?

How can I find out if and when Dave Chappelle plans on doing another marathon stand-up gig at the Laugh Factory in Hollywood? Are these secret shows, or are they advertised publicly?
posted by fac21 at 10:32 AM PST - 1 comment

Where can I find a good defense of the use of c*cks*cker?

Does anyone know where I can find an oft-mentioned but hard-to-find letter by David Milch? [more inside]
posted by nushustu at 9:54 AM PST - 5 comments

Help me with my Portfolio!

Photography Portfolio Filter: I'm finally hanging out my shingle *officially* to do portrait shoots and show my more *artistic* work beyond the few small galleries I've already been in. To whit, I'm putting together two portfolio books. One for prospective portrait clients and another for gallery work. My question is one of formatting the pictures within the portfolio book. (More inside....) [more inside]
posted by damiano99 at 9:49 AM PST - 9 comments

Fastest NYC to Vegas Route Avoiding Snow

I have a friend who has to move from New York City to Vegas next week. They are renting a U-Haul 14' truck, and are comfortable driving that, but want to stay off snowy mountain roads where their confidence is not as strong. At the same time, they are under a time crunch, and have to make the drive as fast as possible. [more inside]
posted by extrabox at 9:49 AM PST - 15 comments

Using up vinegar?

What are some ways to get rid of (i.e. use up) a lot of fancy vinegar? [more inside]
posted by Deathalicious at 9:45 AM PST - 22 comments

Are Independent Financial Advisers worth it? (UK)

I'm in the UK. My wife has contacted an IFA. They want to charge us £270 for an initial meeting, which will be reduced by 77% if we proceed with a pension product (for me, self-employed) they recommend; or, they will produce a full report for us which will cost in excess of £1600. Are they getting money for old rope? How hard do they really work for this money? Are they worth seeing? We're not millionaires - we earn decent but unremarkable amounts, and that sort of fee would dent the savings we're trying to protect. What are your experiences?
posted by hatmandu at 9:25 AM PST - 10 comments

Where can I but a postcard calendar?

Lesson learned. I should have bought my fave calendar before December. But I didn't. Calendars.com seems to be sold out. I like the "postcard wall" format b/c it has a single line for each day, hangs on the wall, and is very compact. Any ideas?
posted by quinoa at 8:59 AM PST - 11 comments

What to do with a bag of Baltic amber?

My father-in-law saved from the dumpster for me a bag of amber he tells me he picked up while combing a remote, access-controlled Baltic beach. They are mostly small, rough pieces, amber-colored (in case you were going to ask), and with different levels of occlusions and different surface textures. I don't want to just sell them, and it seems rude to do so. I have no idea what their value would be. I'm not a jeweler or crafty in any similar way. What can or should I do with them?
posted by newdaddy at 8:46 AM PST - 18 comments

A very sad conversation.

My very good friend was diagnosed with "Gastric Adenocarcinoma, Signet Ring Cell formation" yesterday - a really rare form of aggressive stomach cancer. What is going to happen? [more inside]
posted by uaudio at 8:40 AM PST - 8 comments

Do I have the girl I really want?

Ok, so I've been in this relationship now for about 9 months, this girl is 8 years older than me. I am in my late 20's. Both of us are recovering alcoholics, both sober almost 1 year presently. We met in "the program," as it were...and I'm having some residual difficulty feeling "committed" to the relationship. I check out other women and think about other women on a semi-regular basis - fantasize about women I see, know, occasional porn, etc. Just recently a woman I work with who I am considerably attracted to, and who has participated in mutual flirting around with at work for a while (minor-type), mentioned to me her desire to meet somebody. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:37 AM PST - 15 comments

What do I put in a Chinese New Year card?

What nice message can I write in a Chinese New Year card? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:37 AM PST - 5 comments

Poor dumb birds.

Is there anything that I can do to keep birds from flying into my office windows? [more inside]
posted by amro at 8:36 AM PST - 13 comments

Procedure manual for database data entry

I'm trying to create a procedure manual for our school's database software- only, I don't know where to begin! [more inside]
posted by jmd82 at 8:27 AM PST - 10 comments

Stop that bounce!

Where's the best place to buy a sports bra in New York City? [more inside]
posted by essexjan at 7:39 AM PST - 10 comments

Which protein supplement?

What protein powders I should use for my morning smoothies? [more inside]
posted by LouMac at 7:21 AM PST - 24 comments

How to save a creative partnership from a meddling third party?

My long-standing creative partner's fiancée is interfering with our relationship. Looking for strategies to keep our partnership and projects healthy despite her divisive influence. [more inside]
posted by Gianna at 7:21 AM PST - 40 comments

I freeze, you freeze, we all freeze for banh mi...s

When you're in NYC and it's winter, where do you take your food to eat when the place you're buying from doesn't have seating? [more inside]
posted by soma lkzx at 6:57 AM PST - 14 comments

making flippy floppy

My Computer detects a floppy drive when there isnt one installed ......... [more inside]
posted by sgt.serenity at 6:56 AM PST - 8 comments

Birthday Party

I need a place for a birthday party in the North Seattle area. [more inside]
posted by Lokheed at 6:54 AM PST - 10 comments

BAD_POOL_HEADER BSOD

"BAD_POOL_HEADER" BSOD on Windows Vista [more inside]
posted by edbyford at 6:52 AM PST - 6 comments

Wedding in Mexico?

We are getting married at The Reef Playacar resort in Mexico in June and we feel as if we are getting the runaround from the staff. Does anyone have any experience at this resort or others in Mexico? [more inside]
posted by nineRED at 6:30 AM PST - 10 comments

Help me lock them out!!

How can I protect my privacy online? [more inside]
posted by ClanvidHorse at 6:15 AM PST - 13 comments

Need a new P4 motherboard

I need help choosing a new motherboard around a used Intel P4 chip. [more inside]
posted by Gyan at 6:01 AM PST - 14 comments

Have You Seen These Books (on TV)?

Have you seen these books in the background of movie/tv scenes? [more inside]
posted by Karmakaze at 5:49 AM PST - 10 comments

To jump, or not to jump?

My roommate likes me. A lot, it seems. He's been treating me impecably since I moved in, and I fear I'm falling for it. [more inside]
posted by sunshinesky at 5:18 AM PST - 41 comments

What to do in Greenwich at night?

My girlfriend and her girlfriends are going to see the Spice Girls at the O2 Arena in London tonight, and I've been invited to drive them there. I'm not going to the show, so what is there in the area that I can do between, say, 6pm and 10pm? [more inside]
posted by hoverboards don't work on water at 4:34 AM PST - 9 comments

Buying classical music CDs in the UK

Best place to buy classical music CDs online, preferably both new and second-hand titles? I'm in the UK. [more inside]
posted by deeper red at 2:09 AM PST - 7 comments

January 3

Looking for a cheap NAS solution <$50 (enclosure only)

Looking for a cheap NAS enclosure (~$50) - interested in ximeta netdisk, but I'd rather go with something that doesn't require a software install. For $100ish I could build a cheap VIA C3/C7 server, but a simple HD enclosure would be better. I'm planning to run it off a WRT54g, and have heard that ximeta's get slow wifi performance - could I watch videos over the connection (300mb/hr divx), or would I be restricted to backup and music? If so, what's the cheapest NAS enclosure that isn't a POS that can manage mp3's over wifi? Something that could do bittorrent would be great, but they seem much more costly. Most important, I want a NAS that will spin down when not in use so it doesn't kill my non-enterprise HD.
posted by lrodman at 11:47 PM PST - 7 comments

Has anyone been able to hack Rock Band on PS3 and then burned DVDs with downloadable songs playable on the PS2?

Has anyone been able to hack Rock Band on PS3 and then burned DVDs with downloadable songs playable on the PS2? [more inside]
posted by Unsomnambulist at 11:23 PM PST - 2 comments

Why do commercials for Disney World have a toll number?

Why do commercials for Disney World have a toll number? [more inside]
posted by aerotive at 11:22 PM PST - 12 comments

Gifts for a loved one with an interest in Economics and Russian

Gift Ideas for a person interested in Economics and Russian [more inside]
posted by codybaldwin at 11:19 PM PST - 9 comments

Russian Roulette Odds

Please settle an ill-informed bar argument re. Russian Roulette. [more inside]
posted by macrowave at 10:04 PM PST - 28 comments

Who's doing Fear and Loathing 2008 (and doing it well)?

