July 2012 Archives
July 31
Employer matching of retirement savings
If an employer offers 100% match on retirement investing up to a certain percent of salary, and then 50% on a certain percentage above that, does it make economic sense to invest all the way through the 50% match, or stop with the 100% match and invest the rest somewhere else?
Social discount rates?
Help me understand the argument that the social discount rate sets the amount we should invest to mitigate climate change. [more inside]
Leaving to work abroad. Will a LDR work?
I'm leaving the country soon to work abroad. Will a LDR work? [more inside]
Trying to "hack" language learning.
Can anyone recommend blogs about cooking, crafting written in French or German? [more inside]
Differin help
Acne-filter: I finally went to a dermatologist, who prescribed Differin for my adult acne. A few questions inside. [more inside]
tips on moving to salem
Moving to Salem, OR in about a week. Big "getting-there" stuff is covered; now looking for any and all tips to make this the initial move-in and adjustment period as painless as possible -- give me your new-to-Salem-fu, please! [more inside]
Music tempo adjustment software for Mac?
Can you recommend free/very cheap software for a Mac that allows me to slow down recorded music (mp3s) on the fly? [more inside]
Does anyone know this early 2000s song?
I'm looking for help with a very vague song identification for a song I heard in the early 2000s on FUSE/Much Music USA. Barring that, I'm looking for recommendations of websites that help identify songs. [more inside]
Need sources for new mashups
I used to be really into the mashup scene, but in recent years I've really fallen behind and only have one or two blogs that I'm following that don't really post new things that often. Does anyone have any recommendations? General remix blogs are fine, too, but I'm mostly looking for the classic 'multiple songs shoved together to make new ones' type.
Naming ceremony for baby - ideas on what to do?
We are having a non-religious, self-created naming ceremony for our new daughter on Saturday. Can you help with ideas on what, actually, to do to make this a "ceremony" and not just a bunch of people standing around looking at the baby?? [more inside]
Have Superphone, Will Travel
I bought a Galaxy Nexus HSPA+ and an unlimited pay-as-you-go plan. Ummm. Now what? [more inside]
Who am I?
Who is this muppet?
This is from a set of Sesame Street flash cards. Google has failed me.
Oh honey, those are L.A. shoes, you've got to get yourself some New York shoes STAT.
Order up for some serious, stylish, comfortable shoes that are New York fashion AND all-day-walking compatible. [more inside]
Why should a band be on SoundCloud?
For a band, what are the benefits of using SoundCloud? [more inside]
I'd like more energy density, please.
What are the best resources (forums, articles, etc.) for assembling lithium ion (specifically LiFePO4) battery systems for small electric vehicles (read: 12V)? My Google searches seem to only turn up shady battery company websites. [more inside]
a roof over my head and savings in my pocket
Give me all of your best tips and strategies for living rent-free, especially if that involves house sitting for strangers. [more inside]
What specific kind of financial investing would give the greatest return based on a $2,500,000 investment? Stocks, bonds, mutual fund, etc?
What specific kind of financial investing would give the greatest return based on a $2,500,000 investment? Stocks, bonds, mutual fund, etc? [more inside]
Is it possible to get liturgy without scripture?
Is it possible to get liturgy without scripture? [more inside]
Help me sew a bamboo martial arts gi.
I want to use bamboo fabric to sew a custom martial arts gi. Help me find fabric and plan this out. [more inside]
What happens to my blood samples?
Due to my condition and the medications I take, I have very regular full blood workups. I asked the phlebotomist yesterday how the samples are disposed of after testing is complete. She said they might be held for as long as two years, but wasn't certain. Which surprised me. I'm curious, what happens to all my blood samples? I'm in Australia as I'm sure there's liable to be country-specific variations.
How do I survive a year or two in a small town after years in the city?
How do I survive a year or two in a small town after years in the city? [more inside]
Help using a digital camera
Help me determine which settings I should use on a digital camera to photograph buildings. [more inside]
Scanning slides - 4000, 2000 or 1200 DPI?
Scanning slides - 4000, 2000 or 1200 DPI? [more inside]
Strange Fruit
What is this fruit-bearing bush in the yard of my new house, and can I eat the fruit on it (when it ripens)? [more inside]
Thanks Mom but no.
I've got surgery coming up and Mom wants to be there for me. I don't want her there. How do I navigate this? [more inside]
How do I dance with guys?
I know how to dance with people who are just friends. Can you explain to me how to dance with someone when I don't want to be just friends? [more inside]
Are there any great, multi-day, non-wilderness walks in the U.S.?
Are there any great mixed rural/small-town/semi-urban long walks in the U.S.? I'm searching for multi-day, maybe even multi-week routes that are not strict backpacking and would not require the carrying of a tent. More inside. [more inside]
Vertical stripes in PSP-2000 display. Prognosis?
The screen of my PSP-2000 has faint vertical stripes running through it; the effect is more translucent than opaque (image 1, image 2). What, if anything, can I do to fix this? [more inside]
Date ideas?
Have any pleasant date activity ideas for a small-town midweek?
Give me a real good belt!
Dear fashionable women of MeFi, what are 4-5 staple belts that I should have in my wardrobe? I've been upgrading my wardrobe and I need some belts but what are the must-have belts that should be part of any fashionable (or semi-fashionable) wardrobe? [more inside]
Tell us about our next three vacations!
You can take three trips. Where do you go? [more inside]
How does the property value really affect me?
Home value dropped - does it really matter? [more inside]
True Blood criticism?
Good cultural criticism about True Blood, including recent episodes? [more inside]
Please take my money.
Why can't I hire a landscaper? I know how to find one. I know how to show what I want done and how to ask for bids. Why can't I get one of them to accept the job? [more inside]
New Ipad & Iphone 4S charging voltages
Hi,
I have a 3rd party iphone charger which supplies 5.2 volts. It charges the iphone 4s alright but cannot charge (charging symbol is not shown on screen) on the new ipad. With a multimeter I measured the original chargers' outputs. They vary between 5.12-5.15 voltages for both of the devices.
So, my first question is whether you know which smart apple technician decided that so little deviation from the standard is not acceptable
Secondly, do you know what are the extra voltage tolerances for both of the devices? (Apparently, they are less than 2 percent)
Cheers!
Lodging in Thunder Bay
One night and one day
Ontario: Thunder Bay.
Where, oh where, to stay? [more inside]
Authors like Ian McEwan?
In what literary tradition is the work of Ian McEwan? Which authors, past or present, are stylistically related?
Stylish web publishing platform
My Friend Had Compromising Info Stolen; Please Help Me Help Him!
A friend has had an old Hotmail account hacked. The hacker used information in the archives there to access a YouTube account where apparently some compromising videos were uploaded. The hacker copied the videos to another YouTube account, and then sent links to the videos to my friend's family - and worse still, to members of the executive board of the nonprofit organization by whom my friend is (was?) employed. He reached out desperately to me, but I know nothing but the most basic things about Internet security and privacy law... [more inside]
What bird makes this noise?
I second that emotion.
Does anyone know how to prevent becoming verklempt? [more inside]
Quintessential Chicago video
Chicago filter: I want to create a time-lapse/stop-motion ode to Chicago like this one of Paris. Please recommend some good sites/spots to shoot! [more inside]
Where Do You Put Out A Casting Call For A Personal Project?
I am shooting a music video next month. It's a personal portfolio project and while my social group has stepped in beautifully, I still need people with certain traits/looks. Is there a place online I can post a listing to while also being upfront that it is an unpaid/volunteer gig? [more inside]
Relief from the interstate
In late August we'll be driving from upstate NY to the Black Hills in S. Dakota, almost entirely on I-86 in NY and I-90 the remainder of the way. We take this trip to visit relatives periodically and over the years we've found some good but brief diversions along the way to give small breaks from the monotony -- great Japanese gardens in Rockford, IL; the kitschy Spam Museum in MN; Amish restaurants in Shipshewanna, IN; the West side market in Cleveland on weekends (our timing is bad for that this time); Carr's cheese in Mauston, WI. We take 2 days out (stay in W suburbs of Chicago), 3 days back (stays in Tomah, WI and Bowling Green, OH). Any recommendations are gratefully accepted, noting that we don't want to get detoured from our route (nothing that's more than 15-20 mi from the interstate, pretty much) because we do have a destination with relatives waiting to see us, and that it'll probably be mid-week travel each way.
Have some spare money, should we buy a condo to offer as rent?
Married, and have some savings. Does it make sense buying a condo just for giving it out as rental? Caveat - I may have to sell it off in about 3-4 years though so I'm wondering whether it'll all be worth it. [more inside]
Product of Norway
Can I inexpensively complete my Jotul KrumKake iron? [more inside]
How can we get people to tell us stories about my mother-in-law?
My (beloved) mother-in-law died after a year with lung cancer and we will be having a big memorial for her this weekend. What can we do to capture stories and memories from her family and friends? [more inside]
How do things work in really small towns?
How do things work and what is life like in really small towns? [more inside]
Macbook screen dead, is it time for an iPad?
I dropped my Macbook and now the screen is severely distorted. The computer itself still funs fine and can be used, if one works around the partially blacked out screen. Since it's a 2008 Macbook, it's a bit long in the tooth, so I'm thinking of just getting an iPad for every day usage and plugging the Macbook into an external monitor for the one or two desktop applications I need it for. But which iPad to get? [more inside]
Help me finish a PhD in 6 weeks
Help me to make a great leap forward in my PhD in the next six weeks. I am in the last year of my PhD (philosophy) so the thesis has to be finished by December, however, I am also full time university lecturer, so when the term starts my ability to write every day is drastically compromised. By selling part of my soul I negotiated almost complete freedom for the next six weeks and I want to use them to make massive progress with writing the thesis. I already have about 40,000 words written and I am hoping to write another 40,000 over the next 6 weeks. The challenge is to stick to the daily quota of 1,000 words, as some days it is possible, even fun, other days it is very very hard. [more inside]
People who broke the rules to do the right thing
Please tell me about obscure, little-known, or forgotten people who broke the rules, disobeyed orders, destroyed their careers, got ostracized, or endangered themselves in order to do what they saw as the right thing. [more inside]
I don't want to live "Shut Up, Little Man" over the long-term
I live in a rent-controlled building and have a bad neighbor with violent tendencies, how can I best fix this? [more inside]
If reputable scientists were to prescribe a healthy lifestyle, what would they include?
What are the most significant lifestyle changes I can make to improve my chances of maintaining a high quality-of-life throughout (a hopefully long) life? [more inside]
The olympics are way less fun now.
Have olympic spoilers always been this bad? I'm so so very annoyed to already know the outcome of tonights gymnastics, just like I've inadvertantly known the outcome of almost every event I am interested in so far in these games. Even though I try to avoid the obvious spoiler media outlets, I can't ignore everything; esp not elevator tv's, the radio, or overheard coversations at the cubicle farm. Are the days of sitting on the edge of my seat during the evening broadcast, jumping for joy at an unexpected gold over? Or has it always been this way and I'm just catching up now?
Ricotta + Italian sausage = ?
I have hot Italian sausage and ricotta cheese. Help me make a delicious dinner! Difficulty level: no pasta. [more inside]
Google Voice Pro?
Is there a service like Google Voice (or a Google Voice addon) that can manage two existing phone lines, one of which is toll free, and which can display an existing number on caller ID for outgoing calls? I’m willing to pay. [more inside]
countries that value living life?
Which countries value free time, low working hours, and vacations? Which value living life and not just working? [more inside]
Hundred-Year-Old Job Descriptions?
Where can I find job descriptions for jobs from the 1850s-1950s? [more inside]
LAB color space without Photoshop?
I've gotten used to using LAB color mode for cleaning up my digital photos. Unfortunately, I no longer have access to Photoshop. Is there a free alternative product that allows work in LAB?
How can she be gone when she was just here and I see her everywhere?
My mom died. Now what? (In the abstract, existential sense.) [more inside]
Judge Dread
I know intellectually that I shouldn't worry so much about people judging me, yet my mind still goes there. Any advice/tips? [more inside]
Syncing Notational Velocity with iCloud
Mountain Lion iCloud question: I know iCloud stores files locally on my Mac, somewhere. Generally I use two document editors — iA Writer, which syncs to iCloud, and Notational Velocity, which doesn't. Can I set Notational Velocity to save its notes in iA's iCloud folder, so that it automatically syncs to iCloud and I can use iA's mobile apps to edit my notes on the fly?
Lucky us
What should we do with 4-5 weeks of vacation time? [more inside]
FAFSAd Face
I'm doing my FAFSA for the 2012-13 school year. Because I'm 25, I'm considered independent. I'm working part-time as a tutor at a small private school, but some months my parents and grandparents give me more money than I end up making. How should this be reflected on the FAFSA? There seems to only be a form for my income. Any other tips are appreciated.
I'm guessing addressing the invitation to just my dad isn't going to cut it
How do I (or can I at all) not invite my dad's wife to my upcoming wedding? [more inside]
Recovering Google Drive documents
In a stunning act of incompetence this morning, I emptied the trash on Google Drive. I have now lost access to anything I originally uploaded. [more inside]
In Oakland, CA our landlord bumps rent 8% citing banked rents and capital improvements. Wowsers.
Off lease in Oakland, CA. Our landlord bumps rent 8% citing banked rents and capital improvements. Legal justification provided but how can this be challenged to lesser amount without getting courts involved? [more inside]
Background Checks
What shows up on a Kroll background check? [more inside]
Facebook therapy for the soul
Can somebody help recommend Facebook therapy and or coping mechanisms? [more inside]
Database n00b - how long will this task take?
Estimate of how long it will take to develop an Access database. [more inside]
From Lawyer to Grad Student?
Can you tell me about legal anthropology? Am I foolish to leave a secure career to pursue it? [more inside]
Don't bring me down.
Help me cope with my downer of a job. [more inside]
Co-Founder Insists On Employment Contract
There are three of us who are starting a business next year and one of my future co-founders is insisting that everyone signs an employment contract stipulating that we stay at the company for at least three years. Contract violations haven't been discussed yet - the contract hasn't been written yet - but a hefty fine is likely. Is this type of contract common between co-founders? What other risks should I be aware of before/if signing this? [more inside]
Nutrition intro
I know next to nothing about nutrition. Help! [more inside]
Light the night!
Please give me your night light recommendations. [more inside]
Is this a normal offer for licensing a bit of music?
A big media company wants to license a recording of my old band to promote an online role-playing game. Can you help me disambiguate the terms of the offer, and tell me if the money sounds standard? [more inside]
Plus size fishnets are impossible to find!
I'm looking for plus size fishnets that are actually meant to fit someone plus sized. [more inside]
Replacement Remote Control
Replacement Remote for Rotel RR-AT96 Receiver [more inside]
Mini futon?
Where can I find teeny tiny futons? [more inside]
So Nice, I Wanna Publish Them Twice
Possibly confirming the obvious - I wrote a crapton of essays and articles for a market that a) was extremely limited and b) doesn't exist any more. I also believe the contract said the original market was "first rights" only. ...It's probably safe to try to pitch polished-up versions of some of those articles to a wider market by now, right? [more inside]
New England/North-East US Fall vacation
Need help planning a vacation in New England/North-East US are in fall. More details inside [more inside]
RSS reader with offline Instapaper sync
I'm looking for an iOS iPhone RSS reading application that will queue up additions Instapaper or other read later service while offline. Most that I've tried require you to be online, which stinks since I read the news on the subway a lot. I've researched like crazy but most apps or reviews don't give details on this feature in their descriptions so it's hard to know, and I can't buy them all.
There is one, called Byline, but it hasn't been updated in a year and has tons of crashes when in offline mode, which defeats the purpose.
Where should I even be LOOKING?
