June 2005 Archives
June 30
How to set a LCD monitor the right way
LCD monitor brightness&contrast setting. [more inside]
Weird Effect with OJ?
Pardon me for an entirely disgusting question about orange juice ... [more inside]
My best friend is an idiot
"When someone shows you who they really are, believe them the first time". Is this right? Here's why I'm Asking: [more inside]
da roids
Any suggestions for ridding one's self of hemorrhoids? [more inside]
What pre-paid gas card is best?
What pre-paid gas card is best? [more inside]
Will a wheeled piano damage a hardwood floor?
Will an upright piano with wheels damage a hardwood floor? Should I have the movers do anything special when bringing it in? If I want to move it later, do I have to do anything special?
posted by jojopizza at 10:07 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by jojopizza at 10:07 PM PST - 9 comments
Where to stop along I-80?
What's worth seeing along I-80 between Joliet, IL and San Francisco, CA? [more inside]
posted by Gucky at 9:10 PM PST - 24 comments
posted by Gucky at 9:10 PM PST - 24 comments
Did the ACLU get it's torture photos?
Today was supposed to be the day the ACLU got the redacted torture Photos mentioned here
I wonder if anyone knows if the Gov made good on the order? I just assumed we would never see them, so I am quite curious how things played out.
How to design a modern masculine asian bedroom on a budget
I need help with modern Asian Decorating. I am moving into my new apartment tomorrow (1 roommate who already lives there) and I want to decorate my bedroom in an asian theme on a VERY strick budget. [more inside]
Car insurance in the Bay Area?
BayAreaInsuranceFilter: What's the best and most reasonably-priced Bay Area insurer? [more inside]
How many Libertarians are there?
Which state has the most (big "L") Libertarians? [more inside]
Which Nikon Lense
I've decided to buy a digital Nikon SLR (lots of old lenses that will fit the digital body even though they won't work with the digital body's meter). I looked at the D100, D70, D70s and D50. I think I've decided on the D70s. Which "modern" Nikon lens should I buy to go with it? There is a 24-85mm with a 2.8 - 4.0 fstop that looks good. Any suggestions regarding the best "all-around" lens or any reasons I should look at a model other than the D70s?
burning need
I seem to be having a weird issue burning MP3s with itunes. [more inside]
posted by aclevername at 7:00 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by aclevername at 7:00 PM PST - 8 comments
Cleaning silk shoes
How do I clean mud off silk shoes?
posted by snardo at 7:00 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by snardo at 7:00 PM PST - 3 comments
p2p web access dominance
p2p kills my browser [more inside]
You probably think this song is about you? Don't you?
KaraokeFilter: I have the .mp3's and the associated .cdg's. How to turn this into a functional Karaoke-CD?
Blackberry 6710 Help Please
I have an old unlocked 6710 Blackberry with 8meg RAM and a BES server 4.0. The Berry works as a cell phone, and I even get gprs in lowercase on the display, but it does not send and receive emails. Apparently it needs to belong to some service provider company (e.g. Cell phone company) and the PIN needs to be in their system for it to work. (OS version 3.6) Any ideas?
And - can I upgrade to handheld version 4.0?
posted by bright77blue at 5:57 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by bright77blue at 5:57 PM PST - 3 comments
No more synchronicity!
Windows Synchronization Catastrophe! Due to office policy, a former colleague was using an office server as the location for the "My Documents" folder of her personal laptop, then using the synchronize folders feature to provide her with a crude backup. It worked too well. The server was decommissioned a year or two ago and no one ever told her. She just continued to work using the offiline cache. Today, not knowing what she was doing, she went into the "synchronize files" menu and unchecked the box. Suddenly her "My Documents" folder is very, very empty. Those files have to be stored somewhere on that machine, don't they? Can they be restored? Easily, even? Thanks in advance.
Roofs, Insurance Companies, and lies (maybe)
Hail Damage to Roof, roof companies everywhere! How do I know the right way to get a fair deal with all of these roof companies? [more inside]
posted by huy_le at 4:08 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by huy_le at 4:08 PM PST - 10 comments
80s band names involving automobiles?
80sMusicFilter: I'm looking for a list of popular 80s artists whose band names are somehow related to automobiles. I'm trying to rediscover the name of a particular band I have forgotten. [more inside]
Can a browser pass HTTP requests the same as BitTorrent?
Is there any reason why standard HTTP requests can't work the same as the BitTorrent protocol? It seems like this would allow websites to avoid the "slashdot/metafilter" effect when traffic surges to an individual site and overwhelms the servers. Seems like this could happen on the client side, with enabled web browsers passing requested data the same as a torrent client. I don't know enough about the underlying technologies to determine if this is a stupid question or not, so please be gentle as you take me down a notch.
posted by hulette at 3:58 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by hulette at 3:58 PM PST - 13 comments
Avoiding false positive drug results from poppyseeds
Dummy alert: I have just been offered a new position, and the company requires a drug test. I knew this, and ate a poppyseed bagel anyway. When will the possibility of a poppy-induced positive be minimal? [more inside]
posted by ferociouskitty at 3:57 PM PST - 19 comments
posted by ferociouskitty at 3:57 PM PST - 19 comments
Picking a Fixed Gear Bike
Inspired by Metafilter, I'm thinking of getting a fixed gear bike. Are there any specific things to look for when picking one out? Is it possible to get a decent one for between $100-200?
Bookworm
I'm building a home library with the walls covered with floor to ceiling bookshelves. Instead of a door, I want to have a bookcase that slides (or hinges) to reveal a five foot opening. Any brainstorms?
posted by vega5960 at 2:32 PM PST - 27 comments
posted by vega5960 at 2:32 PM PST - 27 comments
Looking for a "MacGyver" bag
Can anyone recommend the best bag for a gadget freak? [more inside]
Hold me closer Tony Danza
My google skillz are failing me. I'm looking for a photoshop pic of 'Tiny Dancer' - specifically, the one where Elton John is holding Tony Danza close...
One-way auto rental.
My wife and I are planning to fly into Seattle and drive down the coast of Oregon and California to San Francisco. We want to rent a car one-way, but the prices seem horrific. Are there any tips or alternatives?
posted by malaprohibita at 1:11 PM PST - 19 comments
posted by malaprohibita at 1:11 PM PST - 19 comments
Identify this superhero team
Please identify this superhero team and/or story that I read when I was a kid. [more inside]
posted by gentle at 1:00 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by gentle at 1:00 PM PST - 16 comments
Anyone here ever have a lumbar microdiscectomy?
Anyone here ever have a lumbar microdiscectomy? [more inside]
Profiting from the renminbi revaluation?
How would I, as an individual investor, take advantage of the revaluation of the Chinese Renminbi? [more inside]
please don't just tell me I'm an idiot
Lack of Privacy Filter: I just discovered an unapproved stranger has been "eavesdropping" on a private yahoogroups list. What. The. Fuck? [more inside]
We need a place to jam.
My friend's band needs a rehearsal space in or around Jacksonville FL, for about a week, starting the week of July 7th. Does anyone know of or have a place?
Four guys and equipment, nothing fancy. Their other place cancelled on them at the last minute.
Thaemlitz-focused sample identification request
SampleFilter: I'm trying to figure out where a snippet of a sample in an ambient track comes from... [more inside]
posted by Rothko at 11:05 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by Rothko at 11:05 AM PST - 6 comments
Why is my NiMH AAA so hot?
I have a question about strange rechargeable battery behavior. [more inside]
posted by nile_red at 11:01 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by nile_red at 11:01 AM PST - 5 comments
What should I memorize?
What are some common and useful things I can memorize? I carry a Hipster PDA around, and I'd like to fill an index card or two with poetry, facts, or anything useful to memorize in my spare moments (standing in line, stuck somewhere without a book). I am not interested in scripture or conversion rates.
How to make a German company pay its bill?
How do you force a German company to pay a bill? I.e., what is the German equivalent of a civil suit and how hard is it to bring one? (Details inside, if you want the full scoop.) [more inside]
Blog recommendation engine?
Is there a resource for recommendations like Gnooks for blogs? [more inside]
posted by scazza at 10:10 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by scazza at 10:10 AM PST - 3 comments
Cardboard Box Smoker Advice?
This weekend I intend to construct a Custom Corrugated Vapor Colloid Applicator to smoke some fish. Now I've seen Alton Brown do this on my DVD of the show a dozen times, but I'm still a bit iffy about 1) not burning the house down 2) creating something non-food poisonalicious and 3) getting it done in time for a BBQ on Sunday. Any MeFi homemade smoker veterans have any tips for a beginner?
posted by robocop is bleeding at 9:55 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by robocop is bleeding at 9:55 AM PST - 9 comments
The Hartlepool Monkey
I'm looking for audio of songs, comedy routines, movie soundtracks, speeches, etc. that make reference to the Hartlepool monkey. Can you help? [more inside]
Recommendation for a Fax Server
FaxServer Filter: Need a recommendation for a Fax Server device that can handle 16 incoming POTS lines simultaneously, plays nicely with windows networks and isn't made/supported by Castelle. [more inside]
Artists' Pose Books?
Artists: Do you use pose books (or CDs) for reference or practice? Until recently I never knew there were so many. Which are best? Is one the be-all/end-all? Do you find "pose-dolls" helpful, and if so, are there better ones than the stiff wooden mannequins at the local crafts store? [more inside]
Firefox as Default Browswer in Thunderbird?
How do I get Firefox to be the browser of choice for Thunderbird in OS X? [more inside]
posted by absalom at 8:34 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by absalom at 8:34 AM PST - 9 comments
Can I run that red light?
Can I proceed through a red light when it is clearly not possible for traffic to be coming from the opposing direction? [more inside]
Leaded or Unleaded?
Lead-GlazeFilter: I just bought a nice bowl at a Japanese market. It was made in Japan. Is there lead in the glaze? Is it safe to eat from? If it had been made in China, what then? Is this an issue of individual bowls or of country regulations? I know in the US there are laws against lead leaching glazes.
How do you fit reading into a busy schedule?
When the time for reading is limited does the dedicated reader read only when she is in the mood, or does he read regardless of mood?
I'm a family man with an 7 to 4 job. My favorite time for reading is the morning when I'm at my most mentally alert. At night I tend to be too tired to concentrate. I'd like to know how you MeFi guys fit reading into your schedules. Where and when do you read? Do you need silence, or do you like background sound? General comments and specific tips all welcome.
War in Iraq
A serious, and for me an unanswered question: Why is the most powerful military in human history unable to control Iraq?
Where should I get custom mousepads?
I'd like to purchase custom mousepads for a promotional effort at my company. We need the type that has a window to let us slide in some custom information. A quick search yields, oh, I don't know, about 228,000 matches.
Can anyone recommend a producer based on their own experience?
How to find novel part-time work for artists.
I need ideas for a "job" for my wife to help pay the bills while she is building her business. Her degree is in illustration, but while creative work would be nice, it is not required. We are already working the temp agencies and other obvious avenues. I was wondering if other artistic MeFites had novel or unique ideas. [more inside]
Gas Pain
Twice in the last few years I have experienced a very painful pressure in my upper chest while eating curry with cola. It feels like I have swallowed wrong but the pressure builds and builds. It is a lot more pressure than when I need to belch after drinking a carbonated beverage yet I can't actually belch to release it. It actually feels like something is going to rupture. I am not sure what I did to make it go away either time. What is this and how can I make it go away and/or avoid it?
What does the Pope get paid?
What does the Pope get paid? [more inside]
Salary Negotiations: A How-To Guide for Beginners?
A friend of mine works in an entry-levelish position in a small firm in a certain industry. The job she has is really very good for her professionally -- the company deals in exactly the niche market she wants to work with, and they're giving her more to do, so she's getting excellent experience. The only problem is that our research indicates that they're underpaying her. [more inside]
How do I decorate without painting?
Help me decorate without painting! [more inside]
June 29
Samsung SGH-E316 data transfer software?
Help me locate software to transfer images from my Samsung picture phone to my laptop. [more inside]
posted by jenovus at 8:08 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by jenovus at 8:08 PM PST - 5 comments
What's the legality of republishing public government documents?
I'm looking for information about the legality (copyright etc) of republishing public government documents...
Specifically election results and voter registration data. [more inside]
posted by tozturk at 7:54 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by tozturk at 7:54 PM PST - 7 comments
home loan zen
How do I know if I am getting the best home loan available to me? [more inside]
Can I VoIP? Should I VoIP?
What do I need for enterprise VoIP, and do you think the technology's mature enough? [more inside]
posted by SpecialK at 7:07 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by SpecialK at 7:07 PM PST - 2 comments
and Baltimo'...
How do I find stats on how well books sold?
I'm looking for ways, preferably quick and online, to find out what bestselling books for the past few years have been. Searchable by genre is a plus. [more inside]
How to train a dog to fetch?
Dog behavior question: My friend recently adopted a 3-year-old dog from a shelter. It doesn't seem to "get" the whole idea of fetch and retrieve. [more inside]
Why are there so many pencil erasers that don't?
Why do they make so many pencil erasers that don't erase? Isn't that the point? Some do, but lots don't. It doesn't make any sense. This has bugged me for years.
posted by judybxxx at 3:51 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by judybxxx at 3:51 PM PST - 11 comments
Beefy bacon
I was eating a bacon butty this evening and I was wondering why beef isn't traditionally cut that thinly and cooked in the same way.
posted by feelinglistless at 3:03 PM PST - 30 comments
posted by feelinglistless at 3:03 PM PST - 30 comments
This thread DOES comment on pending litigation
When did the practice of refusing to comment on a given issue due to pending litigation become an acceptable response? Is this a fairly recent development -- a result of living in a sue-happy nation? Is it just the vogue rhetoric of avoiding even a minimal amount of accountability? Or is it something else? For the lawyers out there, what are the ramifications of commenting? ... especially with cases like those involving the government?
posted by fourstar at 2:47 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by fourstar at 2:47 PM PST - 4 comments
Land loans 101
Where can I compare rates for land loans? Failing that, any recommendations for good lenders to use for land loans? [more inside]
SSSSSSSSSSSSSSsssssssssssssshhhhhhhh.... "Bummer"
I'm new to biking and I need some fundamental advice about bike repair and maintenance. [more inside]
Chicago Neighborhoods
Advice on cool neighborhoods to explore in Chicago? (And a few other Chicago questions) [more inside]
Can I hoard gasoline?
Is there a relatively safe way for me, a typical consumer, to hoard gasoline? [more inside]
social skills tips / resources?
social skills tips / resources? [more inside]
temp to perm memory
For some research I'm doing (in order to help actors), I'd like to know what science exists about moving data from (human) temporary memory to (human) permanent memory. [more inside]
Where can I buy sheets of stainless steel for general outdoor projects?
Where can I find stainless steel for outdoor garden use and how do I buy it? [more inside]
posted by mathowie at 1:12 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by mathowie at 1:12 PM PST - 12 comments
Content management and community software search
I'm looking for a content management system and community backend that's similar to but better than Scoop. [more inside]
Fax Utilities for Mac OS X--recommendations?
Fax Utilities for Mac OS X--recommendations? The utility that comes with Tiger is only for the occasional fax.
Cooking on a cast iron grill... without smoking me out?
Every time I attempt to use my stovetop cast iron grill, I can't seem to thoroughly cook meats without producing an intolerable amount of smoke. And i'm not talking about the usual smoke inherent in any stovetop cooking, but huge billowing clouds of smoke setting off smoke alarms and hazing up the apartment. [more inside]
posted by FearTormento at 12:01 PM PST - 21 comments
posted by FearTormento at 12:01 PM PST - 21 comments
Searching for duplicates in iTunes
I wish the Find Duplicate Songs feature in iTunes was a little fuzzier in its matching capabilities. The way it works now is that the artist and the song title have to match exactly for it to count it as a match, which works well enough, but over the years I've had some files sneak in with (or without) a 'the' at the beginning of the song title. iTunes will not match those. [more inside]
Baseball and the internet, friends forever?
BaseFi: I'm a lifelong baseball fan and, hey, I can use this here intarwebbie thing. These two great tastes should taste great together, so where are the best baseball sites? [more inside]
posted by unixrat at 11:39 AM PST - 20 comments
posted by unixrat at 11:39 AM PST - 20 comments
How do I make my own keyboard shortcuts in Windows?
Windows-E. Windows-R, Windows-M, Windows-L, they're all great. But, how do I start creating my own shortcuts? [more inside]
posted by kuperman at 10:19 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by kuperman at 10:19 AM PST - 14 comments
Keep it down!
How to have a party without violating noise ordinances [more inside]
posted by adamrice at 10:18 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by adamrice at 10:18 AM PST - 12 comments
I'm looking for stand-alone storage recommendations.
Have you used a stand-alone storage device for downloading pictures from your digital camera? I'm looking for recommendations. [more inside]
Can you reccomend some shoes?
I'm in a shoe buying state of mind. Any personal favorites? I'd like to avoid the bigger brands and maybe find something different. [more inside]
Safe, strong adhesive for foam and paint.
Any suggestions on how to attach acoustic tiles to a regular plastered and painted wall — that will allow for easy removal of the tiles in the future? [more inside]
posted by silusGROK at 9:44 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by silusGROK at 9:44 AM PST - 5 comments
Where's a good Sunday roast in London?
Where in London can I get a good Sunday Roast? [more inside]
Which Java server should I use?
Macromedia JRun 4.0 Updater or IBM Websphere 5.0.1 ? [more inside]
What's the best cell phone for Salem, Oregon?
A question for a friend: "What can you tell me regarding cell phone coverage in Salem, Oregon? Specifically, I'm looking for recommendations as to which company has the best coverage in the area. (I'll be moving to a new house a few miles south of town, toward Independence.) I don't want to get a new phone and then never use it because the coverage sucks. The three companies I'm thinking about are Cingular, Verizon, and T-Mobile." We realize this is a long-shot, but it cannot hurt to ask.
Where to get married in Northern California
Bay Area Wedding Filter: I'm getting married next year, and we're looking for a site near our home in San Francisco. Ideas? [more inside]
How do I stay awake whilst driving through the night?
OK, I know how to stay awake all night if I'm at home or working, but what if I'm driving? [more inside]
posted by snowgoon at 7:50 AM PST - 29 comments
posted by snowgoon at 7:50 AM PST - 29 comments
Forensic/Speech HS Pieces?
Looking for High School Forensic competition pieces - it's a speech tournament, not science, and The Husband has coached the team for two years already. Maybe somebody has some familiarity with this and can give some suggestions of winning pieces? Categories inside. [more inside]
She makes me cream my jeans when she walks this way!
I'm looking for songs by female artists that would be considered risque and/or daring and explicit. There is a focus on the 80's, with a maybe a little overlap in the 70's and 90's being okay. Example: The Divinyls I Touch Myself, Marianne Faithful's Why d'Ya Do It? and Rough Trade's High School Confidential.
Getting around a privilege problem in Win XP
Adding hardware without full privileges to a PC with Win XP. My wife has laptop provided by her unwieldy megacorp employer which really restricts what changes can be made to it. We want to add to the computer wireless networking capability. [more inside]
posted by shoos at 6:54 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by shoos at 6:54 AM PST - 19 comments
The mid-1960s change in films
What caused the sudden paradigm shift in Hollywood films in the late 1960s? [more inside]
Songs for the fourth of july
Trying to make a 4th of July themed playlist. Any suggestions on indie melodic pop songs about fireworks, bottle rockets, parades, or 4th of July? It doesn't have to be *that* indie either. [more inside]
Out damn humidity, out!
when PC networks go bad...
My computer (Windows 98) no longer network connects to my girlfriend's computer (Win2000). Is there some setting I'm not getting? I'm googled out on this.... [more inside]
How to Suceed with Adbrite?
I recently put Adbrite on my blog. But no advertisers have signed up in one month.
I reduced the price every week for a text ad from $30 to $10 per week now for a good location in the sidebar. For 2000+ pageviews per day, is it too much to ask for?
Many sites with lesser page views and higher rates are full of Adrite advertisers. What is the secret of making money with Adbrite?
posted by webmeta at 2:52 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by webmeta at 2:52 AM PST - 6 comments
What should I buy for my NY friend?
I'm in the UK and want to send a present to someone in New York for tomorrow. Help please. [more inside]
TieFilter. Now with ion engines.
So I'm looking for a certain kind of tie. [more inside]
NoLongerSecretsFilter
Where can one find declassified documents, on the net? [more inside]
June 28
Where to find replacement pants?
A friend of mine tore her favorite pants and I would like to replace them. [more inside]
Chapter XIX
Explain Chapter 19 to me. I'm reading Stendhal's "The Red and the Black" and this chapter leaves me puzzled. Could someone who knows French history tell me what's going on? [more inside]
Smart cars polluting?
Why would Smart cars not meet US emmissions standards?
posted by Jimbob at 10:44 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by Jimbob at 10:44 PM PST - 14 comments
How do undersea cables terminate?
How do undersea (and trans-ocean) fiber optics communication cables and trunks terminate? Do they rise out of the beach like a giant mass and snake into some building or does it branch out under sea and connect underground? Question kind of prompted by curiosity about this outage.
posted by phyrewerx at 10:41 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by phyrewerx at 10:41 PM PST - 8 comments
which way are fold-over rsvp cards folded?
We had response cards printed for our wedding invitations. They are the fold-over kind. Only one of the four sides has print: "please rsvp...". The cards are flat and ready to be folder by us for stuffing into the envelope...Which way are the cards folded over? So that the guest can write a reply on the blank inside? Or so that they open the card up to the printed rsvp "M______" text?
posted by about_time at 9:54 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by about_time at 9:54 PM PST - 9 comments
First Impressions
Why, from a psychological perspective (evolutionary or otherwise) are first impressions of other people so strong and lasting? [more inside]
Where should I live in Silicon Valley?
I'm moving to Silicon Valley in the next month, but I have no idea where I should live! Also, how much is it going to cost for me to live out there on a day-to-day basis? [more inside]
I've been hacked...
How to delete a folder that XP claims it cannot find? [more inside]
posted by springload at 7:56 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by springload at 7:56 PM PST - 9 comments
How Much to Tip the Movers?
How much should we tip our movers? Specific details inside. [more inside]
What the hell is up with Diaryland?
For the past few months, Diaryland, the site where I host my online journal, has been having some strange errors. Requests for technical help have gone unanswered. I'm getting worried that the site has been abandoned. What is going on? [more inside]
posted by ThePinkSuperhero at 7:15 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by ThePinkSuperhero at 7:15 PM PST - 4 comments
How does car insurance in CA work?
CaliforniaCarInsuranceFilter: My friend (I swear) backed out of a spot at her bank and into the side of an idling car. There's a mess of details I'd like help with... [more inside]
Do I sand down the sand mortar or what?
After popping off our (hideous) ceramic floor tiles, how do I get the cement mortar down to the level of our concrete floor? [more inside]
PHP pisser
How shall I upgrade to XP?
The time to upgrade my desktop from Win98se to Win XP Home has come.
I have XP on a Dell disk that came with a laptop. Can it be used? Or, do I buy new software?
Can I do it myself? How much trouble am I going to have if I do it myself.
Will I have less trouble if I take the computer somewhere and have it done?
Personal experiences appreciated.
Advice on finding an aparment in New York City
I am moving to New York City this summer, and I have no idea how to start looking for an apartment. [more inside]
How to deal with link requests?
So my little blog has gotten some attention lately and that's all good. BUT there's something I didn't expect, at least not this quickly or blatantly. [more inside]
posted by azul at 4:01 PM PST - 19 comments
posted by azul at 4:01 PM PST - 19 comments
East Asian Books
Book recommendations for a bored East Asian Studies major... [more inside]
posted by MostHolyPorcine at 2:47 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by MostHolyPorcine at 2:47 PM PST - 10 comments
Name that 80s cartoon
OldTVShowFilter: A group of real-life young kids are playing in a garage band when they get sucked into their televison and become cartoons. They spend their time in cartoon land trying to get back out. [more inside]
posted by nyterrant at 2:44 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by nyterrant at 2:44 PM PST - 10 comments
Slim keyboard?
My boss is looking for a good travel keyboard and mouse, so's to avoid the hassles of laptop typing. (He even mentioned a folding one, or maybe a wireless one?) Any suggestions?
Looking for a free hit counter for a business site
What is the best (and free'est) hit counter?
I would like to be able to make it invisible to the surfer and have it collect statistics.
Sitemeter used to be great but they are not around anymore it seems. They had statistics available so you could see who was at your site and which pages they were at, etc.
Don't know how to do coding so I have no backend database or cgi, etc. experience...unless it is super easy to figure out or a stand alone java applet.
Low Libido
Have any of you experienced (or noticed in your male partner) an extremely low libido for long periods of time? How did you and your partner get through it? What did you do to combat it? [more inside]
Financial help for relocation
I have been offered a new job, with a nice pay rise in another end of the country. Unfortunately, the money I was counting on to finance the move has fallen through. I have an atrocious credit record and can't get a loan, and I am not eligible for any relocation help in my new workplace as I'm not going to be working in a senior enough position.
I've googled, I've used the yellow pages, I've asked friends, work colleagues and tried everything I know. I've been to the jobcentre to ask about the Social Fund, and I've run out of ideas.
Does anyone know if there are any grants/aid/special loans out there that might be able to help me? I'll be able to pay it back, as I'll be on a higher salary, but I just have no money at all to finance the move. If I can't find a solution by Thursday, I'll have to turn down the offer of the job, and I really don't want to do that.
Can anyone point me in the direction of some hope?? (I'm in the uk)
new blogger
I'm starting a blog. I don't want a "whatever.blogspot.com", I want a www.whatever.com blog.
Can I do this using such services as Blogger? Should I buy Movable Type? Does anyone wanna help??? HELP!!!
This may not have been asked before
I'm looking into applying to law school, and trying to think of ways to strengthen my application. Anyone know whether passing the Bar before applying would be seen as a good thing, in terms of getting into a slightly better school than I would otherwise? [more inside]
Multiple accounts on one cell phone
Is there a way to have two cell phone accounts on one phone? To make things more complicated, I'm talking specifically about combining a Nextel account and a Cingular account -- which I believe operate on seperate protocols. Is there hardware that supports this? I'd want to be able to have both accounts active at the same time, and if I were on a call using one, and received a call on the other, the other would get pushed to voicemail.
Grad Schools?
I have an undergrad degree in philosophy and a masters in education. Been doing Online courses for six years and I'm interested in going back to school. In the past few years I've been working on music, film, some psychogeography stuff, conceptual art development/pranks, making posters and on and on. Is anyone out there familiar with grad programs for folks who are all over the place with interests but lean toward the art/activist side?
Sci-Fi about ramifications of VR sex
Looking for examples of Sci-Fi about social ramifications of immersive VR, particularly with regards to sex. [more inside]
posted by idontlikewords at 11:44 AM PST - 20 comments
posted by idontlikewords at 11:44 AM PST - 20 comments
floating an image in dynamic content
CSS with dynamic content. I'm trying to create a web page using CSS and text pulled from a database, so that it looks like this: http://www.blogfucker.com/junk/css_help.gif. "Image 2" is simply floated left. Very simple to do with static content. But this is for a client who will only be able to edit the text, which will be entered as a single block of text. How do I throw a floated image in there so it shows up roughly in the middle of the page? I've considered writing a script to count the number of paragraphs (or even characters) and dividing by two, and throwing it in that way. But I feel there must be a simpler way.
posted by jpoulos at 11:28 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by jpoulos at 11:28 AM PST - 2 comments
How good am I?
Am I a good graphic designer? [more inside]
Suggest an open source OS
Can anyone advise a non techy person of an open source OS that I can use?
I want it to be reliable, easy to use and intuitive.
I know I am asking a lot but it needs to suit all the family.
I currently use XP.
How to roll back IE by X to just IE
In setting up access to my cable internet the cable company's set-up CD installed Internet Explorer by "so-and-so." I hate this. I know (assume, I guess) it was created with Microsoft's Internet Explorer Administration Kit (IEAK). I also know you can't really uninstall IE, but is it possible to uninstall these IEAK customizations? A free "IE-cleaner" download or step by step clean-up instructions would be great!
posted by clgregor at 11:13 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by clgregor at 11:13 AM PST - 7 comments
New author please!
Help me find a new author in the style of Patricia Cornwell, Iain Banks, Christopher Brookmyre, Ian Rankin etc. [more inside]
New Vs. Used Car?
I am in the market for a new car. Does anyone have some remarks on Pro’s and Con’s of buying new vs. used? I am looking to replace my 95 Subaru wagon which was totaled last weekend. I am considering buying a used Subaru outback (99-04) range or a new 05 outback. Some Pro’s I see for buying used are price obviously, Con’s being unknown history, no warranty, won’t last as long etc. Pro’s of buying new would be Warranty, one owner etc. Anyone else have some insight on these pro’s and con’s and maybe what else should be taken into consideration?
Also, I read a thread a while back about tricks to prevent overpaying at the dealer for a car, anyone know where that is?
Thanks,
What helped your plantar fasciitis?
If you've had plantar fasciitis, what helped you the most? [more inside]
What cartoon is this?
I'm looking for a sci-fi cartoon made in the mid to late 80s, I think. It's in the vein of Heavy Metal, but I'm pretty sure it was PG and not R. [more inside]
posted by taumeson at 10:20 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by taumeson at 10:20 AM PST - 3 comments
Digital image repair
Image Repair: My flashcard got corrupted. How do I repair the photos? [more inside]
Did the Greeks talk about tacit knowledge?
PhilosophyPhilter. This is kind of obscure, but I'm hoping that someone has some ideas. Did the Greeks have equivalent concepts for what we call 'tacit knowledge,' that is between knowledge that is familiar, habitual, everyday and usually unspoken? If so, did they juxtapose it with 'explicit knowledge'? Thanks! [more inside]
posted by carter at 9:40 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by carter at 9:40 AM PST - 13 comments
High quality dog muzzle?
My well-trained dog is going to have to start wearing a muzzle. He's a 7 year old American Staffordshire Terrier--medium size (70+ lbs)--see pic. Who makes the most humane muzzle on the market and how should I introduce him to it?
Also, anyone in Ontario have a link to the "rules" of the legislation? [more inside]
Sheltered Workshops
Is anyone out there familiar with "sheltered workshops"? If so I would be curious if you could point me in the direction of any research citations or PDFs you know about. [more inside]
Need advice for house rentals
Advice for short term living in a rural area: Should I rent a single family house? If so, how do I go about doing that and what are the benefits and pitfalls? [more inside]
What makes extreme abstract art significant?
I don't understand the painter Mark Rothko's abstract works. What is it that makes the art have any significance? [more inside]
Privetik, Metarussofiles.
What do you use for keeping your Russian at an advanced level? [more inside]
Bands named after songs
I'm concocting a list of (musical) artists whose songs have inspired band names. For example: Muddy Waters (Rolling Stones), Brian Eno (A Certain Ratio, Burning Airlines). Preferably the song title is the band name, but I'll also consider things like: Beatles (Yeah Yeah Yeahs). All contributions welcome!
ASP Shopping Cart Software?
Windows shopping cart software recommendation? [more inside]
How to open a bank account abroad?
Does anyone have any experience opening a bank account in a country in which they are not resident? I live in Britain and would like an account in France. [more inside]
Yahoo password promt
Yahoo mail password anomaly. [more inside]
Whatmovieisthisfilter
sexfilter!
For those of you in relationships, how often do you engage in sexual activity? Do you find yourselves doing it less as you and your partner age together (the honeymoon stage ending, etc.)? I'm looking for answers mainly from people who have been in relationships for a few years or longer. Honest answers about this are appreciated!
What should I know about breast reduction surgery?
I'm curious about breast reduction surgery. What factors should I consider? How do I find a surgeon? Has anyone else here had this procedure done? [more inside]
June 27
Good sources for Rx drugs?
Where can I find, preferably online, really obscure prescription drugs for sale without being "in" with a doctor? Specifically, I'm looking for Nizoral (ketoconazole) in either scalp fluid (I can only find Italian references) or foam (might only be in clinical trials).
Generally, I'm sure there must be message boards for this kind of thing. A few years back, I had access to a private one with pretty good traffic, but it appears to be defunct now. Anyone have any good references they might be willing to share? [more inside]
Bloglines, Kinja, Feedster?
Bloglines, Kinja, Feedster? [more inside]
Looking for outdoor lights with a built-in photocell...
I'm trying to locate outdoor wall-mounted coach-lantern light fixtures that have a built-in photocell... [more inside]
Guatemala travel advice?
In a few days I'm headed to Guatemala for a month followed by several weeks in southern Mexico. Offer some travel suggestions please!
Also, as I'll be traveling by myself, suggestions on how to be more outgoing in a language I'm not confident with welcome. [more inside]
posted by soviet sleepover at 8:43 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by soviet sleepover at 8:43 PM PST - 3 comments
Linux without pain?
I know nothing about Linux but would like to try it on my spare laptop... [more inside]
HD DVD Playback via a Computer
I'm running DVI out of my PC into HDMI on my HDTV, but I'm wondering how to playback DVD movies in 1080i... [more inside]
identify this boot? advice on online boot shopping?
For six years I've worn a particular kind of black boot which has, understandably, succumbed to the ravages of time. It's kind of like a military boot and kind of like a workboot as this crappy cellphone photo demonstrates. My sister bought the original pair for me in Portland and doesn't remember any of the details: store name, brand name, and so forth. My guess is a place like GI Joe's. Any idea what this style of boot is called? And does anyone have a preferred online shopping outlet for kind of standard-issue apparel?
Friendly keystroke logger?
Can you help me find a usable, friendly keystroke logger for Windows that isn't creepware? [more inside]
posted by evariste at 7:49 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by evariste at 7:49 PM PST - 3 comments
Can Dogs have human painrelievers ?
My 2 year old border collie has been boarded at our vet's for 10 days while we were on vacation . I picked her up today she was really despondent. I really thought she was just pissed at being left so long but as the day has gone by I've noticed she has been sneezing and very lethargic and just noticed she has a fever, My question is can I give her human pain reliever for tonight til I can get her to the vet Tomorrow ,
since it already has cost me 200.00 to board her. Help!!!!
About Russia and English as a Second Language?
Questions about learning Russian and SIT-TESOL/CELTA certification... [more inside]
Pictograph Translations and Sound
Why are Asian languages not translated into English phonetically? [more inside]
posted by interrobang at 7:25 PM PST - 21 comments
posted by interrobang at 7:25 PM PST - 21 comments
Exploratory platformer shortage
Metroid, Castlevania, Cave Story... I want more games in this vein. Console or PC, pro or indie, just so long as it's good.
Hip Hop song identification needed.
Hip Hop song identification needed. Help me identify a hip hop song from the movie Be Cool. When Vince Vaughn is riding in the back of his car, and The Rock is driving, there is a hip hop song playing. The only lyrics you can hear are "walla walla walla bang bang. walla walla bang bang". Who is that? Hint: It's not that Witch Doctor song for kids, in case you were gonna be funny ;)
ps: It's about 46:30 into the movie if you happen to have it on DVD.
Rock of ages.