So Hunter S Thompson's dead and I don't really know which writers to turn to, as the American election year gets underway, who can bring the mad skills, the savage wit, and the dedication to cutting through the usual bullshit. Wanna-be gonzo schtick I'm not so excited by; clear, fearless, honest voices for the win! Drug references optional. [more inside]
posted by stavrosthewonderchicken at 9:00 PM PST - 26 comments

flip down tailgate or bust!

Is there a newish station wagon with a flip-down tailgate? [more inside]
posted by Four Flavors at 8:46 PM PST - 6 comments

Fatty, fatty, 2x4...

What diet is right for me, and how do I stick to it? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:45 PM PST - 38 comments

Face to face with the one-eyed monster.

Please help a usually sex-positive girl come to terms with the realities of male masturbation. TMI inside. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:44 PM PST - 42 comments

Will the tinfoil hat also cover up my crazyness?

What is the privacy downside of seeing a therapist using my insurance plan? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:44 PM PST - 7 comments

Where to study History?

Looking for unique schools or programs for the study of History. In the US or abroad. [more inside]
posted by Nillocsoc at 8:33 PM PST - 13 comments

WHATS THIS MOVIE?

What is the movie that has a little boy that gets an old camera as a gift and takes photos of his town? [more inside]
posted by AsRuinsAreToRome at 8:23 PM PST - 4 comments

Surely there's weirdness in NE PA?

Some weekend this January or maybe February my boyfriend and I will be making our way from our home in Philly to Stroudsburg, PA to partake in some indoor go-karting activities (as a belated Xmas gift for him), and to get the hell out of town to a destination other than relatives. [more inside]
posted by killerinsideme at 7:45 PM PST - 4 comments

Is there a word or phrase that describes the experience of learning there is an established academic definition for an idea you thought was yours alone?

Is there a word or phrase that describes the experience of learning there is an established academic definition for an idea you thought was yours alone? [more inside]
posted by Lownotes at 7:37 PM PST - 20 comments

Odd drug-related search queries showing up in my site referrer logs.

GeekFilter: My web site/blog is suddenly showing very odd searches in the referrer logs, all for prescription drugs. [more inside]
posted by micawber at 7:34 PM PST - 2 comments

How do I output three different images on three different projectors simultaneously using as few computers as possible?

I'm looking for a way to output three different images on three different projectors simultaneously using as few computers connected to them as possible. [more inside]
posted by Becko at 7:20 PM PST - 10 comments

Classical music conundrum

Please guide me toward more classical music... [more inside]
posted by docpops at 6:50 PM PST - 13 comments

Groundfish Observation in Alaska

Has anyone worked as a Groundfish (or otherwise) fishing observer in Alaska? [more inside]
posted by iamck at 6:44 PM PST - 2 comments

How do you view podcast metadata on an iPhone?

How do you view podcast metadata on an iPhone? [more inside]
posted by popechunk at 6:29 PM PST - 2 comments

Staub cookware question

Are these pinholes in the enamel surface of my new Staub cookware normal or flaws? [more inside]
posted by tula at 6:28 PM PST - 4 comments

Looking for First Hand Info

Applied to law school, looking to do work in human rights or civil liberties - but my info base is low. Just need more first hand information. Would love to hear about attorneys who love what they do - or if you know an lawyer who loves what they do. What kind of law? What does their/your work entail? Or sites that can give me further information. Thank you!!
posted by paris2000 at 6:11 PM PST - 22 comments

boom tish, boom-boom tish

Where could I find a list of the top-selling/played jungle/drum-and-bass/2-step songs of previous years, in particular 1998-2001? [more inside]
posted by Espoo2 at 6:06 PM PST - 1 comment

Should DHCP be running on the DSL modem or on the wifi router?

DHCP served up by the DSL Modem or the wireless router? [more inside]
posted by neilkod at 5:25 PM PST - 13 comments

Wait; EVERYONE's an Admin now?

All users on this Terminal Server seem to be Administrators. How do I downgrade them? [more inside]
posted by bartleby at 5:15 PM PST - 5 comments

It's time to pay the piper but I think I'm bankrupt

How do I go about declaring email bankruptcy? [more inside]
posted by DarlingBri at 5:11 PM PST - 21 comments

What can I do with apple butter?

I have apple butter. Now what? I was given two jars of apple butter over the holidays. Is there anything I can do with it besides spread it on toast or peanut butter sandwiches?
posted by Braeog at 4:56 PM PST - 33 comments

invest in a new camera or a photo class?

What to spend my money on- a new camera or a photography class? [more inside]
posted by slow graffiti at 4:53 PM PST - 20 comments

Car trouble

Cars! I don't want to go to the mechanic as a female and say, "I have no idea what's wrong with my car! Please replace half my engine and overcharge me ridiculous amounts!!" I'm hoping to get some ideas on what might be wrong before I go... [more inside]
posted by veronitron at 4:46 PM PST - 19 comments

Help lots of readers see my typography skills!

I designed a book for a (first time) publisher in Germany. He is looking for a (anarchist/indie/punk) book distributor in the US...or any advice around that. Can anybody help? [more inside]
posted by Brainy at 4:44 PM PST - 13 comments

Ramming Speed! Or ramming systems anyway.

I've got 32bit windows XP. I also have 8 gigs of Ram. The windows specs say it'll only recognize 4 gigs. Other than converting to windows vista, is there any way to get my machine to recognize and use the other four gigs of ram?
posted by rileyray3000 at 4:41 PM PST - 17 comments

How can I make sure there is proof I loaned someone money?

Would an agreement to pay back a personal loan by a specific date, signed and notarized by both parties be a legally binding document? [more inside]
posted by catatethebird at 4:16 PM PST - 11 comments

Best way to install software on a mac with a broken CD/DVD drive?

I need to install new software on an older Macbook with a broken CD/DVD drive; can I do this by putting the CD or DVD into a windows pc and sharing it; or can I put a disc image on a USB drive? [more inside]
posted by troybob at 4:12 PM PST - 7 comments

Mail to a hotel?

Can I mail myself stuff to a hotel ahead of time? [more inside]
posted by epersonae at 4:09 PM PST - 18 comments

Looking for a European holiday apartment.

Where is a good place in a European city for a non-European to buy a small but nice two bedroom apartment for holidays? Looking for a city environment. How much would I need to spend? Are there any regulatory hurdles? Where do I find them? [more inside]
posted by DirtyCreature at 3:54 PM PST - 6 comments

How to advocate for and aid a desperately ill, uninsured man in California?

How to advocate for and aid a desperately ill, uninsured man in California? [more inside]
posted by Scram at 3:36 PM PST - 9 comments

oh god help me dentist

Oh god part of my tooth fell off and the university dentist is closed. Where can I get emergency dental care in Montreal, Quebec? [more inside]
posted by 235w103 at 2:55 PM PST - 10 comments

Help us be responsible parents for a 1yo German Shepard.

My girlfriend and I are (probably) soon to be the owners of a 1 year old German Shepard. We know (and love) the dog and the dog knows (and, we're sure) loves us. But we've never been responsible for anything more than a plant before and that plant died. What are some tips other German Shepard owners can impart, in terms of what we can expect and how best to take care of him? [more inside]
posted by Effigy2000 at 2:54 PM PST - 22 comments

Why does this family have that last name?

Bizarre curiosity: This family appears to be Asian. Their surname is Irish. What's the deal? [more inside]
posted by Ruby Doomsday at 2:53 PM PST - 26 comments

Not your usual Nintendo DS titles...

I'm looking for any good Nintendo DS games that are unusual, particularly innovative or just plain weird. In a genre of their own kinds of stuff. [more inside]
posted by krisjohn at 2:53 PM PST - 19 comments

If I have two drivers licenses, are they both valid?

I lost my driver's license, got a replacement, and then found the original. I now have two drivers licenses. Are they both valid? Is there anything wrong with carrying the old one sometimes? [more inside]
posted by stilly at 2:52 PM PST - 11 comments

Will Lapeyre stairs work for a roof hatch in a Brooklyn apartment?

What do you know about roof hatches in Brooklyn co-ops, Lapeyre stairs, and the ol' DIY spirit? Can I just order or a pair, or is this a job for a contractor? Do I have to get an architect involved or something?
posted by paul_smatatoes at 2:51 PM PST - 2 comments

The IRS, Paypal, John Doe--and ME???

I just received an email from PayPal notifying me that my account information has been requested by the IRS. I rarely use the account--it has very little activity other than the occasional small purchase (ebay, etc) and small ebay sale. It doesn't seem like a scam email, but I have no idea why my info would be requested? Should I get a lawyer involved or is this just a large-scale email I should ignore? Here is the email with my name removed (however, the case does refer to John Doe): [more inside]
posted by verevi at 2:41 PM PST - 26 comments

I paid my kid sister's tuition last year. How do I approach that for tax purposes?