Trying to rent a room in (South East) London. As we all know, renting in this city is a sweat, a nightmare, and a racket. But my question is pretty specific - what sites do you use other than Spareroom and Gumtree? Thanks.
Critical Need
My critical reasoning skills are inadequate. Two examples within, as well as a request for books, websites, activities, or routine patterns of thought to help me develop these reasoning abilities. [more inside]
Skype-like software that can play pre-recorded video?
(Asking for a friend.) I need to find some sort of software that lets you both record yourself through a webcam (showing the image live in a window on the screen) and (not simultaneously) play a pre-recorded video in the same screen. Ideally it would have very minimalist buttons, or configurable buttons/toolbar. [more inside]
Bringing a cat to China...
Advice on bringing cat to China while teaching English... [more inside]
First time car camping in Sequoia
Need advice for first time car-camping in Sequoia. [more inside]
Where to teach tech in SF?
I would like to be a teacher. Snowflake: of technology, to adults, in San Francisco, during evenings. [more inside]
Who is this photographer?
Help me remember a photographer's name. He photographed his mother's neat and tidy and everything-in-its-place kitchen cabinets and paired them with abusive quotes from his father as he slid further into dementia. I saw his photos in a slide show among other photographers and googling "photographer kitchen cabinets abusive quote" just isn't getting me very far. He may have printed a book.
July 30
Jumping back in
Going to look at a "Used" dog tomorrow, don't know if I'm ready again but would like some pointers. (On preview... wow am I long winded, sorry) [more inside]
Looking for a new name for the company.
Need help naming a small HR development business [more inside]
2013 Kia Optima SXL
Should I buy the 2013 Kia Optima SXL (Ltd). [more inside]
Was I slipped Rohypnol (roofies)?
Are the day after effects of Cocaethylene (cocaine and alcohol) and Rohypnol (roofies) similar? [more inside]
Romantic getaway hotels near Bay Area?
Cheap wine county hotels/motels/ B&B's? I am planning a romantic getaway in August. We want to check out an area 1-2 hours away from San Francisco, and preferably in Napa or Sonoma. But, if you know of other romantic weekend getaways, we are open to exploring! We have been to hot springs that were also amazing. We are on a budget, but sifting through Kayak and hotels.com is a chore and not always accurate, so we would love your recommendations. Thanks so much!
Can grains and legumes be eaten at separate meals to get their full protein complement?
I don't eat a lot of meat. I'm always combining grains and legumes because their combination gives you the protein your body needs.
In his new book "Eat & Run," ultramarathoner Scott Jurek says you can eat, for instance rice at one meal and beans at another and still get all the protein. In other words, they don't have to be consumed at the same meal.
I don't have any reason to doubt Mr. Jurek but I'm just double-checking, is this true?
Thank you.
Guts: FIFO?
Intestinal systems: FIFO? [more inside]
Help me find a long-distance partner!
How can I find a partner for a very specific kind of long-distance relationship? (Mild kink inside.) [more inside]
Funny movies on Netflix
Hilarious movies available right now on Netflix instant. Okay, go. [more inside]
Ever since the move you've changed... asshole
Why is our dog suddenly being an asshole? [more inside]
Looking for a Chili's tile table
I picked up 4 Emeco Navy chairs on Craigslist a while back, and I've been trying to find the perfect kitchen table for them. I've determined that said table is probably something along the lines of the tables at Chili's. Where can I get one? [more inside]
How can I get jaw surgery in Italy?
This is pretty random. I had jaw surgery and it didn't come out as planned. I did some research and found a surgeon who works in Rome and I'm interested in consulting him for a revision. He has decades of experience and a particular technique that I think is the right one to fix it. Also, I was born in Italy and I'm an Italian citizen. [more inside]
Which Kindle Amazon store - UK or Australian/US?
I live in Australia. My new Kindle is hooked up to the Amazon.co.uk store for legacy reasons. Should I bother trying to change it to amazon.com like most Kindles in Australia do? [more inside]
Help me get the most out of OKCupid!
What should I be expecting from OKCupid? Assume my profile is just fine. [more inside]
I'm tryin to make a dollar out of fifteen cents. It's hard to be legit and still pay tha rent."
I'm about to come into a large sum of money (in the $300-$500k range). I've never had a large sum of money. Looking for advice on what to do next. [more inside]
Can metallic marinara sauce be saved?
Made some marinara sauce in the slow cooker that came out tasting really metallic. Any way to save it? [more inside]
I love you, burnt cheese.
Why does burnt food taste better? [more inside]
Looking for a last-minute place to camp in Ontario near Toronto or Kingston or between
We're looking for a place to camp in Ontario either near Toronto, or near Kingston or inbetween the two - last minute (aka tomorrow or the day after), probably car-camping. [more inside]
Issue with supervisor thwarting job search process!
I need to provide supervisor references for a job opportunity, but I do not have many people I can ask. Need help figuring out my options. Details inside: [more inside]
Extracting/Importing iPhone SMS/MMS Data
So, I want to restore my iPhone to a backup that's about 1 month old. However, I don't want to lose all of the SMS/MMS and Contacts data that I've accumulated in the meantime. Is it possible to extract and import this newer data into my older backup? I've searched around previous, similar MeFi questions and various 3rd party software, but no dice. And, sadly, jailbreaking is not an option. [more inside]
One Never Knows, Do One?
Does one quote one's self, or oneself? [more inside]
Friendship question...
I lost a close friend a week ago. Help me understand why and if it's salvageable. [more inside]
Converting a 10 year old Christian to atheism through books.
Converting a 10 year old Christian to atheism through books. [more inside]
Help selecting the right PayPal API calls?
I want to use PayPal to implement two different ways of payment. The API set is confusing enough that I don't know where to start. I need some direction as to which API set to use. [more inside]
Perhaps moving away from home was a bad idea
I moved down to Austin from Iowa about two months ago now. Things haven't been going so well. Wondering if I should move back home. [more inside]
It's a bug-eat-bug world out there.
Just a dead bug... but where could it have come from? And where did all these little critters show up from? Are they larva from the corpse? Please help me figure out how to best get rid of this mess. [more inside]
Till debt I do part
Debt solutions in Canada? Insight would be appreciated! [more inside]
Favorite Portuguese restaurant in Newark?
Which is the best Portuguese or Spanish restaurant in the Ironbound section of Newark, NJ? [more inside]
Help me equalize the TV volume.
Can I rig some sort of home-made equalizer between my TV, speakers and PS3? Other ideas as to changing the levels of frequency ranges also welcome. [more inside]
Help us make an app for a history magazine.
I serve on the editorial board of a historical publication that walks the line between scholarly and popular articles. It is a magazine format publication, known for the high quality of its illustrations as well as articles. How do we create an iPad (and maybe Android) app for the magazine? [more inside]
Why am I so hot?
Why is there such an extreme variation in the way humans perceive and react to the same ambient temperature? Especially in the way I perceive it relative to everyone else around me? [more inside]
Wire a GFI switch receptacle combo
WiringFilter: How do I safely wire up this switch/receptacle GFI combo? [more inside]
no digital love
Index card lovers unite! Looking for non-digital ways to manage citations, sources, etc. for academic research projects. [more inside]
What to use pretzel salt for other than pretzels?
I enjoy soft pretzels, but over time I've acquired many, many little bags of pretzel salt that come in the package of pretzels. Yes, maybe I should throw them away. But first - what can I do with them? [more inside]
Suggest a road trip of around 10 hours from Orlando!
Can you suggest some amazing places for me to visit within a ~10 hour drive of Orlando, Florida? I will be leaving Orlando on September 1st and have to be back either in Orlando or in Atlanta, Georgia afternoon of 7th September for my flight back to London, England. New Orleans is one enticing idea so far, Miami slightly less so...but very keen to get some suggestions from the hive mind. Everything from historic landmarks to city culture to the big wide open considered (and I'm a big fan of freshwater swimming too). [more inside]
Transfer images from paper to cloth
I like to draw. I like to embroider. Help me get my drawings on the fabric. [more inside]
Where does this picture of Nathan Fillion come from?
Hope a fangirl! Where does this picture of Nathan Fillion come from? Both Google Image Search and TinEye only lead to unsourced fansite galleries. This site indicates that it's a studio photoshoot outtake, but it doesn't look like any Castle photoshoot I'm familiar with.
Best way to upgrade to a Solid State Drive?
What's the best way to go about installing a solid state drive in a new laptop? (And is this even a good idea?) [more inside]
Have I got the throat lurgey?
My boyfriend has just been diagnosed with a severe bacterial throat infection. How likely is it that I also have it? [more inside]
Do I tip out at the end or with each drink?
When at a bar/pub, I default to tipping on each drink (cash is easy to remember this way, for me). When they hold a running tab, what is the appropriate etiquette when cashing out at the end of the night? [more inside]
Accounting for Pennies
At some stores (the convenience store around the corner), the price I pay always comes out to a round(ish) number. Either ending in a 5 or a zero. So that the change I am given won't have any pennies in it. This is convenient for me and the person behind the register. At other stores, there seems to be little interest in getting those round prices. A purchase is just as likely to end in .68 as .50. Why does the consideration of coins influence the pricing of some stores and not others?
The internets has ruined my brain and ability to concentrate. How can I relearn how to focus and be less distracted?
The internets has ruined my brain and my ability to concentrate. How can I relearn how to focus and be less distracted? [more inside]
All things bright and beautiful, an interative evolutionary process made them all
Is there such a thing as a humanist hymn? [more inside]
What is the best way to read comics not on paper
What is the best way to buy and read digital comics/graphic novels currently? [more inside]
One does not simply walk into that yard.... it is Folly.
My dog will nip at strange people if they come to the house and come towards me. How do I stop it? [more inside]
Bulk Buying Jerky and Hiking
2 part question about hiking and jerky.
1) How much jerky should 2 males eat while hiking 80 miles in 4/5 days?
2) Do you have any site recommendations for buying jerky in bulk online (in the US)? [more inside]
Should I tell a friend that a contractor I recommended to her has a drug problem?
Should I tell a friend that a contractor I recommended to her has a drug problem? [more inside]
Distortion spins me right round
Recently I received an old hifi (stereo receiver with aux and phono inputs) and two EPI speakers from a family member. The system is quite old, but headphones sound great, as does one of the two speakers. The other sounds blown. What are my options in New York City? [more inside]
What was that van?
Please help me identify a strange, retrofuturistic van that I saw. [more inside]
Happy Happy Smile Smile
I want more happy, well-designed blogs like 101 Cookbooks or Enjoying the Small Things so that I can pretend for short periods of time that the world is a delightful place. I don't want kittens, I just want to believe that someone out there is having a nice life. [more inside]
Samsung or Nexus?
Samsung Galaxy tab 2.7.0 v.s Google Nexus Tab either. Which one to chose? [more inside]
The story of the 3 Monkeys
Torn between being a busy body, saying something so someone can help, or stay the heck out and mind my own business. [more inside]
Switch doesn't switch correctly.
Please help me understand this bizarre home electrical-wiring problem, and how to fix it. I've got a mid-50s house. I wanted to put an outlet into the second bathroom, which has none, and it looked like the easiest way to do that would be to replace a wall switch with a combination switch/outlet (specifically, this one). [more inside]
Joke in Bad Taste
Do you recall a TV show or movie where the characters used the word "rape" as a mnemonic device? [more inside]
What sort of store sells 3V DC adaptors?
I need to buy a three volt DC adaptor with a barrel shaped connector. (Picture the normal 12V DC adaptor, but with a smaller connector on the end that plugs into the device.) And I need to get it this afternoon, in between running some other errands. Where should I look? What sort of store carries this sort of thing? [more inside]
What do I use in my '95 Camry as power steering fluid?
My '95 Toyota Camry uses Dexron II transmission fluid as power steering fluid, but nobody sells Dexron II anymore... [more inside]
Pros and Cons of a tiny space for four people
Can anyone in the MeFi world talk me out of making the horrible mistake of buying a home that is too small for our needs? Or, at what age will sisters kill each other if they have to share a bedroom? [more inside]
How to deal with sister on vacation?
How to get along with pushy sister while on vacation? [more inside]
Karma Police
Is it ever ok to tell a friend or loved one to "be nice?" Or is this an big old oxymoron? [more inside]
How do I survive an exploding offer?
2 Interviews, one exploding offer. How do I negotiate? [more inside]
Yet another "Identify this song" question
Trying to remember the name of this hilariously bad song so that I can watch the equally terrible video again. [more inside]
sporting event fundraising software suggestions?
Sporting event fundraising software recommendations? [more inside]
Finding Home, Avoiding Scammers: Craigslist Edition
How do I avoid Craigslist real-estate shysters? Added wrinkle: long-distance. [more inside]
Would you look at the time? (And try to recognise this watch)
My friend lost her beloved silver watch, which she bought at Disneyland 1-2 years ago. Her birthday is coming up and my friend and I want to pitch in and get her another one in the same style. Can you recognise the type of watch from these semi-blurry Facebook pictures, and/or tell me where to find it? [more inside]
Doha during Ramadan?
Have a LONG layover in Doha tomorrow (Tuesday) and just realized it's Ramadan. What's there to do if I get out of the airport and explore? [more inside]
Is emoticon usage in decline?
Is emoticon usage in decline for non-personal messages and posts? What replaced emoticons? [more inside]
Dune, Interrupted.
Any idea's on how to remove a large amount of sand? [more inside]
Moving to Redding, I mean Reading.
Moving to England. To Reading, to be exact. Need advice. [more inside]
How to designing a trivia quiz?
I have to host a trivia quiz for friends in a couple of weeks. What rounds should it have? [more inside]
July 29
Made in Germany
What awesome German engineered products have I yet to discover? [more inside]
Mystery Years of Silence
I apparently stopped talking from just before I was one till I was about four. Should I be worried? [more inside]
Scratching my head over a Verification of Illness form
Frustrated with a "Verification of Illness" form. Rattling my brain trying to figure out how to fill this out. [more inside]
This Time, We'll Look at the Fall
Where do I get away from it all, when "it" is consumerism, militarism, and my general sense of first-world-problems ennui? [more inside]
Can you help me find this vintage (1999) web comic?
I am searching for a web comic I dimly remember seeing online around 1999. ("Garsh, they had the intarwebs back then, grandpa?")
The premise of the strip was the daily life of people working in a software testing/quality department. The humor was pretty dark and cynical, and got increasingly bizarre as the series progressed. The visual style of the comic was photographs of little bendy cartoon figures. I seem to remember the primary protagonist was a blue rabbit bendy figure.
Does this ring any bells? Thanks in advance for any leads!
I want to buy your stuff, not join your club
What is the deal with e-commerce websites that force you to "become a member" before you can even see the items that they are selling? I'm thinking about Fab, Everlane, etc. [more inside]
Is there a smart road trip planning site that suggests where to stop?
I've read this question looking for a road trip planning website. We have been using Google Maps which will tell you the driving distance between two cities IF you type those cities in. But is there any road-trip planning website or app that you can tell "I am in Seattle and want to drive about 6-7-8 hours east, where is a good place to stop for the night?" Sounds simple, but we're jerking between a road atlas (to show us sizable cities and what fun stops are along the way) and Google Maps to give us the approx driving time and mileage. Yes, road atlases give miles, but it seems there must be an online way that shows us a bunch of choices. Anything out there?
How would a great singer play a mediocre one?
Broadway-musical-meta-performance-filter: In "shows within a show," do actors/singers/dancers typically play down from their top standard, if the character is not at the top of the profession? [more inside]
Oh no, it's a Cosmic Tsunami!
For a story's sake, let's say a series of enormous gravitational waves caused the fabric of space time to fluctuate. What would that be like for us here on Earth, experiencing the fallout? [more inside]
What's the quintisential 1960's high school movie?