What makes a concert "all ages," "18+ only" or "21+ only" at a particular venue? [more inside]
Yonkoma
Just read "Azumanga Daioh" and would greatly appreciate suggestions of similar yonkoma style manga.
posted by jimmy at 5:50 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by jimmy at 5:50 PM PST - 6 comments
Now you're playing with power
I have DVDs that play on my laptop but not on the standard DVD Player. Short of buying a cheap DVD player from an Asian grocery store, is there a way I can use a cable to play it on my laptop but watch the result on my big fat TV? [more inside]
How to study osteopathy with no savings
I am considering a career change, and need advice. I am thinking of going back to college to study osteopathy. Am I making the right choice? What sort of financial arrangements can I make to avoid massive debt? [more inside]
games
Hey Theatre Geeks! What are your favorite warm-up/improv theatre games? Bonus points if they work well for kids!
Cheap mame box
My current MAME-dedicated computer is a little too slow to play some of the newer games, so I'm looking for a replacement. Where is the cheapest place to get either a new or used computer of decent power? Also, is processor speed or RAM more important when it comes to MAME performance?
How do I check my references?
How do I check my references? Are services like DRC a scam? Could anyone recommend a legitimate service and/or share your experiences/offer advice? [more inside]
Disease-specific insurance coverage?
I work for a small business and they told me I can pick my own insurance plan. I'm really having trouble narrowing the field. Is there a method for determining which insurance plan would provide the best coverage for certain diseases? [more inside]
How much does your law school actually matter?
LawSchoolFilter: Is there a glass ceiling or a hurdle facing graduates from lower tiered law schools? How much does it really matter where your law degree is from? I have been admitted and am attending the summer session at a high 3rd/low 2nd tier law school. Today learned I have been accepted off the waitlist at a school that consistantly places in the top 15-25... [more inside]
Where do you read all about it?
What online sites are good for news on the US. I currently read CNN, and look through GoogleNews. But where do other Mefites go online to find their news. Political commentary sites are very welcome. Please and thank you.
September 11 article
There was an article that came out in a well-known magazine a few years back about September 11. Help me find it. [more inside]
posted by itchie at 2:49 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by itchie at 2:49 PM PST - 9 comments
Who is DAIMLER INTERNATIONAL TRADING Ltd?
Where should I begin to find out something about a company called "Daimler International Trading Ltd"? It's not publicly traded, and Google fails me. One would assume basic information such as where the company is incorporated is public information?
posted by of strange foe at 2:18 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by of strange foe at 2:18 PM PST - 5 comments
Con Man Movie Quote
I'm looking for the text of a movie quotation about con men. [more inside]
posted by cali at 2:10 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by cali at 2:10 PM PST - 7 comments
how do i fix my printer problem?
When I click add new printer, nothing happens, how do i fix this? [more inside]
posted by EvilKenji at 1:50 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by EvilKenji at 1:50 PM PST - 4 comments
Is there a computer workstation out there for me?
I'm in the market for a new computer desk/workstation. Help me find what I'm looking for! [more inside]
How do I make a mylar balloon?
Garnishing BAAAAAD
A friend needs help fending off a creditor, any help would be appreciated greatly. Details inside. [more inside]
Making water taste better
Why does water taste so bad? And more to the point, do you have tips for making it taste better? [more inside]
posted by Fezboy! at 12:49 PM PST - 41 comments
posted by Fezboy! at 12:49 PM PST - 41 comments
americana?
i'm looking for music recommendations a la the song that - shudder - was sung by jude law and the other italian guy in the "talented mr. ripley". it's a 30s-40s jazz number but upbeat, minor-key, with an italian/spanish flavor: Tu Vuo' Fa l'Americano. anyone recommend a band, artist, or album of such recordings? [older recordings would be preferable to some modern "nostalgia" recording (a la paris combo)]
Eliminating third-party vendors from Amazon searches?
AmazonFilter: Now that Amazon.com sells merchandise from hundreds of third-party vendors, a search that previously would have returned a manageable set of results now turns up pages and pages of products. Is there any way to search for products sold only by Amazon and not by third-party sellers? [more inside]
computer freezing
My computer freezes around once a day. There is an audio loop and I have to reset it. How can I diagnose and fix this?
Resources for moving to C#?
Can anyone recommend some resources from someone moving from CFMX/PHP to C#? [more inside]
posted by mkultra at 11:24 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by mkultra at 11:24 AM PST - 3 comments
birdhouse
Does anyone know where to buy cool-looking and functional birdhouses?
Preamp
Guitar Modification: I have a Taylor 214 acoustic with a Martin Thinline Acoustic pickup, but no preamp. What sort of preamp should I get installed? [more inside]
Moving/storage company in Chicago?
I'm looking for a moving/storage company in the Chicagoland area. I am a student at Northwestern and I need to store my stuff, including a desk, a futon and a dresser, for the summer. I live off-campus and I need a company that is reliable, has good rates, and will pick up my stuff from my apartment. Any suggestions?
del.icio.us problem
I can't get del.icio.us to work for me! The 'pop-up' and 'post' buttons in my tool bar open with IE and I think this is causing problems. Is there a way to get them to open with Mozilla instead of IE?
No problems happen if I click the post method from my saved (mozilla) bookmarks, that works perfectly, but if possible I'd like to be able to click on my toolbar..
I can't find any help for del.icio.us, at least not for this problem, not even with a google search. I'm hoping someone here will know what to do. I'd really like to use del.icio.us Thanks! [more inside]
Using Wiki as PIM for Masters Program
I am beginning an Masters program in August, and am looking for a general PC-based information-managing -visualizing solution, perhaps a Wiki. [more inside]
How do you respond to patronizing friends or colleagues?
How do you respond to patronizing friends or colleagues? [more inside]
Cheap email notification
What would you recommend as the cheapest way to set something up that would offer at-a-glance notification that there was an email waiting for you on the computer. [more inside]
Cheapest way to print 2,000 calendars
If I need ~2,000 11x17 double-sided print jobs on a monthly basis, which would be more cost effective: working with a local print shop or buying a good laser printer and doing it myself? [more inside]
Deleting Duplicate saved Emails
Outlook Express : need to delete duplicate e-mails in numerous saved folders after backing up and restoring several years of e-mail. Any way, other than manual, to remove dupes ?
What Virginia caves should we visit?
My girlfriend and I want to go to Virginia next month to see caves. Where should we go? [more inside]
Non-combat mortality info sought
The figure of 1700 Americans killed in Iraq is saddening and unnecessary. We still don't know what they died for.
My question, which may sound callous, is: What are the mortality rates for a comparable group of regular American citizens? In other words, if you take 150,000 people, mostly male, between the ages of eighteen and (say) forty, how many of them will die during a two and half year period? I am not attempting to minimize the casualties here, rather I am trying to argue the case against the war in the most conservative and factual way.
Thank for any insights anyone can give me on this.
posted by thayerg at 8:34 AM PST - 33 comments
posted by thayerg at 8:34 AM PST - 33 comments
How to create bitmap fonts?
How does one go about creating a 1 color bitmap font, pixel by pixel in Windows? [more inside]
How do you deal with a curious 5 year old?
How do you deal with religion and children? My wife and I are not really religious, I was bought up as a Catholic - but reached 13 or 14 with serious doubts and left religion behind, I'm curious and and understanding of beliefs and faiths. My wife is a confirmed non-believer, and had no religious upbringing - so struggles with explaining all of the questions.
My five year old son however... [more inside]
Where to go, how to get there?
Looks like I can get away for the weekend of July 4th, and I'd really like to get away. Vegas is too much ($1400 roundtrip, from Kansas City), so I was looking into vacation rentals. I'd like to drive if possible as airfare at this point looks atrocious. Any ideas for the best way to find a vacation house/condo somewhere? I tried Craigslist, which only was "Ok" as far as vacation rentals went. I'm looking in the Colorado region. [more inside]
The Joy of Sticks.
Using an Apple IIGS joystick on a Mac? [more inside]
Online music shop aggregator
I'm looking for a specific online store/aggregator (if that's the proper term) through which you can order CDs/records/etc. via many, many vendors. I used this site a lot 5 years ago. They had masses of out-of-print and tiny label stuff. Almost anything you could think of, they had it. The site sported a very old-school ugly-but-charming layout. Loved them. But I've lost my link...please help me find it!
posted by timnyc at 7:35 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by timnyc at 7:35 AM PST - 4 comments
Honda scooter
Help me find a used replacement engine for my Honda scooter. [more inside]
border patrol stops
I just got back from Texas with a day trip to Mexico. When coming back from Mexico but a few miles on 100 North IIRC inside the US border, we ran across a border patrol where I, the driver, was asked if the border patrol people could take a look inside the van. I said yes because I knew weren't hiding anything, but I'm guessing it was because we had a few Hispanics with us and a whole lot of luggage to hide people/stuff. Now, I've always heard one doesn't have to consent to allowing a search of the car, so I'm curious if I have said no to letting the border patrol look inside my car? What would have happened if I said no?
posted by jmd82 at 7:23 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by jmd82 at 7:23 AM PST - 11 comments
Help Me Help Myself
I'm having problem with Adobe InDesign CS2! Any experts out there? [more inside]
Login/Logout? Logon/Logoff?
What's the preferred terminology for entering and leaving the part of a website where you have to enter a username and password? Is it log in/log out or log on/log off? One word (login) or two (log in)?
posted by Joleta at 7:06 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by Joleta at 7:06 AM PST - 9 comments
What software to create photo collage?
What software can you recommend for creating a large collage suitable for printing at poster size? [more inside]
posted by gfroese at 6:43 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by gfroese at 6:43 AM PST - 6 comments
Cassette to CD Service
I possess a number of rare demo tapes (audio cassettes) from the 1980s Halifax music scene that I would like professionally restored and transferred to audio CD. Can anyone recommend a service that can do the work? [more inside]
posted by tranquileye at 6:33 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by tranquileye at 6:33 AM PST - 6 comments
What's the perfect printer for me?
I need a printer. I rarely print, and when I do, it's always black and white. Inkjets seem to dry or clog if not used for a long time. Plus, they're HUGE. Should I get one of those cheap lasers? Are lasers and inkjets the only options?
What are alternative search programs for a website?
I am investigating search programs for a website. Which have you installed and/or used? [more inside]
Rid of Odor
A friend recently passed away in his sleep and it was several days before he was found. The smell in his apartment was unbearable and permeated everything fabric and upholstered. Most of his furnishings were less than a year old and in barely used condition, including a brand new sofa and love seat. Is there any way to rid them of the smell? So far we’ve tried Odorban and currently have them covered in a thick layer of baking soda. Any other suggestions, or is this a futile effort?
Caper of the shoes I saw on TV. What brand are they?
Caper of the shoes I saw on TV. What brand are they? [more inside]
How do you stay focused on your goals?
How do you keep yourself focused on your "big picture" goals when immediate desires and whims keep trying to get in the way? [more inside]
posted by tastybrains at 5:14 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by tastybrains at 5:14 AM PST - 3 comments
I wish to have an Adventure. I'd like suggestions.
I would like to have a Crazy (or Grand) Adventure, but it seems good adventures are harder to find than in the movies. Anyone know or can think of any good ideas? Difficulty: I'm aiming for a LOW likelihood of getting killed/arrested/maimed/sued, but a HIGH likelihood of Amazing Tales I can bore people with 50 years from now. [more inside]
Cool Stuff 4 My Phone?
I've got a Sony Ericcson P910A cell phone that runs the Symbian UIQ operating system.
What are some cool pieces of software for it? [more inside]
Unknown Song.
I would like help with the identify of a song I heard on NPR a few years ago.
It was something of a "metasong" with lyrics stating the part of the song currently being sung. Such as "this is the bridge" and "Here comes the chorus".
I would like to hear this song again.
June 26
How should you clean a resume?
My last job has been a terrible, terrible mess for which I am quite responsible. However, every other job I have had has gone well. How should I deal with this on my resume? I've even toyed with the idea of deleting the job entirely but this is difficult as it is my last job. Has anyone had similar experiences?
posted by sien at 10:47 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by sien at 10:47 PM PST - 10 comments
How to mass clean Leatherman Micras?
I need to clean metal - in bulk. Metal with lots of nooks and crannies. [more inside]
posted by sachinag at 10:02 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by sachinag at 10:02 PM PST - 15 comments
I'm looking for a quote where a (black?) activist says he prefers the pre apartheid politics of South Africa to the USA.
I'm looking for a quote where a (black?) activist says he prefers the pre apartheid politics of South Africa to the USA. [more inside]
posted by uncanny hengeman at 9:16 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by uncanny hengeman at 9:16 PM PST - 2 comments
What are the all-time great reggae albums?
What are the all-time great reggae albums? I just watched The Harder They Come, and put the soundtrack in my Amazon shopping cart. I already have Bob Marley - Rebel Music. What else should I look into?
Gangster chair photos?
ImageFilter: You know those scenes in old gangster movies, in which the boss is seated in a towering black chair facing away from his desk (usually towards a window)? I'm looking for a photo like that. [more inside]
Resources for amateur filmmakers?
Resources for student or amateur filmmakers. I'm updating [my film site] to list useful resources or little known tips such as DIY equipment, free music scoring, free software, how to articles, etc. What can you recommend that is helpful? [more inside]
posted by FakeOutdoorsman at 8:31 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by FakeOutdoorsman at 8:31 PM PST - 4 comments
Law & Order: SVU vs. real life
Is it true that we can't be arrested in our own homes in the United States? [more inside]
posted by croutonsupafreak at 7:58 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by croutonsupafreak at 7:58 PM PST - 12 comments
Posted: Question about, er, posting.
Why do signs to deter trespassers use the convention "Posted: No Trespassing" when the very fact that such a sign is physically posted makes the use of the word "Posted" redundant? [more inside]
adult tonsillectomy pain healing
An adult neighbor/friend had his tonsils out, and he's in hella pain, despite ingesting many Lortab. It's been a week. [more inside]
File Sharing among a small group
I'm trying to work out the best way to keep some files online and accessible by 4 people. [more inside]
A tale of two Saabs
I have been shopping for a used Saab. I have narrowed it down to two... [more inside]
posted by astruc at 5:28 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by astruc at 5:28 PM PST - 10 comments
I want to be able to take notes on PDFs.
I am looking for a cheap Mac (Tiger) program that will let me write on PDFs. [more inside]
posted by librarina at 5:19 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by librarina at 5:19 PM PST - 8 comments
How to teach a 14 year old girl algebra?
I need to teach a 14 year old girl algebra. How do I make it something that she actually wants to learn? [more inside]
I need a modern sofa and round rug
I need a modern sofa and basic round rug. Where can I get these? [more inside]
posted by curiousleo at 4:48 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by curiousleo at 4:48 PM PST - 10 comments
Collecting a small claims settlement
A relative recently won a settlement in small claims court for $3,000. However, he is having difficulty collecting the settlement. What resources are available to aid in collecting the settlement?
How do I clean Tevas?
Tevas & rubber(plastic) garden clogs plus bare feet smell like old cheese after a while (many wearings, not one wearing of many hours.) What is the best way to clean the footware? (The feet are clean, it's the footwear.)
help me stop my XP folders from opening in new windows.
How do I get my XP folder windows to stop opening in their own window? I'm aware of the "open in new window" option in Control Panel > Folder Options and that's not it. [more inside]
What to use to clean a computer?
Is there any sort of spray or protective coating that can be used to clean computer? [more inside]
posted by gaelenh at 12:17 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by gaelenh at 12:17 PM PST - 12 comments
Help identify a story reading from NPR.
A few years ago, I heard a reading on the radio of a writers account of her correspondence with a group of teens that would invade her house while she was away. I believe it was on NPR. [more inside]
posted by Yorrick at 12:06 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by Yorrick at 12:06 PM PST - 5 comments
Is it time for a new console?
My Gamecube will no longer recognize any disc put in it, I just get the configuration screen as if there was no disc inserted. Is it (for practical purposes) toast?
posted by spartacusroosevelt at 11:52 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by spartacusroosevelt at 11:52 AM PST - 7 comments
defeating hubris
What is the best way to defeat someone in a competition who already believes that they have won?
Where can I get electronic parts in NYC?
ElectronicsHobbyistinNYCFilter: Where in New York City can someone get electronic components (resistors, capacitors, basic logic chips, common connectors, etc.)? [more inside]
posted by toftflin at 10:31 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by toftflin at 10:31 AM PST - 11 comments
Books about Southeast asia
I'm thinking about going to South-East Asia this fall. I'll probably be there for 5-6 weeks. Are there any books (besides the basic travel guides) that I should read before I go? [more inside]
Identities of the Apostles in "The Last Supper"
Is there a diagram that outlines the identities of the apostles in da Vinci's "Last Supper"? I've Googled this and checked the Wiki to no avail.
posted by pxe2000 at 8:05 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by pxe2000 at 8:05 AM PST - 3 comments
How to fix a cheap ballpoint pen
What's the best way to get air pockets out of a ballpoint pen? It's a lot harder now that the fool things are completely sealed. Sure, I could get a new $.05 pen, but it irks me to no end.
Lawn watering
Is there a specific amount of time I should wait between mowing my lawn and watering it to prevent damage to the lawn?
Going to Israel
I would like to spend a month in Israel with my girlfirend next january. Has anyone been there recently? Any thoughts on cool stuff to do in a month? Places to go, things to see or maybe a course to take?
posted by falameufilho at 12:55 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by falameufilho at 12:55 AM PST - 8 comments
June 25
How do I learn lots of people's names quickly?
How do I learn lots of names of people quickly? I'm beginning a summer at the Middlebury language schools and I need to get to know as many people as possible *quick*. Unfortunately, I suck at remembering names. Even for like 3 seconds. I try to write them down as fast as possible, and most of the time I lose it before I get to my handy pocket notebook. Tips?
What is that Pulp Fiction Cartoon?
MovieFilter: In "Pulp Fiction" an animated cartoon is shown briefly. What is it? [more inside]
posted by horseblind at 7:53 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by horseblind at 7:53 PM PST - 6 comments
Teacher Considering a Tablet PC
Tablet PC Curious: Looking for advice from tablet owners, especially teachers. [more inside]
posted by LarryC at 7:20 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by LarryC at 7:20 PM PST - 10 comments
Grad. School Gift Bag
If you were putting together a fun, funny, gift box for a friend who was about to enter grad school, what would you want to put into it?
What's the safest way to put a clickable e-mail address on the web?
E-mail obfuscators. Is it even worth it? Surely spam harvesters have evolved to the point where almost nothing is a sure thing, but what's the safest way to put a clickable e-mail address on the web? [more inside]
Loan consolidation rule changes
Re: Student loan consolidation and possible changes occurring on the 1st of July. Can anyone set me straight on this? All I can find is that there "might" be rate hikes and there are "possible" rule changes. What do these changes entail? My future-wife is submitting her application today. Will she meet the deadline if her application goes in-work before the 1st?
shared housing question
Homebuying question. I am buying a house with my girlfriend and another couple. We need a contract for if things go wrong, like if someone can no longer pay their share of the mortgage or something. Does anyone have any experience with this sort of thing ? [more inside]
Google search help.
Can google (or any search engine) be made to search for a small portion of a word? [more inside]
posted by fire&wings at 3:37 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by fire&wings at 3:37 PM PST - 15 comments
best acoustic guitar recording technique?
Home recording question: for those with limited funds and limited equipment, what's the best method of accomplishing a big, full, warm-sounding acoustic guitar sound? [more inside]
Wedding reading - serious
I'm getting married in two weeks tomorrow, and we are having trouble finding a serious reading for during the ceremony. [more inside]
posted by jb at 2:09 PM PST - 18 comments
posted by jb at 2:09 PM PST - 18 comments
Flat, ickey and grimey
What is the best solution for cleaning flat latex paint? [more inside]
posted by nathan_teske at 2:07 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by nathan_teske at 2:07 PM PST - 6 comments
IDPA transit woes
IDPAFilter: Are there any Philadelphia mefites who shoot in the IDPA? Are there any IDPA clubs that are reachable via SEPTA? [more inside]
How do you kill a T-Rex
tile be gone!
DIYFilter: My kitchen floor still has the original tile from 70s (yuk!). I'd like to update it somehow on the cheap. So short of re-tiling, anyone have a good idea what I can do to update it?
posted by menace303 at 12:03 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by menace303 at 12:03 PM PST - 6 comments
Firefox Extension?
Firefox Filter: I can't believe I have to aske this question but I'm exasperated. When I highlight a word or phrase in Firefox and right click... [more inside]
posted by Heminator at 11:53 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by Heminator at 11:53 AM PST - 3 comments
Amsterdam at Christmas?
I'm thinking of going to Amsterdam over Christmas (from the States). [more inside]
posted by Morrigan at 11:29 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by Morrigan at 11:29 AM PST - 5 comments
How do I manage my time?
How do I allocate time to different parts of my life? I'm a second-year PhD student, but I think this is a universal problem. When I am deciding what to do at a given moment I might have a small number of major long-term projects (right now: two research projects and a course I'm taking), a bunch of minor tasks, and planning for fun stuff. I feel like I really should be devoting most of my time to the major projects, but I sometimes despair at the thought that the little stuff will never get done. [more inside]
NYC municipal bond
I want to buy New York City municipal bonds. How is the best way to do this? [more inside]
Searching the net for an uploaded photo
Is there a way to search for a photograph on line, not by caption, key words, etc. but by uploading a photo and then searching for that photo?
Books about software product development?
We currently develop and support a large custom software application for a single client. We're approaching a situation where we want to spin that application off into a product that we implement for many clients. Each implementation will be highly customized and, for the near future, we'll only be doing a handful of them (less than 5). Can anyone recommend any relevant reading material (books, articles) for the transition? [more inside]
Beyond the piPod
Is there great pizza in midtown Manhattan? Where?
Great Conspiracy Movies?
After finding some good answers on a previous "scary movie" question, I'd like some recommendations for great Conspiracy movies. [more inside]
Why hayfever is cured when drunk
Why is it that when you have a cold or hayfever, it is temporarily cured while you are either drunk or asleep?
posted by wibbler at 4:23 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by wibbler at 4:23 AM PST - 13 comments
Cockroach genocide?
GAH! Cockroaches! Please help! [more inside]
ATM regulations
Who regulate ATMs in California? [more inside]
June 24
Where can I obtain wild strawberry plants?
Where can I obtain wild strawberry plants? (Preferably in South-East England.)
Colonial radio
Why is one station taking over all frequencies on my alarm clock radio? [more inside]
renting rooms in your own house
When you own a house and live in it but rent some of the rooms out to other people, is the landlord/tenant situation different than it is for renting out an entire property? Obviously, in the latter case you can't be evicted from your apartment for not doing the dishes. But what about if you live in the same house as the person who owns it? How about rent control? I'm in the Bay Area, CA.
I know I shouldn't have dropped out in sixth grade
Stupid apostrophe's (see?). Help me not look like an idiot. [more inside]
posted by cedar at 10:24 PM PST - 41 comments
posted by cedar at 10:24 PM PST - 41 comments
convex fingernail clippers?
Consider the standard fingernail clipper: a lever squeezes together two concave edges. Imagine an inverted version -- it would look exactly like standard clippers, except the two curved blades would be convex, sticking out. (And with a little wider gap.)
Is this tool available? [more inside]
I just got a Playstation 2, and need game recommendations.
I just got a Playstation 2, and need game recommendations. [more inside]
What's a good scary movie?
What movie has scared you the most? I feel the need to be actually frightened by a movie, and that really hasn't happened very often.
Harriet the Cow Says: No Moooore Milk!
How did you eliminate dairy from your diet? I've just tried spending two weeks dairy-free, and found it a heck of a challenge! [more inside]
What is the likelihood that exercise is causing blood in my urine?
I was wondering if any MeFites had ever experienced blood in their urine as a result of exercise. [more inside]
Weird Fasteners
Why Do Companies Use Weird Fasteners for Products? [more inside]
How to stop lighting dimmer switches from buzzing?
Is there anything I can do about lighting dimmer switches that buzz annoyingly? [more inside]
I wish it could be 1999 again...
In one year I will leave old Europe for a sunny side of this planet : indian ocean or french polynesia,
It leaves me enough time to learn some new skill(s) in the IT field,
Do you have any idea ? what will be the next wave ?
( beside taking english course ... ) [more inside]
Staying a month in Alaska
I was born in Alaska and lived there until I graduated high school in 1987. I haven't been back- until now. I'm taking my wife and two children there for the month of July. Please help us with places to stay and things to do. [more inside]
Furniture outlets near Miami?
Can anyone recommend a good furniture outlet in the Miami area? I'm looking for a couch but can't afford a very expensive one, and am new to the Miami area, so I don't know where to look.
posted by Amizu at 3:04 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by Amizu at 3:04 PM PST - 6 comments
How do I save a complex project, and excellent reference, from being burned by an overreaching manager?
Help! The client from heaven has gotten a manager from hell. I need your advice on how to save this project, and an otherwise excellent reference, from being burned by an overreaching manager. [more inside]
posted by nakedcodemonkey at 1:42 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by nakedcodemonkey at 1:42 PM PST - 15 comments
I want the old Blogger image uploader back.
I want the old Blogger image uploader back. [more inside]
posted by goodnewsfortheinsane at 1:40 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by goodnewsfortheinsane at 1:40 PM PST - 7 comments
What happens when they drill out a cavity?
I'm going to have a cavity drilled on Tuesday. I've never had this done before and I'm terribly phobic of "procedures" (dental and otherwise), especially when I don't know what is involved. What exactly do they do when they drill out a cavity--step by step, what's involved? [more inside]
YACMSQ (Yet another Content Management System Question)
Mambo vs Drupal: which CMS is right for me? [more inside]
posted by quibx at 12:54 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by quibx at 12:54 PM PST - 11 comments
How do you get a wild bird out of the house?
How do you get a bird out of the house? It's in the kitchen right now. [more inside]
Where are my files?
Question on Windows networking, my own knowledge has failed me... [more inside]
Character count in firefox text area
Does anyone know of an extension or greasemonkey script that will count the number of characters in a text area, in firefox? I ask because I just had a ton of notes truncated because firefox limits the field to 4096 characters......! I've found some word counts, but no character counts.
posted by corpse at 11:39 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by corpse at 11:39 AM PST - 6 comments
Apartmenting finding services - worth the money?
I'm looking for an apartment in the Cambridge/Somerville, MA area for (*shudder*) Sept. 1. My question is: given that finding a truly "no-fee" apartment here is nigh-impossible here*, is it worthwhile to go somewhere like Grand Central Apartments? [more inside]
Random sequences in your head
Does anyone have a simple, reasonably fair, method for generating random numbers in their head (or with pen and paper)? [more inside]
posted by andrew cooke at 11:18 AM PST - 16 comments
posted by andrew cooke at 11:18 AM PST - 16 comments
The world of Mad Max 2
Can anyone enlighten me as to a more detailed account of the premise behind Mad Max 2? [more inside]
Sparkly Iron-on Appliques?
I would like to order some custom T-shirts for our upcoming employee summer picnic... I cannot seem to find anyone who is able to "print" or come up with custom sparkly applique/iron on decals. I don't exactly know how to properly describe what I'm looking for, and this could be part of the problem... [more inside]
Fast weight-loss
How can I lose weight quickly? [more inside]
Volunteer tracking in Raiser's Edge
Has anyone used Raiser's Edge fundraising software to track volunteers? [more inside]
Building muscle
How much should I increase my workout weight when lowering rep ranges? [more inside]
best major for international student future visa
A young woman that I am helping has recently left her home country (a totalitarian regime by any account) and is going to be attending undergraduate university in the U.S. in the fall. The school has given her a full ride as her family lives in extreme poverty. After she is done with school, she'll probably want to stay in the U.S., what sort of major should she choose so that she'll have the best chance of getting a job after that will provide her with a visa? I know some will say to choose what she loves, but she needs to be strategic.
posted by k8t at 10:13 AM PST - 22 comments
posted by k8t at 10:13 AM PST - 22 comments
gravel-sucking goldfish
goldfish care: my goldfish, like all of them, sucks up his aquarium rocks. i've tried to rid the tank of all the ones small emough to get stuck. but now he seems to have one lodged in his throat. anything i can do to help him spit it out? [more inside]
posted by crush-onastick at 10:07 AM PST - 16 comments
posted by crush-onastick at 10:07 AM PST - 16 comments
San Fran over the 4th
My girlfriend and I will be in San Francisco on July 3rd through the 6th before we go to Yosemite to camp with some friends... [more inside]
Is my child gay?
Could my preteen son be gay? [more inside]
Seatbelts in taxis
Do taxi drivers have some sort of unspoken agreement with the police about seatbelts? [more inside]
Useful Amazon Web Services?
Anyone have any good (== interesting|useful) examples of uses of the Amazon Web Services? [more inside]
Is wikipedia accurate about instruments of the chinese government?
How accurate is this wikipedia article on China's state-run news agency?
Tell me about the "Theory of Constraints"
Have you been exposed to the "Theory of Constraints" at work? Did you choose to use it or was it imposed upon you? What came of it? Did it improve things? If it changed the way you work, how so? More importantly: what the hell is it?
posted by pracowity at 3:14 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by pracowity at 3:14 AM PST - 5 comments
How to organise my music on my MP3 player with linux
How to organise my music collection on my MP3 player with linux. [more inside]
Playlist file-per-folder creator?
I'm looking for a freeware playlist-file generation tool for a large mp3 collection on Windows XP. [more inside]
posted by stavrosthewonderchicken at 12:32 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by stavrosthewonderchicken at 12:32 AM PST - 5 comments
What is a good OS X manual for former Windows users?
For many years, I have been using different versions of Windows as my primary operating system - dabbling now and then with different distributions of Linux. For graduate school, I have switched to an iBook and, while I find OS X to be quite a good operating system so far, I find elements of it confusing. I am looking for a book that introduces OS X to the non-computer idiot in a comprehensible and comprehensive way. Are there any such volumes endorsed by former Windows users who have crossed over? [more inside]
June 23
Puting your head onto a flaming gas range isn't as convenient or clean
Is there such a thing as a range-powered, detachable stove-top oven that can work with gas ranges? If not is it feasible to make one? [more inside]
Any suggestions on a soft case for my MP3 player?
I'm looking for a soft case to carry my MP3 player around in. I'm obviously open to any suggestions. No, I don't own an iPod. [more inside]
posted by sjvilla79 at 10:34 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by sjvilla79 at 10:34 PM PST - 4 comments
Possibly torn ligament or tendon in knee
Can anyone post about experience with a torn ligament or tendon in a knee? [more inside]
Bulk del.icio.us Editing
I use del.icio.us a LOT. I have over 500 links. I want to do some editing of all of my links. There are several links I'd like to delete, and it seems the only way I can do that is to open each one individuall, which is incredibly time consuming. Oftentimes, I want to add the same tag to several links in a certain category. In general, there are just several occasions where it would be very helpful to have some way to edit many links at once. Does anyone know of any utilies that make this easier (software, extensions, online sites that speed up the process, etc.)?
Synchronizing FeedDemon and NetNewsWire?
How do I easily keep my feed subscriptions the same bewteen FeedDemon on Windows and NetNewsWire on Mac OS X? [more inside]
How can I WANT to quit smoking?
I know that I should quit smoking but I don't really want to. The thing is, I want to want to quit. Does anyone know of something that might make me really, really want to give up cigarettes? [more inside]
Perceptions of freelance consultant vs. small business
What are the perceptions of freelance consultant vs. small business in contracting work? [more inside]
posted by cmacleod at 8:24 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by cmacleod at 8:24 PM PST - 4 comments
Fixing underwater pool liner leaks
Has anyone ever patched a leak under water in a pool liner in an in-ground pool? The leak in my wonderful, generous, pool sharing, neighbor's pool is about 2 feet under the water level and we don't want to have to drain all that water in the middle of the summer. Can anyone recommend any products or processes that have worked for them?
What to paint a bedroom?
In your, professional or casual opinion, what's a good, inviting and livable color to paint a bedroom? Thank you.
posted by Colloquial Collision at 7:45 PM PST - 30 comments
posted by Colloquial Collision at 7:45 PM PST - 30 comments
24 hours w/o music is bad news
GrrFilter: Are the CD-Rs I bought just really crummy? [more inside]
Parking a telephone number.
I need a quick and preferably cheap method to park a wireless phone number I don't want to lose. [more inside]
posted by britain at 7:41 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by britain at 7:41 PM PST - 2 comments
Simple matchmoving program?
A question for any FX nerds out there: Can you recommend a good matchmoving program? [more inside]
posted by brundlefly at 6:40 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by brundlefly at 6:40 PM PST - 2 comments
Help me. I can't seem to 'switch off'.
PsychFilter: Help me. I can't seem to 'switch off'. [more inside]
Cell phone plans for calling Canada
Help me find a new cell phone plan... [more inside]
How do I remove rust stains from marble tile?
I need an effective (and safe) way to remove rust stains from marble tile. [more inside]
How to get a car stereo fixed cheaply in SF?
I need to get my car stereo fixed in SF, looking for advice. [more inside]
Chips and salsa, maybe?
Share your tasty, un-refrigerated pot luck recipes. [more inside]
Building modern furniture
I am looking for good websites and blogs by people engaged in woodworking projects, particularly those of the modern or contemporary kind. There are many woodworking websites. But I have a hard time finding anything involving modern furniture. Actually may be I should say I am looking for resources on building such furnitures using various materials preferably by folks who do it themselves.
How do cemeteries make money?
How do cemeteries make money? [more inside]
Another book identification question
I'm looking for a particularly grim (young adult?) book that was published sometime in the 70s, I believe. [more inside]
posted by sun-el at 1:51 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by sun-el at 1:51 PM PST - 9 comments
How do I handle a co-worker's body odor if I'm not her supervisor?
A older woman who works in our office has horrible, horrible body odor. It gets worse as the week goes on, until by Friday its very difficult to stand anywhere near her. I am not her supervisor, and her department is "between supervisors" at the moment, however she frequently needs to stop into my office in order to do her job. Its going to be Friday tomorrow, and I'm dreading her daily visit to my office. What (if anything) should I do?
posted by anastasiav at 1:37 PM PST - 50 comments
posted by anastasiav at 1:37 PM PST - 50 comments
How can I make moving in easier on our whole new family unit?
My boyfriend is moving in. How do I make it good/nice/easier for him and for my 5 year old daughter? [more inside]
posted by Gucky at 1:35 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by Gucky at 1:35 PM PST - 6 comments
How to log my contacts' MSN Messenger names...
I'm looking for a tool/bot to automatically log the screen names of my MSN Messenger contacts.
Looking for Cookiepuss
Can someone help me find cookiepuss [more inside]
riddle site
What are your favorite puzzle and riddle sites? Preferably challenging. For example, I know of greylabyrinth.com ,rec-puzzles.org, cut-the-knot.org, cs.cmu.edu/puzzle,
ocf.berkeley.edu/~wwu/riddles. Also do you know of any good free cryptic crossword sites?
Branch Centerpieces. Anybody know how to make them?
Branch Centerpieces. Anybody know how to make them? The future Mrs. and I are cutting corners at our wedding by serving as our own florists. Ideally, they'd look something like this but with white lights or candles replacing the Asian motif. Help from experienced DIYers would be appreciated...
Parlez-vous CMS?
Looking for a CMS that handles multi-lingual sites natively - my research isn't getting me very far. [more inside]
Cameraphone woes
Help with mobile phones wanted... How can I download pictures taken with my camera phone? [more inside]
Best dead-tree atlas?
What's the best dead-tree world atlas you can buy? [more inside]
posted by selfnoise at 11:47 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by selfnoise at 11:47 AM PST - 12 comments
Recording a phone conversation
If I run my phone through my modem, how can I record the conversation?