I paid my kid sister's tuition last year. How do I approach that for tax purposes? [more inside]
posted by joshjs at 2:17 PM PST - 7 comments

I'm thinking of moving to Buenos Aires and would like to hear from anyone who has lived or spent a lot of time there

I'm thinking of moving to Buenos Aires. I'd like to hear from anyone who has lived or spent a lot of time there. [more inside]
posted by medpt at 2:07 PM PST - 7 comments

I can't go back to coach! There are trolls down there!

How the *$ did I manage to get a first-class flight at a discount price from an online travel retailer? [more inside]
posted by awenner at 2:04 PM PST - 14 comments

Seen the commercial with the guy and the stuffed monkey he takes pictures of?

Looking for a commercial with a guy who takes pictures of his kid's stuffed monkey while he's on a business trip. [more inside]
posted by likeSoy at 2:01 PM PST - 4 comments

Infant CPR classes?

Do you know of any free or cheap infant CPR classes? [more inside]
posted by ND¢ at 1:53 PM PST - 9 comments

Can I make my kitty more komfortable?

My cat is in heat for the first time. I can't spay her for about 2 months. Help! [more inside]
posted by hiptobesquare at 1:50 PM PST - 14 comments

UPS delivery stolen from porch--what to do?

UPS delivery apparently stolen off my front porch. Ideas for next steps, from anyone else who's been through this? [more inside]
posted by Kat Allison at 1:48 PM PST - 18 comments

WTF is "Brem" Cap Suling Gading

What is this Indonesian sweet? It says "Brem" Cap Suling-Gading [more inside]
posted by aubilenon at 1:47 PM PST - 8 comments

What's the mystery ECT/Snow button?

ToyotaFilter: What does my "ECT / Snow" button actually do? [more inside]
posted by fogster at 1:45 PM PST - 8 comments

Where can I find a weightlifting trainer in San Francisco to perfect my form? Not a total novice.

I'm looking for a trainer in the San Francisco area to coach me for a few sessions on my form for a few basic, old school exercises like the squat, bench press, clean, deadlift, row, and military press. [more inside]
posted by I like to eat meat at 1:44 PM PST - 1 comment

Kanji for David and Goliath concept?

I'm looking for a cool Kanji/Hanji nickname that I will use to identify my Kendo/Kumdo equipment bags. [more inside]
posted by forforf at 1:44 PM PST - 8 comments

What should I get for my friend

Gift ideas for a friend who's really into Native American culture? [more inside]
posted by nimkip at 1:34 PM PST - 9 comments

Appendages O' pain

How to treat possibly broken fingers and toes? [more inside]
posted by cashman at 1:16 PM PST - 15 comments

Proper title for a deceased, retired officer

All my life he's been "Col. (Ret.) G. P. Stickfigure". He passed away this week and I don't know if/how etiquette changes a proper address. [more inside]
posted by Mr Stickfigure at 1:07 PM PST - 10 comments

I'm about to gag just writing this question!

I have tonsil stones, I’m pretty sure. However, I also have a very strong gag reflex and can’t get them out. Help! [more inside]
posted by Metroid Baby at 1:06 PM PST - 18 comments

looking for snow near Los Angeles

I'm looking for a place near Los Angeles where snow is falling or has recent fell on the ground. I don't want to go skiing I just want to throw a few snowballs. [more inside]
posted by Charlie Lesoine at 12:59 PM PST - 8 comments

I want to pay off my credit card debt once and for all. Is selling mutual funds the best strategy to do this?

I want to pay off my credit card debt once and for all. Is selling mutual funds the best strategy to do this? [more inside]
posted by lolalivia at 12:54 PM PST - 16 comments

What to these take-off parts fit?

Can you help me figure out what model of Ford Pick-up truck these parts can fit? (links to large pictures of parts and serial numbers inside) [more inside]
posted by ShawnStruck at 12:47 PM PST - 5 comments

Negative repercussions of leaving Fulbright early?

Fulbright Filter: Are there any negative repercussions of leaving one's student Fulbright 10-month period a few months early? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 12:31 PM PST - 4 comments

Handling electrolysis pain without a prescription

If you had electrolysis under your chin and along your jawline (or in any medium-sensitive area like that), and handled it WITHOUT any prescription medication or prescription cream, what solutions worked best for you?
posted by anonymous at 12:31 PM PST - 3 comments

Mild sedative for Pet dog

Mild sedative for a border collie while a human recovers from an illness. [more inside]
posted by sandpine at 12:14 PM PST - 17 comments

Long Distance Parenting

Looking for positive experiences where single parent and young child(en) were separated by great distances. Specifically, I am curious to know how it was made to work. [more inside]
posted by panoptican at 12:14 PM PST - 9 comments

Translate this

Question for people familiar with the Polish language and/or political scene: What are the "Patriotyczny Ruch Polski" newsletters I recently found in my heavily Polish neighborhood (Greenpoint, Brooklyn) all about? Here's a scan of a front page. [more inside]
posted by Artifice_Eternity at 11:59 AM PST - 9 comments

Why is my exterior sump pump working itself out of its install pit?

Plumbing enabled folks please read on. My exterior sump pump installed at bottom of the stairway landing outside my walk down basement is working itself out of its hole. I need a sanity check on the contractor's planned repair. [more inside]
posted by COD at 11:58 AM PST - 11 comments

Does my watch really need service?

Automatic watches, maintenance required? [more inside]
posted by mphuie at 11:39 AM PST - 10 comments

Exporting Color Swatch Info From InDesign

Is there a way to export color swatch information from InDesign into text? [more inside]
posted by slowfasthazel at 11:03 AM PST - 8 comments

Civic baby?

Will our Honda Civic get along with our newborn? [more inside]
posted by azure_swing at 10:53 AM PST - 27 comments

Webumake Nomakeweb...Anymore.

My company is using a product called "Webumake" and the internal WYSIWYG editor does not work in IE7, Firefox, IE6 on the Mac... [more inside]
posted by mic stand at 10:49 AM PST - 2 comments

I'll wait (tables) in the pouring sun.

I've just moved to L.A. and need immediate employment to provide some short-term financial security. Locals, who (or what) would you recommend? (e.g., What are the least insane and/or most humane temp agencies? What are some cool places to do menial, customer-facing work that actually pay a living wage?) [more inside]
posted by mykescipark at 10:41 AM PST - 13 comments

Owning up to my false accusation

ConfessionFilter: I wrongly filed a complaint against a municipal employee 10 years ago. I do not believe that anything was pursued beyond a few enquiries, however I want to apologise. Do I and how? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 10:13 AM PST - 22 comments

year end bonus protocol

How do year-end bonuses usually work? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 10:13 AM PST - 25 comments

I just want to plug things in

I have a light switch on the wall that controls both an overhead light and an outleft. I'd like it to only control the overhead light, while still sending power on to the outlet. [more inside]
posted by donnagirl at 10:12 AM PST - 16 comments

That's not art, that's my firewall!

How do you draw a picture depicting firewall rules? Do you know of any examples? [more inside]
posted by grumpy at 10:05 AM PST - 3 comments

Is it possible to have a normal relationship after a spouce attempts suicide?

My wife and I have been married for almost 10 months. She has had a number of cutting epsiodes and last week she tried to commit suicide. After I caught her cutting the first time (about 3 months into the marriage) she agreed to go into therapy and got on Prozac but things have not really gotten better. With things this bad, this early on in the relationship is there really any hope? [more inside]
posted by prk14 at 10:03 AM PST - 53 comments

What grocery stores in Canada carry healthy(er) foods?

What grocery stores in Canada carry healthy(er) foods? [more inside]
posted by irishkitten at 9:50 AM PST - 14 comments

buying a laptop in Bangkok

Where should I buy a laptop in Bangkok? [more inside]
posted by verisimilitude at 9:43 AM PST - 3 comments

Who drew Howard & Nester?

Who is the (presumably Japanese) artist responsible for drawing the old Howard & Nester comics from Nintendo Power magazine in the early 1990s?
posted by ktoad at 9:33 AM PST - 9 comments

Help me fight the power and get rid of my stinky trash!

My HOA negotiated an exclusive contract with a garbage company -- and the garbage company has increased rates and decreased service. Help! [more inside]
posted by parilous at 9:22 AM PST - 13 comments

Filing for child tax credit separately

Is it legal to file for child tax credit separately? [more inside]
posted by mithiirym at 9:18 AM PST - 7 comments

Should my mom sue?