Help me fill the gaps in my travel-through-the-history-of-high-school movie list, from Grease to Mean Girls! Got one for the '60's? [more inside]
Connect to my Apple TV via WiFi?
I have an Apple TV (1st generation) connected to my 720p TV. I have an Intel iMac. What I don't have is a WiFi subscription. Help me understand what's possible with this and if I can connect the two. [more inside]
Gallbladder surgeon in NYC?
Can anyone recommend a surgeon to remove a gallbladder in NYC? [more inside]
Attraction along the way to Shelter Island NY?
Heading up to Shelter Island NY for a weekend soon from North Jersey. Leaving 6am on a Friday. I will be with my wife and toddler. Any suggestions for stops/attractions/restaurants along the way? I suspect my toddler will need a break after 2 hours on a 4+ hour drive. Also any comments on traffic and directions would be helpful! thanks!
What's the deal with way they tie up horses in old Western movies?
What's the deal with way they tie up horses in old Western movies? [more inside]
I have a license plate thief. I think I need a camera.
Someone keeps stealing my license plate while my car is parked in my apartment complex overnight. I've already reported the thefts, and I'd like to set up a camera and catch the perp in the act if he or she strikes again. Suggestions, given the details inside? [more inside]
You really don't need me anymore, but you don't seem to know that
I need help figuring out how to get my 11 month old baby to fall asleep by himself. Anyone been there, done that? Halp? [more inside]
games that feel like deus ex
Looking for video games with a certain sense of exploring the physical space in a detailed and realistic way. [more inside]
I have wrinkles at 22 - is there anything I can do to stop time?
I'm only 22 and already noticing forehead wrinkles and little lines beneath my eyes. Is there anything I can do or am I doomed to look like a disaster by the time I'm 30? [more inside]
Sheryl Sandberg Probably Didn't Have This Problem
How much are COOs paid at small, profitable, private tech firms in Boston? [more inside]
How do I keep someone from breaking into my house tonight?
How can I protect my house from thieves tonight? I own a vacant house that is under construction. It just got broken into by thieves to steal the copper piping. I expect they'll try to finish the job tonight. [more inside]
Where can I re-watch the 2012 Opening Ceremonies again?
Where can I watch the 2012 Olympics Opening Ceremonies online? [more inside]
Simple, Cheap Tagless Tshirts?
Looking for cheap, tagless men's tshirts...any recommendations? [more inside]
It was a dark and stormy night...
UK short story market for sci-fi and speculative fiction. Are there any sites that list current calls for submission? [more inside]
It's all about the Food Network.
How can my wife watch Food Network without cable TV? [more inside]
Employment Doubledown
Are there issues with working two half time jobs as opposed to one full time job that I should be aware of? [more inside]
Help me help my puddy cat.
How can I help an injured kitty? [more inside]
Help me watch the olympics online: technical difficulties edition
When I go to the NBC Olympics site to log in with my cable package details, the iframe that should show the log in fields (username and password) does not load. This is on a win7 machine with both chrome and FF. The problem does not occur on a different computer on the same network (a macbook running 10.6.8). What setting on my computer seems to be blocking this, and how can I get this frame to load? [more inside]
Use vim for everything
Software methodologies for writing? [more inside]
How do I temporarily go through life without friends?
How do I cope with daily life without any friends? I feel like my latest attempts at making friends is going nowhere.. [more inside]
Help me find a knife shop in the Portland, Oregon area.
Where can I find decorative, collectible knives (not necessarily handmade) in the Portland, Oregon area? [more inside]
Karen _______, age 13
Illegible-filter: what's the name written on the back of this photograph? All I can make out is "Karen _______, age 13."
Help with large lump-sum when traveling.
How to pay for apartment in The Netherlands? We are close to signing a lease for an apartment in Amsterdam for three months. How do I deal with a large lump-sum payment? We are coming from The States. [more inside]
Weird porn searches in brower dropdown history
Over the last few months I've noticed some heavily pornographic search terms popping up in the household computers' drop-down histories, but I cannot figure out who or what is responsible. Help me figure this out before it's too late? (NSFW language) [more inside]
Exchanging gift cards I don't need for money I do?
Is there a place online where (presumably they would have to be nice, I would guess) people would trade money for gift cards to stores at which they shop anyway? Or something similar? [more inside]
Is there a custom firmware dev community for the Flip Ultra HD?
How can I hack my Flip Ultra HD? [more inside]
How to hang IKEA's 5x7 Ribba frame from the small, recessed clip on the back?
How to hang IKEA's Ribba frames when they don't come with a wire across the back? [more inside]
Can I really have the house of the future?
If I were to purchase a Nexus 7 to use as a kind of hub for my apartment, communicating between roommates and keeping track of bills and things electronically, what all would I actually be able to do with it? [more inside]
Forums with good multimedia discussions to read?
I'm looking for discussion forums which cover a wide variety of different media in one space. Examples: RPG.net's Other Media forum, Metafilter on a media-heavy day, Fandom Fail Anon. Places where fans of all types of media rub elbows amicably in one relatively fast-moving forum. [more inside]
Write this down, Jeeves. Stop. All right, ready?
How fast could people dictate before typewriters? You see in movies or read in books about valets or secretaries taking dictation. Were they using a shorthand system? Or was it longhand, but with abbreviations and such? Can I find examples of such drafts/notes?
Ooki no kuri no ki no shita de...
Japanese MeFites: what songs did you learn as a kid? [more inside]
How do I revive my Patton P-20SW?
How do I revive my beloved Patton P-20SW? I tried to turn it on today and there was a spark and smoke then no response. Any ideas? [more inside]
greater west london by the airport?
What is it like living in Hounslow or out Heathrow Airport way? Is it possible to find a three-bedroom house to rent that would allow pets? Are there lots of coffee shops?
How big does something have to be to block out the sun?
How big/high up would something floating in the sky have to be to block out the sun to a sufficient extent to simulate "night?" [more inside]
Is moving back home the worst thing I could do?
I graduated college a year ago and moved to Baltimore. I’m now considering moving back home to be close to family, save money and travel. Am I possibly making a huge mistake? Special complications inside. [more inside]
How did you go from not liking reading books on your iPad to enjoying the experience?
How did you go from not liking reading books on your iPad to enjoying the experience? And how do you negotiate the morass that is the self-published ebook section of Amazon? [more inside]
Surface geography
Some people have divots or dimples on their low-lower backs, just to the east and to the west of the base of the spine. What are those called? And what causes them?
Fun things to do in Las Vegas for a father and a teenage son.
My son and I will be in Las Vegas for two days. This will be our first father/son outing alone together in a long time with no other family around. What are some fun/bonding things to do in sin city? My son is seventeen years old, likes heavy metal (so does his father), video games (so does his father) and japanese animation (unlike his father).
Reboot my container garden from a Fusarium wilt.
Reboot my container garden from a Fusarium wilt. [more inside]
Help me use my DSLR to shoot auto races
I am a rank beginner at photography. Last night I took my DSLR to an auto race and most of my pictures turned out blurry or under/overexposed or otherwise sucky. Occasionally I got lucky. What am I most likely doing wrong, and how can I get better at shooting cars in motion? I'd appreciate your tips or links to online tutorials. [more inside]
Alternatives to Google Docs
I need an alternative to Google Drive (formerly Google Docs) to use with my 5th grade students. [more inside]
Coworking spaces in New York City
Where can I find cheap/free working spaces in NYC? [more inside]
Low-priced drink not such a good deal afterall
What ingredient is it in Sobe drinks that consistently gives me diarrhea? [maybe not NSFW, but a bit graphic] [more inside]
Is it even possible to have equal roles when raising a baby?
How can I accept the gender imbalance in my relationship now that we're parents of a young, breastfed baby? Help me be less resentful of my husband! [more inside]
Why can't a 32GB thumb drive hold a 15GB file?
I just bought a Mushkin 32GB flash drive. I have a 15GB folder I need to put onto it. About 1/4 of the way into the transfer, I get an error message saying there in not enough space on the thumb drive. [more inside]
What do Brigitta and Louisa mean by their lines in "So Long, Farewell"?
In the song "So Long, Farewell" from The Sound of Music, why does Brigitta sing "I'm glad to go, I cannot tell a lie" (i.e. is she tired? is she bored by the grown-ups?), and why does Louisa sing "I flit, I float, I fleetly flee, I fly" (does she, too, want to get out of there? is she half-asleep?)? Are their lines meant to be interpreted as somehow related, since they do a little dance together immediately afterwards? Yes, this is settle-an-argument filter, so I'm looking for canonical or otherwise authoritative info, not just casual speculation.
15 Minutes of Fame
I am looking for information on how people feel, like and want (or not) to be interviewed by TV, radio or newspaper reporters. [more inside]
I like Chris Marker movies, especially Sans Soleil. What other movies would I like?
What other people have done stuff like Chris Marker's documentaries? Is there a movie anywhere that's even a little bit like Sans Soleil?
What is the best American airline?
Based on your personal experience, what is the best American airline to fly with (in terms of quality of service, comfort, customer service, etc.)?
Vietnam
Two questions about Vietnam! 1) Safe to take my macbook on travels through the country? 2) What should I be buying cheaply in Vietnam?
Help needed with travel for blind person
London transport: help needed to plan a journey for a blind person [more inside]
The menthol of autumn
I'm looking for the exact prose by author Mark Leyner that begins something like "My sister is the beautiful day, the menthol of autumn..."
but google is just giving me reviews of his work. I think it was part of "My Cousin, My Gastroenterologist". Ta, Mefi people.
I want to want to...
What motivates you to start a new activity? [more inside]
How to convince my friend to go to counseling
Help me convince my friend to talk to a therapist [more inside]
How can I watch whole Olympic basketball games online?
How can I watch whole Olympic basketball games online? I'm in Australia. Every search I do seems to turn up things that look a little like malware. Live and legal would be my first preference, but I don't mind if I have to download an entire game as an avi and watch it afterwards. Thanks!
Help searching for old PC and Playstation 1 games? Probably about early to mid 90's
Help searching for old PC and Playstation 1 games? Probably about early to mid 90's [more inside]
July 28
What can you tell me about this big flying insect?
Insect identification - what can you tell me about this flying beast? (good pic inside) [more inside]
It's okay because I'm under no illusion that fixies have any practical advantages
Please help me buy a cheap grocery-run bike to get around New York. I'm looking at the Gravity Swift2, the Mercier Kilo WT5, and the Windsor Timeline, although other suggestions are also welcome. [more inside]
Where can I find a Tiffany's style bubble ring in my price range?
soundproofing a wall with a door in it
I share a wall with my roommate, which isn't as acoustically opaque as I would like (I'm occasionally woken up by late-night activities). What's the best/cheapest way to soundproof it? [more inside]
Is there a wifi cordless phone?
Is there such a thing as a wifi cordless phone that works with a landline? [more inside]
the dreaded fifth trimester
Looking for new ways to play with my four-month-old. [more inside]
how much rent should i be paying in NYC?
mid-20s, moving to NYC jobless but with some prospects to realistically find an entry-level job in the $40,000 range. have $20,000 saved. what kind of rent should i realistically plan to pay? am looking at a $1150/mo (per person) in Fort Green. can i do better? [more inside]
Can you recommend styling tools for people with too much hair?
Does anyone have any hair-styling tips and/or tool suggestions for people with wayyyy too much hair? [more inside]
Seriously confused by recent breakup.
Why am I hopeful with this ex-girlfriend ? [more inside]
Legally how can we force this unconventional tenant to leave?
My boyfriend's relatives just moved out of a house in Illinois which belongs to his grandmother (who lives in a different state). She wants us to move in and take care of the house. There is someone living in the guest house who we want to leave. [more inside]
frustration and connection in the city?
How have you negotiated being frustrated with the culture and experience of young-white-people-in-the-city without alienating friends or becoming a hypocrite/cynic/other mopey monster variant? [more inside]
Help get Amazon Prime to give me sound on my PS3
PS3 + Amazon Instant Video is giving me no sound. PS3 works perfectly with sound with all other games/movies etc. [more inside]
Roommate from Hell
Roommate has lied about paying her share of the bills and has not paid last month's bills. She's been unreasonable and refuses to talk about bills. Her lease ends in 3 days. She owes hundreds of dollars. Can we pursue legal recourse? (part of the lease posted inside) [more inside]
How to dim 12v Halogen lights?
I have ten 30 watt 12v halogen lights connected to a transformer that is rated for 300 watts. The transformer seems fairly old. I want to be able to dim the lights. What kind of dimmer do I need and how do I wire it up?
« Prev | Next » for Twitter
Twitter question: If I have the URL of an individual tweet, is there a way to see the next and previous tweets from that user? [more inside]
Is there a way someone could use my cellphone number with out using my phone?
Is there a way someone could use my cellphone number with out using my phone? [more inside]
How do I respond to co-worker making comments about what I eat?
How do I respond to co-worker making comments about what I eat? [more inside]
When the mama is away, the cat wants to play - but how?
When the mama is away, the cat wants to play - but how? [more inside]
Need a bank with Pgh and LA locations
Please help me find a bank with Pittsburgh and Los Angeles locations... [more inside]
smoke
yet another smoke stink question. I looked for answers and found some that would be helpful, BUT... [more inside]
SSD Capacity and Cost predictions
I'm interested in getting an SSD drive for my MacBook but the storage capacity isn't big enough and they are too expensive. Are there some Moore's Law type indicators for SSD technology that might help predict at what point in the future, say, a 750GB drive might cost less than $500?
Buildings with ties to Xenakis
Please name some architects who are affiliated with (or who were directly/indirectly influenced by) Iannis Xenakis and/or his musical ideas (composition based on mathematical principles, stochastic methods, etc). [more inside]
West Virginia American Summer
WestVirginiaCampingTripFilter: Interesting activities in & within an hour drive of Monogahela National Forest for some adults and 30+ kids? [more inside]
Can I control a FireWire camcorder via USB?
I need a firewire to USB converter to import some old and precious MiniDV video to a MacBook Air using the camcorder. Does such a thing really exist? [more inside]
Children's hand me downs - yay or no thanks?
I would like to offer some of the nicer hand-me-downs from my daughter's collection of clothes and toys to a friend in my department who has a daughter a few years younger. She and her husband are both Korean, and I want to make sure there is not a cultural issue that makes used things somehow weird or icky. [more inside]
Treating endometriosis with birth control
Had an endometrioma surgically removed. Deciding whether to start the pill. [more inside]
It's Virginia! It's hard!
How to find a trans-friendly doctor in Northern Virginia? [more inside]
tattoo behind the ear?
Is it possible to have a tattoo done on the backside of the outer ear? Not the neck/throat along the SCM, but on the backside of the pinna/auricle. [more inside]
Seeking a small, tapered, French rolling pin
Can someone guide me to a small, handleless, tapered rolling pin that is truly meant to be used and is from a trust worthy place? [more inside]
Searching for a unique retro website design.
FauxRetroFilter: Help me remember an entirely ASCII dynamic website. [more inside]
Help me find a short story I read.
I'm trying to remember the name and author of a science fiction short-story. Description inside. [more inside]
Where to live in Baltimore?
I'm moving from the Midwest to Baltimore in about a month, likely into an apartment sight unseen. Baltimore MeFites - I need your advice on where to live that is safe, in my price range, and would fit my lifestyle! [more inside]
Is it easy to clean and grease the bearings on a back-pedal brake bike?
Can I grease the bearings in a wheel with a back-pedal brake without wrecking the whole thing? [more inside]
Purge purge purge
I need to get rid of my filing cabinet. Help me figure out what to do with its contents. [more inside]
Leather belt care
I have an older leather belt that has become stiff. It's still usable, but I'd like to get it back to it's earlier, softer condition. How do I do this?