PC with form factor of Mac Mini?
I'd like to buy/build a PC with the form factor of a Mac Mini. Suggestions/references?
posted by xmutex at 11:37 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by xmutex at 11:37 AM PST - 10 comments
What is the rest of this joke?
I know one line of a joke, do you know the rest? [more inside]
The superchip?
Are the fancy aftermarket chips for your new truck too good to be true? [more inside]
posted by MotorNeuron at 11:08 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by MotorNeuron at 11:08 AM PST - 5 comments
Remote Desktop Filter
Remote Desktop is great, but I need a little more flexibility... [more inside]
posted by prostyle at 10:44 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by prostyle at 10:44 AM PST - 3 comments
Excel spreadsheet question
I have a complicated Excel valuation spreadsheet. The "bottom line" is affected by about 20 variables. I'm comfortable fixing about 17 of them, but for the remaining three, I wish to output to a 4x30 matrix, consisting of parameters A, B, and C, and the bottom line value that corresponds to each of the three. As it stands now, I can plug and chug, but it's a bit unwieldy, and I may wish to make a bigger matrix soon (I'll keep the 4 parameters, but I may wish to go 4x100 or the like).
I can't reverse engineer the entire spreadsheet-- it would take forever. So, how do I build this matrix? [more inside]
posted by Kwantsar at 9:08 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by Kwantsar at 9:08 AM PST - 6 comments
First time sex advice?
So my girlfriend and I have decided we're going to have sex. First time for both of us even though we're both adults. We're going to go away for a weekend to do it. Any advice for making it great? What do you wish had been different about your first time?
Nokia 9500 essential apps
After a long love affair with my Treo, I've gone and bought a Nokia 9500. It's too big to be my primary phone but I'm hoping it can replace my laptop when I'm travelling. What Series 80 software do you folks consider as essential? [more inside]
posted by blag at 8:37 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by blag at 8:37 AM PST - 3 comments
What to say to someone who is dieing
What do you say to someone who is in Palliative Care? [more inside]
WinAmp playback volume
The volume of the songs played in WinAmp varies wildy. Is there some sort of volume equalizer for WinAmp? [more inside]
posted by geeky at 6:52 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by geeky at 6:52 AM PST - 11 comments
Please help soothe my aching face
I'm 28 years old and still have difficulty getting a good shave. Does anyone with similar faces have any tips for me? [more inside]
Working as a recruiter experiences...
A very good friend of mine has been working as a recruiter in Pharm for the last 4 years, and seems to like it. He is going out on his own this year (no commission split).... [more inside]
Risk 2210 A.D.
We are a couple of guys thinking about making a free not-for-profit computer game based on Risk 2210 A.D. We know we can't use the title for trademark reasons or the board or graphics for copyright issues. Would there be any problems with us using the Risk 2210 A.D. rules for our game?
What are micro formats?
Can someone please explain in plain English what micro formats are? There doesn't seem to be anything out there that explains, at an entry level, what the latest shiny thing on the internet is.
posted by TheDonF at 1:25 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by TheDonF at 1:25 AM PST - 2 comments
Name That Film
A few years ago, I cought a glimpse of a Japanese film that was being shown on TV (Sundance or Cinimax, I don't remember.) [more inside]
posted by Jon-o at 12:37 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by Jon-o at 12:37 AM PST - 6 comments
June 22
Resurrect own page from abandoned site?
Back in 1994, I wrote up a web page on a famous mathematical puzzle; it was the second page to appear on it. It got wide noteriety, it's cited and linked widely. But two years ago I changed my ISP. [more inside]
Pentax or another digital SLR?
I'm looking for a new digital SLR that I can use with my existing lenses, which works well in general and low-light situations... [more inside]
posted by Rothko at 11:00 PM PST - 22 comments
posted by Rothko at 11:00 PM PST - 22 comments
educational type vacation places
Building off of "framers" question from yesterday about experiental classes to take with his Dad , I was wondering what other great educational type vacation places you guys know of ... [more inside]
Have you ever been hypnotized?
This falls under CuriosityFilter, rather than being a pressing personal issue, but I am genuinely curious about MeFite experiences. [more inside]
How to keep dog from waking me up all hours of morning?
I have a 2 1/2 year old Silky terrier (Yorkie & Australian terrier mix) which has the typical terrier characteristics.
The dog is pretty great. Just one problem... [more inside]
posted by gnash at 8:12 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by gnash at 8:12 PM PST - 8 comments
Will I go Blind?
I am in the process of home brewing my first batch of beer (pale ale). In all the excitement I completely mis-read the instructions. [more inside]
FlyFishing For Beginners
Fly-Fishing Filter: BOO YA it's bass season in NY. I need an instructional DVD for beginners. What's the absolute best, most essential Fly Fishing Instructional DVD for beginners? [more inside]
Laptop Fun
I bought a "dead" laptop at a yardsale for $3 (I bargained them down from $5). Well, long story short, I've got it working after resetting the BIOS and plugging in an external monitor and keyboard. [more inside]
name this broken jeep part
I have a 96 Jeep Grand Cherokee with 205k miles on it. A few days ago I noticed some loud squeaking coming from the drivers wheel. Name that part (photos inside). [more inside]
posted by cgk at 6:54 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by cgk at 6:54 PM PST - 8 comments
Best place to camp in Ludington, MI?
We're taking the S.S. Badger from Manitowoc, WI to Ludington, MI for the weekend. There are a number of campgrounds in Ludington - can anyone recommend those best for tent camping? [more inside]
get backstage passes
Are there any legit (or not) ways to get backstage passes, or just to get backstage? [more inside]
Odd behavior when typing on laptop
When typing on my Sony laptop, the text-entry cursor jumps around unpredictably. Sometimes, the Find box opens (as though I'd hit Ctrl-F), and what I'm typing goes into the Find box. [more inside]
posted by Kirth Gerson at 6:14 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by Kirth Gerson at 6:14 PM PST - 8 comments
Found vacation slides...
I have a large box of found vacation slides from the 1950s-1970s. Apparently the Becketts lived in Los Angeles (slides were
found in Texas) and traveled all over the world... Vienna, Bali, Lisbon, Singapore, Barcelona, Hong Kong, etc. There are
perhaps 800-1500- all processed at Kodak Labs and packaged pristinely in little yellow boxes. I'm leaving the country (US)
for a while and would like to either get rid of them or keep them for something interesting in the future. Any ideas?
A freezer frozen solid.
I have a pint-sized fridge. When I moved in it was about 30% full of frost, now, with the onset of the humid season, it's about 95% full. Is there some interesting way to get rid of it, besides just shutting it off and waiting? (I don't own a hair dryer.) [more inside]
Can a bad shine ruin your shoes?
How does shoe polish work, and can a bad shine ruin your shoes? [more inside]
Product Development Methodologies
Can anyone recommend a good, practical (non academic) phased approach Product Development Methodology (not project management) for a relatively small internet based (ad supported media) product? [more inside]
Firefox Ads & Pop-Ups
I love Firefox like the next guy, but I think it's popularity has killed off its best feature: ad/pop-up blocking. How do I make all the pop-ups stop? [more inside]
How does your brain idle?
What does your brain do in the background while it's idling? [more inside]
posted by argybarg at 2:50 PM PST - 54 comments
posted by argybarg at 2:50 PM PST - 54 comments
detailed compatibility test?
About a 2 years ago, I found a free 2-person compatibility test online which I took with my then-boyfriend. It gave us really detailed, pretty non-generic results with accurate, insightful comments. I seem to remember that there were charts and graphs that looked a bit like ennegrams or learning styles inventories.
I've tried several times to use my best google-fu to find this test, but no luck-- only a bunch of crappy compatibility tests that didn't provide much insight. Any leads?
Podcast recommendations?
Can anyone recommend some really good Podcasts?. [more inside]
posted by grahamwell at 1:56 PM PST - 21 comments
posted by grahamwell at 1:56 PM PST - 21 comments
Domain name hassle
A friend paid to have a web site designed and a domain name registered. The web page designer registered the domain in their name, not in my friends name. The domain name just expired and the designer has dropped off of the face of the earth. My friend wants to take possession of the domain. How should she go about this? Will there be a huge delay/big hassle? [more inside]
How do I break into film editing?
I am currently a freelance film editor who has worked for free or for deferred payment in the past. The editing is a side gig, since I have to work a day job as a technical writer to pay the bills. Increasingly, I don't have the energy to work both jobs. Besides, I really want to devote my energies to my true passion, editing. My work experience is mostly outside the field and therefore not applicable. Since I'll need to make a big leap to get into the field, does anyone have any suggestions for how to make the jump? Should I consider going back to school to get a film degree? If not, how do I convince a company to take a chance on me given my background? [more inside]
posted by nightengine at 1:15 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by nightengine at 1:15 PM PST - 9 comments
GPS Mapping Apps for OS X?
I'm quickly becoming a member of the Mac Cult with my shiny new PowerBook. I can't seem to find a MS Streets&Trips or Mappoint like app though.. Any suggestions?
Why is Humpty Dumpty always portrayed as an egg?
Nowhere in the rhyme about "Humpty Dumpty" is there a reference to him being an egg - least not in any version I ever heard. So why is he always portrayed, without exception, as an egg?
posted by John Kenneth Fisher at 12:40 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by John Kenneth Fisher at 12:40 PM PST - 5 comments
Spanish abroad
I want to go to Latin America for a couple months (2-3), starting at the end of August/beginning of September, to learn Spanish, immersion-style. Ideally, I would stay with a host family and go to small-ish classes every day. [more inside]
Cross-platform backup solutions for Mac/Windows/Linux...which is more reliable?
I'm currently running Retrospect Server 5 on a Mac OS X box. It's backing up the following clients: 2 Windows 2003 servers, a Windows 2000 server, 2 Mac OS X 10.2 Servers, a few Mac OS X Panther clients, and 2 linus boxes. Backups are done to external hard drives as well as to a VXA tape changer.
The Mac Servers and clients will soon be upgraded to Tiger, so I'm going to need to upgrade Retrospect. However, Retrospect is somewhat flaky at times, and I've heard about some reliability issues with Retrospect 6.
I'm considering switching to BRU Server by the Tolis Group. I've heard lots of good things.
My question is, does anyone have any actual experience with similar setups for these two backup solutions and which one should I go with? Or maybe is there a better backup solution in the same price range I should be considering?
posted by edjusted at 12:23 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by edjusted at 12:23 PM PST - 6 comments
Can I copy MS Office from one computer to another without brimstone and fire?
Long story short: I had to use the "System Recovery" CD that came with my computer, wiping out and then restoring my hard-drive. I backed up all my documents first. What I didn't think about is: I didn't back up Microsoft Office. [more inside]
How do you know you can mentally deal with pregnancy?
Here's my question - how do women know that they'll be able to DEAL with being pregnant? [more inside]
Images of Playing Cards
For a design job, I need images of standard playing cards: both the faces and the backs. These will be for commercial sites (not personal use), so I need images that I can use legally (I can't credit the photographer). I prefer free, but will pay if I must. Vector is fine if it looks real. So is raster. On stock sites, I keep finding cards, but they are always shot from odd angles or are partially obscured. [more inside]
3B or 2B?
Little League Baseball Filter: Where would you play your weakest fielder -- 3B or 2B? [more inside]
Graphical bookshelf for etexts?
I was looking through my collection of electronic texts, and I thought of an interesting idea for organizing them... [more inside]
Getting over it
So how do you get over a bad relationship, anyway? [more inside]
ready for children?
To the metaparents... how did you know you were ready to add to your family? [more inside]
Baptize my method
NameFilter: Please help me give a name to a method I developed .... [more inside]
Soundcard issue
Since I installed Windows XP and a new M-Audio Audiophile soundcard last week, I can no longer monitor guitar while recording. Playback is fine—I can hear playback in Soundforge & Acid and I can see the meter jumping while recording— but I cannot hear the guitar amplified while I'm recording it. It seems Acid 4.0 should support ASIO drivers, but no luck. [more inside]
Travel Advice for Nova Scotia.
A friend and I will be traveling to Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island next week. Any tips on what we must see and must avoid? [more inside]
posted by marxchivist at 8:06 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by marxchivist at 8:06 AM PST - 19 comments
DCC? IRC? OS X? Help!!!
Hopefully this question makes sense, I know next-to-nothing about IRC. I'm trying to download some things off of IRC. I can always connect to a few people's severs, but most of the time I get an error message. [more inside]
Salary Requirements in Cover Letters
Sending in a resume today and they are asking for salary requirements. How do I word salary requirements in the cover letter? Is there any standard language used or convention to follow?
How do I choose a bank for my IRA?
I want to open a Roth IRA account. How do I choose the bank? [more inside]
posted by scazza at 7:05 AM PST - 16 comments
posted by scazza at 7:05 AM PST - 16 comments
Windows XP Annoyance
Under WinXP, how could i get rid of the warning pop-up when I kill a process from the task manager ? i have looked around the web on various tweaking site without finding any answers... anyone ?
Task Manager Warning:
WARNING: Terminating a process can cause undesired results including loss of data and system instability. The process will not be given the chance to save its state of data before it is terminated. Are you sure you want to terminate the process ? YES / NO
i want to get rid of this warning either by having the operating system assume a "YES" since i already asked to kill it or simply not displaying the warning.
thank you
-Selfsck-
Is it just me, or does Firefox kinda suck anymore?
In less than a month, I've had Firefox crash on one machine -- a new G4 Powerbook relatively free from stuff like GUI mods, extra software, a million extensions, etc. -- more than 15 times. Usually, it's while doing something innocuous, like trying to open a new tab. I have the same problem on my G5. [more inside]
Help me identify old TV programs.
TVFilter: I'm trying to identify two TV shows. Both are from the early 90s (IIRC). The first features a teen who secretly works for a spy agency. The second is a gritty film-noir-style detective show that takes place in the 40s-50s. [more inside]
posted by Civil_Disobedient at 4:51 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by Civil_Disobedient at 4:51 AM PST - 4 comments
The economics of bogus search engines
What are the economics of bogus search engines and other oddities found by regular search engines? [more inside]
June 21
How to rank a Top100 fairly
How do I create an accurate and fair Top 100 list from people voting? [more inside]
posted by meech at 11:24 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by meech at 11:24 PM PST - 12 comments
Me love you short time
I will be in Bangkok from 7.30am on a Saturday to 3pm on a Sunday. What shall I do? [more inside]
What is the role of antiseptics/antibiotics in the wound healing process?
What is the role of antiseptics/antibiotics in the wound healing process? On a cut, for example, it seems that constant reapplication of neosporin makes a cut take longer to heal. What's going on here? Is it just preventing a scab from forming due to the moisturizing quality of such creams? Does that actually impede healing? For cuts in the mouth, it seems like frequent use of an alcohol-based antiseptic mouthwash would kill most living cells in the area, preventing quick healing. Is this the case? I'm aware that these substances prevent infection, but do they have any other effects, good or bad in the healing process?
makeup for n00bs
I'm in my late 20's and have never really worn much in the way of makeup. I'm looking for instructions with pictures for various makeup techniques (especially for eyes). Free or cheap is best. [more inside]
Flash==FUBAR
EmergencyFlashFilter: Opening a .PDF from a Flash file. [more inside]
What kind of martial arts should I do?
I'm interested in adding a martial arts class to my workout routine. Help me pick a style. [more inside]
I need $$$!
MortgageFilter: I've found the perfect place, good price etc. but it has come along a lot earlier than anticipated. What are some recommended ways of raising enough $$ for the down payment? [more inside]
Help my friend and her long-distance boyfriend.
Ok, this is a long one. I have a friend (let's call her Rose) who is 18, and lives in England. Her boyfriend (let's call him Bobby) is also 18, but lives in Arizona, US. They want to be together. [more inside]
Tips on mini-split air conditioning?
Does anybody have any experience buying/installing/using a mini-split air conditioner in the U.S.? [mi] [more inside]
Wireless speaker transmitter system for surround sound?
Does a wireless speaker transmitter/amplifier system for surround sound exist? [more inside]
Must have programs for a USB card
I'm looking for programs that are able to be stored on a USB memory stick that will allow me to run them off the stick and stay on top of things wherever I am. Anyone point me in the right direction? [more inside]
posted by nosophoros at 4:35 PM PST - 19 comments
posted by nosophoros at 4:35 PM PST - 19 comments
Friend's father is dying - how does he prepare?
I'm trying to find an NPR interview/piece on recording the stories of elderly family members for future generations.
I recently learned that a friend's father is dying of Lou Gehrig's disease and has been given between 18 months to five years to live. [more inside]
How do I learn to eat better?
Fruits and veggies make me want to vomit. How do I learn to eat healthy? [more inside]
imaginary friend
I've been having an imaginary friend post to my blog. One of my readers, who is a friend of mine, believes my IF is real and wants to have an email relationship (pen pal) with him. [more inside]
Backyard from Hell
Recently I moved into a rowhouse with a number of other people. The previous tenants left the backyard looking like a jungle, a poison-ivy filled jungle of death. Help. Oh God, please help. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 3:36 PM PST - 24 comments
posted by anonymous at 3:36 PM PST - 24 comments
Exit light, enter night
I've started talking in my sleep. Loudly, clearly, and often. [more inside]
Wireless Woes and DSL Dilemmas
Help me solve what the phone company (my DSL supplier) couldn't: getting my full wireless network running with a new modem. [more inside]
Telephone over Cat5: Is it possible without voip?
I'm setting up some telephone lines, and well, I really don't want to lay more wires than I have to. So this is the deal, I've got five telephone lines, and three telephone (rj11) jacks. We've just installed wifi, and so a number of unused ethernet cables. Is it possible to buy an adaptor that will allow me to use a cat5 cable to send plain old telephone over them? [more inside]
posted by Freen at 1:57 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by Freen at 1:57 PM PST - 11 comments
In-utero Cannabalistic Fratricide?
Help me prove I'm not crazy.
I swear I saw a documentary about sharks, at one point in my past, and I swear this documentary mentioned that some species of sharks have single births due to the fact that though they are fish, their eggs hatch while still in the mother's 'womb'. Then it's every baby shark for itself, and many times sibling sharks devour one another before being born into the sea.
Nobody believes me, and I can't seem to find anything to back up what I think I know.
Factor of Covariate
I'm trying to run an ordinal regression in SPSS. Are my independent variables factors or covariates? [more inside]
Cool Schools?
Dad and I want to take a class together for a few days. We've looked at the ones we already know about -- boat building, blacksmithing, race car driving, cooking -- but have decided that we want something 'different.' Doesn't have to be practical -- in fact, it might be nice if it was something we'd likely never do again. Mostly interested in experiential type things, since traditional classes tend to beat the joy out of new experiences for me. Willing to travel. Any suggestions?
Are drum patterns copyrighted within pop songs?
Are drum patterns copyrighted parts of song compositions? I need a copyright expert or pointers on how to get some free (or cheap) advice from one. [more inside]
Philadelphia ideas?
We're going to Philadelphia over the July 4th weekend. We've never been. What do we need to do/see/hear/eat while we're there?
Where Can I Find Graphics?
I've tricked my boss into thinking that I'm a better graphic designer than I actually am, now I need some help. I'm good at stealing graphics from images.google.com and photoshopping them to meet our own promotional needs, but now I need to make a poster and I can't find any source graphics with adequate resolution. Does an image library (even clip-art) exist where I can get free graphics that will scale to print quite large (eps?)?
Fan placement in room
Hot outside, hot inside. One open window, one fan (like this one). Where do I place it to cool my room down most efficiently. By the window, or on the other side of the room? Or somewhere else? [more inside]
Make many points on Google Maps
How do people create Google Maps with a lot of different points selected, like this? Is there an easy way to do this from the main Google Maps site or do you have to have some extra programming done? I'd really like to enter two or three addresses and mark all their points on the same map (without having to do directions, and thus the route between them).
How can I deliberately forget something?
If I see something I'd rather not remember (like a spoiler for a movie I plan on seeing, or an unsettling image), are there any tricks I can use to prevent myself from remembering it? And once I've remembered it, is there anything I can do to deliberately forget it, short of visiting Lacuna, Inc?
ParanoiaFilter
I am pretty sure I'm just being paranoid, but I would like to check with the savvy crowd here first.
I have listed a range/stove for sale on Craigslist and I got a response from someone who's interested. He has asked for my name and address to send me the payment. All of that is relatively normal. [more inside]
curious cats
Online Promotion of Nonprofit Events?
Non-Profit Event Promotion Filter: This one's for all you do-gooders out there. Where do you find conferences, trainings, etc. to support your non-profit career? [more inside]
Open-source job listing/posting software?
Does there exist a quality open-source CMS that is designed specifically to be used as a job board? [more inside]
I need insight!!
Many times I'm really interested in what a DVD commentary may have to say, but just don't have enough time to watch the whole movie again, especially if it was a rental. Are there any sites that summarizes the major points made in a commentary, or even transcribes the commentary? [more inside]
ICJFilter
When the United States gets involved in litigation before the International Court of Justice, who makes all of the relevant litigation decisions? [more inside]
posted by willbaude at 6:46 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by willbaude at 6:46 AM PST - 3 comments
Have you seen this logo?
Logofilter: Yesterday I was making a website/business card logo for a friend - but I kept getting this nagging feeling that part of the logo was familiar somehow, and it's driving me crazy . . . [more inside]
posted by Ryvar at 2:20 AM PST - 18 comments
posted by Ryvar at 2:20 AM PST - 18 comments
Wooden Dinosaurs R We?
How are the wonderful wooden dinosaur models made?
Is it done, perchance, with lasers? [more inside]
Is it done, perchance, with lasers? [more inside]
June 20
colored chalk menus
Maybe this is San Francisco specific but ... can someone explain to me the prevalence of big colored-chalk menus on half the coffeehouse and small crepe places in this city? Are they all owned by the same people or is there some big colored-chalk menu discount place that they all buy from? Thanks.
How to get the job of your Dreams?
Right now, I'm an applicant for a position I'm really interested in getting. What tricks can you suggest to help my chances of obtaining the position? What worked for you?
1. Egg 2. ? 3. Clean!
How do you remove dried egg from a window? [more inside]
African-focused organizations in DC?
I have a friend who just came into a sweet deal. The honors college at her university will pay for an internship in Washington, DC. The only catch is she has to find an organization willing to let her intern with them. [more inside]
Vacuums and long hair
Are there any vacuum cleaners that can deal with lots of long human hair? [more inside]
posted by trevyn at 10:26 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by trevyn at 10:26 PM PST - 13 comments
CPU power failure
I opened up my computer and tried to install RAM. After I installed the RAM, my computer would not come back on. I pressed the power button multiple times, and nothing. A friend checked to see if the power button was faulty and it wasn't. It's a Compaq Presario HP and when we plug the power cord in, the power supply just does this clicking. We're not sure what the problem is. I tried a new power cord and still no luck! Any ideas?
Suggestion for a small photocopier?
I'm looking for suggestions on a desktop photocopier, to be used in a very small office. [more inside]
Placing A PDF in InDesign CS2
I've got a project coming up that will involve placing pages from a large PDF into an black ink-only InDesign CS2 doc. The PDF will be created by MS Word. In the past when I've done this, the PDF has separated out onto multiple plates, so I've had to break the document into single page PDFs, which I've then rasterized in Photoshop and saved as greyscale TIFFs.
I can't believe there isn't a simpler way to do this. Ideally, I'd like a way convert the PDF to K-only, then break it into individual pages. I'm on a Mac running Tiger.
posted by boombot at 7:33 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by boombot at 7:33 PM PST - 9 comments
Father's Day woodcarving ideas?
My dad developed an interest in woodcarving a couple of years ago. I'd like to get him something really nice related to his hobby for Father's Day (which falls in early September in Australia). [more inside]
posted by obiwanwasabi at 6:31 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by obiwanwasabi at 6:31 PM PST - 10 comments
Pocket PC applications for a programmer?
I need some recommendations on useful Windows Mobile applications for a professional software developer... [more inside]
posted by cmonkey at 6:05 PM PST - 1 comment
posted by cmonkey at 6:05 PM PST - 1 comment
Gift for Sister-in-Law Studying in London for One Month
My sister-in-law-to-be will be in London for one month studying this summer. Any ideas for an appropriate gift as I wish her a fun trip? She's been very helpful as Maid of Honor and just a wonderful friend/sister and I want to get her something.
She's a girly-girl from NYC. Thanks.
Leaving the toilet seat up?
My g/f received a call from her roommate this morning - the roommate got all Emily Post because I, having spent the night last night, left the toilet seat up. The exact words were, "he doesn't pay rent." [more inside]
posted by notsnot at 5:50 PM PST - 117 comments
posted by notsnot at 5:50 PM PST - 117 comments
Paralegal complaint: Who gets it?
I believe a paralegal I spoke with this afternoon was unethical and out of line. Where do I go to file a complaint against this person's actions? [more inside]
posted by onhazier at 5:36 PM PST - 20 comments
posted by onhazier at 5:36 PM PST - 20 comments
Getting my license on
I want to be licensed. Licensed for as many things as I possibly can. Hunting, shooting, fishing, arms dealing, chair building, carpet spraying, anything at all. If there are licenses that I can apply for at a nominal cost, I'd like to know about them. [more inside]
Photography: Liberal arts, art school, or real world?
What type of schooling, if any, would be best for cultivating talent and securing a career in photography? I am a bit suspicious about the necessity of a college education for a career in photography (and in general), and am not crazy about the debt that accrues. Should I go back to school or drop out and dive head first into the fray? [more inside]
Discolored arms?
My dad, who’s 65, has what looks like one giant reddish liverspot all up and down his arms. [more inside]
Looking for memorial service reading ideas
A friend is looking for reading ideas for a memorial service. The person was a non-religious, nature-loving guy. Any ideas? Thanks!
Becoming a psychologist at 27
Over a year ago, I was struck with the desire to become a psychologist (preferably a mix of research and clinical) and haven't been able to shake it. I will be 27 in a few months, have a BA in Film Studies, and currently work as a developer at a web startup.
Mefi psychologists: What should I consider to determine if this is something I'm truly cut out for? If I am, what sort of programs should I consider applying for and how can I gather the necessary stuff (letters of recommendation, prerequisites, test scores) to get off the ground? I haven't been in college for over 5 years now.
How to date a picky eater
I want the tasting menu, she wants plain chicken and mashed potatoes - how can my girlfriend and I eat out and at home so that we are both happy? [more inside]
Boat Polo?
Last week as I was driving over the Charles River in Boston, MA I saw a group of small sailboats with numbers on the sails. They were all moving and changing direction very fast, and it seemed that there was an orange ball floating amongst them. Is this some sort of polo-like game? Anybody have any info on what the heck they were doing?
posted by splatta at 2:14 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by splatta at 2:14 PM PST - 7 comments
new york weekend getaway
where should i take my girlfriend for her 30th b-day? [more inside]
Semiotics Text Books?
PhilosophyPhilter(!) I am writing an academic paper (not in philosophy) that uses some of the terms and basic structure of semiotics, the study of signs and the way that they represent objects and ideas. Does anybody know of a good book that I can use as a reference for this in my paper? I'd prefer not to have to reference online material (wikipedia, and this site are good), but would prefer a real book. I am hoping to point interested readers to concise definitions of the terms, like in a dictionary or encylopedia, and not to honking books by Pierce. Any ideas?
posted by zpousman at 1:29 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by zpousman at 1:29 PM PST - 14 comments
Dell 2450 can't boot - hive error
I have a Dell server running Win2K Server. Registry damaged and won't boot now. Returning 'Hive Error'. No viable backup available. Help recover/repair? [more inside]
I miss OS X
I switched over from my Windows desktop to a Mac, and I loved it. Unfortunately the Mac had to go back to it's original owner. I've tried various distros of Linux and none of them seem to satisfy my OS X addiction.
Can anyone recommend an OS that will tide me over until I can get the money for another Mac?
How do I address a formal invitation to a judge and her husband?
How do I address a formal invitation to a judge and her husband? [more inside]
Word Count Information
How can I find out the word count of a published book? [more inside]
posted by NotMyselfRightNow at 12:32 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by NotMyselfRightNow at 12:32 PM PST - 7 comments
got junk?
Have you used 1-800-got-junk, or a similar trash pick-up service? Did you tip? [more inside]
posted by peep at 12:20 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by peep at 12:20 PM PST - 7 comments
NuBus Ethernet Adaptor help needed!
I have a Apple Macintosh Performa 5300 that I am trying to get on the net. I pulled an old Asante ethernet adaptor out of another old mac but I still can seem to get my Performa up and surfing the internets. [more inside]
Gift for a contractor?
We are having a fairly major renovation done on our house by a friend. Do we get him a gift at then end and if so, what could it be? [more inside]
black box in OSX
Using Mac OSX. I'm getting an annoying black outline around random stuff in the GUI-- like it was highlighting something, but it seems random and I can't control it. For instance, it's around the entry field of "short title for your question" as I'm typing this. It shows up around the "back" button of the file browser if the browser is active. And most annoyingly, it shows up as a thinnish column in QuarkXpress that is the height of the display. What is it and how do I get rid of it?
Bench on the beach
Unexpected death in the family. I'm in charge of finding out how to obtain a memorial bench on the California coast, preferably in a state park. [more inside]
posted by mudpuppie at 10:57 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by mudpuppie at 10:57 AM PST - 5 comments
How does one relocate?
How does one relocate to an area they're not familiar with? What resources are out there, what steps do you take? [more inside]
Vector drawing program for Linux
I will soon be acquiring a Linux box as an alternate (and, one hopes, eventual replacement) for my main Windows machine. I have open-source replacements for most of my main software applications -- except for vector-based drawing. I currently use Corel DRAW (and have used Freehand and Canvas in the past), mostly for RPG-related drawings. What /good/ vector programs are there in the Linux world? Does the choice of GNOME/KDE make a difference (I know KDE has a vector program with it, but don't know a thing about it)?
posted by Sand at 9:43 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by Sand at 9:43 AM PST - 11 comments
Where to eat in LA
I eat out a lot. I go to the same restaurants a lot. I want to branch out and try some new places. First, what are some restaurants in Los Angeles that provide good value (not necessarily the cheapest, expensive is fine too, but you should get what you pay for in terms of food quality and ambiance). Second, is there an on-line resource that tracks this kind of thing so that I could easily figure out what's cool/hot/good/whatever in LA dining?
I need a bicycle
I need a bicycle for riding around the neighborhood (3-5 miles) and perhaps a bit of exercise. I am willing to go with either a used bike or new one. Please help with suggestions. (more details inside). [more inside]
Flash Banner
How do I make a banner that expands over text in Flash? [more inside]
Space Shuttle Columbia Accident
What is the best book/article you have read on the Space Shuttle Columbia Accident?
learning to kiteboard
Does anyone have recommendations about where to learn to kite board? I’m in DC and it sounds like going to Kitty Hawk, NC is a good option. Are some companies better than others? [more inside]
posted by hokie409 at 6:28 AM PST - 1 comment
posted by hokie409 at 6:28 AM PST - 1 comment
Which massage table?
My son just finished massage therapy school, and we'd like to buy him a massage table. [more inside]
How to follow the Icelandic music scene?
I'm interested to find out if there are any (a) streaming radio stations or (b) mp3 blogs that focus on Icelandic music. [more inside]
What is this black pipe in the East River?
In the East River (in New York City), just south of the Queensboro bridge, there's this black pipe-like thing floating in the water. It doesn't appear to be a solid piece, and it looked like it wasn't even water-tight. There are platforms with some weird-looking uprights on them every 20 feet or so. As far as I could tell, it didn't look like it was going to or from anything at all. What is it?
posted by Plutor at 5:04 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by Plutor at 5:04 AM PST - 7 comments
UK house rental legal advice
Friend is moving out of a flat, their is some mould/damp around parts of the flat. Landlord says its her responsibility and wants to reparations out of her deposit. Is this legit? [more inside]
Aluminum medical clipboard
Those fancy aluminum clipboards they use for patient charts on ER. Where can I get one? [more inside]
posted by cillit bang at 3:48 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by cillit bang at 3:48 AM PST - 8 comments
How to prevent Drudge from generating popups?
Drudge seems to have figured out a way around the Firefox popup blocker.
I'm guessing it has to do with Java, but I'd rather not disable java or javascript, since that would reduce the functionality of the browser. Any less drastic way to prevent this?
posted by Manjusri at 2:06 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by Manjusri at 2:06 AM PST - 11 comments
Traveling with tech
Im heading out from the UK to Japan on August 13th with 3 friends. We are each taking an assortment of tech ranging from digital cameras, DV cameras to an iBook. Is there anything we should know before heading out about Japan or traveling in general? [more inside]
Recording sounds played through the speaker in OS X
I'm wondering what applications (preferably free) I would use in OS X 10.4 if I want to grab and record audio on its way to my computer's speakers. A band I like has part of a song available through a flash player on their site, but I don't want to have to be online to hear it all the time. I tried playing it through the speakers and recording that, but the quality was terrible -- is there a way to record the sound directly?
posted by teem at 12:12 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by teem at 12:12 AM PST - 8 comments
June 19
Do poker dealers pay to work?
When I was at the Indian casino tonight, the dealer mentioned that he had to pay the casino to work there. Was this BS or standard casino procedure? [more inside]
posted by Ugh at 11:13 PM PST - 18 comments
posted by Ugh at 11:13 PM PST - 18 comments
Voting Buttons in Blog Entries
I want to allow people to vote on things in a blog entry. Is there a code I can use to track voting easily and allow people to just click a radio button or something to cast their vote?
posted by toftk at 10:05 PM PST - 1 comment
posted by toftk at 10:05 PM PST - 1 comment
There are __ types of people
What movies or books have lines that begin, "There are __ types of people in this world..." [more inside]
That darn cat...
What are some ways to get a cat to adjust to a new, different (hooded) litter box? [more inside]
posted by shinji_ikari at 9:02 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by shinji_ikari at 9:02 PM PST - 13 comments
Why can't my Apple iTunes read CDs burned using Windows iTunes?
When I burn CDs using my PC's iTunes for Windows, the iTunes I'm running on my Apple iBook has trouble reading them. [more inside]
Oscar Wilde's Tomb?
Recently, I visited the cemetery in which Oscar Wilde is buried, and for some reason, his tomb was covered with lipstick kisses. Does anyone have any idea why this is? The most I've been able to discover on the subject is that people do leave kisses, but no explanation as to why...
What's group therapy like?
I'm considering joining group therapy - what experiences have people had? [more inside]
Seattle & Victoria, BC, vacation ideas?
I will shortly be taking a couple of preteen boys to Seattle and Victoria, BC. The weather looks like rain, although probably not all day. Any suggestions on things to do, places to see etc., especially which might interest the boys. I have some familiarity with Seattle, but it has been a few years. I have never been to Victoria and could really use some ideas for there. Also, what kind of documentation do I need to take these days for the boys to enter Canada and more importantly, to get home.
posted by caddis at 7:18 PM PST - 23 comments
posted by caddis at 7:18 PM PST - 23 comments
Skydiving
I just found out I dont have work tomorrow, and i'd like to go out and try skydiving. I live in Boston, and the weather is supposed to be nice tomorrow. Does anyone have any suggestions on where I should look, or anything I should know. Do you think its even possible to call in the morning and have a chance to jump the same day? Any tips are greatly appreciated.