My mom was recently diagnosed with breast cancer, which sucks in many, many ways, not the least of which is that it seems that it could have been caught by her mammogram two years ago, but wasn't, possibly because the technician ignored information in her chart. She is now being encouraged by others to sue for malpractice, considering that her cancer has now had two extra years to progress. I'm wondering if she actually has a case, and if so, how should she proceed. This is kind of a long story, so there's more inside... [more inside]
posted by odayoday at 9:16 AM PST - 23 comments

What is a good replacement for this discontinued nail polish?

Is there a nail polish I'll love as much as my beloved, discontinued Revlon Top Speed Chrome Polish? Or that will even come close? [more inside]
posted by smoakes at 8:57 AM PST - 8 comments

Nearly ruined an awesome road trip...

On a road trip across the midwestern United States. Out of state driver, small town speed trap. Can I ignore the ticket? and other questions. [more inside]
posted by lou at 8:49 AM PST - 25 comments

Coin flip odds?

Statistics question: How can I calculate the odds of flipping a coin to get x consecutive heads anywhere within a data set of y flips. (more inside) [more inside]
posted by rocket88 at 8:47 AM PST - 19 comments

Good spots for stargazing/astrophotography in NJ?

Where are some good (relatively) dark-sky places I can go in New Jersey for some stargazing/astrophotography? [more inside]
posted by Godbert at 8:37 AM PST - 9 comments

Help this young child get nutrition

best baby formula? ... the child is seven months old and just stopping breast-feeding. Several formulas have been tied -- including Similiac, GoodStart and Enfimil -- without success, as the baby does not like them and spits them out. Any suggestions on a nourishing formula? What should be tried? Is this just a transition situation? Should we keep trying the above formulas or go a different route? Thx.
posted by terrier319 at 8:25 AM PST - 16 comments

The Straw that Broke the Lease

Roommatefilter: Do I lie to my landlady and say I'm being transferred out of state, or tell her the truth...that my new roommate is a possibly dangerous alcoholic? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:24 AM PST - 24 comments

Pimp my job

I need career advice on how to become a graphic designer when I'm already a grown up. Bonus & intertwined question: can you help me see if I am on the path toward being screwed at my current job? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:24 AM PST - 6 comments

My husband and I work at the same place, and now he's being fired. Now what?

Two academics, married to each other, at the same liberal arts college. One has been---unjustly and unwarrantedly---not recommended for reappointment. We're planning to appeal, but I'm not sanguine about the outcome. How bad is this likely to get, politically? Any advice? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:24 AM PST - 14 comments

Just a sec. I've got Holden on the other line.

Do I have a web storm brewing? [more inside]
posted by nax at 8:15 AM PST - 8 comments

Too old to start a PhD?

I've taken early retirement after teaching 23 years in special education. With a high (3.7) undergrad GPA, a masters in math education, and decent GRE scores, what are my chances of getting into PhD program at the ripe old age of 61? Has anyone heard of some one my age being accepted to a PhD program?
posted by knotknitter at 7:52 AM PST - 15 comments

Terms for battle maps?

Official terminology to describe battle movement maps? (more inside) [more inside]
posted by wowbobwow at 7:47 AM PST - 8 comments

Password heck

Any advice for a tri-platform, multi-computer, maybe not hashed, password manager for a large volume of ftp/ssh/ and misc logins? [more inside]
posted by shownomercy at 6:58 AM PST - 18 comments

Sirius has lost it's face

My Sirius reciever has stopped displaying. It is about 2 years old so just out of warrenty (of course). [more inside]
posted by shaarog at 6:21 AM PST - 7 comments

Travelling to Switzerland for New Year 08

We're planning a trip to Switzerland for New Year 2008, but have little clue about the country. Advice welcomed! [more inside]
posted by long haired lover from liverpool at 2:28 AM PST - 9 comments

Who am I?

What does my username mean? I think it's Turkish. [more inside]
posted by creasy boy at 2:12 AM PST - 18 comments

you're like, too old for this, man

Guess who needs boots like Marilyn Manson?! Yours truly! Here's the problem, it seems to be a very standard design but we need to try them on and take them home rather than buy them online and wait/pray it works out. Where (greater boston)?
posted by Firas at 2:08 AM PST - 20 comments

Etymology of cutlerly terms?!

Why are the words for cutlerly (fork, knife, spoon) so different in the Romance languages? [more inside]
posted by mateuslee at 1:49 AM PST - 19 comments

All threaded up with nothing to sew...

Inexpensive or reasonably priced fabric (dressmakers) available online (retail). Either within Australia (or ships here - without costing a fortune!). I'm after a bit of (cotton) broderie anglaise, lycra, some cotton drill and a rayon/cotton/stretch blend to be precise but.. whatever you've got - I'll take it!
posted by mu~ha~ha~ha~har at 1:46 AM PST - 3 comments

The IRS ain't gonna get my money! My wife's, however...

TaxdodgeFilter: My wife is a US citizen, I'm a british citizen, and we both live in Switzerland. I pay my taxes here in Switzerland (and nothing to the UK), but what will she have to pay to the IRS? [more inside]
posted by slater at 1:22 AM PST - 12 comments

January 2

ugh you internet

Did my mama get scammed by itunes look-alike? [more inside]
posted by rubberkey at 11:47 PM PST - 9 comments

Am I supposed to only get 2 weekends to find a new apartment?

I live in a big apartment complex and the landlord sends me a letter 1.5 months before my lease is up with the rent increase. So I will be notified of the new rent on January 16 and no earlier. However, I have to give 30 days notice, and so only have about 2 weeks where I know my new rent and can find a new place. How do other renters deal with such a small window of time? [more inside]
posted by lpctstr; at 11:43 PM PST - 11 comments

just my luck...

Ebay removed an auction I won and canceled my bid - after I paid for it. What do I do now? [more inside]
posted by streetdreams at 10:44 PM PST - 12 comments

Shopping The Mortgage

How and when do I "shop" a mortgage? (first-time buyer questions inside) [more inside]
posted by escher at 10:23 PM PST - 13 comments

San Francisco Storms

Should I be scared of these 3 big storms about to slam into San Francisco? [more inside]
posted by mto at 8:39 PM PST - 45 comments

Upconverting DVD Players for Less Than $100

Can anybody recommend an upconverting DVD player that costs less than $100? It needs to play CDs and CD-Rs as well.
posted by NoMich at 8:32 PM PST - 14 comments

moospace

I hate to say anything nice about myspace, but it seems that it is the best source for upcoming tour dates. Conundrum: [more inside]
posted by Pants! at 8:30 PM PST - 10 comments

Are we Bonnie and Clyde?

We got stuck in the EZ pass toll booth without an EZ pass. Are we now fugitives from The Man? [more inside]
posted by media_itoku at 8:16 PM PST - 10 comments

Quality craftspeople in toronto?

Hey there, Torontonian-on-a-budget remodelers and refurbishers! I want to reglaze/refinish and re-tile my bathtub (and install new hardware), and I also want to refinish a dining table and chairs, and also reupholster the chairs' seats. Please refer to me your non-scammer budget-priced reasonably-proficient craftspeople. (Random refinishers from the yellow pages or with those displays in malls all seem pretty sketchy, so i'm looking for referrals for people you've had previous experience with.) [more inside]
posted by Kololo at 8:14 PM PST - 4 comments

E is fine, needs more how.

I'm looking for multisubject howto info: deeper than eHow, less crafty than Instructables, more detailed than videojug, that isn't dead like SoYouWanna. Any single field's resources are fine too, so long as they are on the net. Thanks.
posted by StrikeTheViol at 8:10 PM PST - 3 comments

Hormonapalooza

Can you suggest articles or books that are anecdotal descriptions of people taking opposite-sex sex hormones? [more inside]
posted by thehmsbeagle at 7:59 PM PST - 14 comments

Uncivil service?

What options does a Canadian have to report a negative experience with a Customs Canada officer? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:55 PM PST - 3 comments

Should we warn a girl that her new bf is a deceptive jerk?

My friend's ex-boyfriend is a manipulative, lying scumbag. Should I warn his new girlfriend what she's getting into? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:55 PM PST - 69 comments

More Cans = More Recycling = More Money. Make it so.

I see you there. You're smart. You've got great ideas. You want to help me make the world a better place. So, help me brainstorm this contraption. [more inside]
posted by TomMelee at 7:30 PM PST - 36 comments

I hate LA. I HAAAAAATE IT!!!!