Is there paint-safe colorful wall tape?
What types of tape could I use for colorful wall-safe alternatives to painter's tape? [more inside]
Geez, dog, learn to take a hint
My puppy has taken to playing by biting other dogs' (and cats') ears. Do I need to get him to stop? And if so, how? [more inside]
How can I make this not be so hard?
Why am I having anxiety about certain tasks at work? [more inside]
Really great girl has an STI
The girl that I like has herpes. How do I move forward? [more inside]
How bountiful is your CSA?
Participants in CSA/Community Supported Agriculture/local farm cropshares-- on average, how much produce does your regular share contain? How does the overall cost stack up against retail veggie pricing? [more inside]
Investigating the mystery aisles: what do I want?!
I want to read a good mass market crime series featuring the same investigator(s). Of course, I have no idea what's "good" per my taste and the huge bookstore mystery section totally overwhelms me. Please help me figure out where to start? [more inside]
Find New Games
I'd like to find modern games that are enjoyable to play on a Mac laptop, using only the keyboard and optionally trackpad. Suggest some for me, ideally something with a demo? [more inside]
I'd settle for a plateau.
Three months into boot camp, suddenly weaker than ever. Wha? [more inside]
What kind of doctor can help diagnose my issue with fatigue and pain?
What kind of doctor can help diagnose my issue with fatigue and pain? [more inside]
Best PHP Framework?
Which PHP framework is the most straightforward to pick up for an beginner / intermediate programmer? [more inside]
tough mp4 video camera
Howdy Mefi peeps,
I'm looking for a tough video + camera that is mp4 native. I have a Canon IS1200, a good point and shoot. It outputs in .avi, a high volume format that takes quite awhile to download via USB. I need something more robust for my purposes. [more inside]
Help me not mentally flagellate myself
As a shy, awkward introvert who is frankly not good with people, how can I shut down my own negative self-talk when I'm in the midst of social situations--namely, a big two-day-long event happening this weekend? Are there any easily remembered mantras or things I can tell myself so that I'm not focusing the whole time on my own shortcomings? [more inside]
thriller novel where student cheats on medical exam by answering question incorrectly
Looking for a thriller mass-market paperback novel that I read in the late 1990s that was about brilliant students at a medical school - murder, conspiracy, etc. [more inside]
July 27
Flat too hot, what to do?
I rented an apartment in Bonn on very short notice, and it turned out to be a loft. When he weather was cold it was ok, but once it got to 85 degrees it became unliveable.
Of course there is no ac, so me and my pregnant wife went to a hotel till it cools off.
Is there anything we can do regarding the rent? Do you think it's reasonable for someone to rent out a loft without mentioning that it is one? If I can't sleep in the apartment and he offers no solution but a fan, is this ok somehow?
I was referred to this guy through the institute we are visiting, so maybe the secretaries can make him pay if I have a case.
"ooh la la" song with hot electric guitar?
What was this "ooh la la la la..." song with the hot electric guitar that I heard the other night? [more inside]
Venus Fly Trapdoor
My friends and I are looking to move into this new place, and I can't help but feel there's something odd about the couple we're renting from... [more inside]
Alarmed about a piece of me that just fell off.
A few days ago I was in the shower, and I noticed a tiny lump in the front of my armpit. Initially I thought it was a zit, so I poked it with a needle. It hurt and thus it was apparently not a zit. As I examined it closer, I saw that it was more... fleshy. [more inside]
Avoidant personality disorder - more than just social anxiety?
I think I have avoidant personality disorder. I've never actually been diagnosed, but when you look at the behaviors and symptoms, there's really no question about it. What is my question is, can I fix it? Can I deal with it? What do I do? [more inside]
This is the Internet age, is it not?
How can I watch the Olympics online if I don't have a cable subscription? [more inside]
How is hip surgery ?
I'm having a tear of the acetabular labrum repaired athroscopically. What can I expect ? [more inside]
power on computer ... power on!!!
my netbook will not turn on. there is no response--no lights or sounds--with the battery in, but when the power cord is plugged in i can hear a soft but steady clicking sound from the power button area. i have tried another hard drive in it, no luck. i also looked at the ram, it seems fine. [more inside]
Going to San Francisco and Portland; what am I doing?
Planes and Trains and Bikes, oh my! or, Going to San Francisco and Portland for a week and a half; what should I do and see and eat? [more inside]
How are they doing after Reggio Emilia schooling?
Please help me learn about outcomes from Reggio Emilia and similar project-based, progressive educational systems. [more inside]
What to expect when dealing with an Animal Rescue Group
What to expect when dealing with an Animal Rescue Group? [more inside]
Foot tingling for 2 days after crouching - Serious? Pinched nerve?
Foot tingling for 2 days after crouching - Serious? Pinched nerve? [more inside]
Is laminate flooring what I want?
Help me floor my house! [more inside]
Should I invest in my state's 529 even though I might move in three years?
I have a question about 529 Savings Plans. Now that I have a little one, I'm looking to start investing in a 529. However, there is a better than decent chance that we'll move to a new state within the next three years. Should I invest in New York's Direct plan right away (which looks great - low expense and a nice amount to write off my taxes) even though I might lose future tax benefits in another state?
simple practical tips for daily living
Simple household tips [more inside]
Taxes on early 401k withdrawal
Is 401k withdrawal income the same as McDonalds income? [more inside]
I picked the wrong color!
Any Mefite floor tile experts out there? My grout choice turns out lighter than I'd like..... [more inside]
Cross country train trip USA -- sleeper or no?
Cross country train trip -- sleeper or no? Terrible idea? [more inside]
Where should I live in San Francisco?
I will likely be moving from Australia to San Francisco to take a job soon. Which neighbourhood would be best for me personally to live? More inside that might help you make a suggestion. [more inside]
Bend Outlook to my will.
I'm looking for an Add-In for Outlook 2010 that will pop-up a notification when certain, quantity or time based criteria are met. [more inside]
Right Arrow Woes
In a Word document, I'm trying to get a simple right arrow symbol in Times New Roman. However, pasting it in from the Character Viewer inserts it as Arial Italic. Changing it back to Times in Word has no effect - it goes back to Arial immediately. How can I get around this? [more inside]
How best to learn spanish for an Argentine vacation?
How best to learn Spanish for a three week vacation in Argentina? [more inside]
Bedding Down in Barcelona
We're staying for four nights in Barcelona in mid September. First visit for both of us. Really would appreciate hotel/B&B recommendations, and of course what sights and restaurants the hive mind recommends.
Mounting an FTP server as a disk in OSX 10.8
What's the best way to mount an FTP server as a drive in OSX 10.8? [more inside]
Mortgage broker On the Level?
Is my mortgage broker drawing out the process on purpose? Is he getting paid now or is it a commission type business? [more inside]
It feels good, it must be good.
Further science/philosophical reading about human evolution and the woes of our modern life. Looking for suggestions, please! [more inside]
Is "Modern Scientific Press" legit?
Is "Modern Scientific Press" a legitimate peer-reviewed scientific publisher? [more inside]
I love you, now here is all my money.
Stupidly loaned boyfriend money too early in a relationship; are we doomed? [more inside]
Disoriented you enter in, unleashing scent of wild jasmine
Honeysuckle and jasmine smell identical to me. Is there a good reason for this? Like...science? [more inside]
A barrier against what?
Warped Tour Financials
The website for the Warped Tour shows 111 different bands. How does a band make enough money to tour the US on a multi-city tour with so many other bands? [more inside]
How to build a faraday cage
I'm interested in making a strong faraday cage device to protect my stuff, one that is walk-in. [more inside]
Help me understand which camera memory card to buy, and also (potentially) where I might buy one in Boston/Cambridge (or online)!
Help me understand which camera memory card to buy, and also (potentially) where I might buy one in Boston/Cambridge (or online)! [more inside]
Can you help me find this blog post?
Some tech blogger - probably one with a Mac focus - wrote a post about leaving TextMate for a different text editor, in the style of someone addressing a person with whom they were ending a romantic relationship. Can you help me find it?
Baby, you can drive my car, but I have to find one first.
How do I buy a car? [more inside]
What happened here? How do I research my hometown?
History/Librarian Filter: Inspired by all the interesting London history coming out here, I'd like to start researching my own backyard, but I have little idea where to begin. What resources are typically available if wanted to research an area (US)? [more inside]
Landlords: What websites get you the best results for advertising room-rentals / shared accommodation?
Landlords: What websites get you the best results for advertising room-rentals / shared accommodation? [more inside]
Will it hurt?
Having a potentially cancerous skin growth removed by a plastic surgeon. What should I expect? [more inside]
Milquetoast Kenny G Rock???
I'm looking for a specific artist, or a specific sound. I heard a motorcycle guy blasting music out of his speakers, and it was a sort of rock, not quite arena rock, but something like it. The main description I can think of is "Kenny G Rock" for it was utterly milquetoast and non-offensive and yet... [more inside]
Should I be worried about my bf's relationship with his ex?
I accidentally read an email from my BF to his ex GF, who is getting married on Saturday, which he closed with "I will always love you." Should I be concerned about his feelings for her? [more inside]
Which gamble, and when?
How far in advance is it decided whether a La Liga (Spain) game will be played on Saturday or Sunday? [more inside]
Dear Britons, why do you grate your cheese on a sandwich?
Dear Britons, why do you grate your cheese on a sandwich? [more inside]
Roommate troubles: Spain or Bust edition.
Roommate is moving to Spain in 4 days. Has not found replacement. Please help. [more inside]
What types of jobs or careers would let me live in the US but travel internationally every couple of months?
What types of jobs or careers would let me live in the US but travel internationally every couple of months? [more inside]
Standing room only, but preggo lady still gets a chair
Are all bars super accommodating to pregnant ladies, or just the ones we go to in Montreal? [more inside]
Looking for books on WWII... but ...
Can you recommend a contemporary WWII narrative, in english, but written by non-anglo-american authors? [more inside]
What to expect when selling gold jewelry
What to expect when selling gold jewelry? Details inside. [more inside]
Can social media and being public mix when you have to work for a living?
Can social media, humor, and being public mix when you have a job? [more inside]
Old books on how to write stories?
After enjoying a 1920 screenwriting book by the flapper humorist Anita Loos, I am wondering what other pre-WW2 writing advice books might be fun and interesting to read. Any suggestions?
Why is #tcot a thing?
What is #tcot? I understand that it stands for Top Conservative On Twitter but what does that mean and why do people use it? What is the history and why did it start? Does it get compiled somewhere or something? Thanks
Where to put a hole to sink money into in Boston?
I'm considering buying a 27' cruising sailboat and keeping it in the greater Boston area. I'd like some advice about storage, mooring/docking and costs. [more inside]
Here is my head. Make it less purple!
At home hair-dye gone not-so-terribly, but my pretty dark red has too much purple. What's the best toner to get rid of that color and leave a nice red? [more inside]
Failing isn't so bad...or is it?
Will my friend be able to repeat his first year at the University of Liverpool? [more inside]
What the heck are these things?
What the heck are these things? [more inside]
How do I fix acne leftovers?
I have leftover acne redness from 15 or so years ago, and I've finally decided to do something about it. The goal is to make my skin more even-toned and healthier-looking. What methods and/or products - preferably available over-the-counter - would you suggest? Pics of some of the offending areas on my face here, here, and here.
Is it rude not to prolong the small talk with my hair stylist?
Hair professionals of the world, would you find me rude if I took the opportunity to return to my reading once our intial, polite exhange of pleasantries is over?
twitter + science!
I'm interested in psychology, public health, and aging. Who should I be following on Twitter? [more inside]
Tips for driving through and staying in southern West Virginia?
Tips for driving through southern West Virginia? [more inside]
Recipes needed for children's cooking class
I need some recipe ideas for a children's cooking class - can you help? [more inside]
"And all that I knew was the hole in my shoe, which was letting in water"
Frequent holes in my shoes - does anyone know what's going on? [more inside]
Passport, check... But where do I store my cats?
Any recommendations for pet boarding in Birmingham, UK? (Bonus: good vets.) [more inside]
How to break off with a recruiter?
How do I break off a relationship with a recruiter who's lied to me? [more inside]
Animal Welfare in "Life of Pi?"
Just saw the trailer for "Life of Pi" and it looks stunning. However, I want to know if animal action was supervised by the ASPCA (or the appropriate organisations for the countries where the movie was filmed).
How to watch 2012 Olympics online in Africa?
Help me watch the Olympics on my computer. In Africa. [more inside]
What movie is this?!
Help me figure out exactly what movie I'm thinking about? [more inside]
July 26
Ships shipping ships?
This picture (of what looks like a pile of cargo ships in the water) is doing the email rounds as "a ship that ships ships". What is it?
Coda
I'm looking to compile a collection of a certain kind of codas or outros or tags. Like, when the song is over, and the musician or band has to tie things up into a neat package, they may play something like this classic. (OK, maybe that wasn't so neat.) I'm not just looking for the well-trodden, but also for someone's unique stamp on the well-trodden. The ironic or earnest. Rock, jazz, classical — any genre! [more inside]
Sprinting Sans Socks Suggestions?
I'm going to start running without socks! What do I need to do to keep both my shoes and feet in tip-top shape? [more inside]
Finding interesting soc/psych research to discuss
A group of friends and I, all recent college graduates, have decided to meet weekly to discuss interesting recent sociology and psychology research. How would we go about finding it outside of ScienceDaily, and - more importantly - how can we access it now that we're all without database access?
I'm having trouble connecting the dots.
How do I get over no longer being able to afford the awesome school I almost graduated from? I'm at the end of the (long, winding) road, staring down a Voluntary Withdrawal form and it's killing me, despite everything I'm managing to tell myself. Gratuitous B.A. derailment details inside. [more inside]
Advice for buying a wedding dress online
Did you buy a wedding dress online? Do you have any shop recommendations or advice to make this as painless as possible for me? [more inside]
Washington State Travel: Looking for suggestions near/accessible to Wallace Falls State Park
I am planning a trip to Washington (state) in August. Most of the details are confirmed, but I have a few days that I'd like to fill... [more inside]
Online print job
I'm interested in printing some color documents. I can go to my local UPS store, but I'm curious whether there are good options online so I don't have to go to the store. Do you know of reliable and reasonably priced (including shipping) vendors who do this service of printing a document and shipping to you?
Converting dual temperature valves to thermostatic
Plumbing filter: Is there any way to convert an old shower with separate hot and cold valves into a thermostatic valve? Picture inside. [more inside]
Save our sofa from our cat
New apartment comes with beautiful, expensive sectional couch. Our cat is a pro furniture shredder. Help. [more inside]
Suspension lift kit
Lift kit for 1995 Nissan 4WD Pickup [more inside]
Looking to figure out literary influences.
I just read the letter Ted Turner received after his father found out that Ted was now studying Classics at university. Passionately written. My question, what was Ted Turner's father reading that would make him write like that? What authors influenced this urgent writing style? I want to read more like it.
This large conurbation we've just entered, could it be London?
London - best time to go this autumn, best area to stay close to the British Museum, favorite second-hand clothes stores, favorite museums (of ANY sort), absolute Musts of a non-touristy sort (my boundaries: changing of the guards is OUT, High Tea somewhere lovely is IN).
Bonus: great guided walks.
Bonus bonus: can I get in to the taping of a BBC radio/TV comedy/panel show? [more inside]
Also she has accidents every day but I'll just deal with that
My little dog has bladder stones. Can you answer a couple of questions to help us get through this with dietary treatment alone? [more inside]
Like all those fashion blogs. But for hair.
What are the best haircut/hairdo/hairstyle blogs? [more inside]
I want both!