Looking for digital camera recommendations for kite camera work
I've been playing with kites lately and I want to try my hand at kite photography soon, but I'd rather not use disposable film cameras -- I'd like to rig up a digital camera. I'm looking for a small, light camera that can shoot automatically. [more inside]
posted by mathowie at 5:58 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by mathowie at 5:58 PM PST - 15 comments
How do I help a family member find an Albany-area psychologist and a marriage counselor?
How do I help a family member find an Albany-area psychologist and a marriage counselor? [more inside]
Filter: iPod power adapter
Does the AC adapter that allows a 3G iPod to be plugged into the wall to be recharged also work with the iPod mini? [more inside]
Milan, Florence, Rome hotel recommendations?
I'm travelling to Italy in late August and am looking for hotel recommendations for Milan, Florence, and Rome. I'm looking for not the most expensive, but not the least expensive. Maybe 3-4 stars? I'm also looking more for an "Italian" experience than a big chain hotel. I'd be happier in something that is smaller and older (if well kept) or more of a boutique-type place. I'll be travelling by train and won't have much more than 2 days per city, unfortunately, so a central location is important to me. If there are any Italians or Italy travellers who might be willing to advise me, I'd really appreciate it!
posted by gen at 5:11 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by gen at 5:11 PM PST - 11 comments
Buying SIM-free cell phones
Anyone have any recommendations on a good place to buy cell phones? [more inside]
End-user network extention
I'm a college student at a school that has a policy of one port per bed for network jacks. What sort of gear do I need to transparently break my port out into several wired jacks and wireless access? [more inside]
posted by SemiSophos at 3:55 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by SemiSophos at 3:55 PM PST - 11 comments
Strange Noise Emanating from Tungsten E
Unexplained Noise Emanating from Tungsten E. [more inside]
Naming genealogy website
I could use some help and ideas for naming my personal genealogy website. [more inside]
Changing a doorknob so I can get out of the bedroom
Is anyone familiar with removing old doorknobs? [more inside]
best way to find a scalper?
I wish to attend this concert, but the tickets were sold out before I knew it was happening. I've never bought from a scalper before, but am willing to. How do I find one, preferably in advance so I don't make the trip without knowing I will get in, and what are good ways to avoid being ripped off?
How are we different from patterns in data?
What are some good writings on the relationship between what we think of as the physical world and the world of mathematical abstractions (the space in which, for example, all possible sequences exist) ? [more inside]
posted by teleskiving at 2:40 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by teleskiving at 2:40 PM PST - 16 comments
File Sharing Between Win98SE and WinXP?
Help with file sharing between Win98 and WinXP? [more inside]
What's the name of this book?
I'm trying to identify a juvenile fiction book that I enjoyed as a, well, juvenile. The protagonist is a boy whose mother has recently remarried, to a creepy but rich scientist (?). The stepfather has invented or has possession of a device that can make written word disappear from the page, anywhere at any time. The boy and his mother flee for some reason, and the creepy stepfather and his goons pursue them, foiling their escape efforts with the word-dissappearer.
Does this ring a bell with anyone? I asked Google, but he doesn't know.
Aussie holiday
We're holidaying in Australia and we've promised to take the kids (11 & 12) to Surfers Paradise. The kids think it's a wildy fantastic idea... [more inside]
Budget accommodation in Rome
I'll be attending a conference in Rome, Italy in mid-September and am trying to find an affordable place to stay. [more inside]
posted by sanitycheck at 10:45 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by sanitycheck at 10:45 AM PST - 9 comments
A McMuffin by any other name...
What's a good, non-copyright-infringing alternate name for what is essentially an egg mcmuffin? [more inside]
posted by furtive at 10:30 AM PST - 59 comments
posted by furtive at 10:30 AM PST - 59 comments
Where can I buy this poster?
My girlfriends sister really wants this poster but has no idea how to find it. This may be a better shot of it. [more inside]
possible identity theft help
Identity theft filter: A friend who has only been in the country for a year got a phone call yesterday saying he won a big prize, but they need info to process it. They had his name, phone#... he gave up his address, DOB and last 4 digits of SS#. What can he do to prevent identity theft at this point? [more inside]
posted by steve.wdc at 10:06 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by steve.wdc at 10:06 AM PST - 13 comments
Travel Lock Problem
How do I re-set an EasyCheck lock? [more inside]
How do I set up a trust for my daughter?
My father wants to pay for my daughter's preschool education. Is there a way to put it into a trust where it can be used solely for the schooling but also cannot be removed by my father? [more inside]
Looking for details on the Sony NW-E507
I've just been reading about the Sony NW-E507 mp3 player, and I need some clarification... [more inside]
June 18
Multi-CD snazzy packaging
I just received (and installed) the Adobe Creative Suite of software. All of the discs came in a thick DVD-like pack, with the 5 discs held in sort-of staggered holders. Can you tell me where I might find packaging like this? I have a five disc Ween Bootleg (Rotten Cheese) that I would like to do all proper-like...
Lo-Fi Indie Folk recommendations
I've just discovered The Mountain Goats (John Darnielle) courtesy of Large Hearted Boy and some positive online reviews. I love the fact that he used to record albums into a boom box, and has a voice and singing style that are quirky but oddly compelling. Any other recommendations for acoustic indie lo-fi folk (if that is a category)? [more inside]
posted by craniac at 10:42 PM PST - 42 comments
posted by craniac at 10:42 PM PST - 42 comments
How can I make skin discoloration from a fungus (presumably) go away?
How can I make skin discoloration from a fungus (presumably) go away? details inside so those who don't want to be confronted with the state of my groin aren't. [more inside]
Blushing
How can I stop blushing? [more inside]
I don't have any friends. None.
I think I'm odd because I don't have any friends. [more inside]
asperger's vs. adult add?
I have always had attention problems, but when I was tested in 1993, the tests came back inconclusive: the neuropsychologist concluded that only 7% of my 'issues' was ADD. That was twelve years ago. In my adulthood, I'm having serious problems concentrating, but am unsure of the effects the common ADD medications will have on me, and I'm curious if there are different treatments for attention deficit due to adult ADD and due to other 'issues'. [more inside]
posted by SpecialK at 9:53 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by SpecialK at 9:53 PM PST - 9 comments
Adobe! The little car that's made out of clay!
Lately when I attempt to view web-based .pdf files, I get nothing but a blank screen. I am running Firefox 0.9.3 with Adobe Reader 7.0. Any suggestions?
posted by LilBucner at 9:03 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by LilBucner at 9:03 PM PST - 8 comments
Why are there red penguins in Venice?
We recently returned from a visit to Venice, Italy. Whilst on a vaporetto travelling the Grand Canal, we noticed many balconies sporting red penguin statues.... [more inside]
posted by woj at 7:21 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by woj at 7:21 PM PST - 3 comments
Math Copyrights?
How does copyright work in regards to mathematics problems? [more inside]
posted by jplank at 7:07 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by jplank at 7:07 PM PST - 9 comments
A society of people who have perfected falling down?
A colleague was trying to explain to me about a group of people based in the UK who have mastered the art of falling flat on their faces without injuring themselves, and practise this art in public. Does such a group really exist? [more inside]
BritFilter
I was reading the Guardian while I was in the north of England these past few weeks and there were a lot of references in the letters to 35mm film canisters. [more inside]
Mac doesn't see printer over wifi
I have an iBook and an old Lexmark laser printer with an Axis print server. The computer has historically talked to the printer via Appletalk over my Ethernet network. Now I'm trying to go wireless. [more inside]
C Drive dead, how to move ntdetect?
My master harddrive has gone tits-up, how can I boot from the slave? [more inside]
posted by orthogonality at 5:07 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by orthogonality at 5:07 PM PST - 14 comments
Block All But A Handful Of Websites
My four year old now has his own account on my computer and I would like to deny access to all but a handful of pre-selected websites. Can this be done with what comes with XP Pro? Failing that, how can I do this for free?
posted by kc0dxh at 3:19 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by kc0dxh at 3:19 PM PST - 10 comments
Product opinions - who can recommend a good blender/food processor?
I'm looking for MeFi recommendations on a good blender or food processor... [more inside]
Tapering off EffexorXR
I've been taking Effexor for at least 5 years. Twice my doctor has tried to wean me off of it, but only horrible side effects happen- I cry, shiver, feel like I'm floating, become irritated, etc. The lowest dose is 37.5 mg. For about a month I was opening it up, dumping about half of the "sand" out, and swallowing the rest like my doctor suggested. I just got worse and worse. Has anyone successfully stopped taking Effexor?
email list management
I need a email list management service for a nonprofit that is free or nearly so.
Needs to do bulk emails but it won't be spam, its to notify of special events in their interests that are usually fundraisers we need volunteers and people to donate for. [more inside]
Is not dating unhealthy?
MonasteryFilter: I'm a 22 year old male. I've never dated, even though I've had opportunities. Is this unhealthy? [more inside]
long term nicotine patch use?
I'm wondering if using the nicotine patch long-term is an option. I've used it to quit smoking before, but enetually when I come off it I tend to slip into drinking or back to smoking. What are the perils of nicotine, specifically, apart from the perils of smoking itself? If I have to be addicted to something, wouldn't a patch be less harmful than pack-a-day smoking or sixer-a-night drinking? Obviously a total eradication of all addictions would be best, but please give me advice on whether this could be a short-term harm-reduction approach, or if the patch is just too dangerous to use for months on end.
singularity
Anyone recommend any (fictional) books set in a post-singularity world?
posted by jimmy at 12:02 PM PST - 22 comments
posted by jimmy at 12:02 PM PST - 22 comments
The elusive Craftsman 41380
Can anyone help locate a Craftsman screwdriver that the fine folks at Craftsman say doesn't exist? A friend was helping me install an air conditioner last week and developed a crush on a screwdriver I have for getting to screws in tight spaces; it has "Craftsman 41380 USA" engraved on it, and it was given to me as a gift. (I shot a quick picture of the screwdriver; it's best-described as a small metal donut with a rough outer edge and with a narrow cylinder sitting in the hole of the donut that accepts either hex bits or square bits.) About six months ago, I was able to walk into a Sears hardware store and pick two more up as a gift to give another friend, but now, the people at Sears and Craftsman say that that part number isn't valid, and that they've never heard of anything like I'm describing. Oddly, Googling for the part number (and Yahoo!ing, and MSNing) doesn't bring anything up, either, nor does a search on eBay. Am I crazy, or has this incredibly useful screwdriver not only been wiped from the planet, but also from the annals of tool history?
Good examples of "online courses" web sites?
I've been asked to build a web site for a company that is offering online courses--the kind where you sign up and there is a series of steps one has to complete, not the kind where it's just an archive of study material. People pay, register, complete weekly assignments, etc. I'm looking for a) good examples of sites that do this; b) good examples of sites that market this (ie, not as concerned about the "assignments/courses" aspects as the "why you should study with us" and "look how we offer this stuff up" aspects); c) feedback from anyone who has taken such a course and has opinions on what worked/didn't work well regarding it. Thanks!
philosophy of fashion
how to build comprehensive film-viewing habits
What are some good resources to call upon for developing a structured approach to viewing films in following a personal interest in film studies? [more inside]
I bit my tongue!
A few days ago, I bit my tongue while eating. A steady care regime of "do nothing and wait for it to fix itself" hasn't worked. How can I help the process along? [more inside]
Laptop audio
What is the best option for having decent audio on a laptop? [more inside]
Investor Newsletters
Anybody find value with FallenAngelStocks, ValueLine and their ilk for equity research? [more inside]
Car A/C weirdness
Strange things are going on with my car's air conditioner. [more inside]
Looking for a set of engravings known as "The City"
Looking for a set of engravings known as "The City" [more inside]
posted by pandaharma at 6:14 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by pandaharma at 6:14 AM PST - 5 comments
Fear of inserting contact lenses.
I soon need to get new glasses, but have been tinkering with the thought of getting contacts. Problem being that I have a fear of inserting them. I can't stick it in my eye without flinching too bad to get it in. Any tips on overcoming my fears?
posted by linus at 4:04 AM PST - 27 comments
posted by linus at 4:04 AM PST - 27 comments
Domain question
Our band has been using a .cc domain name since 1999 in hopes that we could snap up to .com version. The .com version has been purchased by a domain registrar... [more inside]
Automated Upload?
I'm looking for a script or a little piece of software (free please) for Windows that watches a directory on my PC and uploads its contents to a directory on a remote server (or preferably syncs it with this directory, but I don't know if that's possible).
Help me choose a new bank.
Do you like your bank? [more inside]
June 17
The light, the light!
How much would it cost to install a new window where there was none before? [more inside]
posted by Popular Ethics at 9:15 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by Popular Ethics at 9:15 PM PST - 7 comments
OK to put a rubber surface directly on top of an unsealed wood floor?
Our kitchen floor is wood that was last painted at least 12 years ago. Gradually, with years of hard use, the paint has flaked off in patches, exposing the bare, splintery wood underneath, which is warped and uneven (old building). Can I cover the floor with click-together non-adhesive rubber tiles without having to seal/finish the floor first? [more inside]
Give me something to do this summer
Give me something to do this summer! [more inside]
posted by devilsbrigade at 4:53 PM PST - 23 comments
posted by devilsbrigade at 4:53 PM PST - 23 comments
email addresses for children of unimaginative parents
A friend with a very common name needs an email address (that includes her name) for resumes and such. Domain name is not very important (as long as it wouldn't look bad on a resume). Would like web and pop access. [more inside]
posted by cadastral at 4:03 PM PST - 22 comments
posted by cadastral at 4:03 PM PST - 22 comments
Mandarin pop
I've started studying Mandarin. In a couple weeks I'll be going on vacation to a city where I should be able to pick up some CDs of pop music in Mandarin. What should I get? Clear voices (not drowned out by instruments or distortion) are a plus; I dislike rap; otherwise I'm open to anything.
Leggo my phone number!
My former downstairs neighbor was evicted a few months ago. I just found out she's been giving out my phone number as hers. [more inside]
Good small tube guitar amp
What's a good, small tube guitar amp? Something small enough to practice with, but loud enough to gig moderate-sized places. [more inside]
Disposing of kitty litter responsibly and other litter-matters
I have 3 cats. Have tried every kind of litter; clay, silica, wheat, etc. Don't want to use the corn products (politics of corn crops). Seems like the flushable litter just clogs and is bad for the environment. Clay is cheapest but bad for cats. Those silica beads take a lot of water to manufacture. Right now I use a 50-50 mix of Wheat litter & clay litter and scoop the litter into a paper bag and put it in the garbage. Can't recycle, compost or discard in yard waste.
So, 2 questions: has anyone found a better litter or better way to discard? (it must have an enormous impact on landfills I've done a pretty extensive web search which amounted to...not much.
Thanks for any advice. (PS. These are 100% indoor cats)
Ink cartridge head cleaner fluid
I bought a refill kit to re-ink my printer ink cartridge and spilled the small bottle of fluid labeled "cartridge and print head wash.'
I'd like to get more of this fluid without having to buy another whole kit.
Any idea what this fluid is and/or what generic item might replace it?
21st Century Fox?
A friend passed along "alt.fast.seduction" and as I was reading through the FAQ (it reeked of sleaze), one thing I kept coming across was how bad it was to buy a girl a drink. Is this true? I grew around an older generation (60+) who were definitely from another era and wouldn't even consider making a woman pay. I've instinctively always bought drinks if I was out with a girl (romantic or not). I haven't received any flak from it. Am I being totally anachronistic or at worst misogynist? Or does it just come across as schmuck (as this guide repeatedly states)? [more inside]
Bid proposal for freelance web development?
I have the opposite problem of blakeleyh's question. I don't know how to create a proposal or what a reasonable price to charge is for freelance web development work. [more inside]
posted by INTPLibrarian at 1:02 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by INTPLibrarian at 1:02 PM PST - 7 comments
Good removal companies in the UK?
Can you recommend a good removal company in the UK? I live in Oxford and I'll be moving down to London next month. I only have a room's worth of stuff, but it's a big room and there's a lot of stuff, including bulky things like computer chairs and so on. I'm not bothered about it being shipped within the same day or anything, but if you know companies that are good value and reliable, it'd be really useful. [more inside]
posted by adrianhon at 12:44 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by adrianhon at 12:44 PM PST - 9 comments
Can you help me find the perfect sunscreen?
I am looking for a good daily sunscreen to wear on my face. My criteria are: (1) little/no chemical "sunscreen" smell; (2) fragrance-free; (3) oil-free; (4) SPF in the 8-15 range; (5) transparent or clear. How the sunscreen smells is very important to me: I am sensitive to smells and often don't wear sunscreen because the scent is so strong. [more inside]
Recommendations for truly funny DVDs?
Make me laugh. Please. [more inside]
Preserving Windows 2000
After fruitlessly trying to remove a port scan virus buried deep within the system services (even AVG couldn't detect it), I am starting a fresh W2K installation. What software packages can do rollbacks on the registry and /winnt, and cancel all the damage from any particular software install session? Sometimes the registry and /winnt seem like a wide-open mouth where junk is dumped endlessly, and preventing this would be an effective way of keeping the computer clean.
What are some examples of obsolete currency?
What are some examples of obsolete currency — currency that was formerly used by a now-defunct political state or regime and is now worthless, except perhaps as a curiosity or historical artifact? This defunct currency would have to be paper rather than in bullion, as the latter never really becomes worthless. The only example I can think of is the currency issued by the Confederate States of America during the U.S. Civil war. Can you suggest any more recent examples?
Phone Sex!
I want to work as a Phone Sex operator. Your advice, please. [more inside]
posted by five fresh fish at 9:22 AM PST - 22 comments
posted by five fresh fish at 9:22 AM PST - 22 comments
Good book for inexperienced gigging band?
I'm looking for a good book (or alternative resource) full of guidance/advice/caveats for a green rock band getting into the shiny world of regular original-music gigging. [more inside]
FTP program for Windows XP
What's the best Windows FTP program? I use Transmit on OS X, and it's perfect for my office: easy for noobs to understand, but powerful enough that advanced users still like it. What's the Windows equivalent? I'm willing to pay up to about $50.
Family-beds
Since birth, 10 weeks ago, our baby has slept in our bed between us in a cute little box called a SnuggleNest. It's worked out very well, but she's getting to be so big; she's going to outgrow her little nest soon. We love having her near us at night. We want to continue to co-sleep. We would love to learn from your family-bed experiences. [more inside]
how to make handwritten text illegible?
How to erase, obscure, or otherwise render handwritten text illegible?
Imagine you were to have several thousand pieces of paper that you must keep. Further imagine that these papers had handwritten identifying information (say, name and address - mostly in pencil but sometimes in ink of various colours), that you must make illegible.
What's the easiest and most effective way to make that handwriting unreadable?
They will later be scanned by machine, so covering with stickers is probably not a good solution.
Buy a Dye Sublimation Printer?
I'm in the market for a new printer to replace a dead inkjet, and have considered getting an old HP 5 color laserjet or something similarly robust, but have run across something called the dye sublimation printer made by Alps and others. [more inside]
posted by swift at 8:48 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by swift at 8:48 AM PST - 8 comments
quick dual-monitor enabling/disabling
I need a way to quickly enable/disable the Windows XP option of extending a desktop over two monitors [more inside]
posted by Who_Am_I at 8:08 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by Who_Am_I at 8:08 AM PST - 4 comments
Simple BMP Smoother/Res'er
Need a simple Win XP utility to increase the resolution and then smooth curves and angles on some monochrome .BMPs. Preferably freeware. Suggestions? Thanks!
posted by ZenMasterThis at 7:34 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by ZenMasterThis at 7:34 AM PST - 5 comments
JavaScript only RSS parser?
I wasted a lot of time the other day trying to reinvent the wheel. I wanted to write a web-based RSS parser. [more inside]
Emergency Statistics Help
My boss' boyfriend does human factor engineering for a pharmaceutical company.
They're performing an experiment and his boss has given him a number for a sample size that the boyfriend thinks is too low.
He has to be able to justify to his boyfriend that this number is too low within the next 40 minutes.
I can't remember anything about statistics but I know there's a way to figure this out. (More inside!) [more inside]
Am I really recycling?
I recently moved to the city of Cleveland, which in 2003 dismantled its curbside recycling pick-up program. I drop off my (paper, glass, plastic, aluminum) recycling at a drop-off center. In a discussion with neighbors, they were dubious that the city is actually recycling what I put in the special dumpsters, but rather just dumping it. What do you think? Am I wasting my time by taking my recyclables to the special location? There was special skepticism for paper/magazine recycling, which is a pain in the neck to haul.
Need recommendations for games similar to LucasArts titles
Adventure Game Recommendations: I really miss playing games I could lose myself into for hours on end, and I would like to find some new games similar to those I enjoyed years ago. But I stopped playing a long while back so I have no idea what's been on the market since and how to look for such games now. I have always loved the LucasFilm/LucasArts titles but they seem to have stopped producing pretty point-click adventures after Grim Fandango. Other favorites were Windham Classics adventures like Below the Root or Alice in Wonderland, Cinemaware action-adventures like It Came from the Desert, The King of Chicago and Sinbad, and detective games like Killed Until Dead and Intrigue! Are there any comparable modern counterparts? I am not into RPGs or text MUDs or shooters. Please tell me there are still games out there involving great stories, detailed scenes, and good puzzle-play! [more inside]
Monitor FooBar - Searching for display control software.
Where can I find software to control the horizontal width, and pincushioning of my video-card output? [more inside]
posted by stungeye at 1:06 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by stungeye at 1:06 AM PST - 3 comments
June 16
Scooter Storage
I have a 2003 Honda Elite 80 and it has almost zero storage space. I was going to throw on one of those plastic crates that you find at the grocery stores, but these days they are much bigger. Does anyone know where I could find storage out for the back rack of my scooter outside of these plastic crates?
Safari to Del.icio.us?
How do I post to multiple del.icio.us accounts from safari? [more inside]
internet download monitor?
I keep on getting in trouble for going over my daily download limit at work.
Can anyone recommend an app which will track how much bandwidth i'm using throughout the day? (for Win XP) [more inside]
My monitor is broke
I have a MAG Innovision DX890F 19 inch monitor which has apparently died... [more inside]
IT Employment Situation in Yorkshire
My girlfriend and I are relocating to York in the fall from Canada. My background is in software development for Windows (.NET, BizTalk, SQL). What is the employment situation in Yorkshire for folks like me? [more inside]
Coin Token Curiosity
I found a strange metal token mixed in with my quarters and I'm wondering what it might be. [more inside]
What is "modified sine-wave" power?
What is "modified sine-wave" power, and what will it do to my electronic devices?
I have a portable Xantrex battery, and it came with a warning that certain rechargeable devices may not be compatible with its modified sine wave output. [more inside]
No dog? You bastards!
Does anyone know of any stellar bird breeders in Portland, Oregon? [more inside]
posted by Specklet at 3:15 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by Specklet at 3:15 PM PST - 9 comments
Moissanite or what?
Does anyone have experience with a moissanite engagement ring? I hate the diamond industry because I've been doing human rights work all my life, but those Harry Winston diamond ads make me swoon more than I'd like to admit. [more inside]
posted by hamster at 3:00 PM PST - 34 comments
posted by hamster at 3:00 PM PST - 34 comments
How immoral is "the other woman?"
Ethics 101: What are the moral implications of being "the other woman?" If someone leaves their lover/partner/wife/husband for you, have you done anything wrong? [more inside]
posted by adrober at 2:35 PM PST - 79 comments
posted by adrober at 2:35 PM PST - 79 comments
Stop plate tectonics!!
Is there a big earthquake in California's near future? [more inside]
How do I clean my titanium rings?
I was recently married, and wear titanium engagement and wedding rings set with sapphires. They are already looking very smudged/dirty,and even shallowly scratched. What should I do/use to clean them?
Best Dust/Gas mask
I get a bit concerned about my lungs when I paint, saw, sand, blow dust around, or use nasty chemical solvents. Anyone have any gas and/or dust mask recommendations?
What Is Cool on I-91?
What cool stuff is there to visit/see along Interstate 91 in Massachusetts and Vermont? [more inside]
My dog won't sleep through the night
My wife and I purchased a Bichon Frise pup about 6 months ago; he was 3 months old when we bought him. He's great, but the problem is he refuses to remain quiet all night. [more inside]
Laptop Audio Hum
I use my laptop in conjunction with midi controllers as a live instrument. When running off the battery it sounds great through the PA system, but when I plug in the AC adapter I get a very loud humming sound. Is there any way to get rid of this? [more inside]
How big do I want Batman?
I'm keen to go see the new Batman movie. I'm 'lucky' enough to live somewhere with an Imax cinema. Should I go to see the movie there, or at a normal cinema? [more inside]
Up, up...
I'm looking for blogs written by pilots of (or about) planes, helicoptors, blimps, etc. Got any links?
How to get an AVI file burnt to DVD with proper audio sync?
Ok, my google-fu has failed me. I'm trying to find a simple software program that will allow me to take an AVI file (or multiple AVI files - TV shows, mostly) and burn them to a DVD-R while still having the audio sync up properly. I've tried a couple of programs, and for some reason, the audio ends up being out of sync toward the end, although it's just fine at the beginning.
posted by gwenzel at 12:57 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by gwenzel at 12:57 PM PST - 8 comments
Open source confusion.
How does redhat make money? In wading through previous related AskMe posts as well as this Wiki article, I'm more confused now than when I started. [more inside]
I might be a member...should I buy the company?
How do I really know if I'm losing my hair? [more inside]
choosing colors
I need to display information about approximately 16 elements. The display will be in row-column format and the order of the elements will be fixed. So the display will look like:
text in colorA | text in colorB | text in colorC | .....
text in colorA | .....
How do I choose colors such that adjacent colors do not appear similar and that any given color is easily distinguished from the others? If you know of a good algorithm for choosing the set of colors or can point to an example of someone doing this well I would appreciate it.
Also it would be nice if the result were not ugly.
posted by rdr at 11:17 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by rdr at 11:17 AM PST - 10 comments
What makes people people?
Help me argue an office mate. The author Douglas Coupland wrote that the only human activities that have no animal equivalent are smoking, body-building, and writing. I'm trying to think of more.
Contrast stitching remedy?
I loathe contrast stitching. Can I just cover it up with a marker? [more inside]
posted by crapulent at 10:42 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by crapulent at 10:42 AM PST - 13 comments
Can I be "allergic to beer?"
I'm usually a liquor drinker (scotch, whisky, bourbon, vodka) and recently I tried to make the move to beer, just to give myself a lighter option. Problem is I'm noticing the day after drinking a few beers (usually 3-4) I'm horribly sore all over, and basically feel like shit. Not hungover but flu-like symptoms (achey body, sore joints, sensitive skin, mildly feverish) I never feel this way when drinking liquor, so is it possible that I am allergic to beer?
Commuter car recommendations
Recommendations for a commuter car. [more inside]
Need Tips on Kentucky
Looking for tips and suggestion for my long weekend in Kentucky. [more inside]
Music loss shock horror
What's the best way to regularly back up 10-15 gigs of music? [more inside]
posted by selfnoise at 8:34 AM PST - 16 comments
posted by selfnoise at 8:34 AM PST - 16 comments
The page where two portraits start moving
I'm trying to track down a site that had two still portraits that suddenly, eerily, start to move. [more inside]
posted by condour75 at 8:21 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by condour75 at 8:21 AM PST - 10 comments
Eye Contact
PhysicsFilter: Suppose I'm looking straight ahead at somebody's head, but can't see their eyes because they are obstructed by a wall or railing. Under what physical circumstances can that person see my eyes? Assume that there are no mirrors, cameras, or other visual trickery. Also assume that both people are sitting on chairs at floor level, though they may be of different heights.
Transgendered Friend
What's the best way to support a person going through the process of going from a man to a woman? [more inside]
A better insurance plan
I'm an IT contractor. My pimp doesn't offer health insurance, so its up to me to get a private policy. My wife has MS, so she's uninsurable. I have an individual BCBS plan for myself + 2 sons. My wife belongs to a state-supported Health Insurance Pool, for people who have been denied coverage. We pay a LOT of money ($360/month) just for her premiums. Its analogous to people with bad credit trying to finance a car - they have to pay extra for the privilege. Do I have alternatives? Are benefits-pooling companies worth it?
Why do so many doctors smoke?
Why do so many doctors smoke? [more inside]
Showcase showdown.
I have an embarrassing confession: I love the music on The Price is Right. Help me find more like it. [more inside]
Not Very Excel-lent
Suddenly, when I double click on an Excel document to open it, it won't open the document (specific details inside): can this be fixed without reinstalling Excel or Office? [more inside]
posted by anastasiav at 6:57 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by anastasiav at 6:57 AM PST - 4 comments
Alternatives for iTunes.
I hate iTunes. What else can I use to manage songs on an iPod? [more inside]
posted by Count Ziggurat at 6:40 AM PST - 29 comments
posted by Count Ziggurat at 6:40 AM PST - 29 comments
Dear God, Don't Let Me Use IE!
Attention all Firefox experts! Please help.
This morning, I came in, and my beloved Firefox (1.04) will no longer display text! (DIT) [more inside]
Is Ruby really as great as everyone says?
Everyone seems to love Ruby. But does it lend itself to web development, and is it "polished" enough to be used as one's primary language? [more inside]
posted by TheCowGod at 3:39 AM PST - 22 comments
posted by TheCowGod at 3:39 AM PST - 22 comments
Sci-Fi Movie Architecture
I'm looking for a resource - online, book, DVD - that deals specifically in the architectural design from sci-fi films, preferably with lots of pictures. [more inside]
How to keep a wine journal
Does anyone here keep a wine journal? [more inside]
June 15
Law School Admissions
I have a question regarding attending a university but not including it in my law school application. [more inside]
posted by SeizeTheDay at 9:09 PM PST - 29 comments
posted by SeizeTheDay at 9:09 PM PST - 29 comments
summer reading
Does anyone have any suggestions for good new books? I like Truman Capote, Eudora Welty, Gabriel Garcia Marquez, books about language, and California history. Please no tragedies! Weighty is okay, just not something that's going to make me hate my fellow humans.
Running javascript from within cgi-Script
I use a free cgi mailing list script that generates a html template for the admin interface and user feedback for sign-up. The site i am implementing it on today has some basic preload/rollover javascript within the HEAD of the HTML document, but the javascript aint working on the template the cgi outputs. How do i need to format the javascript so that it works from the cgi-script? [more inside]
extreme gender expression
A friend of mine likes to come up with crazy costume theme parties, and this Friday is X-TREME Gender Expression Night... [more inside]
Why won't my PC recognize my iPod?
iPod Filter : Why won't my PC with the latest iPod updater and iTunes software recognize my second generation iPod? [more inside]
posted by grapefruitmoon at 7:46 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by grapefruitmoon at 7:46 PM PST - 8 comments
Thai Cooking Question
I cooked Pad Thai tonight and the results weren't what I had hoped for....
The dish was tasty enough, but the rice stick noodles were very sticky/gummy....
Any cooks out there fimilar with what I may have fouled up?
How to stain a rice paper lamp
How do I stain or age white japanese style rice paper floor lamp to look old? [more inside]
posted by curiousleo at 7:21 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by curiousleo at 7:21 PM PST - 5 comments
Office of OS 9 Macros not working too well in OS 10.4
When I try running long complex macros in MS Word for OS X, created in Office for Mac OS 9.2, some of the macros are freezing/crashing. Perhaps even worse, the macros don't seem to be failing at the same point each time I try to run them. [more inside]
Organizing a large music server
I have a relatively large music library stored on my file-server. Can anybody recommend a server-side tool to help me keep the files and their metadata organized? [more inside]
Duplicating Letters of Recommendation
I'm planning to apply to many, many graduate schools, and I need letters of recommendation. Asking each person to sign 20+ copies seems unreasonable. It is acceptable to submit photocopies?
What's biting my wife?
My wife is being eaten alive by some sort of hidden insect in our house. Actually, we don't think it's hidden -- on the windowsills of our house we keep seeing these very tiny -- a little smaller than a sesame seed -- brownish bugs. They have two antennae. [more inside]
LaCie Ethernet Disk Hell
I have a new LaCie 800GB Ethernet NAS disk. It's advertised as working well in a cross-platform environment. It sits on my lab's LAN with three XP boxes and three Mac G5s. But it's been trouble from the beginning . . . . [more inside]
Microarray clustering + statistics
BioFilter: I have questions about the statistics involved in microarray data processing... [more inside]
posted by Rothko at 4:28 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by Rothko at 4:28 PM PST - 12 comments
Crazy PMS
I've never had PMS problems before outside of the occasional mild lower backache. I'm not on the pill because while my period is not on-the-dot regular, it does come every month for a fairly normal length of time and rate of flow. It has been easy to deal with. But for the past five or six months I've been getting Montezuma's Revenge bad at the onset of my period. What gives? [more inside]
Starting a food business.
Seattle has crap Mexican food. Anyone have experience in the frozen food business? Because I want to start up a small business selling meals in local stores. We're talking 3-4 products, minimal ingredients. I think I have access to a rest. kitchen. Looking past legal/supplier costs, where can I go wrong?
Bafflingly consistent wireless problems
Using two different Netgear WiFi adapters under Windows XP, we can connect to our home network, but can't ping any domains or see any websites (though we can under Knoppix). [more inside]
posted by rwhe at 3:50 PM PST - 27 comments
posted by rwhe at 3:50 PM PST - 27 comments
Tracking Images across the webz
I am interested in using Digimarc watermarks to track images across the web. Does anyone have an opinion on their MarcSpider tracking engine? Are there alternative techniques/technology? [more inside]
My boss wants a blog. Help me choose the backend.
The company I work for wants to get on the blog bandwagon and I need to get things set up. Right now our website is hosted by Verio on a co-located server running Windows. [more inside]
Mailing list software
Can you recommend good mailing list management software that has a web front end and integrates with Outlook? [more inside]
Turnkey OSCommerce hosting?
Anyone have any experience with any turnkey OSCommerce providers? Good recommendations? Bad experiences? (I was amazed to find no dedicated threads in AskMe concerning turnkey hosting in general.) [more inside]
Michael Jackson case
Michael Jackson case: I understand that the prosecution case was very flimsy for the more serious charges, but I was under the impression that there was very solid evidence he had given alcohol to at least one minor. Why didn't they convict on that charge?
posted by Pretty_Generic at 2:45 PM PST - 19 comments
posted by Pretty_Generic at 2:45 PM PST - 19 comments
Why do the Italians wear blue?
The Italian football (soccer) and Rugby teams play in Blue (Azzurri) and yet there is no Blue in their Flag. Anyone know why?
Anyone care to explain why Aussies are such a nomadic lot?
Anyone care to explain why Aussies are such a nomadic lot? [more inside]
VHS to DVD?
I am looking for a reliable and cost-effective manner to convert a single VHS tape to DVD. I don't have a camcorder or any other equipment to do the job and local shops have quoted me prices in the $100 range. I found several online set-ups that advertise in the $20 range, but I am looking for recommendations before I send the VHS tape off.
How do I get a stuck screw out of places?