You don't live in Los Angeles, but you hate it with every fiber of your being. This AskMe is for you!
(I'll get to LA lovers & residents later. In the meantime, you should probably avoid this thread.) [more inside]
posted by miss lynnster at 7:17 PM PST - 73 comments

Venice ideas... go!

How could one best enjoy the Venice carnivale? [more inside]
posted by Kudos at 7:12 PM PST - 3 comments

Who is Dena Martina?

Who is Dena Martina? She has provided music for Dan Savage's Savage Lovecast on the Xmas and New Year's episodes. Where can I find out more about this sonorous siren of song? [more inside]
posted by munchingzombie at 7:11 PM PST - 6 comments

USB 1.1 to 2.0 upgrade - how?

My admittedly ancient Dell laptop has 2 USB ports, which are both version 1.1. Everything I plug in these days triggers a Windows box that says 'Hey! this will go much faster if you have a USB 2.0 connection'. Gee, thanks, Windows. How do I accomplish this? Is this a software or a hardware upgrade? Is it even possible on a 2002 laptop?
posted by eaglehound at 7:04 PM PST - 7 comments

Romantic weekend in central North Carolina

My roommate is heading to central North Carolina for a few days this month for a romantic getaway with his long distance girlfriend, and they are looking for some romantic getaway ideas. [more inside]
posted by monkeystronghold at 6:41 PM PST - 10 comments

What is Sicilian Table Cheese?

Russo's Mozzarella & Pasta Corp. in Park Slope (NYC) makes an awesome "Sicilian Table Cheese." It is a sheep's milk cheese, with the consistency of cheddar, and it is full of peppercorns. I can find no references to it on Google. [more inside]
posted by unknowncommand at 6:28 PM PST - 4 comments

Methadone reading

Great article about methadone? [more inside]
posted by serazin at 6:19 PM PST - 8 comments

In need of *easy* method for tracking multiple sources of income.

I want to simply my recording-keeping. Seeking an *easy* method for tracking multiple sources of income. [more inside]
posted by mintchip at 5:43 PM PST - 8 comments

Help me find an international adventure, and quick!

The clock is ticking on my lease. Fifty days, forty-nine, forty-eight, forty-seven... and I have neither a steady job nor money for a new place to live. I would like to volunteer or teach abroad, but I am under very pressing time constraints. [Details inside] [more inside]
posted by mr. remy at 5:32 PM PST - 15 comments

I want 55 5th St. But, noooo!

How are house numbers allotted in Walton County, FL? The fellow at the courthouse said it is determined by distance and has something to do with emergency services. The house right next door to me is 53, but my number is 61. Why isn't it 55? Googling has failed me.
posted by wsg at 5:24 PM PST - 11 comments

Things to see and do in Colombia?

We have two and a half weeks. What should we see and do in Colombia? [more inside]
posted by Dalton at 5:23 PM PST - 2 comments

I'm a non-resident and I need a disposable PAYG phone in the U.S.

I'm going to be visiting the U.S. for a month shortly. I'd like to have a U.S. cellphone (and U.S. number) while I'm there. I'm not a U.S. resident, so I have no credit history or bank account, and I don't particularly want to sign up for a contract anyway. Will I be able to walk into a store in Park City, Utah (which store?) and buy one? Can I steal a march by ordering on online and having it shipped to my hotel despite my lack of U.S. credentials? Which carrier has the best Pay As You Go deal? [more inside]
posted by caek at 5:17 PM PST - 19 comments

What's the prettiest, most colourful spot in Toronto?

Suggest colourful, scenic locations in Toronto for a short film shoot? Particularly seeking offbeat locations with saturated, rich colours, maybe colourful buildings, graffiti or murals. [more inside]
posted by pseudostrabismus at 5:14 PM PST - 15 comments

Water in new teakettle smells.

My sister got my Mom this teakettle for Christmas. Problem is, every few times we make tea, the water tastes terrible and smells funky- almost a wet chlorine smell. [more inside]
posted by potch at 5:10 PM PST - 6 comments

I've got the compression blues

What kind of archive program should I be using to ZIP... well, not necessarily ZIP but compress a backup of a hard drive? InfoZIP and WinRAR are failing me. [more inside]
posted by chips ahoy at 4:30 PM PST - 20 comments

mac system schizophrenia

How do I reset the SCSI ID of the boot drive on a G3 PowerBook, without actually booting that computer up? or... Did I just turn this laptop into a doorstop? [more inside]
posted by Toekneesan at 4:25 PM PST - 4 comments

Crossword creating software

What is the best software for creating crosswords, preferably ones that can be submitted to the New York Times, although I have no allusions here? Price and convenience, plus a good dictionary are concerns. It would also be great if this program is easily used by a ten year old. He is the driver, but I may want to use it myself a few times.
posted by caddis at 4:19 PM PST - 7 comments

How can I alleviate this shortness of breath?

I feel like I can't take a full breath and can't get to a doctor for a few days. Anything I can do in the meanwhile? [more inside]
posted by Mr Bunnsy at 3:11 PM PST - 34 comments

Familiar with the Las Vegas airport?

Familiar with the Las Vegas airport? I need some practical advice for choosing my flight/airline. [more inside]
posted by tonci at 3:06 PM PST - 9 comments

How credible is The China Study?

How credible is The China Study by Dr. T. Colin Campbell and Thomas M. Campbell II? We would like opinions from individuals who have read the book, although opinions based on other factors are welcome so long as you mention it. [more inside]
posted by mjao at 3:00 PM PST - 8 comments

DDR without Japanese Pop music?

What game system has the best Dance, Dance, Revolution array of games if avoiding Japanese synth-pop is a priority? [more inside]
posted by anotherpanacea at 2:55 PM PST - 10 comments

due to some reasons the eBay policy automatically proclaims you to be the winner by default !

After bidding on a high-end cell phone on ebay, at a seemingly reputable Ebay store, I soon received several emails, all purporting to be from the seller (but appearing very automated), telling me that I had won the item (still active at Ebay) and to contact them by email to purchase it. Ebay seems to hide the bidder information and email address, so how are they sending me mail, and why from so many different phishers? [more inside]
posted by acro at 2:25 PM PST - 11 comments

Help me get the pictures from my digital camera onto my Mac

I have a Canon Ixus 65 and I want to get the photos off the camera and onto my iPhoto-less Mac (10.4.10). I tried to go to Canon's website to download their Image Browser software but I can only find an update that works if you have a previous version of Image Browser on your computer. I don't have the discs that came with my camera and Image Browser is not installed. I refuse to believe I'm screwed. [more inside]
posted by sveskemus at 2:15 PM PST - 5 comments

Where can I sell a bunch of old computers?

My employer has about 10-15 various old computers. They very in power 600Mz -1.2g. They want to get rid of them and offered to split the proceeds with me 50/50. Here's what I think is the catch. I'm pretty sure that the XP installed on them is pirated, so I want to re-format them and install linix. Where could I sell these? I've looked on eBay and don't see anything comparable for sale(they all come w/ XP installed). I'm also not sure what they would sell for. Should I give up on my dreams for extra cash and donate them to 3rd world countries or just put them up on eBay and see what happens? Any suggestions would be appreciated.
posted by itsamonkeytree at 2:08 PM PST - 14 comments

Hot booze in a pot.

Your favorite hot booze in a pot recipe? [more inside]
posted by availablelight at 2:01 PM PST - 26 comments

Baby, It's Cold Outside!

A window in our apartment was broken by the previous tenants. When my roommates and I moved in this summer, our landlord told us that he'd get it fixed within 6-8 weeks. Winter's here, it still hasn't been fixed and it's causing our utilities to skyrocket. I know YANAL, but we need a bit of legal advice... [more inside]
posted by chara at 1:57 PM PST - 15 comments

Whoah, that's a lot of self-employment taxes that I'm going to have to pay. Oops.

Self-Employment-Tax-Filter: I didn't expect to have much in the way of income from my consulting business in 2007... setting my deductions to '0' should've taken care of what I expected. However, I ended up making almost a quarter of my income by consulting. I understand you're not an accountant and you're not my accountant, but how can I end up not having to owe a ton of penalties for not having filed self-employment tax?
posted by SpecialK at 1:50 PM PST - 7 comments

The elusive vegan brown butter - can it be done?

Can you brown dairy-free margarine for recipes that call for brown butter? How do you do it? [more inside]
posted by faunafrailty at 1:48 PM PST - 9 comments

Exploring alternatives to San Francisco?