I've been offered an 18 month job 3000km away, where my partner lives. Everything sounds great except for leaving friends and family for 18 months, which is a really big deal for me. I'm really struggling to make up my mind, help me? [more inside]
What's that sandal?
What's that shoe? Please help identify a men's sandal. [more inside]
What should I be looking for if I want to wear a cup everyday?
I'm thinking about wearing a cup everyday. I figure if I can do it without it being noticeable, why shouldn't I? The thing is, I don't know anything about them. [more inside]
Restore apps from Time Machine after upgrade to Mountain Lion?
Can I restore applications from time machine AFTER an OS upgrade? [more inside]
Chicken Marinade
What are your favorite chicken marinades? [more inside]
Staying Flea-Free, Cats And Home
What is the best strategy to keep my cats and apartment flea-free? [more inside]
American propaganda about Russia
Can anyone help me find Cold War-era video of American propaganda specifically about *Russians* (or at least mentioning Russians), rather than "Communists" in general?
How do I make my grandson laugh like a drunk?
How do I make one of those "Little Girl Laughing...SLOWED DOWN" videos with some footage of my grandson? [more inside]
Moving my family for a job...Worth it? Can it be done? How hard is it?
New Job..New City...Should i move my family? Advice & Suggestions Please. [more inside]
Online forums/support specific to health care professionals/students with major mental health diagnoses/problems?
Are there online forums/communities for support for medical professionals/students with serious mental health diagnoses? [more inside]
Is NJ gas better than Massachusetts gas?
New Jersey gasoline is more efficient than Massachusetts gasoline? I seem to get much better gas mileage with both my cars when they are filled up in NJ. What gives? [more inside]
How can I make a decision?
I've been debating whether to get a new job. I'm relatively happy in my current job, but I think I could make more money. Please tell me how I can make up my mind. [more inside]
How old is too old?
Sick of everything and want change is 42 too late in life? [more inside]
Getting a deal on an engagement ring
I'm looking to buy an engagement ring. Where can I get a solid deal on one these days? [more inside]
a circle in a pointed cloverleaf
Does this symbol mean anything? It's like a circle superimposed on a cloverleaf symbol (⌘), except that the loops are pointed on the ends. [more inside]
Help me craft a nicely worded invitation for a party!
I'm getting married - yay! I'm having a simply civil ceremony at the NYC wedding bureau and then plan to have a party a few days after. My dear me-fi'ers- What do you think is the best way to word an invite to a post-ceremony celebration? [more inside]
What makes a good wall in a garage?
What would you put up for the interior walls of your man cave in the garage? [more inside]
Do typical lab results for raw-fed cats (domestic and small wild) exist? If so, where?
Three of my four cats are (mostly) raw-fed. My vet knows about this, and finds their recent blood test results unremarkable, despite the fact that some of their values are technically "out of range" or near the extreme end of what is statistically "normal". I'm not worried if my vet isn't, but where's the data on this? Does it even exist? Do I need to perhaps compare my cats' results to those of small wildcats, and if so, where's that data? [more inside]
Do I need a day care license for only one family at a time?
The California law regarding Family Day Cares says I'm exempt from licensure if there's only one family in addition to my own children. Does this mean only one other family at a time, or over the course of some arbitrary period (a week, month, etc.)? [more inside]
How much is 2 g of a NSAID gel?
Lost the dosing card for a prescription of Voltaren gel (diclofenac sodium 1%). How can I figure out how much to apply? [more inside]
An alternative to Time Machine?
Is there a good alternative to Time Machine for doing backups of a mac? I am running Mac OS 10.7.4 and backing up to an external hard drive. [more inside]
Medicaid therapy?
I have a friend who lives in Bolingbrook, IL (Will County). She has a car. She's looking for a mental health care professional. There are complications. [more inside]
Advice for a green musician
How not to suck when performing music live? [more inside]
Fixing net curtain cord to ceiling above bay window?
How to fix net curtain cord to ceiling above bay window? [more inside]
How to stop my ex from breaking my fiance's heart?
My ex-boyfriend is on a path to platonically breaking my fiance's heart similarly to the way he broke mine, possibly because of me. How can I stop this, mitigate it, or support him through it? Is there any way I can give insight from my previous relationship, or is that too weird? [more inside]
Alternative to "The Shit Hits The Fan"
What's an alternative to the phrase "when the shit hits the fan" that means essentially the same thing, e.g. "when stuff goes wrong"? Feel free to be creative.
Dropbox vs Mountain Lion
Which elements of Dropbox are now present in Mountain Lion and which aren't? [more inside]
Should I just get a baseball bat?
Should I get a home security system? [more inside]
IO Psych Angst
I'm an English major who wants to go to grad school in Industrial/Organizational Psych. How can I improve my chances?
Snowflake details inside. [more inside]
What fees will I face to register a title transfer a year late
I bought about a year ago car in Chicago, Illinois but haven't yet updated the registration info. What penalties could I be facing? [more inside]
Verizon versus Time Warner, go!
Do any of you New York-area mefites have an opinion on Verizon versus Time Warner for internet? [more inside]
Is a Master's in Public Policy something I want to do?
What sort of entry-level type jobs can I look for now to help me figure out if a Master’s in Public Policy is something I want to pursue? [more inside]
Thanks for hiring me, now give me my vacation.
How do I tell potential employers that I NEED to go to this 3 week arts residency I've been awarded, mid-fall? [more inside]
Trying to keep turn length under 30 minutes per side would be great...
Looking for ideas for determining if fired weapons hit a target in a turn-based tabletop tactical wargame using dice. [more inside]
How to tip gracefully when there's no money exchange?
What is the least awkward way of tipping someone when you're not actually paying for anything? [more inside]
Has anyone had a Washington DC online renewal successfully forwarded by post office?
Lost my Washington DC vehicle paper registration and I have a new address. Has anyone requested a new registration online and was it successfully forwarded? [more inside]
Translate Me This
Translation Help Please for these gravestones ... (Chinese or Japanese? I'm completely ignorant of Asian languages, sorry.) [more inside]
Lipid Droplet Formation
What are the known chemical inhibitors of lipid droplet formation in human cells? I've read that most fundamental questions about LD formation and regulation are not yet resolved, but I'm curious about research in the past three years that may have addressed this topic. [more inside]
Fixed Mixed - Nixed?
can you tell me if the bike I want exists (or should/could exist), and if I'm even thinking about it in the right way? [more inside]
technology busines for non coders
Technology business between coders and businessmen. Where could I fit in? [more inside]
What kind of luggage to take inter-railing in Europe
In October we're going travelling around western Europe by train for several weeks and I need to buy some kind of luggage. I had thought that a ~35-45 litre backpack would be about right, sizewise and for portability. But I've heard from people with direct experience that pickpockets are a big problem in several of the places we're going and that makes backpacks a bad idea. So what kind of luggage should I use that will be reasonable to carry around but still secure given we're changing locations (and thus hotels) regularly. [more inside]
Get these turtles to their new home, alive please
How can I ship two live turtles from NY to TX? I have found some info, but instructions are confusing and I need a walk-through from someone who is familiar with shipping live animals. [more inside]
Who's your favourite butch dyke?
Help me compiling a list of well known butch dykes [more inside]
Kicked out of my tribe
I lost most of my friends. Please help. [more inside]
Software for an alert marquee
I'm looking for a software package that will function as an alert marquee. i have a series of displays that I would like to have a banner across the top of the screen. I'd like this software to monitor a mailbox or receive an RPC message to display a short message.
Basically I want a desktop version of a text message alert for a few status monitor PCs with large wall mount monitors. Does anyone have an existing solution? I'd prefer not to have to write my own.
Wommat Mbaam!
Help me find lyrics and music to the terrific Youssou N'Dour song Gorgui, in the original Wolof. [more inside]
How do we choose an assisted living facility?
Help with choosing assisted living facility?What do we need to know? [more inside]
Logo font
What is the font used in the "Blender Bottle" logo found in the upper left hand side of this page next to the spiraley ball image? Just curious and it's driving me crazy! Thanks.
Is Facebook account worth it?
Is joining the Facebook Club worth the deals you may get by "Liking" businesses, etc. - or is it really just a pain in the ass? [more inside]
But, I want the bad rice!
How are the rice clumps formed in Chinese take-out rice? They are my favorite part, but I can't figure out how this phenomenon occurs, let alone how to replicate it. [more inside]
Crush bringing out my inner high schooler.
I have a crush on a pub trivia friend, and its bringing out the worst in me. [more inside]
Loud Talker Talking Loudly
Why do I talk loudly when I'm upset or excited about a topic? And, how do I learn to talk more quietly when passionate or upset about something? [more inside]
Why does a woman breastfeed a deer?
What is the meaning/story behind a statue of a woman breastfeeding a deer near the Taipei Zoo MRT station? [more inside]
Give my older desktop some new life
What would be the best hardware upgrade in my desktop PC to improve multitasking performance? [more inside]
DIY document imaging
How can I convert a color or greyscale scan from a flatbed scanner to a reasonably high quality black and white image, comparable to what a high-end copier would produce? [more inside]
Speculative Realism 101
Speculative Realism: What are the key texts I need to read. [more inside]
How can I eliminate the Spaces transition animation in Mountain Lion?
Is it possible to eliminate the transition animation when switching between Spaces in Mountain Lion? [more inside]
What is the best way to pack up my skyroll roll-up garment bag?
What is the best way to pack up my skyroll roll-up garment bag? [more inside]
Around the World in 50 Days: Part 1
Around the World! Need help with some logistics. Part 1: Bangkok, Thailand, then overland to Siem Reap, Cambodia. Best travel method: rail or bus or rented car? Stops along the way? Via the interior (Aranyaprathet) or along the beach (via Koh Kong)? Other things we're not thinking of? [more inside]
inb4 google wave
Do you know of any online solutions to collect submissions from a group of people and then archive it in a useful way? [more inside]
Looking for pediatrician in Boston.
Looking for a pediatrician in Boston! [more inside]
OOP class design conondrum..
OOP class design conondrum. I am designing a set of classes for an online survey/quiz engine. I need some help with designing my classes. [more inside]
Do you have good examples of WYSIWYG / GUI based editors for User Interface or App design?
Do you have good examples of WYSIWYG / GUI based editors for User Interface or App design? [more inside]
Need advice on NGO work in Glasgow!
Would appreciate advice on part-time jobs in Glasgow, for a mature student with an eye on building her CV more than earning pocket money (though that would be good too!). [more inside]
Why is my ex girlfriend acting this way?
Help me understand my ex girlfriend's recent behavior. VERY LONG [more inside]
Where in UK/ Western Europe can I get my curly hair cut?
Hi all,
I have long caucasian wavy-curly hair, and I'm looking for a stylist who really understands (ideally specialises in) curly hair. Someone who can work with the natural texture and not expect I'm going to straighten it or blow-dry it (complete masochism in a rainy climate...) I'm willing to travel for a good cut so can anyone recommend me a stylist or a salon in London, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam....?
Your real wierd - in French, Spanish, German.
Do other languages on the web have as much misuse as English? [more inside]
Help me commiserate from afar!
Wallowing playlist help? [more inside]
July 25
Experiences of being mentored or mentoring
What are your experiences of being mentored or mentoring at work? [more inside]
User Was Deleted from XP. Help me get back the settings.
XP Disaster - Deleted User - Help me. [more inside]
Lost Mid-2000s Daily Blog
What was that daily blog from a few years back where every day was something like "Happy Kill Your Parents Because They Won't Let You Go to the Big Dance Day" or "Happy You Paid Off Your Mortgage with Help from the Mob and Now You Have to Whack a Guy Day" it was super well-written and funny and dark and I'm pretty sure it was done by a guy named Bob. I'd like to know what he's doing now.
Sci-fi about ancient aliens/technolgy for a 14-year-old?
Help me find more great sci-fi about ancient aliens / ancient technologies for my favorite 14-year-old avid reader. [more inside]
Hope I keep playing before I get old...
Looking for general advice about finding my band gigs at small local venues. [more inside]
How do I see Twitter as someone else sees it?
How do I see Twitter as someone else sees it (i.e., see the tweets of only people that a specific user follows)? Seems like a nice way to get more information from a specific field or channel. Tried ctwittlike but it didn't work.
What is the best way to extract audio from a youtube video?
I am trying to find the best, easiest and free way to extract audio from youtube. [more inside]
Substitute for Jeans?
Clothing for Japan / substitute for jeans? [more inside]
Fairy Tale Fodder?
What are some common folk/fairy tales which feature horrible suffering (death/torture) of unnamed, minor characters? [more inside]
Diarrhea, uh-uh. Diarrhea, uh-uh!
Managed to get some form of sickness in Istanbul. Am I okay now, or should I still go see a doctor? [more inside]
Intellectual challenges.
Help me come up with some intellectual challenges to give my brain a work-out [more inside]
Idiom? I thought you said something else...
There must be a way to say 'big fish in a small pond' in languages other than English... right? [more inside]
Enable Facebook Comments for mobile viewing in Google Blogger?
Is there a way to enable Facebook Comments Box for mobile viewing in Google Blogger?
I used these instructions to enable Facebook comments on my blog. It worked out, but it's not showing up in the mobile view.
This site discusses how to add a widget to the Blogger Mobile Template. The Facebook Comments Box is not exactly a widget. I imagine there's probably a solution to getting it to appear in the mobile view, similiar to this, but I don't know how to do it. Is there a way to add something like this (mobile='yes') to the plugin code?
Mixed Media Art 101
I think I have fallen in love with mixed media arts and crafts! Help me do more of this! [more inside]
Gift for a friend who is temporarily relocating to Vancouver, BC?
What small 'bon voyage' gift should I buy a good friend and her husband who are relocating to Vancouver, BC from Australia for 18 months? [more inside]
Sweet and sexy Russian phrases
Please teach me how to say sexy and flirty things to my boyfriend in Russian. [more inside]
Decision time
How do you decide to have a baby? Like, actually, literally decide, "today we're going to try"? [more inside]
Am I going to be able to climb walls?
I've had two weird similar incidents that appear to be bug bites/stings. I have lived in Minnesota all my life, including in the far northern rural area, and never had anything like these. You are not my doctor, but maybe you've had similar issues and have an idea of what is biting/stinging me? [more inside]
hold still, mind.
Can anyone explain my emotional flashback/flashforward moments? [more inside]
What is an alternative to a 301 redirect when switching domains without owning the old domain?
My successful small business website is on a subdomain owned by the website template provider. I want to switch providers and domains without loosing my websites search engine rankings. Since a 301 redirect isn't an option, what else can I do to maintain my website's Google rankings? [more inside]
Mr. Sparky Bartholomew Rover
Access Concatenation Crazy!
In Access 2010 I've come across a need to concatenate fields from one column in one table into a single, comma delmited value in another field in the same table (or in another table if I absolutely must). [more inside]
Gift ideas for a cancer survivor
I'd like to get/make a gift for a breast cancer survivor. I am moderately crafty. Gift ideas? [more inside]
Please give me advice on talking about gender identity with my amazing (butch) ladyfriend
I would love to have a productive and insightful conversation with my butch ladyfriend about her gender identity, but my unhelpful reactions when we talk and her reticence to talk about what has mostly been painful experiences is making it hard for us. Can you give me advice on how to have that conversation and give me some insight into why I'm making it so hard? [more inside]
Should I write my parents' obituary in advance?