ScrewFilter: I have on several occasion (once by my own hand, and now by someone else) have been put in a position of getting very small, very flush screws out of a surface. or more bluntly put, there is a screw stuck in the side of an aluminum PowerBook. any advice on how to remove it? [more inside]
Keyboard Remapping in XP
I'm already to used to my new Mac's keyboard. Unfortunately, I have to use XP at work. Is there a (preferably free) keyboard remapping program for XP? The only one I've found is a six buck download via PCmag.com.
posted by keswick at 12:28 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by keswick at 12:28 PM PST - 8 comments
Ballpoint pen refill question
Ballpoint pen question: I bought a Parker Jotter 0.7 mm-point refill last month, and after about twenty pages of writing it's already starting to crap out on me--its line is unacceptably light, and sometimes disappears completely. (These refills usually last me a year or more.) Is there anything I can do to save it (soaking the tip in some substance, etc.), or is it a lost cause?
That little bitty teeny weeny thing they call the love bug...
Love songs for the jaded but hopeful. Help me find some music to emphasize the high I'm on, without lapsing into irrational swooning over that certain someone. [more inside]
A+ certification worth it?
Salesperson looking to work in IT and do PC support and possibly network admin... I get many offers for classes to get a A+ certification followed by or along with Network+ certification.
Do employers actually care about these certifications?
Is it worth it to get them to break into IT?
Edit a help file?
Back in the day (about 7 years ago, anyway), Windows came with a utility that allowed the savvy user to edit compiled help files. [more inside]
posted by dbmcd at 11:15 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by dbmcd at 11:15 AM PST - 5 comments
Love and Sex
My girlfriend and I are in college and we've been together for almost a year. I know that she loves me, and we have a good relationship, but I'm not as attracted to her as she is to me. What should I do? [more inside]
How do I learn fencing?
So after reading The Speed of Dark by Elizabeth Moon, I've become interested in learning fencing. [more inside]
posted by corpse at 11:12 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by corpse at 11:12 AM PST - 15 comments
Funky smelling washed/dried clothes
Lately I have noticed a residual funky smell in my clothes after washing and drying. (Think used towels. Not hotel ones as they all smell like chlorine bleach). I do use fabric softener to no avail. Is ther a way to get rid of this smell in the clothing? Enzymatic detergent? The stuff to get rid of the smell pet urine? Anybody else have this problem and solved the issue?
video display wonkiness
Sometimes my computer displays splotches of grey or white on something meant to be black. [more inside]
posted by Tuwa at 10:44 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by Tuwa at 10:44 AM PST - 4 comments
London UK Golf Courses
As a Father's Day gift, I'm looking to arrange for a couple of green fees at a London (UK) area golf course. Any suggestions? [more inside]
tap-tap-tappity-tap: it ain't what it used to be
Hot tap in kitchen sink; suddenly half the pressure it used to be; turn on, wait twenty seconds, and half pressure becomes all but a drip; all other hot taps in house work a-ok.
Washer? Pipe? Tap mechanism? Simple to fix or in need of a plumber?
Digicam that just works
My family wants to buy my grandfather a digicam (compact, zoom, 4-5 MP, US$250ish). Most of the reviews I've seen online are from a 'power use' perspective and focus on adjustability and features - but my grandfather's camera skills pretty much stop at 'point & shoot.' Any recommendations for cameras are genuinely easy to use, and take consistently good photos out of the box?
non-earplug headphones compatible with hat and sunglasses
I finally have an MP3 player. I hate sticking things in my ears. I'm pale and don't go out in the summer without a hat and sunglasses. Does anyone have any brilliant ideas about how to fit headphones into that mix? [more inside]
Air conditioner coils
We had our furnace worked on by a local guy who has a good rep. We mentioned that our air condition had been icing up, and he said we should get the coils cleaned. $300. [more inside]
posted by mecran01 at 9:11 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by mecran01 at 9:11 AM PST - 3 comments
KnoppMyth+Satellite TV=yes?
So I saw the second episode by Kevin Rose on www.systm.org but they only seem to mention setting up your linux box with your "cable provider" without any mention of Dish or Direct TV....does anyone know whether Myth TV or specifically KnoppMyth will work with dish TV type providers?
What is this tingling sensation?
Every so often, I feel a tingling in my upper back and neck that sometimes spreads into the base of my skull and can go as far as my scalp. [more inside]
posted by staresbynight at 8:36 AM PST - 33 comments
posted by staresbynight at 8:36 AM PST - 33 comments
How can I find a Web designer?
How can I find someone to do the html and design for my Web site? I have had a Web site for ten years now and have always done the design and html myself, by hand, using Photoshop, BBEdit, and Fetch on a Mac. I need a re-design, and am at the point where I think I could benefit from the help of an html/css expert, and probably from a graphic designer as well. [more inside]
posted by blakeleyh at 8:32 AM PST - 18 comments
posted by blakeleyh at 8:32 AM PST - 18 comments
egregious anonymous relationshipfilter
I like a girl. She likes me. There's two small but big things keeping us apart, and I dunno how to solve them. The first has nothing to do with her, and the second does. Advice would be appreciated. [more inside]
Where to advertise to IT sales/marketing people?
We need to do some online advertising and PR, on a just-above-shoestring budget, directed at people responsible for selling new information technology products. The minimum for a text ad from publishers like Ziff-Davis and CMP's TechWeb seems to be well over $2,000 per insertion. We'd like to spend less than that, so maybe we're looking for more obscure publications.
Group/Permissions oddness in Tiger
I just cannot change the group of my Music folder. I created a new group called "music" as a first step towards allowing my SO to share my iTunes library directly. I try to set the Music folder (and its contents) to being part of "music", but no dice. The "get info" window says that it's changed. But as soon as I click the lock to prevent further changes, it switches back to the group of me. If I close the get info window and don't hit the lock, then call up get info again, I see that the attempted group change hasn't stuck. I also cannot change the group ID to "admin." As root, it doesn't work either, but then I get a mysterious error called "-60002." chgrp doesn't work from the shell, either. Is this a known bug or am I missing something?
Instant messaging for pre-teens?
I have an 11 year-old brother who is interested in using Yahoo Instant Messenger (or I suppose any other IM program for that matter), but my parents are a little hesitant to let him do so. And understandably so I think. Do any of you let your pre-teens use any IM programs? Is there some sort of method you have worked out for them using it? A monitoring program perhaps? Extended explanation inside. [more inside]
Life in Blacksburg, VA?
Does anyone have any experience living in Blacksburg, Virginia as a non-student? Or general experiences moving from a big city to a small town? [more inside]
This is your brain on drugs
Pharmacy School: So my sister wants to apply to pharmacy school and it's totally stressing her out. Does anyone here have advice on the application process? [more inside]
Automating Tasks in Outlook...
I have an application that generates a file a regular intervals (daily), and stores the data locally on the C drive of the PC, all I want to do is then email that to a given address.
The PC is Windows XP (Pro - SP2), I have Outlook 2k3 installed...my google-fu is letting me down, but I'm really struggling to find a solution for this one. Bonus points for free - or already built in to my system!
Where can I find a fitted sheet for an 8" thick mattress?
I recently bought a memory foam/latex mattress from in hopes that it will help rid me of my morning back pain. It's a big gamble. But there's another problem. The mattress is only 8" deep and I don't know where to find fitted sheets that size.
1. Are fitted sheets really necessary?
2. Where's a good place to go for decent sheets with a variety of sizes? I'm in NY, and far a Bed, Bath, and Beyond turned up nothing but the recollection that I really hate that place.
posted by kingfisher, his musclebound cat at 6:41 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by kingfisher, his musclebound cat at 6:41 AM PST - 10 comments
Glass Cocktail Shakers
Help me find a good glass cocktail shaker... [more inside]
Images in Premiere, Flash
I want to make some movies using photos (jpegs), as a photo montage with mp3s in the background. How should I go about doing this?
1) Should I make Flash movies or actual mpegs (avis? mov. files?) with Premiere? I've tried this in the past with Flash, but no matter the resolution of the original, the movies come out pixellated/with funky color changes. And with Premiere the end movie is waaay too large, far larger than the sum of the pics and music. And also with the funky color/pixellation.
2) Should I convert the jpegs to bitmaps or some other format before importing? What's a good resolution?
Flip Flopping Daughter
My daughter has announced she doesn't want to live on campus next year (freshman). We agreed months ago she would live at school (an hour commute). Any personal experience with changing your mind? I'm concerned about her driving daily on congested highway (NJ) and about her not facing her fears.
Airliner acrobatics
Is it possible for a standard jet airliner, say a 737, to succesfully perform an aerial barrel roll or a vertical loop? It's just something I've always wondered.
June 14
Does anyone have experience transferring from one college to another?
Does anyone have any experience transferring from one college to another? The reason I ask is because I plan on transferring from UCSB to USC after one year, but everyone I've talked to says that it's extremely difficult. They tell me it's much easier to transfer from a community college but I'm insistent on going to one four-year to another. Any tips for a hopeful transfer applicant?
Out of meds!
Oh man am I stupid... I meant to pick up my prescription for Buspar (to treat anxiety) earlier today cause I knew I was out. I forgot. [more inside]
Favorite Wikipedia Entries
What are the wisest/coolest/most surprising wikipedia entries you've run across? I already know about the Heavy Metal Umlaut and Exploding Whale.
Status of publishing markets abroad?
Where can I find statistics showing how many books (titles and/or copies) are produced and purchased in a given country each year? [more inside]
Too Cool For Photography School?
Next year I will graduate from college with a double concentration in English and French. As much as I love literature and reading, graduate school in those fields doesn't seem like the right thing for me. However, my love of photography has blown up in the past few years and I'm pretty serious about making a career of it.
Where are the good photography schools? Is there any way to get an MFA with my experience? Otherwise, is a second BA worth the money and hassle? [more inside]
Tomorrow's Classics
What songs/bands from the current decade will be played on classic hits radio stations in twenty years? [more inside]
OFF - HI - MED - LO
Just a stupid question that's puzzled me for years: Why is it that, on electric fans, the order of the settings on the switch is OFF - HI - MED - LO? I'm sure there's an electrical reason for this, but I don't know what it is, since I know nothing about circuitry. One would think that OFF - LO - MED - HI would make more sense. Can someone explain this to me?
posted by Dr. Wu at 5:33 PM PST - 23 comments
posted by Dr. Wu at 5:33 PM PST - 23 comments
Worth the powder to blow it to hell with?
I was issued a Blackberry 7100 from work. Corded hands-free headset is making me crazy! [more inside]
What's with "There are a.."
I have a habit of typing "There are a..." when my fingers are hovering over the keyboard waiting for my brain to make up its mind what to write. Why is this, is it a textual "um", like in speech? And why those words? And does anyone else do it?
Ripping .txt files from archive DVDs
I'm a collecter live music, all in various lossless formats (FLAC, SHN, etc..) As a result of being lossless audio, the sets are quite large, ranging from 300MB all the way up to a couple of GB. Archiving to hard disc is not an option for me at this point, so I currently archive to DVD. I use Advanced Disk Catalog to keep track of where everything is at. However, it's a real pain in the ass to have to pull the disc out of the archive just to check a single text file for source or location information when I'm trading. Are there any apps on the market that would do this automagically for me? What I envision is inserting the disc with the program open - It creates the subfolders that exist on the disc and automatically grabs ANY text files on said disc and copies them into the cooresponding subfolder it just created. Nothin' more, nothin' less. Also, free is good. Any ideas out there in AskMeFiland?
posted by rabble at 4:13 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by rabble at 4:13 PM PST - 13 comments
monitors
If You're doing Digital photography and using photshop , which is the best type of monitor ?
posted by sgt.serenity at 4:04 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by sgt.serenity at 4:04 PM PST - 16 comments
PCMCIA storage card in Tucson AZ
I need to purchase a PCMCIA storage card (ATA format) from a store located in or very near Tucson AZ. Any ideas?
posted by jruckman at 4:04 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by jruckman at 4:04 PM PST - 5 comments
Looking for a modern DOM/XSLT/Xpath implementation in C
My boss has tasked me with tracking down a modern XML library written in C. The library has to run on (at least) RHEL3, Windows, and Solaris, but more is better. [more inside]
posted by ChrisR at 3:47 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by ChrisR at 3:47 PM PST - 9 comments
Evening volunteer community education work in Bristol
I'm on secondment in Bristol and I have some evenings / weekends available to help the local community in some way. I have >10 years in software development and I'm a good, engaging communicator who likes training and education. [more inside]
german
A friend was telling me that the test to get a driver's license in Germany was incredibly difficult, much more so than in the U.S. Has anyone taken it, or heard similar tales?
Firefox and Ie both won't go to amazon.com. help?
I am on a w2k pc at work. I use firefox primarily and hit tons of web sites a day. Yesterday I noticed I was getting the "connection refused" message in Firefox when attempting to go to Amazon.com only. [more inside]
posted by stavx at 2:12 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by stavx at 2:12 PM PST - 4 comments
Lake of the Ozarks, MO
Planning a trip to Lake of the Ozarks, MO. Any advice? [more inside]
plywood in the eye
about three hours ago i got some plywood dust/splinters in my eye. I washed out my eye and put in a bunch of eye drops. My eye still hurts, which I guess is to be expected, but more disturbingly, the pupil in the aggravated eye is dilating more than the other one. any advice or suggestions?
How to I dispose of pigment?
Help me dispose of pigment! (In the most environmental way possible). [more inside]
Circular Animation for PCs
You know those circular screens they use at concerts that always have some kind of animation projected onto them? Can I replicate that on my PC? [more inside]
posted by grateful at 1:42 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by grateful at 1:42 PM PST - 3 comments
Quitting Smoking
I'm finally doing it. I'm quitting smoking - yay me! Anybody who has done this (and succeeded) - how did you get over the rough patches when the urge to light up was almost too powerful to ignore? [more inside]
posted by contessa at 1:30 PM PST - 40 comments
posted by contessa at 1:30 PM PST - 40 comments
Trane heat pump $3000?
I've just been quoted $3000 to install a new outdoor heat pump unit and remove the old one. New thermostat included.
Does that sound like a lot of money?
Blank Web Pages With Firefox- why?
Why is Firefox drawing blank pages? [more inside]
Photo Date
I'm in the process of sorting through some digital photos that are about a year or so old. I'd like to sort them in folders by date (year, month) as I do now. The trouble is, when I "Show Info" the "Date Created" field is blank. [more inside] [more inside]
posted by btwillig at 12:54 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by btwillig at 12:54 PM PST - 6 comments
Adorno quote
I'm looking for a quote from T W Adorno, which I think comes from Aesthetics. It goes something along the lines of "the value of a piece of art is inversely proportional to its function." [more inside]
Alive...dead...alive...dead
My Internet connection develops narcolepsy whenever I use Azureus... strange symptoms inside [more inside]
Blogging 101
Meaning [this is good]
What's the cool-kid, hackerish and full definition of the phrase: [this is good]? [more inside]
posted by teece at 12:15 PM PST - 96 comments
posted by teece at 12:15 PM PST - 96 comments
Tools for writing application documentation
For the purpose of documentating an application, I'm looking for a WYSIWYG editor that can yield both in HTML and PDF formats, but meets a few other criteria. [More Inside] [more inside]
How to foil car stereo theives?
Help me secure my car: For the seventh time in two years, I'm buying replacement window glass for my car. For the third time in two years, I'm shopping for a new stereo. For the second time in two years, I'm wondering what in the heck petty thieves want with my car registration and insurance forms. [more inside]
Friendless In Vancouver
I'm going to be alone in Vancouver BC Wednesday June 15 to Friday. Everyone I know is out of town. What can I do? [more inside]
Reading suggestions
I recently read Chuck Palahniuk's Diary and loved it. I'm looking for suggestions for similarly mysterious/creepy novels... [more inside]
Source for some hardware in better than corner store prices?
Where do I find hardware items like this at prices that don't reflect one-off blister-pack purchases? I'm doing some small scale manufacturing (details below the fold) and per-unit prices matter - even $0.10 per piece makes a difference. [more inside]
Taking Blood Pressure
I'm an EMT student and I some times have trouble hearing the blood pressures in the ambulance and hospital, does anyone have good advice on taking them?
Slow Verizon DSL with Mac OS 10.4
Three days ago, my Verizon DSL stopped working. Now it's working again but is quite slow. Any thoughts as to the cause? [more inside]
How to set up a private foundation?
How difficult (and expensive) is it to set up a private foundation that can be named after someone and that can have control of charitable giving? Control to make sure the funds go to those that need them. [more inside]
posted by jjcurtis at 10:00 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by jjcurtis at 10:00 AM PST - 7 comments
Need advice for posting pictures for high-traffic situation.
Awhile back, I mentioned on MeFi that I had in my posession some pictures from Iraq that would no doubt attract a fair amount of public attention. I'm ready to make these pictures public, but I don't want my bandwidth costs to go through the roof, nor do I want to risk having my image hosting cut off. Does anyone have any advice as to how best to deal with this issue?
Identify a public television program about a bad father in law?
Help me identify a program I saw on television many years ago about widower with a wealthy and nasty father-in-law who humiliates his friends in exchange for gifts? [more inside]
posted by nanojath at 9:03 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by nanojath at 9:03 AM PST - 6 comments
Name for our new puppy
We are adopting a puppy on Friday and are looking for a great name for her. Our requirements are inside... [more inside]
posted by widdershins at 8:55 AM PST - 28 comments
posted by widdershins at 8:55 AM PST - 28 comments
Jailed US Celebrities
Name 5 US Celebrities to have gone to jail that aren't boxers or rap stars. [more inside]
How do I make my Shure e2c's not hurt my ears?
I've got a pair of Shure e2c's for listening to music on my iPod and as noise cancelling discreet headphones go, they're great. However as comfortable and secure in the ear headphones go, they suck. What am I doing wrong? [more inside]
Searching for a short story from This American Life
I'm searching for a short story from This American Life. It was read at the end of the show and is probably 2 or 3 years old. The story was about a little boy with a superpower of finding lost objects who, at the end of the story, focused the power on himself and discovered that he, too, had strayed from his rightful place.
posted by By The Grace of God at 7:39 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by By The Grace of God at 7:39 AM PST - 7 comments
Good car games?
What are the best games to play in a car on a long road trip?
Obscure Japanese rock music covers
Can anyone help me find a copy of Kokoo's 'Super-Nova' album on CD or even mp3? My Google-fu has failed me, and I would *love* to hear some of my favourite tracks (especially 'Tarkus' by Emerson, Lake and Palmer) played on traditional Japanese instruments...
Which credit card offers the best cash back reward program?
Credit Card Rewards: I charge about $20,000 to $25,000 a year on my credit card, mostly for rent and food. I want to receive as much cash back (or a functional equivalent) as possible from a rewards program. What credit card/group of cards should I use? Any tips? [more inside]
posted by gd779 at 6:58 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by gd779 at 6:58 AM PST - 19 comments
peek at password fields in XP
I've forgotten an sFTP password and need to recover it. The account is setup and working in EditPlus. Many years ago I remember using a Windows utility that allowed you to drag an icon over any ******* password field and the password would be revealed. I can't remember the name of this utility. Google reveals many other utilities that might do the same thing, but I ph33r the Russian Hax0rs. Does anyone know of a crap-ware free program that can help me? Operating System XP Home.
posted by alana at 6:42 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by alana at 6:42 AM PST - 8 comments
Wireless Internet in Ottawa
Leaving for Ottawa in 3 hours, and I just realised the place I'm staying has dial-up access only. Does anyone know of places in the vicinity of the US Consulate (or anywhere else downtown, really) where I can get wireless internet access (free would be great, but not necessary)? [more inside]
posted by darsh at 6:37 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by darsh at 6:37 AM PST - 12 comments
Breaking the Web!! Breaking the Web!!
Which will break first: target=”_blank” or the JavaScript hack meant to replace it? [more inside]
Upcoming.org to Outlook to Palm?
I use upcoming.org to keep track of concerts and club nights I am or may be interested in going to...and I just got a new Palm Tungsten e2, which i've synched up with Outlook on my WindowsXP machine at work...i'd love to be able to feed the Outlook calendar the iCal file from Upcoming.org (thus, synching it up to my Palm). [more inside]
vinyl - friend or foe?
i run an online store specializing in products made by independent designers, and i get loads of product submissions that use vinyl/PVC - handbags, purses, even furniture.
i've long thought of vinyl as bad for the environment, and i've heard claims it's even unhealthy to handle. but the facts are hard to come by.
now i've stumbled upon this article.
so - should i rethink my assumption that vinyl is evil? from a business perspective, i sort of hope so, b/c some of the vinyl products i'm seeing are very cool...
My foot looks like a non-hairy paw.
What the hell is wrong with my foot? I sprained it very mildly last July, and its still swollen! [more inside]
Stopping Amway in the workplace?
How do I stop a multilevel marketer from infiltrating my company? [more inside]
I'm looking for a specific fantasy story.
what do I use to put photographs in a scrapbook?
What is the best way or product to use to place photographs in an scrapbook? I found old photographs lying around in an envelope and I would like to put them in an album in a way that will also preserve them (some of them are over thirty years old and have seen better days). [more inside]
Security clearance and previous drug experimentation
How likely is it that someone would be given security clearance (confidential, secret, or top secret) if they experimented with various illegal drugs (including marijuana, acid, cocaine and crystal meth) during their college years (ending about 5-6 years ago) but who hasn't done anything since (and has no desire to anymore)? [more inside]
June 13
Movie Gemstones?
I am compiling a list of large gemstones in movies. Anything to add to the following list? [more inside]
posted by lalalana at 8:54 PM PST - 31 comments
posted by lalalana at 8:54 PM PST - 31 comments
Web ad overview
So I'm getting ready to launch my own family-friendly, general interest, community discussion site, and I'm hoping to generate at least partial support from displaying ads on my site. I poked around a bit on Google's Adsense site, but does anybody know of a good intro/overview/ratings of the various options I may have available to me?
RSS Feed for Television Listings?
Does anyone know of a site with an RSS/XML feed for television listings? In particular, I'd love to find one that I could customize to my favorite channels. I'd also like to find something that would give me the day's listings for a particular genre (such all the movies or sporting events on that day). I've found a site that allows you to get feeds for all the day's listings for specific cable channels (a feed for CNN, a feed for TNT, etc.), but the networks are excluded from this, and I'd like to get a feed that would also tell me what's on the regular networks in the evening.
Selling jewelry in LA: Ebay?
My girlfriend would like to sell a silver heart necklace with a small (~0.10 ct) diamond. It was purchased ~6 years ago for ~$400 on clearance somewhere. That's about all the information we have about it. Questions:
What's the best way of going about selling such a thing? Ebay?
Does it need to be appraised? How much does that typically cost?
We're in Los Angeles.
Moo2 under WinXP
Has anyone gotten Master of Orion 2: Battle At Antares to run under Windows XP? [more inside]
Sci-fi search filter
I'm looking for a specific online sci-fi story. [more inside]
posted by bshort1974 at 5:42 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by bshort1974 at 5:42 PM PST - 5 comments
High School Reunion Websites, Experiences with creating them and potential costs
I have a 10 year high school reunion in 5 years. I am wanting to create a full service website that'll link everyone up together with information, email, pictures, etc. Has anyone put together a portal together where people can create profiles and share in discussion? What are the costs and technical challenges? [more inside]
posted by huy_le at 4:35 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by huy_le at 4:35 PM PST - 5 comments
Drying fruit
Well, it's that time of year again: my Apricot tree is starting to fruit, and I'd like to try drying some of the fruit to enjoy all year around. I tried it last year, but the results weren't good: the fruit got mouldy and icky. Any pointers or links to good guides on drying or preserving fruit?
posted by baggers at 4:31 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by baggers at 4:31 PM PST - 14 comments
Death Counts
When discussing the Iraq war, pro-war people often state that things would be worse under Saddam. This seems to imply that more people would have died under Saddam than as a result of the invasion/occupation thus far. I want to dispute these types of statements but honestly I don't know if it is true or not. I haven't seen any real firm figure on how many people died under Saddam and at what rate he killed people. I know that the folks at Iraqbodycount.net keep a running count of those who died as a direct result of the Iraq war. Have any credible comparisons been done between the numbers of deaths we have caused and the numbers he usually caused? If so, what were the results?
posted by aburd at 3:55 PM PST - 24 comments
posted by aburd at 3:55 PM PST - 24 comments
Bullschick
Schick Quattro and Schick Quattro For Women: what's the difference, really?
Life under the Midnight Sun
I'm looking for good media resources (especially books) on the lands of the midnight sun (and ?daytime darkness?). Works that cover sociology, culture, work habits, sleep habits and other interesting aspects and adaptations of people living in such conditions.
How can I force my color printer to print B&W?
How can I force my color printer (Epson CX4600) to ignore the fact that it's out of yellow and magenta ink, and keep printing black and white? [more inside]
posted by mkultra at 3:16 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by mkultra at 3:16 PM PST - 10 comments
Low-key sobriety support that's not annoying
I've learned that a new friend/co-worker is several years sober. She's a confident, no-nonsense kind of chick, and she is not uncomfortable with drinkers or in the presence of alcohol. That said, I'm still looking for do's and don'ts (that go beyond common sense of um, not offering her a beer, and not calling attention to her non-alcoholic thirst-quencher of choice or protectively fawning over her.) [more inside]
posted by desuetude at 2:14 PM PST - 17 comments
posted by desuetude at 2:14 PM PST - 17 comments
Where to download Netscape 7.2
I downloaded Netscape 8.X yesterday and HATE it. I'd like to revert to 7.2, which I loved. Every download site I've gone to ONLY allows the download of 8.0. Any suggetions?
posted by lometogo at 2:06 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by lometogo at 2:06 PM PST - 6 comments
Email Campaign Management
Looking for a good web-based (ASP) solution for managing permision email marketing campaigns. Hunting for something that is more innovative, better priced - the Basecamp of email marketing would be perfect. Anyone have any products that they're happy to recommend, based on personal experience?
posted by will at 2:03 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by will at 2:03 PM PST - 4 comments
Can I get travel insurance that covers being put on the no-fly list?
Can I get travel insurance that covers being put on the no-fly list? [more inside]
An illustrated book about the evolution of humans
Inspired by this question, does anyone remember an illustrated, sci-fi book that came out about 15-20 years ago, which consisted mostly of possible forms that human evolution would take, and full-colour illustrations of what these future humans would look like? [more inside]
posted by Big Fat Tycoon at 12:48 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by Big Fat Tycoon at 12:48 PM PST - 3 comments
Has anyone made a Green Tea/caffiene lotion?
I am trying to make a topical lotion using epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), an antioxidant extracted from Green Tea. Does anyone have advice or experience doing this? I am especially interested sources for the EGCG and recommended potency. The intention is to make a treatment to help reduce to effects of sun exposure, while there are lotions available with EGCG as an ingredient, I would like to make one using it as the primary ingredient.
posted by worstkidever at 12:45 PM PST - 1 comment
posted by worstkidever at 12:45 PM PST - 1 comment
Living in Newcastle?
Newcastle upon Tyne: what can you tell me about it? Would you move there from the US? Are there software jobs to be had? [more inside]
Advice on Selling a Domain Name
I have a domain name for sale. I need advice on determining the selling price. [more inside]
Suggested gifts for bumming around Europe
A friend of mine is off to Europe for a month this fall and as she happens to have a birthday between now and then, I figured it would be a good idea to give her presents that might be useful on such a trip. Not having done it myself, though, I'm not sure what would be most useful. [more inside]
lumps in cats!
Why is my kitty lumpy? What ideas do you all have that can cause lumps in cats? [more inside]
ID3v2 tag editing with numbers in track name
Does there exist a free tag editor that will bulk strip track numbers that reside at the beginning of track name tags? [more inside]
Millenium Falcon Book
I'm exhausted searching the internet and wading through pounds of Star Wars merchandise. I remember a while ago a book that was solely on the Millennium Falcon - schematics, specs, all that fun stuff. Does anyone know if this is still in print or if there is an equivalent thing? Links or titles greatly appreciated.
posted by agregoli at 11:00 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by agregoli at 11:00 AM PST - 5 comments
Sweat gets in my eyes
When bicycling, how do you keep sweat out of your eyes? [more inside]
Pulling Out Decking Joist Brackets
Currently in the middle of a major deck renovation and a question occurs to me: is there a better way to remove the old joist brackets? [more inside]
posted by yerfatma at 10:42 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by yerfatma at 10:42 AM PST - 8 comments
Sci-Fi Paintings Book?
As a kid, I had a coffee-table size book of sci-fi paintings. Each page was ostensibly the specs and history of a given spacecraft, and the paintings were quite detailed and in the "realist" mode. As you read about each craft, however, a narrative unfolded about a galactic war. The story arc was sussed out in little details dropped about each ship, famous engagements it took part in, etc.
The only ship I remember was an "enemy" ship, the Tarantula, which would ambush victims by hovering up out of a pit suddenly.
Anybody know the title, artist or illustrator?
posted by everichon at 10:39 AM PST - 34 comments
posted by everichon at 10:39 AM PST - 34 comments
Help ID the song I sing my daughter
When I wake my 3 year old daughter up in the morning, I always sing a few lines from a song that goes:
"Oh! The bright sun comes up/and the little bird sings/'Good morning!/Good morning!/Good Morning to you!'"
What the heck song is this? Are there more (or correct?) words? Actual music? [more inside]
Paper Peddler
I've volunteered to provide the layout and printing of invitations for my friend's upcoming wedding. Now I'm looking for recommendations regarding online paper goods vendors for the invitation templates. [more inside]
Where the heck did my hot water go
I've painstakingly and scientifically ruled out all of the other possibilities. My hot water heater is inhabited by the Virgin Mary. [more inside]
posted by felix at 8:36 AM PST - 17 comments
posted by felix at 8:36 AM PST - 17 comments
Suggestions on good weather radar software?
I'm unhappy with my current choices in web-based weather radar technology. I used Weather.com's radar until I discovered the much more robust and clear Intellicast. Can I get something better? [more inside]
Can anybody tell me about an artist named J.L. Smith?
Can anybody tell me anything at all about an artist named J.L. Smith? [more inside]
Psychology Testing
My girlfriend just took a professional psychology test for a potential employer... [more inside]
Exporting PDFs to JPG with Page Numbers
Is there any way to preserve the internal page numbering when exporting JPG sequences from PDF files? [more inside]
Grand Theft Auto siteseeing
I'm looking for some siteseeing guides for San Andreas. What's to see in Los Santos, San Fierro, and Las Venturas? What makes for a nice country drive? [more inside]
a thousand words forgotten
How did you first get published? [more inside]
Creating web site from TIFs using ImageReady or Fireworks?
I offered to help a professional photographer friend make his web site, but I don't normally do it like THIS: He is a Photoshop wizard and has created how he wants his pages to look using that. He gave me a CD full of pages as TIFs. Is there a quick/easy way to make sites from TIFs using ImageReady or Fireworks? Pointers, links, tutorials, ect. GREATLY appreciated. (I realize that this does not result in the optimal site, but the guy wants it to look like he wants it to look). [more inside]
I want to break free!
I'm in NY, married a little less than four years, no kids, no property, no major assets, and I want a divorce.
I make too much for the legal aid people to help me (22,000), so I was thinking of either using an online service or doing everything myself. How had is this going to be, really? [more inside]
Help needed from Manhattan
I was in Manhattan two weeks ago and saw a collection of photos affixed to the fence in Bryant Park next to the library as I strolled by... [more inside]
posted by Roger Dodger at 6:36 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by Roger Dodger at 6:36 AM PST - 6 comments
How to bring an idea to fruition?
I've got a great idea for a new product. But I am not a professional designer/inventor, and I have no connections to the industry that would produce it. And although I can articulate the design concept, I'm not able to create a technically accurate mock-up or diagram. Am I SOL, or is there a way to make my fame/fortune/revolutionary impact on the breakfast cereal industry? [more inside]
posted by ericbop at 6:27 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by ericbop at 6:27 AM PST - 8 comments
Online Photo Labs
I have 500+ digital pictures from our wedding/honeymoon. I want to have them printed, and I don't have a photo printer. What are your experiences with the online photo printer places - shutterfly, ofoto, etc.? Would I be better off just buying a photo printer? Mostly I just want basic 4x6 prints to put in a book; a few I want to have blown up.
Buying glasses online
I'm thinking of buying my next pair of glasses online. Does anybody have any online glasses retailers they would recommend (or recommend against)? And is there any thing else I should know before buying glasses online? I live in the UK but have frequent visitors from the US who can easily carry a pair of glasses, so places that ship to either country would be fine.
posted by yankeefog at 6:01 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by yankeefog at 6:01 AM PST - 9 comments
MacFilter: A Performa 5300 is TAUNTING me!
MacFilter: I have a Perfroma 5300 I just got from a friend. It needs a NIC. I have cracked open the back and have no idea what kind of slot this is. When I am calling around to my local Mac repair shops what should I be asking for? Also, can I buy it on the web. My end goal is to have some sort of *nix FTP server running on it.
posted by Livewire Confusion at 5:12 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by Livewire Confusion at 5:12 AM PST - 8 comments
Looking for a trade-board web solution
I am looking for a web-based solution to use as a community services/goods trade board *other* than phpbb, something more akin to ebay...my google skills are failing me... [more inside]
Alternative contact details for Interscope Records?
Can anyone assist me with alternative contact details for Interscope Records? The email addresses on their contact page aren't working. [more inside]
posted by sjvilla79 at 3:56 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by sjvilla79 at 3:56 AM PST - 6 comments
Sound over ethernet in Windows
I have a laptop connected to my desktop by ethernet. The desktop has a nice soundcard that outputs to my stereo. Is there any software that allows any sound playing on my laptop to be spirited away over the ethernet and play on the desktop's soundcard? [more inside]
posted by Jimbob at 1:53 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by Jimbob at 1:53 AM PST - 6 comments
June 12
How do I unbreak my Mac's internet?
My mac, which runs 10.2.8, suddenly forgot how to get to the internet. How do I return it to its former glory? [more inside]
posted by klangklangston at 11:16 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by klangklangston at 11:16 PM PST - 3 comments
Hooray for Peter Pumpkinhead
I'm looking for an image from the video for XTC's "The Ballad of Peter Pumpkinhead." [more inside]
Bookmarklet that goes to a url and makes the referring url available as a variable for a script.
I need a bookmarklet that goes to a specified (static) url and makes the url of the page I came from available as a variable for a perl or php script. I just want to be able to go to a page I've set up and have it record the page I'm got there from, but the apparently-useful-for-just-this-sort-of-thing http_referrer variable only works if i clicked on a link to get there, while I, in my hubris, would like to be able to type the address in manually from anywhere. But apparently I can't. So it looks like a bookmarklet is the next best thing. [more inside]
posted by 31d1 at 10:13 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by 31d1 at 10:13 PM PST - 5 comments
Where's it happening?
Where can my band play in Montreal this summer? [more inside]
posted by Evstar at 9:48 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by Evstar at 9:48 PM PST - 6 comments
Poison Ivy
Anyone know of any in-house remedies for poison ivy? Any suggestions to make the itch go away?
kids are scary
Howdy! I've got to keep 50 8-year olds entertained for an hour while I teach them about a local endangered species tomorrow. Any teachers out there with some general tricks of the trade to help maintain control and keep their interest?
...I'm scared. Will they eat me? [more inside]
How much is fixing my a/c going to cost?
My home's air conditioner has died. How much is getting it fixed likely to cost me? [more inside]
Advice for introverted panelist.