I like living in San Francisco, but I'm considering a move in the next few years. Can the hive mind recommend smaller cities with a similar vibe for me to explore? [more inside]
posted by quadog at 1:31 PM PST - 44 comments

Need help printing to work printer from macbook

How do I make my Macbook (leopard os x) play nice with the Ricoh Aficio 2232c printer at work? [more inside]
posted by jlowen at 1:24 PM PST - 7 comments

ROI from community in traditional business?

Has anyone seen articles/metrics on how traditional businesses are succeeding by leveraging community and/or social networks? If you have link to specific research and/or articles it's appreciated. Thanks!
posted by jstorerj at 1:01 PM PST - 1 comment

Mail.app takes forever to send email

How can I speed up mail sending in Leopard? [more inside]
posted by annabellee at 12:50 PM PST - 12 comments

The Complete Works of . . .

Is there a publisher in the UK that does high quality, uniform editions of the complete works of British authors like the Library of America does for American or Gallimard's Pleiade for French? If not, can anyone recommend a modern edition of Thomas Hardy's works worth collecting, new or used? [more inside]
posted by otio at 12:47 PM PST - 3 comments

Router Anomaly: WiFi speeds much higher than wired speeds?

Router Anomaly: WiFi speeds much higher than wired speeds? [more inside]
posted by Mr_Crazyhorse at 12:46 PM PST - 7 comments

Can my new landlord give me the boot?

I've lived in my apartment for almost two years, on a month - to - month lease signed when the previous tenant left. While I can't claim to have been the perfect tenant, I've certainly never done anything that can get me evicted. Last month the building sold to a new owner, with whom I'd met and seemed friendly, but I've been wary of the situation nonetheless, never having much reason to trust landlords. So, this morning, the other shoe dropped... [more inside]
posted by softriver at 12:24 PM PST - 21 comments

What's the best senior cat food out there that's also affordable?

We're looking for recommendations for a senior cat food. More info behind the cut. [more inside]
posted by monochromaticgirl at 12:20 PM PST - 21 comments

I have a huge name.

Like a lot of Latinos, I have a huge name. I am afraid that, in the long run, it may get me in trouble in the US. Help me prevent it. [more inside]
posted by falameufilho at 11:59 AM PST - 13 comments

How do I wash this sweater?

Grownup has never washed a nice sweater. Help. [more inside]
posted by penciltopper at 11:58 AM PST - 22 comments

Getting Married in Milwaukee?

Where is a cool place to get married and have a reception in or close to Milwaukee? [more inside]
posted by yellowbkpk at 11:57 AM PST - 11 comments

Land of the midnight fun?

Considering visiting Yellowknife (NWT) this summer - would a city person enjoy it? [more inside]
posted by SassHat at 11:55 AM PST - 9 comments

How do you network when you have nothing to offer?

How do I cultivate relationships with people so that they will write me letters of recommendation (for artist residencies, post-grad programs, MFA programs, and grants)? This problem has been stymieing me for years! [more inside]
posted by xo at 11:39 AM PST - 7 comments

Need free, web based in out board

Where can I find a simple, free web based in out board? [more inside]
posted by zymurgy at 11:35 AM PST - 8 comments

Power Supply Problem?

Power supply problem? A few weeks ago, when high winds hit the Oregon coast, my house lost power and my PC shut down. When it was restored, my computer wouldn't restart. So, I toggled my surge protector on and off, tried again, and the computer started. Then I unplugged the surge protector and waited out the storm. No problems until yesterday... [more inside]
posted by partner at 11:12 AM PST - 7 comments

Help me decide where to live, worldwide

If you could move to any place in the world where would you go to and why? [more inside]
posted by uk_giffo at 11:05 AM PST - 43 comments

I CAN HAS HDTV?

Help me find the best deal on a 37" HDTV in Vancouver, Canada. [more inside]
posted by Nelsormensch at 11:04 AM PST - 8 comments

Trying to get home from Morocco on Royal Air Moroc

Stuck in Morocco. Does Royal Air Moroc take standby passengers? [more inside]
posted by katestap at 10:58 AM PST - 3 comments

Ceiling popcorn

Anyone have any magic for removing the "popcorn" from my bathroom ceiling?
posted by Zebtron at 10:53 AM PST - 13 comments

Hope me Obi-wan, Ground Control to Major Tom, Insert other appropriate song lyrics here etc. etc.

ADD treatment in the SF Bay Area – help! Also discussion... [more inside]
posted by rmm at 10:52 AM PST - 4 comments

Please offer suggestions for my house over a winter vacancy

I will be vacating my house for a few months over the winter. Aside from some house plants there will be nothing organic in the house to worry about. I was planning on turning the heat down to near 40. The house is not particularly well insulated so, if we get a serious cold snap,which is entirely likely,I would like to be prepared. I was thinking of turning off the water from the basement so the pipes will be empty,therefore not freeze. Is there any danger in this? Have you any other suggestions?
posted by citybuddha at 10:50 AM PST - 5 comments

How do I be a godmother?

I'm going to be a godmother. What does this mean? [more inside]
posted by starbaby at 10:46 AM PST - 28 comments

Standalone Player No Longer Necessary

Streaming Filter: Help me put streaming audio and videos back into the browser. [more inside]
posted by sjuhawk31 at 10:41 AM PST - 3 comments

New Semester, New Impossible Teaching Obligations

Online news sources for reading level 5-10. [more inside]
posted by absalom at 10:39 AM PST - 3 comments

Carry Me Back to Ol' Virginny

A passel of museum geeks is headed to Virginia. Can you help us plan the trip? [more inside]
posted by Miko at 10:32 AM PST - 4 comments

Residential Electricity

Residential Electricity: Is it possible to measure current flow through romex in a non-invasive manner? [more inside]
posted by allelopath at 10:25 AM PST - 16 comments

Open source networking software to rival Network Magic?

Are there any free, open source alternatives to Network Magic from Pure Networks? [more inside]
posted by cameron.case at 10:15 AM PST - 13 comments

My tresses cause me stresses!

How can I determine which hair product ingredients I am sensitive/allergic to? [more inside]
posted by odi.et.amo at 10:11 AM PST - 7 comments

Protect the baby...from my cold sores

How can I keep from transmitting my cold sores to my 10 month old son ? [more inside]
posted by AuntLisa at 10:06 AM PST - 7 comments

Rock Band (PS2) practice mode

Does the practice mode of the PS2 version of Rock Band offer the options to play through songs at a slower-than-normal speed, and to select difficult sections of songs to practice repeatedly? [more inside]
posted by Prospero at 10:03 AM PST - 2 comments

Advanced Gnutella Client

Help me find a Gnutella client with advanced search options [more inside]
posted by KenFox at 10:00 AM PST - 1 comment

Shouldn't I be all better now?

I puked my guts out on New Year's on my way back to my car. I had nothing alcoholic to drink. I ate at Wendy's before the party. All day yesterday and this morning I still feel like I've got a lead brick in my stomach. How should I treat this at home? [more inside]
posted by scaryblackdeath at 9:46 AM PST - 23 comments

I hate entourage

Entourage on a mac, almost constant pinwheel. WTF? [more inside]
posted by muscat at 9:43 AM PST - 11 comments

MacBook spontaneously waking with security settings changed?

What would cause a MacBook to spontaneously wake from sleep (roughly every few weeks, at apparently random intervals), with all of its Bluetooth Sharing checkboxes checked, when it was put to sleep with them unchecked? [more inside]
posted by lorimer at 9:38 AM PST - 2 comments

Who decides my vote?

Why do 2 or 3 states decide who I get to vote for in the United States general presidential election? What if, for example, I want to vote for Joe Biden, but a husk of Iowan corn farmers decide otherwise?
posted by plexi at 9:29 AM PST - 21 comments

Help me find a dashing fedora for my dad, since elegance is the privilege of age

I want to get my father a hat for his 70th birthday. No, I don't mean one of those awful narrow-brimmed glen plaid affairs that are about as stylish and becoming as toe rubbers. I’m thinking a wide-brimmed fedora made of a good quality gray felt – something like this, and like what "Jack McCoy" sometimes wears on Law & Order (unfortunately can’t find a picture of Sam Waterston in his fedora). I’ve looked in the malls in Toronto and the only suitable hat I could find was $85 plus tax, which is both rather steep for my gift budget and too much to spend on something I am not convinced my mother and I can coax my dad into wearing;-). Does anyone know where (preferably) in Toronto or (plan B) online I can find a less expensive hat (hopefully not over $50) for Dad Swan?
posted by orange swan at 9:27 AM PST - 11 comments

How to set up group permissions in Windows XP?