Preparing a parent's obit in advance: Morbid? Wise? Avoiding a part of the healing process? [more inside]
Audi A6 problems
Audi A6 car coolant/radiator troubles... [more inside]
Worried about a worrier
My mother-in-law spends her life worrying about everything. She says she's happier than she's ever been. I think she needs help. [more inside]
Dead Mouse Smell at a Dinner Party: "Why, yes, our home does have its own supply of L'Eau de Souris"
We're having a dinner party tomorrow night, and now it seems there's a dead mouse in one of our walls. What can we do to mitigate the smell? We can't go into the walls. [more inside]
HEY EVERYBODY IT'S PUPPY TIME
Help me puppy-proof my house while creating the ultimate puppy environment for puppy happiness and funtimes! [more inside]
Requesting a recommendation for grad program unrelated to undergrad major
How do I ask my old professors for a grad school recommendation when my program of interest is in a totally different field? [more inside]
My first instinct is "Flag it (as a company not to buy from) And Move On," but I'm not sure...
I chipped a tooth on a pea-sized frigging rock in a container of hummus from a major manufacturer. What does a normal non-litigious person do in this circumstance.
Take me shoe shopping
What shoes should I wear with this dress? I don't want to be too match-matchy, but I'm stumped on good color choices and styles. [more inside]
Please help with my dog's chronic loose stool problem!
My dog's had diarrhea and soft stools on and off for about two months, despite rounds of forti-flora, tylan powder, metronidazole, and anti-parasite medication. Please help me figure out what's going wrong inside her! [more inside]
I am 99% sure that I will still lose at Monopoly with these rules
I am devising a revised Monopoly ruleset for my friends and family to follow, with an Occupy Movement theme. Can you suggest interesting rule variations to attempt? [more inside]
Wie sind die Roboter.
Basic programming using C++ from the ground up, high school edition. [more inside]
How to make the following: 1 desktop + 1 desktop = 1 bigger desktop?
I need to be able to use two computers as one. How can I do this? [more inside]
Cute outfit ideas when wearing athletic running shoes in summer
Please help me figure out cute outfits when wearing athletic running shoes all day in the summer. I have to wear these for my severe flat/ pronating feet and cannot wear sandals in the summer but still want to look cute and sporty. I am a healthy middle aged woman who travels a lot, walks a lot, lives in a small town and generally has a casual lifestyle. (I would not wear them out to dinner--don't worry) just errands, housework,yard work,family bbqs)
I don't need help figuring out my fall and winter outfits because sturdy cute boots are my lifesaver but since in summer I cannot wear sandals I need help with cute sneaker outfits.
Please don't suggest Converse or other "fashion" sneakers because they are not sufficient. (i tried!).
thanks so much for your help!
Ultrabook Workable?
Ultrabook for video: dive in or am I making a mistake? [more inside]
how to reply when someone says quit speeding
how to reply when someone says quit speeding, in a way that sounds friendly and funny?
Resources about eating disorders?
Seeking recommendations on books/websites about all aspects of eating disorders. [more inside]
What movies/TV shows available for free with an amazon prime membership would I like?
Please recommend some movies and TV shows I would enjoy watching that are available for free streaming with an amazon prime membership. [more inside]
OneNote versus Evernote
The last OneNote vs Evernote question on AskMe was over two years ago and I know a lot has changed. (more) [more inside]
Darling, I am sorry, but I lost my key! (another NYC apartment hunting ?)
2 years ago while looking for NYC apartments I came across an Upper East Side Broker's office that allowed me to leave my license and in return get a list of apartment rentals and keys to check them out that afternoon, by myself with no agent. Now I need to actually make the NYC move. Help me find a place that will do this? please? [more inside]
Do I tell my new date I'm PMSing?
Do I tell my new date I'm PMSing? [more inside]
Need suggestions for some sensitive stomach cat food.
Need suggestions for some sensitive stomach cat food. [more inside]
Best first hand accounts of London 2012?
Who will be posting the most interesting dispatches from the London Olympics? [more inside]
There's a reason it rhymes with "hell"
Another "please help me find an alternative or a way to do this in Excel" question. [more inside]
Kindle is dead, long live... nope, just dead.
Kindle keyboard w/ lines on screen... Amazon does NOT seem interested in replacing (this time). Any options on repair? [more inside]
Recent Innovations in Political Campaigns?
What are some recent innovations in political campaigns? [more inside]
Resources for Navajo views on animals and nature
Sources for Navajo views on animals and nature? [more inside]
New Laptop: What to Get?
I am currently writing my second novel and find myself in need of a new laptop on which to do the work. My previous machine, an aged Acer Aspire One, struggled through the first book but has now given up the ghost and gone to the great laptop skip in the sky.
So, here is what I need: [more inside]
Preventing MacMini WiFi sharing
Can I prevent/disable our users from MacMini wireless sharing on our office network? [more inside]
I accidentally re-sent my follow up letter to a job I applied for
I have applied for a job at a small nonprofit. Last night I accidentally re-sent them my follow up letter instead of forwarding it to a relative to read. [more inside]
Help save whats left of my potatoes?
Our potato plants are dying miserably with the drought in our area we tried for two weeks to water them when it was possible. To compound this problem pests were way up and the plants that aren't dying were eaten despite sometimes HOURS a day removing the problem bugs by hand. But we have potatoes... question inside. [more inside]
How I am myself
Are there any really good self-assessments online? [more inside]
Need emergency passport renewal
Help! son needs photo i.d. immediately to go to Puerto Rico! [more inside]
Good mental/emotional specialists in Seattle?
Looking for a relatable, compassionate, pill-free mental/emotional/marital health specialist in Seattle, for a spouse who hates doctors. Any recommendations (or advice in general)? Details inside. [more inside]
Will my poor mopping skills hold me back?
How can I best interpret the feedback I'm getting in a veterinary work experience placement? [more inside]
Google for this? Not if I can help it.
Looking for a recommendation for a fee-based financial adviser in the Cleveland area. [more inside]
Who is hoarding all the good podcasts? GIMME.
PodcastFilter: Either I am running out of podcasts I like or I need fresh perspective to help me find new ones. [more inside]
Or we could just listen to, "It's a Small World," on Repeat
Around-the-World Party Playlist! I'm having an around the world potluck/costume/birthday party soon, and I'm looking for songs that support this theme. [more inside]
Cheapest bulk smart phones for social science research project.
I am looking for suggestions on the cheapest way to get bulk (25-100) smart phones (android preferred, but iOS could also work) for an academic research experiment. [more inside]
Small Business 101
Today's fantasy: buying the small business my husband works for. Talk me through the steps like I'm a 5-year-old. [more inside]
Jamaicans Love Sprinting
Who are the great Olympic athletes competing in 2012 from lesser-known countries? [more inside]
How did you notify your contacts of your new mobile phone number?
I have a new mobile phone number, replacing the one I've had for years. I want to notify my (many hundreds) of contacts of this new number. What is the right way to do this? How did you handle this situation? [more inside]
Can You Name the Fat Guys in the Marvel and DC Universes?
I need a list of all the big boys in the Marvel and DC universes... [more inside]
Inside the pants or outside the pants?
I have a job interview tomorrow afternoon. I've got my suit all ready. The problem is that I had surgery recently and I'm in a full leg brace and crutches. Should I put the brace over my pants or under them? I don't know even know if the brace will actually fit under the pants, though; it's pretty bulky with a huge metal hinge and several thick velcro straps. Will wearing it on the outside of dress trousers look ridiculous?
Sleep Hygiene For the Sleep-Filthy?
What is the best, quickest way to recover from unavoidable weeklong periods of awful sleep? [more inside]
America Day Fun and Games for ESL Learners
It's "America Day"! What simple activities and games would you suggest for 40 English language learners in China, ages 8-12? [more inside]
PEX tubing health risks?
Does anyone have information on using PEX tubing for residential use, particularly regarding long term health risks? [more inside]
Are WWE fans sufficiently well-behaved at live events to allow me to take my 10 year old daughter?
My 10 year old daughter has fallen in love with the WWE and wants me to take her to a live show. Being a dutiful father, I'm happy to take her but I have some concerns. I know that the WWE intends their product to be PG-13 and it all looks surprisingly kid-friendly, but I'm not worried about the show. I'm worried about the other fans in the arena. Can anyone tell me what kind of crowd shows up at these events? Are they comparable to N.F.L. fans, i.e. drunk and foul-mouthed, or are they more tame? Can I safely take my daughter without fear of her having beer spilled on her head, seeing her dad challenged to a fight or having her vocabulary of obscenities expended exponentially?
I'm always dreaming, even when I'm awake; it is never finished.
So, this might not even be a problem; I’m not sure, but I dream too much. [more inside]
Gluten, soy, casein and eggs, oh my!
No gluten, soy, casein (milk), or eggs for me. Sad face. Please share your amazing recipe sources for somebody with a bunch of allergies. [more inside]
Watch Formula 1 without cable?
Is it possible to watch Formula 1 in the U.S. (Mass.) without cable? I do have internet + Apple TV + Netflix + Hulu Plus.
NYC Couples Counselor Recommendations
Looking for recommendations for a couples counselor in NYC (Manhattan). [more inside]
What can happen in a divorce like this?
My friend's and his ex are divorcing. The ex is being financially irresponsible, which could be influencing the outcome of the settlement. The lawyer has suddenly dropped of the face of the earth. What can my friend do to find out what's going on? [more inside]
Funk recommendations sought. All types. That's all. Thank you.
Funk recommendations sought. All types. That's all. Thank you. [more inside]
Best route from Hartford, CT to Washington, DC
Driving a 14-foot UHaul from Hartford, CT to Washington, DC area (specifically Silver Spring/Takoma Park, MD) this Saturday, July 28. Route suggestions? [more inside]
Photo Search Help Needed!
Can you help me find a photo? Man clinging to a decaying brick building. [more inside]
I am about to start using the "Greyskull LP" workout programme. What size weights should I begin with?
I am about to start using the "Greyskull LP" workout programme. What size weights should I begin with? I am a 24 y/o, 5'5", 60kgs male.
Help me build a workout plan around Olympic lifts and free weights for burning fat, building muscle...
Working out: Help me build a workout plan around Olympic lifts and free weights for burning fat, building muscle... [more inside]
Getting cold feet about getting a Master's degree
Another "should I go to graduate school?" question. [more inside]
Looking for a book recommendation that combines art and philosophy
Students of art, lovers of philosophy, can you recommend a book I can buy as a gift for a friend? [more inside]
Looking for software for windows to tag movies and tv shows media files for itunes.
I had been using a mac to keep my media files and had been using "Ripit" to rip my DVD's and "identify" to tag the resulting files and put into itunes to watch on Apple TV.
Due to file space I have moved to a PC running Windows 7 to do this. And while I have found software to rip the DVD's I cannot find software to add the tags such as "synopsis", "cover art", and "episode details"?
You suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks Me-Fi
How much green is too much green?
Would it be weird if I painted three out of five upstairs rooms the same soft green color, if they were given different treatments? [more inside]
please help me identify a netflix movie
Searching for a movie on I saw on Netflix: found footage style where teens are warned to stay off land owned by a religious group. Teens don't heed the warning and are slaughtered by the religious group at the end.
Does “snorting” coffee enhance its effects?
Does running brewed coffee through your sinuses and nasal passage enhance its effect? [more inside]
Help me find a possibly Asian AIDS film
MovieFilter: My Google skills are failing me, so help me find a film I saw years ago about AIDS/HIV, where a young-ish man videotapes his daily experiences with AIDS using a handheld camera. It's probably not the blockbuster(s) you're thinking of. More vague details inside. [more inside]
Where to be in KC?
What to do in Kansas City? Short road trip layover tomorrow night (7/26) and we want to know what to do (besides BBQ) so we can saw we have "been" to KC. [more inside]
Amp it up.
How common is 15 amp electrical service in the US? Is it viewed as highly negative by people who purchase older homes or rent apartments in older buildings? [more inside]
Help me schnappt Hubi in English?
Sprechen sie Deutsch? Could you help me work out how to make an English version of Spiel des Jahres winner for 2012, Schnappt Hubi!? [more inside]
I want to understand these Spanish lyrics
Can someone who speaks Spanish tell me what this song means? [more inside]
Why is there a new user account on my laptop?
I shut down my Macbook Pro last night and stored it in my locker at uni. When I booted it up this morning there was a new Guest Account option (which is now not an option) and my user icon changed from my personal picture to a baseball. What's going on here?
July 24
Can you identify this classic blues rock song
Can you identify this classic/blues rock song from a 4-bar GarageBand remake of a guitar melody? [more inside]
Help me choose a mouse that won't hurt me
Help me choose a computer mouse that won't hurt me the way the one I just bought does. [more inside]
Tipping Minefield.
I am employing a maid service. The company will charge me $120 for the cleaning service every two weeks. Am I expected to tip the maids who come - and how much? [more inside]
Re-establishing a connection
How do you address a cover letter to someone you'd had an informational interview with (and try to re-establish a connection)? [more inside]
should he stay or should he go?
what to do with a sweet, amazing, seemingly-indoor cat who has showed up on our doorstep twice now. [more inside]
Is this a high electric bill?
I moved into a new loft. About 1,100 sqft with 12 ft ceilings. It is new, with thick walls of concrete on all sides. The a/c doesn't keep it very cool, about 77 degrees in the current heat wave. I was surprised to see a bill for 2251 kWh! That's about $300. Does this seem right? [more inside]
I don't know a petal from a petiole. What's this tree?
Can you help me identify this tree? I tried to key it out but ran into the limits of my tree vocabulary. It's in Burnet Woods in Cincinnati and you can view photos of the tree, the leaves (which are alternate and barely serrated), the bark, and the fruit.
Truly comprehensive travel insurance?
Can I purchase travel insurance for travel to a politically dicey country? [more inside]
How can I watch the women's USA v. France soccer match?
How can I watch tomorrow's USA vs France women's soccer match online LIVE? [more inside]
40 is 40 or is 40 45?
You are a salaried employee with no overtime. You get an hour for lunch. Do you work 9-5 or 9-6?
Should I maintain radio silence?
I cut ties off with someone, and every few months she sends me an e-mail or Facebook message trying to get back in touch. Should I send her a message to tell her to stop? [more inside]
Biomechanics and buttplugs.
Biomechanics and buttplugs. [more inside]
Poop chronicles: there is blood in my stool, and I am skeptical of my doctor's explanation.
My colorectal surgeon has only done a proctoscopy and says the blood in my stool is coming from my hemorrhoids. He wants to treat with sclerotherapy, but I don't want that kind of intervention and still have a weird feeling in my descending colon. What's the medical best practice in a case like this? [more inside]
My car is doing a thing (and I would like it to stop)
My car is doing something kind of alarming, intermittently. I'd love to get some guesses as to whether I need to see a transmission specialist or not before I take it somewhere. [more inside]
What's going on with my iPad and Skype?
A couple of times when I've used Skype on my iPad, my picture has changed for no apparent reason, with the camera appearing to pan up. Why? [more inside]
Pedals worthy of my noble steed
I have a very nice Dutch roadster bike. Help me (in Canada) find replacement pedals fit for this king of the road. [more inside]
Is there such a thing as a fun baby shower?
My step mom's friend has very generously offered to host my baby shower. So sweet and yay! Except... I've always sort of hated attending baby showers and I in general find them boring and socially awkward (hey people, come on over so I can feed you some sweets, just be sure to bring a really expensive crib with you). Is there anything I can do to steer the party into an occasion that's more fun for everyone? [more inside]
Can someone recommend a good boarding kennel in London?
Can someone recommend a good boarding kennel in London? We will be leaving the country for about two weeks for a visit home, and need to find a place for the pets while we're away. [more inside]
How do I maximize the benefit I get from my time spent at the gym?
How do I maximize the benefit I get from my time spent at the gym? [more inside]
Ack I'm a punk!
Any opinions on my chances of passing airport security and boarding a RyanAir flight in Edinburgh wearing a kilt with one three inch and eight two inch steal rings? [more inside]
Is Scotchgard worth it, and if not, how do I keep white sofa clean?