I'm in college and haven't had much public speaking experience. I've been asked to be a part of a panel at an Ivy with a lawyer and other professionals and I'm extremely nervous. I've never done anything like this. Helpppp!!! [more inside]
Microsoft Office Keyboard on an iBook
I picked up a very cheap Microsoft Office Keyboard today. It works great on my Windows 2000 machine with the software provided, but the Mac software included on the CD is for OS9, and I want to run it with my KVM switch into my G4 iBook (OSX.4). [more inside]
Live or recorded data feeds
I'm looking for datasets (or ideas for possible datasets), preferably live feeds of data, with which to stress test some analysis algorithms I've written. [more inside]
Prank or not?
This happened to my girlfriend in 1987, and for years she's been telling the story as though it was a genuine mistake. The first time she told me the story, I immediately thought it was a prank. [more inside]
Non-bloatware virus detection?
Hasn't anyone written a tiny-footprint antivirus program that monitors changes being made to certain registry and Windows system directories? I sure need one. [more inside]
long-life Ink-jet T-Shirt transfers?
I've just bought a cheapy pack of T-shirt transfer paper for inkjets, to print my own designs onto T-shirts. Anything I can do to increase the chances of them surviving the first wash? [more inside]
Fifty pounds of fifties
How much money is fifty pounds of fifty dollar bills?
posted by cedar at 5:41 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by cedar at 5:41 PM PST - 5 comments
ants! ants! What do I do?
Ant farmers must be excited because there is a bumper crop this year. We are currently infested and so is every other house on my street. We can't even leave the cat's dry food out!
How do you deal with an ant problem?
posted by Mayor Curley at 4:38 PM PST - 23 comments
How do you deal with an ant problem?
posted by Mayor Curley at 4:38 PM PST - 23 comments
Disposable Diaper in the Washing Machine
How do I get the "slush" from a (clean) disposable diaper out of my front load washing machine? [more inside]
QTVR demo
Is there a way to create a demo movie from QTVR? [more inside]
Wedding Ring-Filter
I have a question about wedding rings that aren't gold or platinum. [more inside]
PSP? GBA? Nintendo DS?
My son wants a PSP. I am leaning in that direction, but for the price, it needs to do more than act as a gaming system. What else can it do, and how well does it perform? Also, what are the best games for it? If you know, how does it compare to Nintendo DS or Game Boy Advanced? Thanks!
subliminal SEX message SEX
Does anyone know who made the image on this shirt and were i can find a nice print or high-res image of it? [more inside]
posted by puke & cry at 3:40 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by puke & cry at 3:40 PM PST - 10 comments
Bicycle! Bicycle!
I would like some advice on training for a long (by my standards) bicycle ride. The catch is, I only have a month left over. What can I do? [more inside]
Learning Dutch
I'd like to take up a more rigorus study of the Dutch language, and am looking for resources to aid me in doing so. Much more inside... [more inside]
Tell me of the autos of your homeworld, Usul.
What do you dislike about your vee-hickle? [more inside]
Mark of the Beast? (Numbers in the backs of cars)
I live in Los Angeles, and everyday I see cars on the road with a small paper/placard, usually in the lower-left corner of the rear windshield, that displays the number '6'. They all have (as far as I can tell) a red background with the '6' done in white, and the cards are about 3-4 inches square. What the heck are these things, and why do I see them everywhere?
Did Patrick Henry ever do anything he's credited with?
Did Patrick Henry ever do anything he's credited with? Especially all those stirring phrases that he is supposed to have said. I read in Made in America by Bill Bryson that Patrick Henry had been rather uninteresting buffoon but that a later biographer had claimed that he said all these great things. [more inside]
posted by Kattullus at 12:04 PM PST - 17 comments
posted by Kattullus at 12:04 PM PST - 17 comments
Ink Me Baby!
I'm considering getting a tattoo. (yeah, I know I've dissed body art before, sue me). I've got a few questions. [more inside]
Canadian adoption?
My wife and I are considering adoption in Canada, but I need to know the costs and pitfalls. What are people's emotional, financial, _______, experiences with adoption? Feedback from adopters and adoptees is welcome. [more inside]
posted by Kickstart70 at 11:14 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by Kickstart70 at 11:14 AM PST - 5 comments
What are these strange requests in my HTTP server log?
Why would requests for other websites show up in my web server's access log, and does it indicate that there's a vulnerability in my server? [more inside]
posted by jacobm at 10:43 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by jacobm at 10:43 AM PST - 14 comments
I am a bastard.
I'm looking for my biological father. I'm 23. He lived in the Fondren Court North Apartments or another apartment complex/building on Fondren Road in Houston TX in the latter end of 1981, was a mechanic at that time, could be Polish, and quite possibly has no idea that I exist. [more inside]
relationships
So have you been in a relationship that was just "ok" or somewhat unsatisfying, or even typefied by ongoing low-level bickering, and then improved it somehow so that it was actually really good? [more inside]
Driving while high - Interstate 420, man
If you're driving while high (after smoking marijuana) and a cop pulls you over, is there any test they can perform to tell? [more inside]
Need help identifying a font
I made a basic "under construction" site for my wife's clothing brand-to-be. Now it's time to make tags, but I've since reinstalled my OS and lost the font...and can't remember for the life of me what it was. Can anyone identify the font? (Font sample inside) [more inside]
posted by Bugbread at 8:00 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by Bugbread at 8:00 AM PST - 9 comments
Bad Birds at Feeder
Does anyone have an idea of how to discourage crows, magpies and other large birds from taking over my bird feeder, excluding the smaller song birds? I've been using wild bird feed from Costco, which the little guys love, but so do the big guys. Not only do the little guys not get in as much as they were, but I'm going through feed at a horrendous pace (about a quart a day.) I've thought of putting out a sign: "Compacts Only; Violators Will be Owled", but I'm guessing these bums would flout the posting, and it would be tough to train an owl to be sufficiently selective. Thanks for ideas...and no, I will not consider use of explosives.
Help me select an exercise bike
Puter Power Problem
Why does my computer not like its lead? [more inside]
Maths tutorial software
I am trying to find some good interactive Maths tutorial software which goes from basic algebra through to Differential Equations and maybe beyond.
Can anyone recommend anything with the emphasis on the interactive side - something which can keep me interested so nothing too dry - a nice colorful multimedia approach would be ideal.
June 11
Manic or Punky, any reviews?
I am going to be dyeing some sections of my hair some wild and funky colour. I have done this before, (blue, pink, purple) using Jerome Russell's "Punky Color" product. Recently, a new product has become available in my town, "Manic Panic." Does anyone have any experience with Manic Panic? With both? Which would you recommend? Please don't suggest any other dye brand, these are the only two I have access to. While you're at it, any tips on dyeing hair unnatural colours? I do plan on bleaching first.
Puny hands?
GuitarFilter: Bar chords hurt... [more inside]
Does anyone know anything about Melby Ranch in Colorado?
My parents intend to visit and then buy land at Melby Ranch in Colorado. My parents are lovely, but trusting and dumb about doing research. Is this a scam or terrible investment? The photos on the webpage look nice, and googling for "Melby Ranch problems" and "Melby Ranch complaints" has turned up only one possibly spurious complaint. They're registered with the Better Business Bureau with a clean record, albeit for only six months.
So my questions: Does anyone has firsthand knowledge of this place? Is buying land a terrible investment? Are there undisclosed enviornmental problems or the like? Am I being paranoid?
posted by symbebekos at 10:04 PM PST - 17 comments
posted by symbebekos at 10:04 PM PST - 17 comments
How to get a broken key out of ignition?
Has anyone ever had to take a broken out of a car ignition? While trying to start my 1994 Nissan, my key snapped cleanly, with most of it still in the ignition. I have an extra, so all I need to do is get the key out with damaging the tumblers or the mechanism. Has anyone had to do this before? What did you do?
What should I upgrade?
My husband wants to play Battlefield 2, but his computer, an Athlon 64 3200+, seems to be kind of sluggish with the new demo. Given that there's only so much we want to spend to play video games, what's the best component to upgrade? The video card? The processor? [more inside]
posted by gokart4xmas at 7:17 PM PST - 28 comments
posted by gokart4xmas at 7:17 PM PST - 28 comments
Remove Background Noise from MP3
I have tapes of interviews that I'm paying to have transcribed. Some interviews were done in public places and have background noise. I'll be charged more for those. Unless I can somehow get the background noise off the MP3s.... [more inside]
MP3 player vs Static Electricity
How sensitive to static is the average MP3 player? [more inside]
cell phone service
What are the best cell phones and plans available? [more inside]
free, high-res, public domain line art?
I'm looking for high resolution, public domain scans of old black and white illustrations, the type found in magazines, books, and newspapers. Gutenberg has plenty of nice images, for example they have an illustrated edition of Aesop's fables, but the resolution is crap. Ideally I'm looking for at least 300dpi tiff files, or better. Does such a thing exist online for free or am I better off trawling used books stores and the library stacks and scanning these myself? My google skills yield little beyond the Dover clip art books, [more inside]
Japanese Class for Children
My 10-year-old grandson loves Japanese anime and manga. He'd like to learn Japanese but his school doesn't offer it. (Chicago west surburbs) [more inside]
one out of four pieces
Looking for music featuring the cello. [more inside]
Effective, do-it-yourself, natural termite treatments..
I have confirmed that my house has termites and I would like to treat them myself. Is this something I should screw around with or is this something where I should get a 'professional'?
Compare SideKick II & Blackberry?
Has anyone used both a SideKick II and a Blackberry, or at least done an in-depth comparison of the two? [more inside]
How can I lucid dream?
I have a great interest in lucid dreaming, yet I am unable to either remember or influence my dreams. Are there any lucid dreamers here with some tips?
Mechanized canteen?
What's a "mechanized canteen"?
Lease/Sublet/Screwed Myself and trying to move
6 weeks ago we gave 60 days notice we were moving out by July 1, and just got a letter yesterday from the property mgmt that the notice is not valid. We're now responsible for rent here until April 2006. I'm supposed to move across the country next week...... [more inside]
posted by sinical at 1:19 PM PST - 21 comments
posted by sinical at 1:19 PM PST - 21 comments
Differences among Digital 8 / MiniDV / Hi8
Looking to buy a digital camcorder: what really are the differences between the formats of Mini DV, Digital 8, Hi 8? Leaning towards Digital 8 because the models seem the cheapest.
Ancient Computer Screenshots
Each year I try to teach some computer history to my 5th graders, just to put all the technology into a little bit of context. It would be tremendously helpful if I could show them actual screenshots of what computer programs used to look like. Specifically, I've looked for screenshots of Viscalc (some success, but lousy shots), early amber-on-black word processing, and pre-www internet (PINE, Usenet, etc.) Anybody know of a good place for this stuff? Other related suggestions welcome.
What's a good tool to automate tedious html editing?
What's a good tool to automate tedious html editing? [more inside]
Where in Greenville SC should my friends look for a house?
Some friends just accepted jobs in Greenville, SC (moving from Boston area). Before they'll be able to hook up with a realtor, they want to do some house-hunting online. Does anyone have suggestions for towns to look at or towns to avoid? [more inside]
help for mouth burn?
In a moment of unusual gracefulness, I burned the inside of my mouth on some criminally hot food the other night. (bonus: I was on a date! So the shrieking/spitting combo was really attractive.) Help for pain/healing? [more inside]
Convert Old .crd File to Outlook
My mother is still using (clinging to!) that old Cardfile program from a very old version of Windows (maybe 3.0 or something) for all of her contacts. I found this link explaining a workaround to convert crd files for use in Outlook, but the links in the first workaround are old and dead and the second workaround requires an old Windows machine, which I don't have. This article is pretty old (2001). Anyone have any ideas for how to convert these old .crd files to a newer version of Outlook?
posted by abbyladybug at 7:34 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by abbyladybug at 7:34 AM PST - 8 comments
squid me
I really like squidfingers' background patterns. Anyone know of other sites offering graphics with a similar aesthetic, or that are also awesome?
posted by ITheCosmos at 6:36 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by ITheCosmos at 6:36 AM PST - 8 comments
Amazon Cross Branding?
I just went to this page to look at reviews on something I wanted. Then I found this and this . Whassup? Are the same 3 guys writing all these reviews? [more inside]
June 10
What would I use to make one of those old banners?
You all are geeks right? Well, remember those old-school banners that everyone used to print at home for Science Projects and other stuff? You know, where the letter "A" was made up of a bunch of A's to form the letter?
Where in this day and age would I get something like that done? Anyone have Print Shop Deluxe 1.0 and an old printer? Would I try some local schools??
My band's CD Release party is coming up and the whole theme of the packaging and everything is "old computer stuff".
Thanks! This place rules...
What late 80's arcade game is this?
I remember back in '89 or '90 playing a single player arcade game where the main character looked like a barbarian and weilded a large sword. You could also find an axe later. A small cast of the enemies included skeletons carrying what looked like chandeliers. Does anyone know the name of this game? I know it isn't Golden Axe or Ghouls n' Goblins.
posted by FakeOutdoorsman at 10:23 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by FakeOutdoorsman at 10:23 PM PST - 12 comments
How are gas prices determined in the US?
Does anyone know what specific factors go into determining the retail price of gasoline in the US? [more inside]
Who cares ?
Why do Americans use the expression "I could care less"
Surely it's "I could NOT care less"
My debit card was lost/stolen and fraudulently misused.
Okay--I checked my checking account balance last night via my bank's automated phone line. The system told me that my balance was several hundred dollars overdrawn, and when I checked the most recently posted transactions, the amounts ($50 -75) did not immediately ring a bell. [more inside]
posted by theperfectcrime at 9:01 PM PST - 24 comments
posted by theperfectcrime at 9:01 PM PST - 24 comments
E-Business textbook suggestions?
I recently learned that I am going to be teaching a university class in E-Business in the fall. I should JUST be able to get a textbook order in. Help me pick which one I should use. [more inside]
posted by mikel at 8:31 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by mikel at 8:31 PM PST - 4 comments
Work as an editor
A client of mine is interested in work as an editor for book publishers. How would he go about making contacts about doing this kind of work?
How do I open this window?
There's a window in my apartment ideally situated to take an air conditioner, but I can't get it open. I'm fairly sure it is not simply stuck, but is rather possessed of a design beyond my spatial reasoning abilities. [more inside]
Carpet (glue) bombing...
RenovationFilter: We just bought an old library out on the great plains. Yes, library. But that's not the point. It's a wonderful, hundred-year-old brick building. The floors are beautiful, straight-grained, old-growth fir. Unfortunately.... [more inside]
posted by dersins at 6:39 PM PST - 27 comments
posted by dersins at 6:39 PM PST - 27 comments
Whats this writing near the label of my 45
I picked up an old John Lennon / Yoko Ono 45 at a yard sale, and on the vinyl itself, written in the plastic, is "one world, one people". It looks hand written, and there are a bunch of numbers near it. What gives?
posted by quibx at 5:10 PM PST - 21 comments
posted by quibx at 5:10 PM PST - 21 comments
Being a New NeighborFilter
Does anyone have any suggestions for a good way to get in good with my new neighbors? [more inside]
posted by softlord at 4:53 PM PST - 17 comments
posted by softlord at 4:53 PM PST - 17 comments
Online index of tv show ratings
I'm looking for an online index of tv show ratings (TV-MA, etc.) for various tv shows. Falling short of that, is there any sort of site that gives a guide to what offensive content may be in a given show? [more inside]
Funny porn
So I've got this friend who'd like to find some porn (straight) dvds that have (campy) humor, spoofs or comedy.
Cheap cigars?
Can anyone recommend a reasonably good (or even decent) cigar that costs a dollar or less? This is a "settle-a-bet" question. Many thanks in advance.
Lustra
posted by lustra at 2:22 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by lustra at 2:22 PM PST - 14 comments
Alternative exercises
Last night, I broke my foot. I need to find alternative methods of exercising to keep in shape. [more inside]
bird shitting in water bowl (coprophiliac?)
Got a parakeet recently, and for the past few days he's been hovering over his water bowl at all times, going to the bathroom in it. [more inside]
posted by jimmy at 1:37 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by jimmy at 1:37 PM PST - 5 comments
Dealing with an empty nest
Empty Nest: My mother is having a very hard time adjusting to my recent overseas move. How can I help her? [more inside]
Problem with my iBook!
I'm having issues connecting to all online functions on my 3-year old iBook when I use dialup (via the internal modem)...[more inside] [more inside]
posted by elquien at 1:09 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by elquien at 1:09 PM PST - 2 comments
Sorry we missed you!
BusinessFilter: How much would you be willing to pay for this service... [more inside]
Advice for A Graduate
My 18 year old brother is graduating high school next week. I am compiling a book of "advice for living" for him as a grad gift. Does anyone have any good advice or anecdotes they would like to offer? Some suggested topics are Drugs, Being a Musician/Artist (he's an accomplished guitar player), Sex, Dating, Working, Money, Lifestyle, Cooking, Home Decorating, Women, Being a Man etc. [more inside]
posted by evilcupcakes at 12:11 PM PST - 54 comments
posted by evilcupcakes at 12:11 PM PST - 54 comments
How do you cultivate gratitude?
Do you have ways to put your life into perspective and force yourself to appreciate that you're really pretty privileged? Or do you allow yourself to get bored and solipsistic and desirous of more (material or otherwise) stuff? [more inside]
United Artists theme music?
I'm looking for a clip (.mp3, .wav, .ra) of a particular bit of United Artists theme music. [more inside]
posted by ikkyu2 at 11:49 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by ikkyu2 at 11:49 AM PST - 3 comments
What to do in Key West.
A friend and I are travelling down to Key West, Florida, on the 19th for a week. What are some fun, cheap, off-the-beaten path things to be seen and do while there? (We're both 20 years old, if that matters.)
Cell phones - Outstanding bill collection procedure?
Does anyone know if there is a rule, strategy, or timeline that phone companies follow in pursuing outstanding bills from customers? Normally I could care less about such things, but recent dealings with my provider (Cingular) leave me rather puzzled.. [more inside]
What rights do I have in kicking a roommate out?
I own a house, and have a roommate from Craigslist. I want to kick him out for having unwanted guests sleeping over and being deceitful in general. My question is, how am I supposed to get along with this person for the next 60 days (days I must give him to move out). He has no incentive to respect me or my house rules. He keeps pissing me off as it is and telling him to leave will just make it worse. Also, am I allowed to withhold deposit money from him for other people sleeping in his room? How do I stop him from doing this? I have already tried talking but he does it anyways.
1950s Italian music
My SO & I were at a restaurant in Italy a couple of weeks ago where they were playing some wonderful old music. [more inside]
Costa Rica with teenager in July
Going to Costa Rica next month with my 16 year old daughter Nima. Where should we go and what should we do? [more inside]
Madison WI area attractions
I'll be in the Madison/Hollandale area for a couple of days with my son and wife - besides Talieson and the usual attractions, are there any special less-known places to go, wander, etc.? (have been to Crane Foundation, Convention Center).
Therapy for alcoholics
I need information about therapy for alcohol abuse/dependency. [more inside]
cityfilter
I want to do a city related blog aggregation. How do I do this? [more inside]
Finding A Company to Build a Flash Game
A colleague emailed me with an idea for a computer game to illustrate and educate about health care reform in the US, something a la Sim City, but much simpler, just interactive. How would I go about finding and contacting companies or design groups to create the game and get bids? [more inside]
Getting couch delivered from store that doesn't.
I found a great couch. But it's in a chain store whose closest outlet is 100 miles from my city and doesn't deliver. How can I get it home? [more inside]
Multiple Intelligence Theory and Young Adult Literature
I'm looking for suggestions for Young Adult literature (of all levels, from upper-elementary to adult-for-young-adults) that would appeal to the different "intelligences" of Gardner's theory. [more inside]
Cameroon
This may be a long shot, but does anyone have any travel tips for Cameroon they could share with me? I'm going there for two weeks for work and my boss basically told me "stay in the hotel, it's too dangerous to go travelling around there." I hate the idea of not seeing the country, and I wonder whether this is true, and if so, whether there's some kind of organized tour I could take over the weekend. I'll be based in Douala. [more inside]
Video card advice
If you had about $200 to spend on a new video card for your pc, what would you get? Assume you have a P4 2.4 with an AGP slot and a gig of RAM, the game that you play the most is The Sims 2, and you don't want to have to buy a new video card for a good long while.
posted by amarynth at 7:24 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by amarynth at 7:24 AM PST - 11 comments
click to call?
I recently installed the greasemonkey script for Vonage users that turns phone numbers into URLs that when clicked, causes your phone to pick up and dial the number. I find this incredibly useful -- is there any kind of plug-in that will give me the same functionality within my Outlook address book?
posted by stupidsexyFlanders at 5:56 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by stupidsexyFlanders at 5:56 AM PST - 2 comments
Why doesn't my mouse mouse?
OS X 10.4 Tiger. My mouse has stopped mousing. [more inside]
posted by renderthis at 5:10 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by renderthis at 5:10 AM PST - 13 comments
Is stuttering more common in some languages than others?
Is stuttering more common in some languages than in others? If singing is supposed to suppress it (true?), does that mean tonal languages (e.g. Chinese) do not suffer the phenom? Indeed, are there any languages in which it does not appear at all? If so, any theories why?
posted by IndigoJones at 4:25 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by IndigoJones at 4:25 AM PST - 7 comments
Music and Depression
The link between Music and Depression [more inside]
What are the economics of airline tickets?
How do the economics of airline ticket pricing work? [more inside]
June 9
Earplugs for concerts
Has anyone had any experience with buying earplugs for use at concerts? [more inside]
posted by maledictory at 11:10 PM PST - 27 comments
posted by maledictory at 11:10 PM PST - 27 comments
Looking for Housing in San Juan, Puerto Rico
Help me find residential (NON-vacation) housing in San Juan, Puerto Rico please [more inside]
How do I hide the evidence from work?
I am returning a laptop to my employer that I have used exclusively for the last two years. I have used it as a personal machine and need to erase all evidence of my (non-work) use. I have backed up everything that needs to transfer so a clean wipe and re-install would be ok. [more inside]
Help! I need friends/socialization/stress relief
I am not good at interacting with people, making friends, or handling stress. [more inside]
smogfilter
What are we supposed to do during a smog alert? [more inside]
posted by heatherann at 9:17 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by heatherann at 9:17 PM PST - 9 comments
Up on the roof in a thong, giving new meaning to butt shingles.
I have been having a heck of a time trying to find work clothes suited for women. I finally found a pair of work gloves that aren't way too big, but I would really like a pair of Carhartt-type bib overalls. I tried some on earlier this evening and although they had sizes that corresponded to the size of men's jeans that I wear, the legs of the pants were voluminous, clown-like, and just uncomfortably large. It seems as though they are cut with a larger/different body type in mind than a 5'3" female. Are there any comparable work clothes out there that, without being pink or other such nonsense, are more suited to a woman's frame?
polling LDAP for changes
LDAPFilter: I'm writing an application that stores its configuration in an LDAP server. I'd like to have it poll the server and reload itself when the configuration changes. What's the best way to do this? [more inside]
posted by sbutler at 7:56 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by sbutler at 7:56 PM PST - 4 comments
Help me teach my mom how to use a computer.
My 80 year old Mom would like to learn to use a laptop. She is homebound and so classes are out of the question, and I live on the other side of the country. Any suggestions for books, tutorial programs, etc? She is very very intimidated (and anxious by nature) so the more basic the better. She understands the concepts of what the internet is and what a web page is and what links are, it's the actual turning on booting up double clicking mechanics of use that's scaring her. Anyone have resources that worked with their parents? (Sorry if we've been through this, I can't find it if so).
Personal Topiary
I have a rambling, multi-part question regarding hair, beards in particular, and hair care products. (Short version: what should I use to wash and possibly style my beard?) [more inside]
posted by attercoppe at 7:44 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by attercoppe at 7:44 PM PST - 6 comments
My laptop wants to kill me
Why does my laptop make me sick? [more inside]
Fiat 500 (Cinquecento)
I was offered a Fiat 500, 1971, good condition for $6,000 (USD)
(more inside)
support vanishing wildlife ... where to start?
I'm would like to help support vanishing wildlife and ecosystems - I am already a sierra club and NRDC member, but I would like to do some more localized giving perhaps to the gorilla fund, or jane goodall ... [more inside]
posted by specialk420 at 6:22 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by specialk420 at 6:22 PM PST - 6 comments
Help us prepare for the fanciest dinner of our lives.
Help us prepare for the fanciest dinner of our lives. [more inside]
Embarrassing but true: basic algebra eludes me, how do I solve this equation?
Follow up Filter. Last week on AskMe I asked for help getting a formula to calculate "future value" in excel. blue mustard came through with the perfect answer: "fv = pv (1+r)n + pmt ((1+r)n - (1+q)n) / (r-q)" Now, I need to have a formula I can plug into excel that solves for q in blue mustard's formula. [more inside]
Trouble Installing Jimmy Neutron Game on XP
Help my 5 year old! Trouble installing a Jimmy Neutron game ('95, '98, ME) on a windows XP box. [more inside]
posted by LarryC at 4:47 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by LarryC at 4:47 PM PST - 6 comments
What are your recommendations for fantasy stock exchange websites?
What are the best mock stock exchange websites out there? What ones are to be avoided? [more inside]
CSS tabs for centered pages
Does anybody know of an example of navigation tabs created with CSS that will work in a page with centered content? [more inside]
posted by DakotaPaul at 4:22 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by DakotaPaul at 4:22 PM PST - 2 comments
What's that beeping?
What's that beeping sound I hear everywhere? It starts with one long beep, then 6-8 short staccato beeps. (I.e. BUUUUUH, BUH--BUH--BUH--BUH--BUH--BUH) It happens sporadically, but frequently. I hear it everywhere -- phone calls, my stereo speakers, computers, the car radio. I heard it for the first time a year or two ago.
posted by brain_drain at 4:09 PM PST - 18 comments
posted by brain_drain at 4:09 PM PST - 18 comments
Any advice on choosing a managed Exchange provider?
How do I choose an MS Exchange hosting company? [more inside]
Website invoicing
I need to submit an invoice to a university dept for a website I made for them. What format do these usually come in? Do I just say hours x hour rate = y?
posted by Mossy at 3:41 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by Mossy at 3:41 PM PST - 8 comments
Hopefully that creepy dancing guy won't be there
Is there any way I can find attendance statistics for amusement parks? Planning a trip to Six Flags here in Maryland. My theory: July 5th would be a good day to go. It's my belief that people are more likely to take off Friday for a 4 day weekend, than a Tuesday, and other's would be lees likely to take a day off, since it's just after a holiday, so July 5th would be less crowded than normal. Everyone else seems to think I'm crazy and that any day near a holiday would be a mess.
If no one knows where I can get statistics, I will certainly accept opinions on the validity/insanity of my theory.
Stuff in Paris
I'm in Paris until Monday, and I want recommendations on restaurants, etc. [more inside]
posted by The Michael The at 1:30 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by The Michael The at 1:30 PM PST - 13 comments
Safely Storing Mp3 Files
I have over 20,000 mp3 (legal) files, which I want to be stored safely for decades to come, and I'm looking for deviece suggestions. [more inside]
posted by AMWKE at 12:44 PM PST - 40 comments
posted by AMWKE at 12:44 PM PST - 40 comments
Why's 'existential detective' funny?
What makes the job title of 'Existential Detective' from 'I Heart Huckabees' so funny? [more inside]
posted by whatitis at 12:25 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by whatitis at 12:25 PM PST - 12 comments
Morals vs Ethics
What's the difference between morals and ethics anyway? Anybody? [more inside]
posted by cillit bang at 12:01 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by cillit bang at 12:01 PM PST - 16 comments
Hitler and the occult
Were Hitler and the Nazis actually interested/involved in the occult, as so many movies (Raiders, Hellboy) say? [more inside]
Badger badger badger..
What is your experience with button/badge makers? [more inside]
Source of "Soviet-style" posters on DC Metro?
Jason Kottke, BoingBoing and a couple other places have picked up the story of a Soviet-style poster that's been spotted on the DC-area Metro. Looking at it carefully, I just can't believe that this is genuine; for one thing, the poster's artwork just doesn't fit (take a glance at the hand just behind the head of the man in the foreground -- this is obviously a hand holding a flag, not someone grasping a pole in a Metro car). I've been looking through galleries of old Soviet propaganda posters all morning to see if I can find a source it could have been Photoshopped from, but without luck.
Does anyone know more about this poster and whether it is genuine? Or if it isn't, what the actual source is?
How do you handle witnessing small scale injustice when in public spaces?
On public transit last night, I watched a man tell off a panhandler with such vitriol I found it roundly disturbing. Yet, I did and said nothing. How do you all, and how should I in the future, handle these moments of small scale injustice? [more inside]
Have online grocers or drug stores become practical?
I live in Los Angeles, and I was wondering whether online grocers or drugstores have become practical, cost-effective, or actually convenient yet. I figure the day will probably come when ordering baking soda or toothpaste online makes more sense than driving to the store. How far away is that day?
pda-less
I am looking into buying a Blackberry-type of device. I will be in my car and on the road a great deal with my new job. I need to be able to operate my phone hands-free, check email, browse the internet, etc.
What device/phone service provider should I consider using... personal experiences would be appreciated.
Yar, we be geeks here.
Ok, very nerdy Star Wars storyline question, which is inside, as it contains a spoiler for Episode 3. [more inside]
posted by o2b at 9:48 AM PST - 43 comments
posted by o2b at 9:48 AM PST - 43 comments
What makes a country attractive?
Help me with my senior research: What makes a country attractive to others? [more inside]
Is there a decent fax/printer combo?
My employer is offering to buy me a replacement for my fax/printer/scanner unit that I hate. Does anyone know of a decent one? I don't need the scanner part. [more inside]
posted by 5MeoCMP at 9:13 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by 5MeoCMP at 9:13 AM PST - 12 comments
Like a Chinchilla in the Heat
I have a pet chinchilla (Fred). I live in Boston. My apartment has no air conditioning, and it's getting hot. How can I help the little guy stay cool? [more inside]
Help me write my own ticket!
I've been recruited to help start a company. Help me write my own ticket. [more inside]
Church heating question
BTUFilter II: I'm looking for any input on replacing a steam boiler, which is cracked, with a hot water unit. [more inside]
Simplified sizing of air conditioners
BTUFilter: I'm looking for a plain and simple calculation to size an air conditioner based on cubic feet. [more inside]
Windows data backup options
What's your favorite Windows XP data backup option? [more inside]
Sound in Firefox
Is there a way to disable sound in Firefox, expecially from Flash? [more inside]
posted by andrewzipp at 7:56 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by andrewzipp at 7:56 AM PST - 5 comments
I've built it, now how I do I get them to come?
We've just added a new intranet site to our company's suite of communications tools. I've customized the site, added some appropriate materials, and sent invites to some key players across our company. Now what? [more inside]
WiFI or Wi-Fi?
WiFi or Wi-Fi? I keep getting asked which it technically is. Does anyone have any documentation to back up which it is.
An example: www.wi-fiplanet.com. It has a hyphen. The WiFi Alliance doesn't. Which is correct?
posted by wflanagan at 7:24 AM PST - 13 comments
posted by wflanagan at 7:24 AM PST - 13 comments
Powerpoint at a distance.
We have separate campuses and lectures from one are often transmitted from one campus to another so students don't have to travel. Problem: many lecturers use powerpoint projections, filming the lecturer at one end doesn't always show up what's happening on screen, what's being pointed at, etc. [MI] [more inside]
Oakland. CA neighborhoods
Tell me about the different neighborhoods in Oakland, CA. [more inside]
During the night why are my legs so warm?
I'm a 50 year old male who, over the past two or three summers, has had my sleep disturbed by frequently waking up with what seems like abnormally warm legs and feet, even when the bedroom feels cool. What's going on? Is it a consequence of aging? Any thoughts about what can be done about it would be appreciated.
How can I get started doing freelance technical documentation?
I've been working in the tech industry for 7 years, and been using computers and the Internet since I was a kid. I've just graduated college with a degree in English, and at every company I've worked at I've done some documentation work. I'd like to start doing this on the side to bring in some extra income. [more inside]
VT wedding officiant
I've been asked by friends to officiate their late August wedding in Vermont. [more inside]
posted by MarkAnd at 6:03 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by MarkAnd at 6:03 AM PST - 4 comments
Where Does He Get Those Wonderful Toys?
The pdf manifestos over at Change This are gorgeous! How are they doing it? [more inside]
posted by willmize at 5:06 AM PST - 17 comments
posted by willmize at 5:06 AM PST - 17 comments
Installing/living with a car port?
Car ports. How hard is it to install one yourself? Do your neighbors care if you put up a car port in your driveway? [more inside]
Easy DVD creation on newish Dell?
A friend of the family has a newish Dell, purchased in the last month. They want to make DVDs from a MiniDV camcorder that is playable on home players. They spent some time using Windows Movie Maker, only to discover that what it made were .avi movies, and not actual DVDs.
I work on a Mac, and have suggested the Mac/iMovie/iDVD combination, but really don't know what to suggest for their platform of choice ... [more inside]
posted by jpburns at 4:44 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by jpburns at 4:44 AM PST - 5 comments
bands that stylistically turned 180°?
i'm doing a themed music set at the college station i dj at and i'm thinking about doing a set of bands that have changed their sound drastically in their lifetime. can anyone give me some ideas? [more inside]
I vant to suck your bloooooooooooood.
Do scented lotions really attract bugs? If so, are there ingredients to avoid, or is it an effect of the perfume? Is getting an "unscented" lotion good enough (they can contain perfumes too), or should I be searching for something specifically designed to not attract bugs? Any recommendations? I'm going to be spending a while in West Africa, and while I'll be vaccinated and talking malaria meds, I want to do everything I can to avoid mosquito bites.
Want auto broker, not broke auto.
AutoBrokerFilter: I'm trying to get hold of a specific make model and year of car (Audi A8 2001). Where I live (West Coast) these cars have v. high mileages, whereas on the East Coast they have low mileages. So... [more inside]
June 8
Grant me this one question.
So I have some questions about grant writing. I recently became curious in earning some extra cash by writing grants, and I am interested to hear any tips/advice/warnings or otherwise from you all... [more inside]
MS Meds Compared
After years of doctor visits, tests, pain, tingling, and everything else, my wife was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Her Neuro recommends Avonex; the decision on which med is up to us. I'm looking for non-biased, objective web sites comparing the various Interferon treatments. I'd also like to hear the experiences of others. [more inside]
no more noah23?
Ahhhhhhh nerts! I dropped one of my favorite music CDs and a small sliver shattered off of it. We're talking a circular arc maybe 2.5 cm long by .5 a centiment deep, knocked clean off the edge. It looks like a smurf bit it. Is there any combination of bubble-gum/hot-glue/duct-tape that will make this thing playable? [more inside]
Selling a home without Agent
I am trying to sell my very inexpensive condo. What is required for me to do sell it without an agent? [more inside]
posted by curiousleo at 6:24 PM PST - 17 comments
posted by curiousleo at 6:24 PM PST - 17 comments
How to best move across the country?
I'm planning on moving from North Carolina to Austin, Texas in about 10 weeks, but am wary of hiring lousy movers or making some critical mistake, including paying too much! Any advice or best practices? Anything that I should avoid?
posted by skechada at 5:25 PM PST - 17 comments
posted by skechada at 5:25 PM PST - 17 comments
How do I taking pictures of moving things?
When I take pictures of moving things (like fidgety kids, etc) with my Canon Powershot A95, the pictures are often blurry where the motion is. The manual is extremely brief on this. Can someone tell me what I should be doing that I'm not?