In Windows, how can I set up a group that has permission to create/edit/delete user accounts? [more inside]
posted by Khalad at 9:23 AM PST - 7 comments

Looking for books, articles, podcasts and documentaries to prevent brain stagnation

In the spirit of this post, what have you read or seen lately (or not so lately) that has changed your mind? [more inside]
posted by Alison at 9:15 AM PST - 10 comments

Freezing Point of a Cat?

What's a safe minimum temperature to keep my apartment during the day while my cat is home alone? [more inside]
posted by Oktober at 8:41 AM PST - 28 comments

In the left ear, I hear nothing...

I have an mp3, one channel of which is way quieter than the other. How can I fix it so the two channels are the same volume? [more inside]
posted by Solomon at 8:23 AM PST - 5 comments

Multichannel PC test tone?

Sound Blaster from PC to 5.1 A/V Receiver. It is already hooked up with a digital Coax cable to the DVD input. It passes encoded data great (DTS, DD5.1) and the two channel 48kHz sounds great when there isn't an encoded stream. But it doesn't work for games. I still have an analog 5.1 input I can use, but need 3 "Y-adapter" type audio cables. Would this work? How could I ensure my mappings are correct? [more inside]
posted by ijoyner at 7:55 AM PST - 0 comments

Name a blog!

BuffyFilter! I need a name for a blog about Buffy. [more inside]
posted by sneakin at 7:33 AM PST - 34 comments

Help me find professional FTP hosting!

Can someone recommend a professional FTP host? Storage space is more of a concern than transfer limits. [more inside]
posted by mhuckaba at 7:32 AM PST - 8 comments

Aspiring Business Analyst

Help me become a great business analyst. I am slowly taking on more responsibilities as a business analyst and I am completely winging it. Does anyone out there gather requirements and do business modeling? Is that what a business analyst really does? I would like to here more about what makes a good business analyst. Can anyone recommend some good books, websites, techniques, and tools for jedi BA's? Should I learn more about UML? Interviewing techniques? Sharpen my general business understanding? Buy a fancy Monte Blanc pen? Is this job more about relationships than technology? Real life anecdotes appreciated.
posted by jasondigitized at 7:24 AM PST - 8 comments

There's a Kind of Hush...

Can anyone recommend a streaming "oldies" radio station? Specifics inside. [more inside]
posted by wafaa at 7:19 AM PST - 9 comments

2 player games on the Wii?

2 player games on the Wii? [more inside]
posted by andrewzipp at 7:08 AM PST - 34 comments

Looking for web site information for "good" news sources

Any sources for real good positive news and information? [more inside]
posted by randomthoughts at 6:05 AM PST - 7 comments

How to turn my Vista machine with dynamic IP address into an FTP Server?

How to turn my Vista machine (I know, I know, OK?) with dynamic IP address into an FTP Server? [more inside]
posted by l'esprit d'escalier at 5:34 AM PST - 8 comments

Where can I find an audio book cast list

Is there anywhere I can get a list of the cast of an audio book recording? [more inside]
posted by ericales at 3:47 AM PST - 7 comments

Which of these bass guitars might I most enjoy learning on?

BassGuitarFilter: Anyone used a Yamaha RBX374, Squier Standard Jazz Bass or Ibanez GSR 200? What you think of them? [more inside]
posted by dowcrag at 3:35 AM PST - 13 comments

Be Not In My Email - Be In My RSS

How can I get emails sent to RSS? Easy, no? [more inside]
posted by eb98jdb at 3:27 AM PST - 7 comments

Free to use, simple social network mapping software?

Looking for a simple, free (for commercial use) social network mapping / graphing tool [more inside]
posted by bifter at 2:34 AM PST - 8 comments

what to do

what do i do? [more inside]
posted by turkishLola at 2:15 AM PST - 16 comments

Can I build a 'real' website on googlepages?

Can I store changing data in a googlepages setup? [more inside]
posted by jacalata at 1:11 AM PST - 5 comments

I need help with a tagline for my new ecommerce store

Can you help me find a great tagline for my new ecommerce store? [more inside]
posted by adriana at 12:49 AM PST - 17 comments

How much to tip a delivery person?

I have a television shipping from Amazon, by way of a company called Eagle USA. This is apparently a delivery service where they'll bring the television up to my apartment, plug it in, make sure it works, etc. I'm wondering is if a tip is customary for this type of service, and if so, how much (total/per person)? It's a 42" TV that weighs about 80 lbs, and I live on the 3rd floor of a walk-up building. Thanks!
posted by incomple at 12:22 AM PST - 8 comments

January 1

UVO (Unidentified Viral Object)

Can anyone figure out what this website is all about? It's called "WeMakeContact.com" and it purports to show UFOs flying above my town of Great Falls, Montana last week... [more inside]
posted by davidmsc at 10:55 PM PST - 12 comments

Bad, bad tenants.

I'm asking a 2 part question for my mother. She currently rents out our old family home in south-west Sydney, and has had a real bitch of a time tenant-wise. More details follow. [more inside]
posted by mooza at 9:29 PM PST - 14 comments

Eyeglass Frame I.D. Filter

Looking for the designer/brand/model # of these specs comedian David Cross is wearing. Link to pics inside [more inside]
posted by stavx at 9:15 PM PST - 4 comments

Why eggs? Why now?

In my family we've always said that if you have an intense craving for a food that you don't normally eat, it's because your body really needs something in it (and that all efforts should be made to acquire said food-- this has led to some funny stories). Following this (seeming) logic, I am curious if any nutritionists understand why I get insanely intense cravings (only about once every 6 weeks or so) for egg salad sandwiches. Because, you see, eggs normally make me really nauseated. Scrambled especially (I basically can't eat them, for whatever reason). But when I need egg salad BAD, it's literally the only food that appeals to me in the entire world. (And it's ALWAYS egg salad-- I don't have too many other of these sudden cravings.) It doesn't even need to be good egg salad. It can even be warm (yuck). But nothing else seems to fill the need. Any idea what might be in it that my body is so sorely missing? This is perplexing, since I have the cravings again tonight.
posted by dmaterialized at 8:59 PM PST - 33 comments

Help me find a pipe online

Does anyone have any recommendations on where to buy herbal smoking pipes online? Advice on finding a piece for the adult professional in me? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:32 PM PST - 15 comments

Should I Facebook friend my high school bully?

My high school bully Facebook-friended me. Do I accept? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:32 PM PST - 67 comments

Free poker?

Where can I find places to play Hold'em for free (or perhaps a cover charge) in the Clearwater, fl area. [more inside]
posted by blackout at 8:21 PM PST - 4 comments

Help me jailbreak my iPhone (special idiot edition)

Can someone please explain to me in complete detail, every single step necessary for jailbreaking my iPhone? Everything I've found online has left me completely baffled. [more inside]
posted by tumbleweedjack at 8:13 PM PST - 10 comments

BoA is Ripping Me Off

BoA is ripping me off. What should I do? [more inside]
posted by klanawa at 8:02 PM PST - 19 comments

Need Morricone Stills

Where could I find online scanned stills from movies scored by Morricone? Especially The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly and The Mission. [more inside]
posted by signal at 7:45 PM PST - 5 comments

What schools/places in Manhattan currently offer an evening of non-competitive international latin dancing?

More for Ballroom Dancing Mefites: What dance schools/place(s), if any, have a regularly scheduled evening of non-competitive international latin dancing in Manhattan, that is fun/cool? [more inside]
posted by bitterkitten at 7:35 PM PST - 1 comment

Help me not hate Broadway

Broadway Musicals? Why do I hate them so? I cringe when I hear "that music". What would you say to a hater of musical theater that might create an appreciation?
posted by Area Control at 7:27 PM PST - 41 comments

"We would love to hire you, except you mispelled your name."

Should I get tested for Dyslexia? [more inside]
posted by OrangeDrink at 7:07 PM PST - 11 comments

What stereotypes do Americans have of Massachusetts and New England?

What stereotypes do Americans have of Massachusetts and New England? [more inside]
posted by gregb1007 at 6:49 PM PST - 64 comments

Is satellite internet the only option?

I'm looking for broadband internet connectivity options for my (quite non-tech-savvy) in-laws. They live in a somewhat rural area in Wisconsin where no cable or DSL service exists. [more inside]
posted by gazole at 6:22 PM PST - 21 comments

Best gift card exchange site?

What is the best gift card exchange site? [more inside]
posted by Joleta at 6:11 PM PST - 9 comments

Steam punk washer or steam washer punk'd?