White cotton-upholstered couch -- help me keep it clean. Pros and cons of using Scotchgard or similar product? Health risks for people and pets? Other methods? [more inside]
Am I too much for a counselor to handle?
What is a therapist supposed to do for a client? [more inside]
My palms resent kipping pullups
Crossfitters: I'm pretty new to the world of Crossfit, and I've ripped the calluses on my palms. What sorts of treatments and supplies can I use to keep working out despite my tender mitts? [more inside]
The ultimate first-world problem
I'm a young person with no debt and a pile of money to invest. The catch: I'm not real confident about the long-term health of the US economy. [more inside]
Great Blu Ray titles only available in the US?
Great Blu Ray or DVD titles (or special editions) only available in the US or titles that are considerably cheaper in the USA? Looking to add to my collection while traveling. [more inside]
Has the world changed much since the 1980s?
A friend and I had a friendly disagreement about whether society as a whole has changed significantly since the 1980s. Can you help me bolster my side? [more inside]
Ideas from one field leading to innovation in another?
Examples of ideas from one field leading to innovation in another? [more inside]
Dandruff woes
Nizoral made my dandruff worse. Help?! [more inside]
Help me go sockless
What are some women's shoes that are really comfortable to walking around in all day without socks? (no sandals or flip-flips) [more inside]
how much does marijuana cost these days?
how much does marijuana cost these days? I haven't bought it since 1983 or so. I'm not planning on buying it now, I was just curious since I know the price has gone up a bit since then. I'd like to know how much it would cost, roughly, from a local dealer in the NYC area. Thanks.
I'm looking for first-hand accounts of starting a food business
I'm looking for blogs that are basically first-hand accounts of starting a food business. [more inside]
What's the time, Mr. Wolf?
Is there an automated way for Outlook 2010 (macro, plugin, VBA code) to convert all times I type in the text of an email (e.g., "6:00 am Pacific", or "6:00 am PST") to an expanded form that is relevant to all the recipients (e.g., "6:30 pm IST / 9:00 am Eastern / 6:00 am Pacific"). This is not a question about calendar capabilities - which I have under control, but simply a way to communicate times in email in a way that is easy for each recipient to read and comprehend.
Non-depressing French films I can stream?
Please recommend great French films, ideally critically acclaimed, that I can watch on Netflix or Amazon Instant Video. Difficulty: should not be depressing.
How best to sell a baby grand piano?
What's the best way to sell a Yamaha Baby Grand Piano in the Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania area? [more inside]
Serving media since a few weeks from now.
If you could start your HTPC set up all over again, what would you choose? I'm gifting everything (from tv to htpc to router) to my partner and starting from scratch. Tips and suggestions are welcome! [more inside]
changing last names at marriage
Getting married soon (woo!). The plan is to change our names to Me Mylast-Herlast and Her Herlast-Mylast. I don't know much about traditional name hyphenation. Will this be interpreted differently by people who are more aware of the customs? I'm worried about people thinking that my family name is HerLast and her family name is MyLast, etc. Any other advice on the topic would be appreciated as well.
Another question in a long series of me not understanding PHP
Continuing Wordpress help filter: trying to append a certain word to the end of each title of the posts on my blog. Issue complicated slightly by this being a child theme, details inside... [more inside]
A road of absurdity between x and y
Do you know of a (US) website that will allow me to enter start/stop locations or google driving directions and will then give me a list of things to see along the way (the kitchier the better?) [more inside]
Quitting Grad School without a M.S.
Should I quit grad school? Or would it be "the worst mistake of my life" as many feel and/or have told me. Should I suck it up/grow up? Or is it as bad as it seems? [more inside]
Standalone fantasy novels?
Looking for standalone fantasy novels or duologies. [more inside]
Butch swimming
Please assist me in locating the perfect butch swimwear: [more inside]
What's the most interesting political map you've come across?
I need a little inspiration for a project: I'm looking for unorthodox, interesting and engaging global political maps. All types of projections welcome, just looking for interesting ways of representing country boundaries in the context of a global map.
Help me be a typical tourist
Specific tour recommendations for Napa Valley wine? [more inside]
What are some thoughtful documentaries/long-form articles about baseball umpires?
What are some thoughtful documentaries/long-form articles about baseball umpires? I'm wondering if there's a thoughtful, well-done documentary (I'm hoping for something of the caliber of HBO's now-defunct Costas Now) or a long-form article (again, in the caliber of New Yorker or Vanity Fair) that's accessible to folks who aren't exclusively diehard baseball fans. [more inside]
We have also weighed limes.
The lovely Mrs. Haddock and I were given a digital kitchen scale as a wedding gift, but we have no idea what we should be doing with it. What should we be doing with it? [more inside]
Old-fashioned instrumental jazz?
Please recommend music similar to this Jack Teagarden version of When Your Lover Is Gone. Slow, instrumental, a little bluesy - I'm trying to class up a cocktail party overlooking the Pacific Ocean but can't afford a band.
Fun with guts. Book guts.
I'm doing a craft project for sale on Etsy that re-uses old book hardcovers, but not the pages. What crafty thing can I do with the pages? [more inside]
Frankenstein + LSD movies
Frankenstein myths for the LSD age?
I'm looking for movies that have similar themes to: Altered States, 'X' the Man with X-Ray Eyes, and Eyes of Hell (aka The Mask) [more inside]
Themes for a couple shower?
One of my friends is getting married and I am throwing her a wedding shower. Do you have any suggestions for themes or any general advice for couples showers? [more inside]
Where can I find accounts of non-anglophone eccentrics?
Britain is famed for celebrating its eccentrics, followed closely by America and Ireland. Elsewhere - maybe not so much. I'm sure they must exist, but I'm having trouble finding them. [more inside]
Suspicious minds
I think my Dad's screwing around on my Mom. What do I do? [more inside]
Movies where the heroes don't foil the dastardly plot
Movies where the heroes don't foil the dastardly plot. [more inside]
In-use terms with anachronistic referents
I'm looking for examples of terms that remain in common use, even though the technology that they originally described is obsolete or has changed. Also: does this phenomenon have a name? [more inside]
I made a big mistake
I just squandered a great professional opportunity. Help me repair relations with a professional contact, or at the very least prevent becoming a pariah at a very important company. [more inside]
Is there an intentional time-delay delivery service?
Is there a package service which will hold onto my packages and deliver them on certain dates into the future? I guess what I'm wondering is, say you're dying, but you want to be able to send care packages to your kid on special days over the next couple of years (or longer) - is there a company that will do this? [more inside]
How best to restore Macbook Air (OSX Lion) from backup?
What is the best way for me to restore my Macbook Air to full functionality, given that the it won't boot due to a corrupted file? [more inside]
Virtual Windows Servers on Mac OS X
I have a Summer 2011 Mac Mini Server, running Lion. It serves as a common network share for backups, iOS syncs, etc., and media storage for an Apple TV. In coming months, I need to study for some Microsoft SharePoint certifications, and I'd like to do it at home. There are popular solutions I am aware of for desktop virtualization, but is anyone aware of a virtualization solution that will allow me to run multiple instances of Microsoft Windows on the Mac Mini Server to represent two or more servers for SQL Server, Active Directory, etc. Note that it's important for my purposes that these appear to be separate "machines" on the network, not services running on the same machine. Thanks in advance for any suggestions or assistance.
I don't want to be 25 and toothless!
How worried should I be about my teeth? [more inside]
Instant Hangover?
Why do I start getting a hangover almost immediately after I start drinking? [more inside]
free windows software
Can't afford to buy software. Seeking free windows software programs (any programs!) that are as good or better than their for-cost counterparts. What can you recommend?
Reading the classics of Economics
What are the classic Economics texts that one really should read for a thorough historical perspective of the evolution and changes in thought on Economics ( and where overlapping Political Theory)?
And is reading them really necessary for deep understanding of the field from a more philosophical point of view? [more inside]
Help me recover from my recovery
Help me recover from my recovery: advice sought on diet, fitness, repatriation, etc. after a long hospitalization. [more inside]
What is OpenDNS and how do I turn it off?
What is OpenDNS and how do I turn it off? Please explain it to me like I'm seven years old. [more inside]
Local buyer using Paypal
I am selling my old computer for almost $2,000. The buyer lives nearby and is coming to check it out in person. He's wondering if he can just pay with Paypal. Assuming this guy is on the up and up, what can I do to protect myself? [more inside]
Well that escalated quickly.
I need your best, most awesome tomato sauce-like recipes. Salsas, marinara (meat is OK), etc. Overload of fresh tomatoes and basil. Also rosemary and mint. [more inside]
iTunes, do your job!
iTunes won't import songs? [more inside]
Once there was a lady who lived in... um... Westeros?
I want to read about daily life in the Middle Ages. Particularly daily life in monasteries, but in other places too. [more inside]
Moving into the place next door
Strategies for moving ... to the building next door? [more inside]
What is this mock-Gaelic limerick I am thinking of?
There's a famous limerick I'm after which I suspect was the work of a major or minor Irish poet. It mocks the Gaelicisation of Irish place names and has a last line which goes (Anglicised) something like "which makes driving in Ireland so dreary". [more inside]
Collaboration Communication Issues
Looking for communication strategies in a tricky management situation, as well as general management resources. [more inside]
What tense does usage of 'Don't' normally infer?
Please help settle a grammar disagreement.
My Boyf and I are having a grammar disagreement and I was hoping that the wonderful Askme members could help settle it.
If someone states "We don't do X" which of the following would you assume was correct?
A: That the reference to 'X' applies to the past, present and the future.
B: That the reference to 'X' applies to the past and present.
C: That the reference to 'X' applies to the past only.
Context is the sentence "We don't go on on Holiday".
Why blacking up as a Civil Rights pioneer is just not okay
How do I explain to someone in the UK that "blacking up" as Tommie Smith is not acceptable? [more inside]
Owl pellet diorama art in mid-90's Pasadena?
Armory Center for the Arts, Pasadena, CA: what was the name of the artist who had a show of skeletons salvaged from owl pellets arranged into little dioramas? Circa 1995 or so. [more inside]
July 23
The post-breakup fight is spilling into new territory, what to do?
Asking for a friend - How do you deal with a recent ex who's really not taking it well, and going out of her way to drag everyone else into the breakup too? [more inside]
Not quite backpacking, more like laptop- and garment-bagging
I think I want to pull up stakes and wander around the world for a while. Mefites, advise me, please! (snowflake details follow) [more inside]
Fix GoogleDrive or Show Me Alternatives
Is GoogleDrive more customizable than I know? How can I make it stop doing stupid stuff when I share big folders? [more inside]
Use old iPhone as a second phone over wifi but with primary phone number
Please help me design a method for using an old iPhone to make and receive calls on my current AT&T wireless number by WiFi, preferably for free. Ideally, I would like to have this old iPhone (without service), sitting on my desk, ringing when calls come into my current AT&T number, and when I make outgoing calls via Wifi, the caller ID shows my current number. The reason is primarily that AT&T coverage is horrible inside my house, so the ability to do this by wifi at home would be great. But I hate the confusion created when you make outgoing calls and the number is different. I can think of very convoluted ways to do it, so I'm asking you smarties if you have a better way.
Cringeworthy moments in fictional wine tasting.
90s TV filter: does anyone know the show I'm thinking of, based on my hazy recollection of this scene? [more inside]
What am I seeing on the screen in my mind?
TV/Movie Title Sequence Filter: For production reference I'm trying to figure out what tv/movie title sequence I am picturing - it's from the 60s (or has that retro feel), is an animation of/or including straight lines in different arrangements, they are (sometimes?) blue. [more inside]
Help me help my roommate find her ideal job in the wine industry of New York.
What resources could I point my roommate towards to find strategic marketing/marketing research/marketing analyst jobs in the wine industry of New York City? [more inside]
Husband has a double life
My husband is making fetish videos of himself, and I'm not sure what to do about it (if anything) [more inside]
Explain radishes to me.
Every Sunday I go to the greenmarket and buy a bunch of radishes. If I bring them home and cut them up and eat them immediately, then they retain their crispness and are a delicious treat. If I let them sit out or in the fridge even just until the end of the day, they become tender to the touch on the outside and lose that satisfying crunch. What am I doing wrong? Is there anything I can do to keep them fresh?
How can I export wordpress to txt files (one entry one txt)?
How can I export wordpress to txt files (one entry one txt)? [more inside]
How can I help my friend help herself and her kids?
My friend, Ann, is a married woman with two young children. Her husband has severe, chronic depression but refuses to get help. She has had an affair. She is not sure how to leave him, as she has no career or money of her own. More than that, I just don't think she's able to comprehend ever leaving him. How do I help her? [more inside]
Gift for friend moving to MN?
I need awesome gift ideas for a friend moving to Minneapolis. [more inside]
Memphis for a day - what to do, where to camp?
The last Memphis travel question was two years ago; anything to add or change from then? [more inside]
(s)Mothering and coaching.
I just told my mom that I'm moving to a developing country for 6 months and she didn't take it well. What should I do? [more inside]
Grill(s) of my dreams
Due to a perfect convergence of rust and circumstances we find ourselves in the market for not one but TWO grills. Our ancient big Weber is corroding to the point of falling apart. At the same time we've become utterly fed up with crappy grills in parks so we're looking for two new grills - a big one for home and a portable one to take camping, in the car for after canoeing and hiking. [more inside]
Flash Game help?
Help me find a flash game where you built a spaceship from parts of enemy ships [more inside]
Stop Looking at Me, Me!
Is there any program that can prevent one from searching for specific terms in Google? [more inside]
Do we stick it out or jump ship?
How do we get unstuck -- by sticking it out or uprooting completely? [more inside]
What should I wear for a job interview at Microsoft?
I have a job interview scheduled at Microsoft, at the Redmond campus. What should I wear? [more inside]
What’s the best way to conceal or remove a very large, visible birthmark?
What’s the best way to conceal or remove a very large, visible birthmark? What makeup should I use, and how do I apply it? Birthmark and makeup details inside. [more inside]
Superhero origin triple bill ideal sequence
Superhero origin triple-bill movie evening: Kick Ass, Batman Begins and Spider-Man (Sam Raimi). Optimum viewing order? Guests arrive at 3pm.
How to transfer OS to a new drive but preserve current data?
How can I go about transferring my OS to a new SSD but leave my other programs without totally breaking everything? [more inside]
Uninformed phone call recording by business.
Can a company record phone calls without notifying callers/customers? Are there any New York State or Federal laws prohibiting or regulating this? We've searched but can't find anything real specific. [more inside]
Media hoarder ISO new home for files.
What are the best practices for transferring files to a new computer in 2012? [more inside]
A perfect storm of complications: acting on a crush on a shy coworker
Despite all advice to the contrary, I'm trying to get to know my shy coworker crush better -- have I made a hash of it? Or does it sound like I'm doing okay? [more inside]
Which Nikon lens for low light kid photos?
Can you recommend a Nikon (or nikon compatible) lens for taking photos of a busy toddler without a flash?
(Anon so I can surprise my husband for his birthday.) [more inside]
June 2012: Lion to Snow Leopard; Rosetta I Love You.
Can I downgrade a June 2012 Macbook Pro that comes preinstalled with lion to snow leopard? [more inside]
Please help me help my ichthy friends
Mollies in quart-sized tupperware--what can I do so they're ok overnight? [more inside]
Does the mercury spike at the end of the day?
Does the mercury spike at the end of the day? [more inside]
How do I find the residual for a fixed IRR?