Knowing a phone number's provider.
Is there a way — given a phone number — to know the provider of the phone service? [more inside]
posted by silusGROK at 4:23 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by silusGROK at 4:23 PM PST - 6 comments
Two motorcycle questions
I have two motorcycle questions. 1) My horn sounds like an immitation of the road runner "meep" sound. I feel like cars would pay attention to a louder, strong horn; can I purchase one that sounds better, or is my 12v (12Ah) battery the problem? 2) When I pass other motorcycles on the road, the riders always wave hello... is there a code here I should know about? Is there some signal for cop ahead or bad road conditions, etc?
I'm trying to rework my (largely) notional record label website into more of a free frequently updating mp3 blog thing.
I'm trying to rework my (largely) notional record label website into more of a free frequently updating mp3 blog thing. [more inside]
posted by Swampjazz! at 2:45 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by Swampjazz! at 2:45 PM PST - 5 comments
FrenchCoffeeFilter
Complete coffee neophyte in search of French Canadian brewing technique... [more inside]
posted by AlexReynolds at 2:23 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by AlexReynolds at 2:23 PM PST - 12 comments
9 pin serial mouse question
"There's a 9 pin serial mouse cable. I have orange, blue, green and white wires. Which is ground?"
Yarn shops in Paris?
Does anyone have any suggestions for good yarn shops in Paris?
Fear of cranes?
What would the irrational fear of construction cranes be called? I'm looking for a word in the form [Greek or Latin root]phobia. I've checked a few lists of phobias, but it doesn't show up. Any suggestions/neologisms?
Why do bugs skeeve me out?
European Navigation Devices
I'm looking for a portable GPS-type navigation device that has good road maps especially for southern France, Germany and Italy. [more inside]
Pismo DVD Drive Dead?
I recently acquired a G3/Pismo via ebay and decided to upgrade the hard drive. Upon doing so, my dvd/cd drive no longer functions; Help me sort through my options! [more inside]
A girl I really care for has Herpes. Is this a dating dealbreaker?
Should I consider Herpes a deal-breaker before getting into a relationship? [more inside]
How can epilepsy affect sexual desire?
I've just started seeing a really wonderful guy, and so far, I'm, finding two things unusual about him. Firstly, he has epilepsy. Secondly, he won't go down on me. This may sound lame-brained, but I'm wondering if there's a connection between the two. [more inside]
Mega-trouble at work - or is it meta-trouble?
A coworker had an informal chat with our manager's boss this morning, and was told that our department should ignore anything our manager tells us to do, including direct orders, especially if it would make a customer unhappy. Help! [more inside]
Banks abroad for US folks?
I am preparing for a lengthy (read: years) international trip to a number of different countries. One thing I need to get resolved before I go is to identify a bank that is based in Europe or Asia with branches in the US, so that I can effectively access, manage, and move funds while I am out of the country. I'm not interested in tax evasion or other illicit activity, just convenience and good service. Are there any banks that are based outside of the US and commonly accessible in most European countries? Extra points if they have good online features.
How to digitize audio cassettes quickly?
I've got a large collection of audio books on cassette that I'd like to digitize. I'd like to find a way to do this at faster than real-time speed (a good number of these audio books are 12 hours or more in length. Any suggestions for a simple, cheap method of doing this? Thanks!
Leaving the U.S.A.
Before the U.S. Election, a number of people said that they would move to Canada or elsewhere or even renounce their citizenship if Bush won. Does anyone know of anyone who may have actually done this? Or how to find such a person? [more inside]
Medical MetaTax Advice
Tax day is now long-gone. But I hoped that any and all tax-savvy Metafilts might know what I'm trying to know. Is residential rent- or some portion thereof- deductible if moving to a first-floor unit is required for medical reasons? Read on for specs... [more inside]
How to get multiple Office docs into one unified document
My workplace has developed a training curriculum using various Office documents. I need to figure out a way to 'bind' them into one large document... [more inside]
Bad Photography
I need some BAD photographs (bad lighting conditions, etc.). [more inside]
Bridge and Tunnel crowd
I just learned the term "bridge and tunnel crowd" which refers to people from the suburbs who come out on the weekends to the Manhattan [more inside]
I'm looking for a portable amplifier for performing.
Can anyone recommend a small, portable, battery-powered voice amplifier that would work well for a street performer? [more inside]
Bands with singers who can really sing?
What are some good bands with lead singers who can (and do) really sing? The best example I can think of is Queen. I also like Ben Folds Five and The Shins.
How can I learn to read faster?
How can I learn to read faster? [more inside]
Cigarette butts: litter?
Why do many (most?) smokers consider it acceptable to throw their used butts on the sidewalk/out the window, when they wouldn't even think about throwing other types of trash on the ground?
posted by UKnowForKids at 8:47 AM PST - 50 comments
posted by UKnowForKids at 8:47 AM PST - 50 comments
Yes, I'm going to Haiti San Miguel de Allende for the first time. Anyone ever go? Tips?
My girlfriend and I have sadly cancelled our trip to Haiti and are headed for San Miguel. We're picking up information quickly, but leaving tomorrow. Any tips on cheap lodging, good eats, things to do, day trips, environmental concerns, etc. would be helpful.
posted by hellbient at 8:29 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by hellbient at 8:29 AM PST - 5 comments
What's happening to this guitar?
What is Low's Alan Sparhawk doing to his guitar? [more inside]
Bulk printing under windows xp/2000?
How the heck can I bulk print thousands of mixed documents under Windows 2000? [more inside]
Bare Breastfeeding Boobies, Baby!
I hoped the subject would catch your interest, dear Ask MeFi reader. I'm talking about breasts. Specifically, breasts being used for their intended purpose, feeding a baby. Recent news events have brought this timeless issue back to the forefront again, and the timing couldn't be more appropriate -- My wife and I need some advice! [more inside]
Banking between US & Australia
I am moving from the US to Australia (Sydney) in a few weeks and am interested to know if anyone has advice and experiences in managing bank accounts between countries. [more inside]
posted by qwip at 7:42 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by qwip at 7:42 AM PST - 7 comments
Options for secure data storage?
What are my best options for safely storing in excess of 700Gb of data? [more inside]
posted by ScottUltra at 7:42 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by ScottUltra at 7:42 AM PST - 12 comments
Creative Muvo as PC Tuner?
I'm thinking of getting a Creative Muvo V200 MP3 player, ostensibly to have a USB drive and an FM radio in one. So I'm wondering, is it possible to listen to the FM radio on this thing while it's plugged into the USB port on a PC? [more inside]
posted by bruceyeah at 7:06 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by bruceyeah at 7:06 AM PST - 7 comments
Summer Reading List
So, what books are on your summer reading list (or, your winter reading list for our friends in the Southern Hemisphere)?
She's the one...?
How do you know when you have met "the one?" [more inside]
posted by VulcanMike at 5:23 AM PST - 51 comments
posted by VulcanMike at 5:23 AM PST - 51 comments
Where to live in Lawrence
What apartments do I want to live in Lawrence, Kansas? [more inside]
Thunderbird problems
So I use Thunderbird, and am generally pretty happy with it. I have a couple of problems, though, which the Mozilla knowledge base isn't helping me with. More on filters and weird duplicated downloading inside... [more inside]
How do I properly burn a CD?
I have a file that I want to burn to CD. Easy, yeah, but due to the important nature of the project I want to make sure I do it right... [more inside]
Is now an especially good or especially bad time to buy a home?
My wife and I are tired of renting, and looking to buy a place we can call our own. Given current real estate prices, but low interest rates, is now a particularly good or particularly bad time to move ahead with a home purchase? [more inside]
posted by psmealey at 3:04 AM PST - 24 comments
posted by psmealey at 3:04 AM PST - 24 comments
the c-word (not NEARLY as sexy as the l-word)
Ugh. This is not a fun question. So (if you're a guy, at least), you know how you're supposed to do a testicular self-exam once every couple months? Well... [more inside]
Currency conversion
What is the most cost-effective way to convert $40K US dollars into pounds Sterling? [more inside]
Danube Cruise
Budapest to Prague by riverboat Artistry via the Danube and Main/Danube Canal. Advice needed. [more inside]
Capitalization of the web?
The web or the Web; internet or Internet? Do you capitalize them? I'm trying to get a sense of common usage on the net (or Net). Do you, or don't you? And why? As a data point, we don't write the Ocean and the Sky, but some people do write the Moon, and some the moon. I don't care what the experts say; what's the emergent convention? What do YOU do?
Trying to Move to Japan
On June 26th I will be leaving the US for Japan and I hope to stay there for a long time. I am not worried about the language (I have been studying it at university for about 3 years and when I get to Japan I will be taking summer school courses for 6 weeks) or finding a place to live (I'm going to look into the "gaijin houses" or geshuku). My biggest concern is finding a job. I've already taught English at one of the big eikaiwas and I did not like it. Plus, teaching/speaking English for 8 hours a day does not help my Japanese. What I really want is a job where I can use my Japanese so that I can improve it. Does anyone have any general advice for finding a job like this in Japan (places to look, tests to take, etc)?
Also, I've been reading up on the Japanese work visa and I've come to the conclusion that the whole thing is a big pain. As far as I can tell there are 2 ways to get a work visa: 1) get a job before you enter Japan and have the company do all the paperwork. Then, when you do enter Japan you will have your visa. 2) Find a job in Japan, return to the US for 1~2 months so that the paperwork can be processed, then return to Japan with the visa.
It is a little late for #1, plus it's difficult for me to interview for jobs since I'm currently in the US. As for #2, what sort of company would hire someone who can't even start working for a month? I feel like the system is set up to deter people like me from coming and working in Japan.
Anyway, if anyone has any advice I would really appreciate it.
June 7
Old Mac Memory
Having recently splashed out on a nice black PowerMac 5500/275, I want to upgrade the RAM. I'm aware that it takes 168pin, 5v EDO DRAM (up to two 64mb DIMMS), but finding these in the UK is tough. I won two 64mb chips on eBay at 1p, but they're the wrong voltage. Anyone know a (cheap) supplier of the stuff here in England?
Hooking up with old friends
How are you about being contacted by old friends? Not in the singles scene kind of way, but in the "old friends" kind of way. A general question - not really seeking insight or advice. [more inside]
posted by ValveAnnex at 9:34 PM PST - 19 comments
posted by ValveAnnex at 9:34 PM PST - 19 comments
Mac Processor Upgrade
This old Mac: My 450 Mhz G4 has held up for about 5 years now. I was on the market for a new iMac G5, but as we Mac people will be wanting to upgrade to intel machines in a couple years, this seems like an unwise purchase (the Osborne effect and all). So I'm thinking a processor upgrade might be a good stopgap. Anyone have any experience with this?
Can I mount my iPod's hard drive to a computer?
My [mac-formatted] iPod seems to have died but a friend of mine is convinced that he can resurrect the hard drive if we can mount it to a machine. We've disassembled the iPod (3rd generation) and removed the hard drive (Toshiba MK1504GAL, 15GB 1.8-inch embedded HDD, 50-pin) and now I'm planning to buy a Slimline CDROM to Desktop IDE Adapter to connect the little drive to a desktop enhanced IDE 40-pin connector. Has anyone successfully done anything like this? Is this total insanity?
What is this pre-1992 YA book?
In high school, I read a book that I remember being titled "The Island Girl." It seems like it would be easy to find this book since I have a title, unfortunately, I'm not entirely sure that's the title, and even if it were, there are approximately nine million books named "The Island Girl." [more inside]
posted by headspace at 7:31 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by headspace at 7:31 PM PST - 3 comments
Tattoos
Why have tattoos become so universal? [more inside]
Historical fiction featuring Renaissance popes?
I've been reading Barbara Tuchman's The March of Folly, an account of notable historical episodes where governing bodies persisted in the pursuit of policies contrary to the interests of the governed. Among the most amusing and weird episodes is the history of the papacy in the decades around 1500 -- when popes led troops in battle, presided over orgies, and generally fiddled while Rome was about to be sacked (in 1527).
Anyone know of a really sprightly historical novel on this subject?
A good psychiatrist in Denver?
Can anyone recommend a good psychiatrist in Denver? Probably for depression. I've read earlier posts about nutrition, water and exercise which are all good and have helped in the past, for awhile, and I'd love to find someone who would take nutrition into account but friends are starting to say "Go see someone!" and I'm about at the end of my rope & hanging by my teeth.
I get the impression from my doc's office that they just recommend whoever is on their list, sort of like 1-800 DENTIST. My email is jsanctuary at aol dot com if you'd rather not post. Thanks guys.
I want a goddamned concerted effort to come out of a record that isn't a fucking up-tempo record every time I do a goddamned DEATH dedication
A few minutes ago I was about to turn into my driveway when I noticed a car already in it ... should I be worried about someone casing my place? [more inside]
Two (kind of related) economics questions
EconomicsFilter: When someone claims that it's too expensive (i.e. would damage the economy) to upgrade an industry to a more environmentally clean process, I have always assumed this was a specious claim since the costs spent on one side would be added to the economy by the environmental company. Am I missing something? Is there a real loss here for the economy in general that I am not seeing? [more inside]
posted by OmieWise at 3:33 PM PST - 32 comments
posted by OmieWise at 3:33 PM PST - 32 comments
How do I give a Best Man's Speach/Toast
Help! I am the Best Man in a wedding on Saturday. I understand I am expected to give a speach/toast at some point. Problem is, the last time I was at a wedding I was 10 years-old. I have no idea what kind of speech or toast the Best Man gives... What is traditional of the Best Man's speech, when is it given, etc....
I'm relocating to NYC...help?
I'm ready to move to NYC. I grew up in NY (suburbs), have tons of friends/business associates up there, I'm young, have no attachments (relationship-wise), and I have a decent career. But I have a ton of questions and need help because I would like to be living there by end of summer... [more inside]
Bisphenol-A Substitutes
Are there affordable substitutes for Bisphenol-A that can be used to create clear, hard plastics in a variety of tints, and that are food safe? [more inside]
Web-based in/out board
I'm looking for a web-based in/out board for an office of about 100-150 folks. It needs to be inexpensive, good-looking, customizable, and stable. [more inside]
How to get rid of plantar warts
Mildly embarrassing dermatology filter. [more inside]
I teleported to work today
I own a 1994 850 Volvo Wagon with approximately 168,910 miles on it. Last night, I reset the odometer to show zero miles after filling the gas tank. This morning, on the way to work, I noticed that the odometer never budged. Still sitting at zero. So, the car is still showing 168,910 miles despite having gone an additional 20 miles or so. What do I check to get the count going again? Do I need to take my car to the shop? Is this something I can fix myself (read: have my handy-dandy husband fix for me)?
posted by onhazier at 2:19 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by onhazier at 2:19 PM PST - 10 comments
Origin of the human as half angel, half devil?
Who is the originator of the familiar literary trope that human beings are half lofty/angelic, half base? [more inside]
Linux partition superblocks destroyed. Suggestions?
Our linux server got invaded and the intruder scrambled the superblocks, probably to cover his tracks. Not realizing what had happened, we (gulp) cycled the machine without first attempting any backups. Do we have any options? [more inside]
Installing OS X without a DVD burner
I have: 1) G3 iBook 500 running OS 9.2 w/ a CD-Rom, firewire, and ethernet 2) iMac G5 w/ dvd, firewire, ethernet; Panther and Tiger on DVD. Any way to get OS X onto the iBook? I'm hoping I can somehow use the iMac's DVD drive to install OS X onto the iBook. [more inside]
Healthy Snack Foods
So I'm trying to eat better...and one thing I would love to get a better grasp on is the snack time between meals. What has everyone come up with concerning such snacks? There are the basics, such as celery with peanut butter, fruit, and yogurt(etc). What I am searching for are the snacks that are a bit more creative or outside the typical realm of what people think of when they hear "a healthy snack". I am interested in everything you got! Bring it on metaFreaks!
Slipcover for irregular sofa
I have a sectional sofa with a chaise section. I'd like to get a slipcover, as my cat has gone to town on the fabric. Does anyone make a prefab slipcover for this kind of sofa, or do I need to go the custom route?
Split characters?
Any recommendations for books, movies or other where the main character is split – either along Freudian lines (Ego/Superego/Id) or just the simple Good Guy/Bad Guy divide (whether clearly stated or not)? [May contain mild spoilers on any number of things inside] [more inside]
Apple Dev Intel specs
I am trying to hunt down some detailed technical specifications for the ApTel "developer's" box. I can't find this on any of the rumor sites or the official apple site.
Eyebrow waxing and acne
I had my eyebrows waxed for the first time ever yesterday and half of my forehead is now full of tiny zits. [more inside]
Film Noir Music
MusicFilter: I'm looking for music that I like to think of as "film noir music": small combo jazz with no lyrics, usually one horn, keyboards, and a bass. In my head it sounds sad and mournful. I'm at a loss for examples too. Can any mefites step up and suggest music to read Chandler or Hammett by?
Intelligence then and now.
Do you think you are a smarter person than the average upper-middle class person of 300 years ago? [more inside]
Hujos de Coca
Hola peeps. I am trekking through Peru and want to take a very small amount of Coca leaves back to the states with me for tea, etc. I can't find any info on whether this is legal or not. Your thoughts? Gracias in advance!
posted by moonbird at 10:57 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by moonbird at 10:57 AM PST - 15 comments
converting VHS tapes to DVD using combo units?
I am thinking converting bunch of VHS tapes recorded in LP format to DVDs. These are 6 hr tapes I think. I was looking at the option of those combo units that come with the DVD recorder and VCR units. I was wondering if somebody can tell me how do these units deal with 6+ hr long video tapes ? do they automatically break the content up into separate DVDs or can they compress the content enough to fit into one DVD ?
thanks
Why is the shelf life of organic milk so much longer than non-organic?
Can anyone tell me why the expiration date of organic milk is so much longer than conventional milk..like > 1 month? Any farmers out there? Scientists? Cows? Thank you.
posted by ParisParamus at 9:47 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by ParisParamus at 9:47 AM PST - 14 comments
Pointy Haired Filter
I seek examples of unusual or funny nicknames people in your places of employment have given other people, and how they came to be. [more inside]
Where do credit unions come from?
I am a credit union kind of person. There are no credit unions in my county. Traveling to the nearest credit union is too great a hardship to be a suitable solution. Is there a way I could cause a credit union to be formed here? What is involved in establishing a credit union?
Why are CD/DVD releases always on Tuesday?
They're talking today about "Super CD Tuesday" on MSNBC...Why are CD/DVD releases always on Tuesday?
posted by clgregor at 8:57 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by clgregor at 8:57 AM PST - 11 comments
Buying poker chips in Toronto
Where can I buy poker chips in Toronto? I'm looking for something nicer than what the dollar stores are offering, and Google is no help for obvious reasons. I imagine I'm looking for a gaming store of some kind, but I don't know where to start looking. Downtown is preferable, but anywhere TTCable is doable. I don't mind spending up to fifty or sixty dollars for a set which will accomodate eight players—is this reasonable?
posted by DrJohnEvans at 8:52 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by DrJohnEvans at 8:52 AM PST - 10 comments
Colorectal Cancer Primer?
Dad had his sigmoid colon resected to remove cancerous tissue. Since then there was a follow up visit (I wasn't there which indicated that it's stage 3 (spread to lymphatic system but not to other organs). [more inside]
Tokyo housing
Help me find housing in Tokyo. [more inside]
Adware problems
I am experiencing a problem with adware. Several files are showing up on a regular basis with the designation "Booked Space." I can delete them using Ad-Aware, but they just turn up again (about fifteen files at a time) a few hours later, wreaking all kinds of havoc. Any idea where they come from or what to do about them?
A Better Roach Trap
I found an enormous cockroach in my car. How do I get it out of there? [more inside]
Do speaker enclosures matter, outdoors?
I am building a stereo system designed to be used out of doors. Do speaker enclosures matter? [more inside]
pointy umbrellas
I'm trying to find if there's a reason why umbrellas have big spikes at the end opposite the handle. [more inside]
America's Family Home Pr0n
Did America's Funniest Home Videos just broadcast kiddyporn? [more inside]
June 6
How much should this cost?
How much should I expect to pay for my wedding rings? Just doing some preliminary research in regards to the rings, I've already found a range of prices, both far below and above what I expected to be charged for these. Has anyone had any recent experience with this? What can I expect? Is there a significant price difference between in-store and online ring shopping?
Browser for Palm
As a new convert to Getting Things Done, I want to incorporate the GTDTiddlyWiki into my Palm Tungsten T. In order to do that I need a web browser of some sort but can't seem to find one that is A.) free and B.) designed for the Palm. Any suggestions for an application I could download? Is this even possible?
How Do I Write A FSBO Offer Letter?
So, I'm thinking of putting an offer an a "For Sale By Owner" (FSBO) house. Having never bought a house without the assistance of a realator, and being interested in trying it out alone, I find myself in need of writing an "offer letter." Anyone have any example offer letters, or know where I could find some on the internet? [more inside]
Etiquette on Letter of Recommendation for Graduate School
I am about to embark on grad school applications, but I'm not sure on how to go about asking for a letter of recommendation from a particular professor. [more inside]
posted by christin at 10:18 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by christin at 10:18 PM PST - 13 comments
I am going to hitchhike from June 7th to June 20th. Being new to this, I could use some advice.
I am going to hitchhike from June 7th to June 20th. Being new to this, I could use some advice. [more inside]
Please help my mom ID this painting
ArtFilter: My mother remembers this print hanging in her grandfathers house. She's asked her father and aunt about it, but they don't have any information. Image 1
Image 2
She's sure its some mythological story or legend, and its driving her crazy.
Any info as to who this woman is, anything about the original painting, anything at all would be a great help. We've searched google for every term we can think of, with no luck.
posted by korej at 9:07 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by korej at 9:07 PM PST - 12 comments
Spilled primer on dark carpet. Am I SOL?
Arrrrrrgh! Spilled a LOT of primer on dark outdoor carpeting (in the breezeway). Anybody ever successfully cleaned this up, or am I doomed to replace the rug? [more inside]
posted by clever sheep at 7:10 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by clever sheep at 7:10 PM PST - 4 comments
Please help psychoanalyse my pussy...
...cat i mean. Pussy cat!! He's taken to peeing on my furniture. What should i do? [more inside]
posted by ramix at 6:06 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by ramix at 6:06 PM PST - 15 comments
Will our vegetable love grow?
If you don't fall in love with someone quickly will you fall in love with them at all? [more inside]
Help me choose a career!
Today at a job interview for a marketing position at a law firm, the lady interviewing me expressed her concern that I would find the job boring because I am overqualified for it. My question has two parts: how do you respond when an interviewer tells you something like that? And, if I'm so overqualified for this marketing job, what kind of job should I be looking for? [more inside]
What rap should I listen to?
What rap should I listen to? [more inside]
AMP + WordPress on Windows XP?
Heh. I am in the strange position of being far more capable of managing Unix/Linux/OS X than I am Windows XP, and, for development purposes, I'd like to install WordPress on my Windows box. [more inside]
Keeping Cool
Do you have any clever tricks for keeping your apartment cool during the summer? [more inside]
How do local channels on satellite TV work?
During a vicious thunderstorm last night, our DirecTV satellite lost the signal for all of our channels except the local ones. This has also happened before. What I'm wondering is, how are these channels delivered? [more inside]
posted by Kosh at 4:46 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by Kosh at 4:46 PM PST - 3 comments
Knuckle-Cracking: Good? Bad? How do I stop?
As far as my Google-fu will take me, knuckle cracking is "probably not" associated with arthritis, and "maybe bad for other reasons" over long periods of time. I'm addicted to cracking my knuckles, and I'd like to get more info on the following:
1. Any new or particularly informative studies on the subject? All I can seem to find are medical studies using ridiculously few numbers of people.
2. Any more info on the non-arthritis side effects of knuckle cracking?
3. How on earth do I stop? My hands hurt when I don't crack them, and I do it unconsciously in movie theaters, operas, everywhere. Toes too.
DVD Storage Solutions?
What are some good ideas for storing 1K+ dvds? [more inside]
Literature involving Morocco
I've got a couple of friends that are getting married shortly and then taking off to Morocco for a couple of years early this Fall. Given the unique nature of the first few years of their marraige, they don't have a conventional registry. I'd like to get them a couple of books that are either set in Morocco or deal with Moroccan people elsewhere. [more inside]
Online Personals
I'm looking to meet people in the Orlando area. Anyone have good advice on online personals or meeting people in general? [more inside]
Am I nuts?
I'm obsessed with quantifying things and ranking things. While it doesn't seem to have any negative effects on my life, I do think about it constantly. Am I obsessive-compulsive? Should I talk to a psychatrist? I was afraid to talk about it for most of my life (referring to it as my "research project"), but now I'm starting to open up about it, and it's making me consider how it could be affecting my personality. [more inside]
Tattoo Symbols?
A friend just got sober and turns 40 next week. I'm buying her a tattoo to celebrate both. [more inside]
Multiple-monitor woes
I've been trying to use multiple monitors with my laptop and while it works, there are a couple of weird issues that make it not very usable. I can't tell if it's an issue with Windows, Office, or the hardware. [more inside]
Emotional support for dogs?
How can you help a dog deal with the loneliness after the death of a sibling? [more inside]
Things to do in Boston this weekend?
In Boston Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Best way to get around? Best museums? Best place for lunch, dinner? [more inside]
posted by Floydd at 1:22 PM PST - 20 comments
posted by Floydd at 1:22 PM PST - 20 comments
Verizon Sucks
I hate big corporations. I really do. They're enormous behemoths that can't be fought. Or when you do try to fight them, it's futile; you get squashed. Help me fight a behemoth. [more inside]
posted by jdroth at 12:20 PM PST - 30 comments
posted by jdroth at 12:20 PM PST - 30 comments
Replacing an old light fixture.
I would like to replace an old wall sconce in my bathroom. Is this something that I, being a very un-handy person, could/should try to do myself? Or should I just hire an electrician? [more inside]
posted by nixxon at 12:15 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by nixxon at 12:15 PM PST - 8 comments
OSX on my PC?
Everyone's seen the news that Apple's moving to Intel processors, right? Does this mean that I will finally be able to install OS X on my PC?
Is Greyhound really that bad?
Is riding Greyhound buses really as bad as the horror stories would make you believe?
Any ideas for a neat office gift?
My girlfriend's company is in their busiest season. Last year I sent her and her co-workers this. Everyone really enjoyed it! Any suggestions on something similar for this year. I was definately the awesome boyfriend of the office last year and would like to keep the title.
Yoga and Tai Chi
I think I want to try Yoga or Tai Chi but I can't decide which. [more inside]
.
Increasingly many e-commerce sites and ebay vendors seem to be using paypal as the outfit that also handles their ordinary credit-card (i.e. non-paypal-account) purchases. This doesn't work, and blows the transaction. How can I evade this yet-another-paypal-gotcha? [more inside]
What's a good way to ship a medium amount of stuff?
What's a good way to ship a medium amount of stuff? For large moves, there are moving companies; for a few items, I can just use the mail, UPS, etc.
I have a few small pieces of furniture and a dozen or so boxes of books to ship from Seattle to San Antonio. Any ideas?
PowerBook power problems
Someone just gave me a g4/400 PowerBook (the first titanium model). It doesn't power on. Please help me figure out what the problem is. [more inside]
Emergent Art
Help me make pretty pictures! For years I have been interested in Cellular automatas and other types of software that use algorithms to make some sort of graphic output. Now I'm looking for some software to make my own. [more inside]
Bookstores: the natural laxative?
Why do bookstores and libraries make me poop? [more inside]
Where can I get a Windows version of the FreeDB server?
I'd like to run a FreeDB server on my Windows box at home so I don't have to stay connected to the internet to get the track listings for the CD's I want to upload into iTunes. However, although I can find a zillion FreeDB aware clients, I'm having difficulty finding a native Windows version of the server. Does such a thing exist? [more inside]
What to do in Royal Oak, MD?
Travel Advice Filter: I'll be in Annapolis and Royal Oak, Maryland, for a wedding this weekend. My husband and I will have a couple of pockets of time to use as we wish, and I'd appreciate first-hand advice on what to do in the area. [more inside]
Who is this Han cat anyway?
KIAAAAAAAAAAIIIIIIIIII!!
I am on a Jim Kelly (AKA Black Belt Jones) tip- right now and I am trying hard to find places where I can find more movies of this nature...
Chop that mutha down! [more inside]
posted by longbaugh at 6:30 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by longbaugh at 6:30 AM PST - 7 comments
Why motorcycle cops?
I was riding to work this morning and pulled up next to a motorcycle cop at a light. That got me thinking about watching CHiPS as a kid, poppin' wheelies, and sitting in the hot Texas sun with your radar gun and no air conditioning. At the end of my reverie, I was left wondering: Why do we have cops on motorcycles? What function do they serve that car-bound officers can't? When the city council gets together to make a budget, what justifications are offered for keeping them around? [more inside]
Parade costume building.
I want to build a long giant centipede costume for a parade, but am having trouble finding 'how-to' links. I've found lots of parade pictures & sites, but few costume/float building resources. I've gone back & forth between building it segment by segment, to building one long strip that can collapse for storage. I think I've settled on the one long piece. Know of any cheap sources for flexible tent poles sans the tent? Ideas? Links?
Kill a dog
Is it true that you can kill a dog by getting hold of it's front paws and pulling them apart? [more inside]
posted by asok at 3:24 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by asok at 3:24 AM PST - 11 comments
Squeezing water out of canned fish
What's the best way to squeeze water out of a can of fish (i.e. tuna or salmon)? I've tried removing the lid and pressing it down hard into the can, but then it tends to get stuck, and I end up spending the next several minutes trying to dig it out with a knife. Thanks to everyone in advance.
XP taskbar wierdness
I have a problem with XP... [more inside]
June 5
Songs for Post-Breakup Blues
WhyDoesItHurtSoMuchFilter: Recently, my boyfriend of about 3 years broke up with me. Apparently not because of anything I did, but because he needs to "sort some stuff out" (which apparently means jumping into the arms of another man in under a week, but I digress). Unfortunately, I'm still madly in love with him. Oh, and we're roommates.
Anyway, I'm looking for songs that I can buy from iTunes Music Store to express the mixture of sadness / betrayal / anger / hopelessness / listlessness / general malaise / etc. I'm feeling. Do you have a mixtape for the dumped? [more inside]
blue marlin taxidermy
On Saturday afternoon I caught a 450lb, 9.5 foot Blue Marlin off the coast of Cape Hatterras. [more inside]
What to do with old video camera batteries
A lab I have recently taken over has a box full of obsolete batteries, mostly for various video cameras stretching back at least to the late 80s. I assume these are mostly lead-acid or NiCad. I don't have the cameras anymore. The batteries are intact, but I would like to dispose of them properly or find out if they can be recycled. Any ideas?
Name that (old pop classical) tune
Name that tune: pop classical/easy listening, possibly from the 1940s, often heard accompanying black and white images of post-war domestic bliss on TV. Not Holiday For Strings. Here's an mp3 of the first bit, ham-fistedly cobbled together from memory using the gift of MIDI (and unlikely to be note-for-note accurate).
posted by nylon at 7:49 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by nylon at 7:49 PM PST - 4 comments
Prettyin' up the joint...
I'm moving from a small, really nice place in a sweet neighborhood to a larger, less swank place in a considerably less sweet neighborhood. There are no trees on my street, a lot more trash, and it's noisier. Any tips for making my apartment prettier, a place that I'm just thrilled to come home to? I have a very low budget. [more inside]
Scripted video editing tools?
I've got a lot of video clips I want to encode into Flash Video pieces for web display. I want to batch process them, and am looking for tool suggestions for any platform. [more inside]
How can atheists feel comfortable about death?
I am an atheist. My inevitable death and the deaths of those I love causes me occasional mental distress. I have no afterlife to look forward to, only oblivion. Is there a way of thinking about this that will make me feel better about it, or should I resign myself to feeling really down about it from time to time? [more inside]
information theory
Any information theorists out there? How do I mesure the Information content/Entropy of the output of a hash algorithm? [more inside]
posted by delmoi at 5:41 PM PST - 26 comments
posted by delmoi at 5:41 PM PST - 26 comments
Glass Dynamics
I heard a long time ago that glass in old houses is thicker at the bottom of the pane because it's essentially a (very slow) liquid, and over time, it "melts" down to the bottom.
Then, I heard that the story of glass "melting" was an urban legend. I thought I read this in "The Straight Dope", but I can't find it. Can anyone point me toward a definitive statement on this?
posted by interrobang at 5:40 PM PST - 23 comments
posted by interrobang at 5:40 PM PST - 23 comments
XP not recognizing camera
My mom's XP Home (on a Dell laptop) won't recognize her Minolta Dimage XT camera anymore. She's at wit's end, and I'm nowhere near to play around with it. She replaced the driver and double-checked the cable connections. Still no luck Can you give any troubleshooting suggestions?
blue hairs
Why do old women all have the same curled, shellacked, dandelion puffball hairstyle? It seems no matter what the current style is for younger people, or popular style from their own youth, they end up with that.
Waterlogged hot tub cover...
Need advice on healing / replacing a waterlogged, heavy spa cover. [more inside]
Click It or Ticket
Do seat belts save lives? [more inside]
How do I learn to cook?
I hate cooking--the entire experience. How do I overcome this? [more inside]
access qbb file without quickbooks
I have a quickbooks .qbb file that I would like to access. It's from our old accountant. Is there a way to convert it or another program that opens it. I don't want to spend $200 for quickbooks just to open this file.
posted by JohnR at 1:13 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by JohnR at 1:13 PM PST - 6 comments
Adult ADD in the UK
Adult ADD in the UK. Is it worth getting diagnosed? What is the best route to getting a diagnosis and does medication actually help? [more inside]
LSAT Courses
I am looking to take the October LSAT in Austin and was thinking about taking one of the many LSAT preparation courses (Kaplan, Princeton Review, Powerscore, ScorePerfect, etc). Does anybody have some reviews of the major LSAT preparation courses or experience in taking any of them? Alternatively, can anyone speak to the benefits/detriments of self-study alone?
Wireless problems
My laptop frequently drops wireless signals. At home I sit less than 8 feet from my wireless router, in the same room, and the signal comes and goes. I thought the problem was the router, but recently I've experienced the same problem in public places with free wireless. Other people connect with no problem, and my signal comes and goes, and I keep dropping the connection. [more inside]
What... up?
The 70's seemed to be gripped by "Up the [blank]" mania. Up The Organization (1970). Up the Chastity Belt (1971). Up the Sandbox (1972). Up the Workers (1973). Up the Academy (1980). Then there was "Up With People," but that doesn't really seem related in tone. Where did the "Up the..." form come from, and why the prevalence in 70's culture?
Do CD burners grow old and die?
The CD burner in my 1GHz PIII era computer has been acting flakey lately, getting halfway thru a burn and then crapping out with an error, or just causing the burning software to hang, such that I have to kill it. [more inside]
Recommendations for fiction to help new U.S. citizen learn modern slang?
A smart Venezuelan acquaintance is looking for fiction to help improve his understanding of current American idioms and slang. [more inside]
Need help with probability and statistics
In my exploration of poker odds and strategies, I've developed more programs for examining situations. I need help evaluating some of the probability and statistics involved. [more inside]
Table Saw/Bench Saw
I'm looking for a small to mid-sized (maybe 16"x32" surface), high quality table saw/bench saw with some possibly contradictory requirements. [more inside]
Trustworthy financial planner?