Steam washer and dryer, are they worth the extra cash? [more inside]
posted by NGnerd at 5:37 PM PST - 1 comment

How do I warn my sister she's headed for an abusive relationship?

How do we tell a young woman (a teenager, really) that she's headed for a nightmare of a relationship? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:36 PM PST - 27 comments

Music from India & Bangladesh?

Looking for suggestions of Indian & Bangladeshi music to help get me in the mood for an upcoming trip. [more inside]
posted by valleys at 5:34 PM PST - 12 comments

The South: from King of the Hill to Real Life™ and beyond!

The South: from King of the Hill to Real Life™ and beyond. Help me sort out some questions I have on the nature of the South! [more inside]
posted by Lockeownzj00 at 5:25 PM PST - 46 comments

Looking for a simple circuit to amplify both line and microphone inputs

I'm looking for the simplest circuit possible that can do two things: 1.Take a line output from a PC sound card and drive a small speaker, and 2.take the input from a microphone and amplify this to a line input level. What's the simplest circuit out there for this? Bonus points on offer if it can amplify up to 4 of each channel. [more inside]
posted by baggers at 5:17 PM PST - 8 comments

Xbox 360 over an Apple network? Help a brother out (literally!)

Xbox 360 over an Apple network? Help a brother out (literally!) [more inside]
posted by mattholomew at 4:52 PM PST - 4 comments

I need a replacement organizer for school.

I am looking for a new academic planner, but I have some picky requirements. Can anyone help? [more inside]
posted by internet!Hannah at 4:13 PM PST - 14 comments

Age limits at hotels: how enforced are they?

20 year old looking for a hotel online, but it looks like you have to be 21. Are there any ways around this? [more inside]
posted by deansfurniture5 at 4:04 PM PST - 16 comments

Hi, I'm a textbook co-dependent, nice to meetcha!

Help me grow a spine, stop being a drama queen, and get control of my life again. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 3:56 PM PST - 33 comments

Acoustic/electric vs. acoustic

Dear home recorders - in your experience(s), can an acoustic/electric hybrid guitar ever sound as good as a properly mic'ed acoustic guitar, given guitars of comparable quality/price?
posted by xmutex at 3:38 PM PST - 9 comments

What is this quote and where is it from?

Looking for the source of a quote that goes something like "i always knew the right thing to do. without fail, i always knew. but i never did it. because it was too damn hard." [more inside]
posted by theseampsgoto11 at 3:33 PM PST - 6 comments

Help me throw away without guilt!

Sustainable decluttering: how can I cull my stuff without feeling horribly guilty for throwing it out? [more inside]
posted by ocherdraco at 3:27 PM PST - 26 comments

It's never the creepy janitor.

What horror films feature a mystery killer? [more inside]
posted by burnmp3s at 3:20 PM PST - 22 comments

jazz recommendations

JazzMe. I want to like jazz more but feel quickly overwhelmed by the genre so I'd like your recommendations, particularly for the albums you come back to time and again, the ones you listen to because you love, not because you feel you ought to. So far Kind of Blue is the only thing that's really stuck, not that I'm trying to find another KoB, just your favorites. [more inside]
posted by 6550 at 3:02 PM PST - 55 comments

Great haircut in Eugene

Help me find a great new hairstylist in Eugene, Oregon. I am a woman, and have curly hair, so need someone who can cut curly hair well. I want someone who is willing to wild, funky red colors-I don't want old lady hair, or Junior League doctor's wife hair, or straw-like cheap dye job. I want cute and curly and low maintenance and crimson. Help! [more inside]
posted by purenitrous at 2:43 PM PST - 7 comments

How best to purchase a Mac for a German friend visiting the US?

How best to purchase a Mac for a German friend visiting the US? [more inside]
posted by felix betachat at 2:41 PM PST - 10 comments

HD Camcorder importing problems on a Mac

I just bought a Canon HV-10 HD camcorder, but importing it into my new iMac is painfully slow. Is it the camcorder, or the computer, or iMovie? [more inside]
posted by burhan at 2:36 PM PST - 4 comments

Is late April/early May a bad time to hike in Norhtern Spain due to too much rain?

We are considering a one week trip to northern Spain including at least 2 days hiking and photographing in the Picos de Europa region. One of us is an expert hiker and the other is a beginner. However, the concern is about the weather. The plan is to go late April/early May however, we do not fancy hiking in the rain. Is this timeframe a bad idea?
posted by artemis at 2:29 PM PST - 2 comments

Viking of the Year

Homeworkfilter: Help me figure out some clever viking themed titles and advertisements. [more inside]
posted by Corduroy at 2:27 PM PST - 11 comments

Bike accessories, without going overboard?

After seven years without a bike, and a year of wanting to ride every few days, I finally gave in and bought a bike. I have a helmet, but now I need some suggestions as far as accessories go. [more inside]
posted by c0nsumer at 1:58 PM PST - 34 comments

Best pocket-sized books to carry in your bag or purse?

What are good "pocket-sized" reference books to carry in your bag/pack/purse, with the best ratio of useful information to page count and size? [more inside]
posted by mrbill at 1:37 PM PST - 29 comments

Irish song played during sporting events

I'm looking for an irish/punk-sounding song that often gets played on TV during sporting events. It was played multiple times during the Patriots-Giants game (usually right before commercial breaks) the other day, and I just heard it during the Winter Classic Hockey game too. Best-guess description of how it goes after the jump. [more inside]
posted by rorycberger at 1:35 PM PST - 9 comments

Text Message Indicator on outside of phone?

Soon I will be able to get a new cell phone on my contract with Verizon. My current phone, a Samsung A930 is a clamshell style, and it doesn't display whether or not I have a text message when it's shut. Are there any phones out there of the clamshell design that display a small envelope or other symbol on the external display? [more inside]
posted by cjorgensen at 12:38 PM PST - 15 comments

How do undocumented immigrants work "legal" jobs?

How do illegal/undocumented immigrants work "legal" jobs? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 12:25 PM PST - 16 comments

Making the transition to married life...

My boyfriend and I, both 25, recently got engaged. What advice do you have for us? [more inside]
posted by missjamielynn at 12:14 PM PST - 47 comments

Is it possible to adopt a cat today in Los Angeles?

Do you know of a place open today (New Year's Day) in Los Angeles where I can adopt a cat? [more inside]
posted by TheClonusHorror at 12:10 PM PST - 7 comments

Here is a fine '68 Maui Wowie

Do drugs like cocaine have a shelf life? [more inside]
posted by zerobyproxy at 11:51 AM PST - 11 comments

yet Another aging Boomer question

I was born in 1954, and this year I will be 54 years old. Is there a name for the year when this 'anniversary' occurs? [more inside]
posted by pgoes at 11:40 AM PST - 14 comments

Good production mixers for a podcast?

I am looking to get a mixer for my podcast, 300 bucks or less. I would like to get the Alesis IMULTIMIX8USB but I'm not sure if the recording to ipod is worth the extra 100 bucks. Can someone recommend a good usb or firewire mixer? [more inside]
posted by clockworkjoe at 11:28 AM PST - 5 comments

Book mystery involving surrealist art and attempted murderers of Andy Warhol

I remember everything about this book except the title and author---cover, quotes, illustrations, approximate size & shape. You love a challenge, and you love being right. All ideas welcome. [more inside]
posted by ibeji at 11:21 AM PST - 4 comments

Help the pops!

Digital video / SLR equipment advice for a documentary my father is making. [more inside]
posted by outsider at 11:01 AM PST - 9 comments

Where has all of my hard drive space gone? (Intel Mac, OSX 10.5.1)

Where has all of my hard drive space gone? (Intel Mac, OSX 10.5.1) [more inside]
posted by drgonzo2k2 at 10:06 AM PST - 28 comments

Seeking explanation of odd lunar phenomena

Can the Moon affect humans in specific ways? [more inside]
posted by malusmoriendumest at 7:13 AM PST - 33 comments

Instant message help

Need help finding a quick and easy instant messaging (IM) program. [more inside]
posted by mr. creosote at 7:00 AM PST - 21 comments

How to transport a static caravan?

Could someone please explain how I can arrange transportation for a static caravan? [more inside]
posted by Tnuocca at 4:40 AM PST - 4 comments

Music in Sydney NYE Fireworks

Help me identify a piece of choral music from Sydney's 2007 NYE fireworks. [more inside]
posted by oxford blue at 2:54 AM PST - 2 comments

How to buy an affordable chair that's good for my back.

How to buy an affordable chair that's good for my back. [more inside]
posted by Simon! at 12:00 AM PST - 13 comments