Can anyone recommend a trustworthy, reasonable financial planner in the Twin Cities area? [more inside]
Searching for the best Chinese noodle dishes in Montreal
Can anyone offer advice on where to find quality noodle-based Chinese food in Montreal? I'm craving a good beef chow fan or some Shanghai noodles. I'm tried a few places in Chinatown, but haven't found anything good.
I'm also looking for a good BBQ pork and tofu dish & a Vietnamese place with good lemongrass chicken. However, noodles are the priority here.
BTW, if you are in Edmonton you can't do better than the Double Greeting Wonton House for noodles. It's a bit of a dive, but it's cheap and the food is fantastic.
How do I get my computer back up to speed?
I bought a new computer in January this year that lately has slowed up considerably. How do I get it back up to something resembling its original speed? [more inside]
Anyone got tips for taking computer screenshots for print?
Anyone got tips for taking computer screenshots for print? [more inside]
Interviewing in Silicon Valley - what to expect?
So I'm going to be interviewing with a major Internet company in California sometime within the next few weeks, and I'm excited, but also scared to death. I've heard that several of the "big name" companies have very rigorous interviewing processes, and I've done a ton of Googling on the subject, but only seem to find information relevant to interviewing at Microsoft (which I'm not). Certainly some of you have who read MeFi have been through this a few times. What should I expect? How can I best prepare? HELP! [more inside]
No Standby Option on Laptop
I've just reformatted and reinstalled Windows XP (SP2) on a laptop. When I go to turn it off, the "standby" button is greyed out and not an option I can click on. What's going on, and how do I get my laptop to standby mode? [more inside]
Save me from driving around in circles!
Seeking Northeastern US towns with particular characteristics: [more inside]
June 4
directions how to fix an overflowing washing machine
How do I fix my overflowing washing machine? [more inside]
posted by mirileh at 10:52 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by mirileh at 10:52 PM PST - 9 comments
real-to-mp3 conversion
Um ... Real ==> mp3 file conversion? Any simple way? [more inside]
posted by RavinDave at 9:47 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by RavinDave at 9:47 PM PST - 10 comments
Tools
I am a mechanical imbecile. That said, I would like to have a kick-ass tool set. How would I do that?
posted by greasy_skillet at 9:45 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by greasy_skillet at 9:45 PM PST - 14 comments
Pentagonal Fortress ID
I'm trying to identify the pentagonal fortress in this image. All I know is that the picture was taken in 1930 (and published on postcards), and there's a baseball diamond in the center of the fort. I believe it to be in the US. My Google-fu is totally failing me! Can anyone place it?
Any other recourse for bad eBay besides feedback?
Ugh. I think I may have just had my eBay ripoff moment. Item was described as being in decent condition with scatches and was verified to work (it was a navigation DVD). Of course the scratches were actually significant and further and more importantly it didn't work.
eBay seller specified *all sales final* (IMO this does not apply as item was stated to work and did not). Opinions/suggestions on this? Is there any other recourse besides leaving bad feedback?
posted by gnash at 8:27 PM PST - 17 comments
posted by gnash at 8:27 PM PST - 17 comments
Real Estate agent credibility
Any advice for checking out real estate agent credibility? In the Miami area for example? [more inside]
Fix My Gamecube
Just bought a used Gamecube and basically every time I try to play it, the device freezes. If I leave it off for a long period of time, I can play for longer before it freezes. I suppose that means it's an overheating issue. I can see some dust inside, but can't get in to clean and check it out because I don't have a Nintendo security bit. Also, right around the time it freezes, the graphics corrupt. Any ideas on how to remedy the problem?
Good web support interface.
I have a complex shareware program and would like to provide online help -- less complicated than a "knowledgebase" but better organized than a rambling FAQ. Have you all seen any ubercool online support pages? Where? [more inside]
Blog traffic
I'm thinking of using Blogger to start up a little topical/news site, but I need suggestions on how to attract visitors. What's the best way to let people know your blog even exists?
olive oil spot remover
I wear lots of silk knits and I love to cook. Sometimes I get olive oil spots splashed on the knit and I can't seem to ever get the spots out. I wear an apron but the stuff is sneaky.
How can I get those spots out of my silk knits?
strawberry overload
I have 20 pounds of perfectly ripe strawberries, and I need to use as many as possible in the next three days. I've already eaten a couple pounds, but cannot finish them that way. Any leftovers will go into jam, but I'd rather make other things. Ideas?
Windows Media Encoder Screen Capture Problem
I'm trying to use Windows Media Encoder to capture a video of my computer screen. Everything is fine, but the resulting movie plays back split down the diagonal of the screen. Its hard to describe, so here is a sample. [more inside]
font sleuthing
Could anyone identify the font used on this book cover? TIA!
posted by of strange foe at 11:55 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by of strange foe at 11:55 AM PST - 12 comments
Cleaning my baseball cap.
My baseball cap stinks (baseball style hat). It also suffers from an unsightly sweat ring. It's plain, no insignia, fancy stitching or patches. How can I clean this thing without ruining it? Suh-wing battuh!
I need to clean my couch
One of our couches was peed on at a party last night. A lot. [more inside]
posted by tweak at 10:28 AM PST - 31 comments
posted by tweak at 10:28 AM PST - 31 comments
multiple links
Could someone explain how to make multiple links in a post to MEFI?
muchograssyass!
How can I send a single fax online?
I want to send a single fax online, without paying a subscription. Is this possible? [more inside]
posted by Acetylene at 9:43 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by Acetylene at 9:43 AM PST - 6 comments
Short History of France...
Follow-up to a question I asked earlier : Has anyone read any "short" histories of France that they would recommend? [more inside]
Remote desktop client for OS X
I use a Mac @ home. One of the things I've loved about Windows (gasp) is the Remote Desktop Client: an efficient, elegant, and free way to connect and use your desktop. Is there an equivalent tool for OS X such that I could connect to my home Mac (not w/ SSH, but the desktop) from any number of the Windows boxes I occasionally use?
posted by xmutex at 9:14 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by xmutex at 9:14 AM PST - 8 comments
Hotmail vs. Outlook
Why is my Hotmail account not exporting to Ouitllok Express on my PC? It's an old account... [more inside]
dvd problem
DVD-R plays on standalone machine, but not on PC. [more inside]
posted by the cuban at 5:20 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by the cuban at 5:20 AM PST - 5 comments
Who advised people to simply hold important questions in their minds?
I was talking with a friend who informed me that he had read advice from an important person (as distinct from celebrity) to simply hold a pressing question in your mind and go about your life (though the answer might be years in coming, depending on its depth).
Who was this? My friend thought it might be Isaac Newton. Can anyone provide me with a URL to a source?
BTW, googling "hold a question in your mind" returns tons of hits on bibliomancy, etc., which is not what I'm after, however mystical the advice I'm describing sounds.
posted by rwhe at 2:08 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by rwhe at 2:08 AM PST - 11 comments
June 3
I'm looking for the children's book with a cookie dough airplane.
What's the title/author of the children's book where a kid makes an airplane out of cookie dough and goes exploring? If I remember correctly, the illustrations were quite plump and billowy.
posted by pmbuko at 11:11 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by pmbuko at 11:11 PM PST - 12 comments
Name of Typical Film Graphics
What's the name of the typical graphics people use to signify old-fashioned movie-film, like numbers counting down, cryptic symbols, squiggly marks, etc.? I am designing a film related site and would like to use these graphics, but not knowing what they're called, I have had no luck finding any.
Links to actual images would be greatly appreciated, of course.
posted by signal at 9:33 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by signal at 9:33 PM PST - 10 comments
Mousekill
Has anyone seen this shockwave (or something) movie I'm looking for with a lethal mouse? [more inside]
Dropping in
My wife thinks it is perfectly acceptable for family and neighbors to drop by our house unexpectedly. I disagree, believing that people should call before they come -- whether it is to return a loaned chair or drop in to say hi. What is your view?
Learning Reason
I have to learn to use Reason 3.0 for a job that starts at the end of this month. I've used ProTools and Sonar to record, mix, and master music in the past. I've downloaded the Reason demo. Any good resources for getting up to speed with it quickly?
naming audio files automatically?
I have a large collection of bootlegs I'd like to rip to my computer, but I don't want to manually rename all the files. [more inside]
posted by apple scruff at 6:20 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by apple scruff at 6:20 PM PST - 2 comments
Where is this robot illustration from?
where is this robot from? It's driving me crazy! Me and a friend saw a guy with a tattoo of this robot on his back at this music festival and we both recognized it. Then I randomly saw that picture on some website.
It can't be hitchhikers guide...i think the "don't panic" is just cause it's a home made shirt. Am I wrong?
Make me look stupid though, I know you know where this robot came from!
Cargo Cult Time
Please help me identify two bits of odd electronics which have made their way into my hands. [more inside]
Daddy, baby
(crazy-headedness of offspring) = (difficulty of father to shop for) / (# of days until Father's Day)
Please help. [more inside]
posted by leapingsheep at 4:32 PM PST - 25 comments
posted by leapingsheep at 4:32 PM PST - 25 comments
Where can I find this script?
I was reading Lifehacker yesterday, and came across this entry. My questions concerns this little blurb at the bottom: [more inside]
posted by shoppingforsanity at 4:25 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by shoppingforsanity at 4:25 PM PST - 9 comments
SF ariport to Fisherman's Wharf
I'm looking for recommendations for shuttle/comfy bus service from SF airport to the Fisherman's Wharf area. Quicker is more important than cheaper.
posted by strangeleftydoublethink at 3:12 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by strangeleftydoublethink at 3:12 PM PST - 10 comments
A wiki wiki dream.
I have a dream! And it involves portals. [more inside]
Origins of the Money for Nothing riff
Was the riff in Dire Straits' "Money for Nothing" given to Mark Knopfler by Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top, or is that just a myth?
posted by mr.marx at 12:59 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by mr.marx at 12:59 PM PST - 9 comments
crumbling adobe
Why does my PDF print as gibberish? [more inside]
posted by atchafalaya at 12:21 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by atchafalaya at 12:21 PM PST - 11 comments
Newspaper delivery alert
Our newspaper is delivered any time in a 2-hour range. My dad is forever walking through the house, every 15 minutes, to look out the front window to see if it's here yet. I know you can get wireless alert lights for your mailbox to let you know when the mail has been delivered... do they make any such thing for the newspaper tube? I'd like to get it for Father's Day.
Changing Domains - Keep Google Juice
I need to shift one of my websites to a new domain - with the minimal amount of interruption to my Google juice. What is the best way to redirect traffic to the new site? .htaccess redirects? Something else? Other pointers?
Scratch is good, but not on my CD
Help me find a mixtape I lost! [more inside]
Lost Laptop Data
I'm posting for a friend who was using an old laptop running win95. One day it wouldn't boot, so they took it to "Geek Squad" at compusa or wherever, and they said they couldn't help. [more inside]
posted by craniac at 11:15 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by craniac at 11:15 AM PST - 9 comments
A video baby monitor that's WiFi friendly?
Does anyone have a recommendation for a good video baby monitor?. [more inside]
Alcohol related marriage problems--advice?
I'm not sure what to do about my marriage. Most of the problem as I see it, is alcohol. [more inside]
Why are files on the title bar of my being expressed in an Asian language?
I tried searching for this question but I didn't have much of a plan on how to phrase unique search terms -- sorry. But, yesterday -- my internet explorer would put the title of a webpage I was browing -- like "Metafilter" -- on the title bar in the english language you are now reading. However, today, it's all in an Asian language. [more inside]
Software for informational display
The library I work at has recently purchased a plasma monitor to use for displaying information on library services and upcoming events. I am clueless about what sort of software (Win XP) I might be best served in using to display such information. [more inside]
Attraction across races
Are you attracted to people of races different from your own? [more inside]
bikes
I'm fat and I wouldn't mind getting a bike. [more inside]
June 2
Web-Based IMAP Email Client
I'm looking for a web-based email client: something I can pull in all my IMAP accounts with at one time (preferably into one merged inbox), something free (although I'm open to paid solutions as well), and either something remotely hosted (like web2mail, but with simultaneous access to multiple accounts) or a PHP/JavaScript/what-have-you solution I can install on my webserver. Any ideas?
OSX Educational Applications?
I run a computer lab in an elementary school. I use a very few programs to teach a lot of important skills- mostly about thinking, writing, and organizing one's thoughts and time, and only secondarily 'teaching kids to use technology' (as if such a thing was actually necessary.) We're getting a bunch of new macs next year, so we'll be migrating to OSX. I tend to hate 'kids software' and prefer using well designed adult software. What essential OSX app.s are cool, simple, and worth using with kids? [more inside]
Identify this Japanese treat.
A room-mate, on a recent trip to Japan, brought back some little snacks. One of them has piqued my interest, but I have no way of identifying it. [more inside]
posted by itchie at 7:17 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by itchie at 7:17 PM PST - 11 comments
A new Korean War
The American administration is ratcheting up the rhetoric again about North Korea. Hostilities may or may not break out, of course, but if they do, what happens to the value of the South Korean currency? [more inside]
attracting a mate
Need a good basic P4 motherboard
Motherboard question: My company sells industrial instruments with a Windows PC interface and lots of add-in peripherals. I'm in charge of getting the rackmount computers from a local computer shop. Until recently we've been using the Intel D865GBF which was great because it had 6 PCI slots for all the crap we have to add in. These are now becoming harder to find, and some of our cards don't work in the newer PCI-X and PCI Express slots that are all the rage with the kids these days. [more inside]
posted by jacobsee at 4:41 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by jacobsee at 4:41 PM PST - 7 comments
Irreversible?
So the building has no history of mice infestation, as far as I know. The place has always been immaculate. Recently I have been living there on the generosity of a good friend. The past fortnight has been a bit difficult, and I reverted to being a slob. There are no tracks, no droppings: no sign of anything. But just now I saw a mouse taking a stroll down the hall. Have I fucked my friend's place? Even if I get rid of the little critters, will they always come back? [more inside]
Can I play my iPod via iTunes with autosync turned on?
Can I play music through my docked iPod via iTunes with autosync turned on? [more inside]
Not fear and loathing!
A friend of mine is looking for books, fiction or non-fiction, about the end of the sixties/beginning of the seventies, books reminiscent of HST's fear and loathing in las vegas. suggestions?
Excel Wizards: How do I get the Future Value if the payments are growing by a fixed %?
Dear Excel Gods, please tell me there is an easy way to do this. I am so stuck! I am using FV (Future Value) to figure out the return of an investment. But, as it says in the excel help, "[FV] Returns the future value of an investment based on periodic, constant payments and a constant interest rate." The payment I am getting is not constant, but rather itself grows by a constant interest rate each period. So what equation or formula do I need for that? [more inside]
posted by wtfwjd? at 3:06 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by wtfwjd? at 3:06 PM PST - 10 comments
Tips and Tricks for Living With Roommates
I live with three roommates in a large apartment, and we need a system to help us split the chores and get along. [more inside]
posted by bonheur at 1:09 PM PST - 22 comments
posted by bonheur at 1:09 PM PST - 22 comments
LyricsFilter:
My amnesiac brother heard a song maybe 15 years ago, about a radio DJ. He now has me hunting it down on the internets, but... he doesn't recall a single complete line of the lyric. There was something along the lines of "And his name was Max von Lowenstein/Guildensteen/Springsteen", and...er, that's it. Can you help? [more inside]
posted by dash_slot- at 1:00 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by dash_slot- at 1:00 PM PST - 6 comments
Add a wallpaper to my cellphone?
I have a LG F9100 cellphone and use Cingular for my service provider. I'd like to add some wallpapers from sources outside the Cingular website (i.e. DeviantArt). How can I do this? [more inside]
Can a carnivore become a vegetarian?
I'm thinking about trying to go vegetarian, if only for a month's experimentation. But for a variety of reasons, I know it will be very difficult indeed. So: suggestions? [more inside]
Seeking pro-legalization clips
MaryJaneFilter: I'm looking for audio clips (mp3, wav, whatever) relating specifically to the drug prohibition / war on drugs debate in the US. [more inside]
How to make an external 5.25" floppy drive?
Does anyone know (or can think of) any way to make an external 5.25" floppy drive? (preferably USB or wireless, for use with PC/Windows systems). [more inside]
posted by -harlequin- at 12:24 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by -harlequin- at 12:24 PM PST - 10 comments
When to buy iPod
I saved my pennies and am ready and excited to buy a 30G photo iPod. I can get a decent price through the education discount. But should I wait until the WWDC happens next week to see if a new version is coming out, or if the prices will drop?
posted by danny boy at 12:24 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by danny boy at 12:24 PM PST - 13 comments
The Incredible Floating Div
Why aren't the paragraphs in the body text flowing around a floated div on this page in Internet Explorer? [more inside]
posted by grrarrgh00 at 12:19 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by grrarrgh00 at 12:19 PM PST - 3 comments
Help me to Stop the drooling!
My significant other drools in her sleep. Sometimes I roll over and am shocked awake when my cheek hits the puddle on her pillow, blech. It happens maybe 2-3 times a week and increases when she has crazy and/or bad dreams. She isn't aware she's doing it until she wakes up. How do help her to stop/control the drooling?
Vomiting - hormones etc
Can someone please point me to a discussion of what happens in your body (focussing on hormones and associated chemistry) when you are ill. I'm curious why you/how you feel so good after (is that feeling similar to heroin?) and so bad before (particularly the sweating and feeling of coldness) vomiting. If it makes any difference, assume food poisoning [no more inside, since 3am last night].
posted by andrew cooke at 11:30 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by andrew cooke at 11:30 AM PST - 8 comments
Shocking TV
Has anyone shocked while tampering with their television really been thrown across the room into/through a wall?
posted by angry modem at 11:29 AM PST - 26 comments
posted by angry modem at 11:29 AM PST - 26 comments
How to bottle and distribute a yummy drink?
A friend of mine has a tasty drink which he sells from his store (a little tourist shop). Folks love it and keep asking him to bottle it and sell it online, but he has no idea where to get started. [more inside]
posted by oissubke at 11:15 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by oissubke at 11:15 AM PST - 6 comments
TV Repair
My TV broke, and I am bored now. It is a Sony Videoscope XBR, 50 something inches, projection TV. I bought it maybe 4-5 years ago from circuit city. When I turn it on the sound works fine, but the picture starts getting crackly then it gets wavy and starts to disapear culminating in the whole picture collapsing into itself. [more inside]
Happy go lucky modern woo music
I need help finding happy go lucky modern indie/pop songs with a beat which are going on a mix cd to woo a girl of the female persuasion. [more inside]
posted by Stynxno at 10:48 AM PST - 94 comments
posted by Stynxno at 10:48 AM PST - 94 comments
GMAT tips
I will be taking the GMAT on monday and was wondering if anyone had some last minute tips, particularly things that you might not find in a GMAT book. [more inside]
A few good geeks?
A friend of mine is starting a business and needs to find some hard core developers. How should he go about looking for them? [more inside]
posted by nyterrant at 9:51 AM PST - 17 comments
posted by nyterrant at 9:51 AM PST - 17 comments
CRC/Repair errors
I download a number of 'things' via newsgroups. Lately, I've been having trouble reparing and extracting them. [more inside]
Where do you shop for used and new photography equipment?
Where do you shop for used and new photography equipment? [more inside]
Recycle floppy disks?
Is there any way to recycle floppies?
Web-based calendar recommends
I'm having trouble choosing among the myriad web-based calendar management programs. Which do you recommend? [more inside]
What is the first tune sampled by DJ Shadow on Lesson 4?
What's the tune sampled by DJ Shadow on the intro of his Lesson 4 mix? [more inside]
posted by derbs at 9:03 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by derbs at 9:03 AM PST - 4 comments
What's the best way to soothe mosquito bites?
It's that time again: summer, and the bugs are out in full-force. Common insect bites and stings, while not life-threatening, can be irritating and uncomfortable. And scratching often leads to infection. What's the best way to soothe mosquito bites? [more inside]
posted by kathryn at 9:00 AM PST - 23 comments
posted by kathryn at 9:00 AM PST - 23 comments
How do I clean wood floors?
My apartment is wood floor and tile. Hell, my whole building is wood floor and tile. How on earth do I clean all of this (particularly the wood)? What's the best way to clean large amounts of hardwood flooring? (If devices are suggested, any specific brand/model suggestions?) [more inside]
Make it die
In Windows XP SP2. The little yellow window that pops up in the lower right hand corner when you print something and says "Document sent to printer." HOW DO I KILL IT? [more inside]
posted by selfnoise at 8:41 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by selfnoise at 8:41 AM PST - 4 comments
Teaching disobedient, disruptive five year old.
Advice needed for teaching disobedient, disruptive five year old. [more inside]
My emails to various AOL addresses get rejected...
My emails to various AOL addresses get rejected... [more inside]
Should I leave my iPod plugged in?
Should I leave my iPod plugged in? I really like listening to my iPod's music through iTunes while at my computer. Will leaving it plugged in a majority of the time help or hurt the overall battery life?
posted by Yukon at 6:28 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by Yukon at 6:28 AM PST - 9 comments
So would this be ChemistryFilter or PhysicsFilter?
What would happen if you take a cube of ice, at a specific size, and fit it in an airthight glass box with the exact same dimensions, and then let it melt? [more inside]
posted by cheerleaders_to_your_funeral at 6:28 AM PST - 29 comments
posted by cheerleaders_to_your_funeral at 6:28 AM PST - 29 comments
How to remove a 98 Contour driver door panel.
How do I remove the interior driver door panel on a 1998 Ford Contour? [more inside]
What songs are the epitome of a genre?
EpitomeFilter: I need some help making a playlist of songs that define a genre. Basically name a genre of rock (but not nessarily limmited to) and give me a song that has all the elements that make up that genre... [more inside]
What's the deal with book publishing?
What's the deal with book publishing? [more inside]
posted by IndigoJones at 5:43 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by IndigoJones at 5:43 AM PST - 11 comments
Uses for super strong neodymium magnets?
After seeing them used on MythBusters, I purchased a number of super strong neodymium 'rare earth' magnets. My legitimate practical reasons for using them have run out. Suggestions? [more inside]
posted by Grensgeval at 5:43 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by Grensgeval at 5:43 AM PST - 19 comments
small apartment ideas
I'm moving into a new apartment this week, and it's pretty small by most standards. Does anyone have any decorating tips for tiny apartments (studios in particular), and suggestions for cheap places to get a new bed and other necessities? [more inside]
posted by Kellydamnit at 5:36 AM PST - 18 comments
posted by Kellydamnit at 5:36 AM PST - 18 comments
peru the noo.
Anyone know where i can find an mp3 of the peruvian gloria ? NO midi please !
blocking "ilicit" sites
i'm in a central-asian country right now working with an NGO run hospital. they've recently acquired satellite based internet access, and are concerned about limiting website access for their staff. [more inside]
How do I ship my life to the UK?
I will soon be moving permanently from California to the UK. Besides the headaches of visa applications and plane tickets, I have an awful lot of crap I need to ship over. I'm looking for the cheapest, safest way to ship large amounts of clothing, books, etc. overseas. I don't mind if the cheapest option means it will take 3 months to arrive. Any advice on this matter is welcome. [more inside]
June 1
Residents of Hong Kong
If a resident of Australia is Australian, a resident of Holland is Dutch and Taiwan, Taiwanese; What - other than the technically correct 'Chinese' - is a resident of Hong Kong called, or referred to as? [more inside]
posted by oliyoung at 11:29 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by oliyoung at 11:29 PM PST - 14 comments
OrlandoFilter
So I'm staying in Orlando June 4-11 with my wife. We'll be there for Microsoft's TechEd. Outside of the typical conference-related activities and attendee parties, what is there to do? [more inside]
Pod-safe?
I am preparing to do a music podcast and wonder about the required level of pod-safeness required. [more inside]
Storing images on while traveling
I'm looking for a way to send my digital images (taken in .raw from my canon) to some sort of storage bin. [more inside]
posted by Hands of Manos at 9:15 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by Hands of Manos at 9:15 PM PST - 12 comments
Is handing out a business card with your blog on it obnoxious?
Does anyone have their blog on their business card? Have you handed it out in an attempt at networking? What has the response been? Positive? Negative? (More Inside) [more inside]
Ad-hoc wireless DNS hell
Why does the client machine on an ad-hoc wireless network on XP get DNS issues that the host machine doesn't? [more inside]
Sandals with arch support
Flat feet + Tevas = Pain. Can anyone recommend a) sports sandals with good arch support, or b) sources for custom orthotically-boosted models?
assigning back button on mouse on a Mac?
On a Windows machine, both Firefox and IE by default map mouse button 4 (the "thumb" button) to the "back" command. How can this be done properly on a Macintosh? The usual answers like "use USB Overdrive-X or the Intellimouse driver software" have serious problems associated with them. [more inside]
Getting from EWR to Wall Street
I need to get from EWR (Newark, NJ Airport) to Wall Street at noon on a weekday. While there's no rush, I can't afford to waste a lot of time. Will this work? How long will it take? Other suggestions?
posted by Kwantsar at 5:50 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by Kwantsar at 5:50 PM PST - 15 comments
greymatter for stupids.
I'm an idiot: did I just lose part of my website forever? [Greymatter Issues] [more inside]
Credit card limit
Should I ask my credit card company not to raise my limit? [more inside]
"Complex" font?
You know those fonts that marketers use in your junk mail that look just like handwritten fonts, but if you look closely at all the W's, etc. you quickly realize they look exactly the same, and so you know it was a machine? I am not in marketing, but it got me wondering if there is a way to get such a (maybe call it "multilayered" or "complex") font, where each letter "A", for example, will be randomly chosen from multiple A's available within the font.
Does Your Body Have to Be In Ketosis to Burn Fat?
Does a normal body have to be in ketosis to burn fat? If your body is not producing ketones, does that mean that your body is not burning fat?
posted by Dr. Zira at 5:06 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by Dr. Zira at 5:06 PM PST - 9 comments
My web browser stops working after a while until reboot but internet connection is still alive
I have Windows XP Pro with BrightHouse Cable connected to Belkins Pre-n router.
I always have my computer on 24hours a day. I constantly download files from p2p type website. The problem is after I get home, my Internet Explorer seems to Not find or disconnect until I reboot. [more inside]
Where can I get Chinese-language webpages translated (well) to english?
Like many others, I am watching the outbreak of bird flu in western China with great apprehension. Where can I get reliable translation of a Chinese-language webpage to english? [more inside]
Books about your World Champion Boston Red Sox
There's certainly no shortage of books written about the 2004 Red Sox season, but are any of them any good? I do love some baseball reading in the summer, but don't want to waste my time with schlock. What's the "Boys of Summer," or "Summer of '49" for the 2004 Sox? Or are we still waiting for one to be published?
Spinal Tap style amplifier knobs that go to 11?
Can you help me find Spinal Tap style amplifier knobs that go to 11? [more inside]
How to get XP desktop & OSX laptop to play nice in a LAN?
I'm getting an OSX laptop Monday after the keynote, and I'm trying to figure out how to get to place nice with my XP desktop. [more inside]
posted by keswick at 2:48 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by keswick at 2:48 PM PST - 10 comments
TV remote went dead; suggestions?
My TV remote control went dead. I replaced batteries, still not working. What else could be the cause, and any suggested fixes? I went out and bought a "universal" remote and it too didn't work.
Fixing up my sprinkler system
SprinklerFilter: My garden watering system seems to be behaving badly. The system waters OK, but the backflow filter (a Febco 825Y) is leaking. I've turned the water supply off for the moment, but when it is on, it makes an odd kss-kss-kss sound, and there seems to be water coming out of the bottom somewhere. Any ideas? Do I need to replace the backflow valve? [more inside]
travel go board
Where can I find a travel Go board that will sit right when laid out. [more inside]
Molluscum Contagiosum
Dealing with Molluscum Contagiosum. MCV is a pesky skin virus common among children but also increasingly prevalent among adults, and treatment is not always trivial. How do you deal with being contagious? [more inside]
Seattle used vinyl merchants?
My parents are coming to visit my wife and I in July, and they are also bringing their 500+ or so collection of 60s- and 70s-era vinyl (mostly rock, some country). My mother has charged me with the task of finding some retailer who will buy this stuff. [more inside]
Thumbing Your Nose at Ameslan
Does thumbing your nose have some hidden meaning in American Sign Language? [more inside]
How do I send all MP3 links on a webpage to Winamp?
How do I send all MP3 links on a web page to Winamp (or, I suppose, any audio player)? [more inside]
beautiful penpal
Someone I like but don't know that well asked for permission to give my email to a friend/colleague, thinking we would have stuff in common. [more inside]
MacFilter: Freeing up your Hard Disk
MacFilter: I have a 14" iBook I bought last September and I have recently installed Tiger on it. My Hard Drive space is running low. I know about uninstalling language packs and getting rid of classic. Those are not options. I am looking for a uttility program that will hunt down and delete files from programs that are no longer installed.
Is the potential for abuse enough reason to report someone?
This evening at a gathering of neighbors, I heard a disturbing story. The neighbor's ex-girlfriend has a brother who was sent to prison for raping her daughter when the child was 2-3 years old. The brother is now out of jail and living with his mother - the child's grandmother. When the girlfriend goes out, she takes all of her children and drops them off at the grandmother - which is where the child rapist lives. [more inside]
What are some helpful ways to be productive when connected to the internet?
What are some helpful ways to be productive when connected to the internet? How does one fight the constant draw of trivial news sites, blogs, IM, e-mail, wiki articles, and forums--especially when work is 'net related? [more inside]
posted by aaronshaf at 10:55 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by aaronshaf at 10:55 AM PST - 12 comments
Wedding dress after the wedding?
What did you do with your wedding dress? It's been two years and mine is still hanging in my closet. I don't know what to do with it. [more inside]
html for a total novice... how do I get a slide show effect with random order of pages?
I am a total html novice. I have ten pages, "page1.html" through "page10.html" that I have already created. I want to have a link ("slide show!") on my home page "index.html" that, once clicked, creates a slide show of "page1" through "10", showing each page for 5 seconds until finished (never showing any page more than once.) I also want the order of the pages to be random (ie showing the slide show in a different order each time the link on "index" is clicked.) Is this possible? If so how in the heck can I do it!?!?
Graduate school: Linguistics or Publishing?
Grad school: Linguistics or Publishing? My sister will be graduating next year with a B.A. in English and an interest in both linguistics and publishing graduate school programs. I don't know these fields very well, so I offered to hit up the AskMe crowd for advice. [more inside]
Why do I need a club card to qualify for sale prices at the grocery store?
Why do I need a club card to qualify for sale prices at the grocery store? [more inside]
posted by subclub at 10:05 AM PST - 41 comments
posted by subclub at 10:05 AM PST - 41 comments
Dented salt and pepper shakers
In diners, why are the metal tops of salt and pepper shakers usually dented as if they've been smashed with a hammer or something. Someone once gave me a reason why this was done intentionally but I can't remember what it was.
Bare Walls and a Bun in the Oven
We are expecting our first child within the month and have yet to decorate the baby's room. [more inside]
posted by mds35 at 9:18 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by mds35 at 9:18 AM PST - 14 comments
Chinese Gift-giving Traditions
Chinese culture question: My friend from work is moving to Canada soon, and I would love to give her a good going-away present... [+] [more inside]
Group names based on one person
I'm looking for some naming help - to try to turn an individual's name into a collective. There are some obvious ones - "Steptoe & Son" "Will Vinton Studios" "The Jimi Hendrix Experience" as well as the typical "and associates" or "and partners" or "and Co." [more inside]
All-girl flat-track full contact Excel spreadsheet
How should I manage the roster of my Roller Derby league? Right now I have about 30 girls listed in an Excel spreadsheet with various information, but the info that I'm collecting is growing all the time and I'm not really used to using Excel, there has to be a better way. We're also likely to expand very quickly, possibly doubling our numbers in the next month or so. [more inside]
Can you indentify this sample/sound?
My wife and I are fans of Cirque du Soleil, and I'm a keyboardist who's inspired by the unique and compelling soundtracks of each show. One such show, La Nouba, has a more gritty, urban feel to its music. There's something, however, that I can't identify, and I've been trying for years. [more inside]
posted by Merdryn at 7:56 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by Merdryn at 7:56 AM PST - 10 comments
Arcade Machine
I'm the student leader of a FIRST robotics team and we're pondering copyright issues involved with the construction of an arcade machine. Much more inside... [more inside]
Illustrator CS Mac OSX .tmp files
Since upgrading to OSX Tiger on my Powerbook G4, Adobe Illustrator CS has been acting a little flaky. Among assorted document hangs/crashes (requiring force-quits), Illustrator keeps creating .tmp files on my desktop such as "Acr1058251.tmp". I've done a bit of googling and, as suggested, have changed my prefs to not create PDF's upon saving, but this doesn't seem to help. Have any designers out there found a solid answer to why these files are being created, and a proper fix?
address book software with mapping function
I am trying to find some software that exists in my mind, but I don't know if it exists in real life. I want a way to represent the people in my address book as dots on a [US] map, somewhat dynamically. OSX or web-based. Free or cheap, not subscription-based, though I would pay more for the exact right app. [more inside]
Shopping for a new religion
Shopping for a new religion: what are your recommendations? [more inside]
Melbourne Commonwealth Games Accomodation
Aussie Aussie Aussie Oi Oi Oi! My wife and I are heading off to the Commonwealth Games next year in Melbourne. We're waiting for confirmation of our tickets, but in the meantime have seen the prices of accomodation in Melbourne during this period skyrocket beyond our price range. Any suggestions for how to obtain decent (AU$150-$200 per night) accomodation during events like this? Or will we simply have to bow before the forces of unbridled capitalism?
Modafinil in the UK
According to this website (Maybe NSFW, Mail order medicines) it is legal to order Modafinil in the UK.
Is this true, and if so is there anywhere to get it cheaper?
Number of files
i'm getting a discrepancy between two methods of checking the number of files in a folder. [more inside]
Divorce, Separation, and Immigation from Russia to the UK
Hi all -- no doubt you've all heard this tale before, the storybook boy meets girl, girl moves back to Russia, boy serenades girl for 2 years, girl gets married to boy in UK, boy then becomes complacent and arrogant and ignores girl, girl leaves boy but doesn't officially separate, time passes, girl moves on and starts new life in new city, meets new boy and decide to get married; boy when hearing this short circuits and makes girl's life living hell just before 2 year marriage visa is due to run out, girl has to leave country and new boy trying to figure out what to do.
So I'm the new boy.
The girl is from Russia. The unpleasant tangled web leads me to urgently search for good legal advice on the combination of immigation and marriage. Any advice or recommended contacts? [more inside]
Travel in South Africa
Cape Town to George - 10 days in October - Ideas.. [more inside]
posted by brettski at 2:25 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by brettski at 2:25 AM PST - 4 comments
What to do in Boulder CO?
I am visiting Boulder CO from Calgary, Alberta, Canada, and have just run the BolderBoulder 10k race which took me through most of town. In addition, I've walked and shopped down Pearl Street, and toured the local University. What else is there to do in Boulder other than hiking the mountains? I have three more days to spend here and am hoping to do/try something that I can't do in Calgary.
posted by burhan at 2:06 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by burhan at 2:06 AM PST - 9 comments