How do l find the residual sales value that will generate a given IRR when the investment and cash flows are fixed? [more inside]
I got my MBA and all I have to show for it is a pocket sized diploma
I got my MBA, and moved from the suburbs to the city -- why can't I find a job to apply for? And those I do, no interview. [more inside]
Bringing business cards into 2012
Android/cloud-based note app query. I'm looking for recommendations for an Android app that'll accept the large chunk of csv data I have and keep it synced with my PC. [more inside]
Is it ever cool to send a parting note to an ex?
Is it cool to send a parting note to the ex-boyfriend I'm leaving behind when I move countries, or should I just leave it? [more inside]
Have they read it?
For the life of me, I can't find where Thunderbird keeps track of whether or not an email I've sent has been read. Yes, I get read receipts, but I remember in Outlook, I could check to see who read a particular message. Is this available in Thunderbird? And if not, is there an add-on that does it? The one Mozilla suggests is way old, and won't work with the current version. Thanks.
Bedbug, bedbug, whatcha gonna do?
NYC filter: How does the bedbug disclosure law end up playing out when one is looking for a new apartment? [more inside]
What is going on with me and/or the men I date?
What is going on with me and/or the men I date? [more inside]
Animators of Metafilter, help me with some terms?
Is there a separate term for the animation that results from moving a static image around on a screen, vs. the kind of animation that results from using an animated gif or sprite sheet? [more inside]
Daughter steals major money from mother-daughter-owned bakery, mom is up a creek. I am doing my best to help and need advice. YANAL, YANML.
I work at a mother-daughter-owned bakery. The daughter has stolen major money from the business and her mom, and now her mom is up a creek. I am doing my best to help and need advice. YANAL, YANML, etc. [more inside]
I think your town, despite the smog, is less boring than my town
NYC activities for a (gasp) bridge & tunnel visitor? Would like ideas for activities, sightseeing that might be especially worthwhile or edifying. [more inside]
Teaching abroad in Spain?
Advice on teaching English in Spain (Barcelona)? [more inside]
Can I drive across the Mexico border in my partner's car?
Can I take a road trip to Mexico in a car that's not registered in my name? [more inside]
Low cost paint job or Vehicle Wrap?
Should I spend 2-3 thousand on a "premier" Maaco job, try my luck at a mom and pop (WPB, FL area if you have any recommendations), or go for a vehicle wrap? Any MeFites with experience with either? [more inside]
What should I do about my stretched ears?
Gauged ears - what to do? Cultural appropriation, work, your opinions and suggestions needed. [more inside]
A Device for Every Snowflake!
I need a new cellphone/GPS setup. Did I mention that I am also the most special snowflake in the world? [more inside]
My HTC Evo Shift is feeling cramped
My HTC Evo Shift 4G (two years old?) keeps telling me I'm running out of internal storage. Right now there is only 51.59MB free in the internal storage, while my SD card has over 14G free. It's getting to the point that system apps can't be updated because there is not enough space. What can I do to free up more internal space? [more inside]
Is my landlord right about air circulation & mold prevention?
Landlord is very insistent that if we don't open our bathroom window a particular way, the air will not circulate and the mold will take over and also there will be doom. Does he know what he's talking about? [more inside]
Relationship Angst
Our communication sucks. What can I do about this? [more inside]
Find an knowledgeable reader of my essay?
I have a manuscript of a roughly philosophical/literary essay, and I'm trying to figure out where I should try to publish it. How can I find someone objective, with solid knowledge of "high-brow" magazines and related publications, to read my piece and tell me where it might best fit and what my chances are of publishing it in various venues?
Where did I see this funny Esperanto-like language?
Does anyone remember a site featuring a hilarious made up language that mashed up various European languages? (Not Esperanto!) The texts were, I believe, poking fun at the EU. [more inside]
paint chip paralysis
Our new house has awful walls, so we're getting it painted. Help me identify best practices and rules of thumb for choosing interior paint colors. [more inside]
Children and testosterone don't mix
Does anyone have experience with toddlers and keeping them away from testosterone gel? I’m trying not to be a crazy-mom but we are visiting a relative soon who will be new to using the gel and we will all be new at the protocols. [more inside]
I want to be friends with my maid of honour after the wedding is done!
What should I do make sure my best friend has the very best experience as my Maid of Honour as possible? [more inside]
Is there a way to safely separate two sheets of paper glued together?
A printout was inadvertently glued to a copy of a historical photo. How do I get it off? [more inside]
Water water everywhere.
Why is my bathroom "sweating" after a shower? [more inside]
I wish I could be a completely different person.
I have so many problems--I'm so far from being the person I want to be --that I don't even know where to start. If you were me, what would you do this week to try to build up to some change? [more inside]
Should I put my dog down?
Should I euthanize my healthy, but difficult dog? [more inside]
Counterintuitive Tips Around The House
Trying to save time and money around the house, what are some counter-intuitive (or not easily grasped, or just obscure) things I should or should not be doing? [more inside]
Orthodox Bar Mitzvah gift?
Appropriate gift for an Orthodox Bar Mitzvah, preferably something that can be easily purchased and shipped from western Europe? [more inside]
What the heck?
What is this amulet / talisman / icon thing I found? [more inside]
Mission to Mars in need of name that isn't completely stupid
I'm writing about a (fictional) Chinese-led mission to Mars -- what's a believable name for the ship itself? [more inside]
Seemingly dense fat vs. jiggly fat?
What's the story behind jiggly fat? Why do some people have jiggly fat while others seem to be carrying denser fat? [more inside]
Help my wife prove her identity to the German Consulate
My wife, a card-carrying permanent resident alien living in the U.S., allowed her German passport to expire and is seeking a renewal through the German Consulate in New York City. She has her documentation mostly in order, including German birth certificate, but needs to show proof of a name change that took place during an adoption in Iowa when she was four years old. Difficulty: Iowa adoption records are sealed. Looking for advice on how to best request a copy of the documentation, or provide a suitable alternative. Comprehensive details inside. [more inside]
Early examples of GPS-type things in movies/TV?
A researcher at my workplace has asked for help finding examples of his topic, early examples of "GIS (Geographic Information Systems) or GPS (Global Positioning Systems) technologies in film and TV", "examples of early precursors to map related technologies". I found someone else's Ask from earlier this year that hits on some likely ones, but he's on the lookout for older and more diverse instances if you can think of any. More details and examples below the fold! [more inside]
What should I look for in a movie poster frame?
Tell me about framing movie posters. Tips. Frames. Deals. Conventions. Things to beware of. [more inside]
What does it feel like to see clearly with both eyes? Is it worth it?
25 years later, what can I do with my once cataract plagued eye? [more inside]
'How much radiation'
Help me reassure someone about the safety of near infrared light. [more inside]
Property's cheap, people need rentals - how can I make money?
Is it possible to purchase a home with an FHA loan, rehabilitate it, and then rent it out? Also - what's it like to make an independent entry into the rental home market? [more inside]
Rah Rah Sis Boom Bah! Cheerleader/Marching Band Inspired Pop?
Turns out I really like to exercise to cheerleader/chanting/marching type pop songs. Can anyone recommend songs with that same kind of chorus/chanting and beat that isn't actually marching band music? Examples inside. [more inside]
electrical issue in a 2000 GMC jimmy -- is it a blown fuse?
having an issue with a 2000 GMC jimmy -- seemingly electrical or fuse-related. [more inside]
Cheap Quirky Neighborhood in Los Angeles
I am looking to transplant to Los Angeles to take care of my mother who recently got very sick. I need to find an apartment for the two of us, but I have one constraint and one hope: 1) money problems are going to be a very big deal, so keeping rent cheap is a must, and it needs to be wheelchair-friendly. 2) I would like to be in some kind of artsy, young neighborhood, just so I can stay sane and keep this up for as long as possible. My mother is extremely abusive, and I would like to try to live an actual life as much as possible. I am still young, and a fun neighborhood would change the picture significantly. [more inside]
Dishwasher recommendations
Looking for a good dishwasher, stumped by all the weird reviews. [more inside]
Cool towns around Rome to visit?
Cool towns around Rome to visit? [more inside]
Could my birkenstocks be {causing,exacerbating} my lower-back pain?
Could my birkenstocks be {causing,exacerbating} my lower-back pain? [more inside]
how can I unblock myself?
I know I need psychiatric therapy, but why can't I bring myself to get it? How do I motivate myself to heal myself? [more inside]
Regarding the Android Market, what apps do people think are missing?
Regarding the Android Market, what apps do people think are missing?
I'm teaching myself a little Android programming. I'll try upload eventually a free app or two hopefully that the Marketplace doesn't already have a bunch of.
Advice for doing a best man speech for someone you hardly know?
Earlier this year I was asked by a friendly co-worker to be his best man. I accepted against my better judgement because I got the sense he had no one else he could ask. Now faced with writing an appropriate heartfelt (possibly humorous) speech I am at a loss. [more inside]
where in manhattan can I surf wifi and not annoy my neighbors?
I'm going to be in Manhattan this week, and need the power of the hivemind. I'm staying with friends for the weekend, so I don't have (or need) hotel reservations for Friday. This creates the problem, however, of where to work remotely while I'm there.
I understand that the NYPL is great for working... as long as you're quiet. But if I needed to voip conference with the rest of my team without annoying people around me (and being able to hear them in turn), without the benefit of a hotel room... where should I go?
Preference for being easy accessible from NYPL branches, which is where I'm planning on spending most of my time.
I saw the link to open wifi NYC in a previous post, but that only solves part of the problem.
Introvert theme songs (with no vocals)?
Transferring 1% ownership of S-Corp - nuts and bolts questions
How does an established S-Corp, wholly owned by one individual, transfer one percent ownership to another individual? Nut and bolt type questions within. [more inside]
help me be an awesome penpal!
Vegan goodies that travel well by mail? [more inside]
Perfectly-Arched
It's about time I did something about my eyebrows! Seeking guidance. [more inside]
Historical Fiction
I need some historical fiction book recommendations. [more inside]
How Money is Made
What are the environmental impacts of printing paper money? [more inside]
How do I overcome my lack of relationship experience?
I'm a normal, well-adjusted, heterosexual, 30 year old male. And I'm a virgin. How do I get past this? [more inside]
Japan Work/Visa problems
Japan Visa/Work Problems, Cont.: Living in Japan, scored a job as an ALT in Japan that starts in a little over a month; already signed the contract and got my work visa renewed. Just got an offer from a much better paying job that would employ me right away (and would sponsor me). What to do? [more inside]
How do I distribute Agricultural Internship information?
Where does one distribute information about a farming internship? [more inside]
July 22
Kid from the US, kid from Africa.
Article relating two young kids: One a (implied spoiled rotten) American kid who needed help tying his shoe-laces and didn't want to clean up the dishes after dinner. The other a kid from Africa who, at the same age, was cooking dinners, cleaning dishes and everything else, because she knew that was expected of her? [more inside]
My TV is dead.
I have an Olevia LCD TV bought in 2008. For about a week, it would have no sound on any input after being turned on but a quick power cycle would fix it. Now it's stone-cold dead. No glowing LED on the power button like normal and it is definitely plugged in properly to a live outlet. What should I do now? [more inside]
Need help finding Stephen King Book
Long ago I had a book of collected Stephen King interviews, published chronologically based on the title he was promoting. What was it? [more inside]
What air conditioner could I use with a thin window?
I am looking for an AC unit for my apartment, but my sideways opening window seems to be too thin and tall for the units I've seen online. Have I any recourse? [more inside]
Chihuahua Puppy Guides?
In the wake of a recent hoarding incident in Pennsylvania a local shelter has a large number of chihuahuas who will soon be needing permanent homes. I have previous experience dogsitting a family member's chihuahua for long periods of time so I know how to take care of adults, but some puppies are also available for adoption and I think that might be a rewarding experience. Everyone in the household has experience with dogs, but we have not raised a puppy. I was wondering if you could link me to the best guides for what to expect and how to raise a puppy, and specifically for the unique challenges of a chihuahua puppy. [more inside]
Need Help Facing Daunting Subject of Bankruptcy
I am seriously considering declaring bankrupcy. I have a few main questions: 1) Do I need to know each company I owe money to? My parents opened all kind of credit cards in my name years ago, and I don't know about the specifics, and would like to avoid speaking to them as they are not exactly trustworhty. 2) How do I actually start the process? Who specifically do I see to manage declaring bankruptcy, considering I have zero cash? 3) If I have a credit card in my name, for which my partner is the main holder, will I have to cancel my part of that card, which I hold only for emergencies? [more inside]
British-friendly bar in Chicago for Olympics viewing
Suggestions for a British-friendly bar in Chicago, for Olympics viewing? [more inside]
Looking for secure screencasting or remote access between Windows computers
I'm trying to help my aging father with his computer, but now that I'm 800 miles away, all of my guidance is done over the phone. What are some good programs for screen sharing or remotely controlling another computer so he can see what to do next time? We're both using Windows 7, and I'd prefer a remote control option, and something with a secure connection. [more inside]
Staying sane and healthy during qualifying exams.
I have two weeks of PhD qualifying exams coming up - how do I stay sane, healthy, and positive? [more inside]
Help me help my traumatized pug
How to help my traumatized dog? [more inside]
Pajama jeans? Can I rock them?
Pajama jeans: Where and when can I rock them? If at all? And will casual third party observers be able to tell in wearing fake jeans? [more inside]
How safe is this Parisian neighborhood?
If I show you a neighborhood in Paris, can you tell me how safe it is for a family with kids? [more inside]
bionic eyes, please!
Cataract surgery + implant filter: My mother is about to have the first of two cataract surgeries and is considering bifocal implants. [more inside]
Nonsmoking 80s dancing in Asheville, NC?
Is there a regular dance night in or around Asheville, NC, that includes '80s music but is nonsmoking? [more inside]
At what point is it acceptable to cut ties?
How do I keep my sanity, the little dignity that I have left, and not completely ruin my daughter's life? [more inside]
They make art with their crazy.
I want to read as much as possible on the intersection between art, law and mental illness -- things like the Martin Ramirez case and... what else? What am I overlooking? Thanks in advance.
Fixable or Forgettable?
Can my LCD be saved cheaply or is it time to move on? [more inside]
What can I do to build my new dog's confidence?
Dog filter, we adopted a rescue dog last Sunday and she's great, but I have a couple of questions. [more inside]
Help me get over myself
How do I get over myself and stop holding others to my behavior standards and being passive-resentful when they don't meet them? [more inside]
Outdoor webcam for construction site?
I need an weather proof outdoor webcam. I have intermittent power and wifi. What are my options? [more inside]
How can I manage my anxiety to make visits home pleasant?
Only child makes depressing Christmas visit to parents. How can I prevent this from happening again? [more inside]
How do we keep our HDTV safe from our cat?
We are ready to buy an HDTV. We need help figuring out how to anchor it -- not to the wall, but down to the shelf where it will live. [more inside]
What can I do with a U.S. Top Secret security clearance?
I work for a U.S. federal agency. Two years ago, I got Top Secret clearance for a project I was working on for my agency. Other than applying for new jobs that require TS status, is there anything else interesting I could do that requires this status? Volunteering, temporary assignments, etc.? I will have it for an additional couple of years before my agency will request to renew/not renew it. [more inside]
Acer netbook keyboard and mouse about to die
Acer netbook keyboard and mouse threatening to quit working any minute now. Hoping someone can point me to the right place for assistance before it's too late. [more inside]
Who first chewed the scenery?
"Chewing the scenery" -- I know what it means (Brian Blessed, Norio Wakamoto). But where did the term come from? Is it a reference to a specific notorious event, like "jump the shark" is?
Better living through alchemy.
Looking for alternate science and/or space fiction. [more inside]
Math is Hard (I need help)
Math is hard. Please help me with a slope-related problem. [more inside]
Can you honestly have platonic friends?
Is it possible to have platonic female/male friends? [more inside]
How to organize travel info for iphone?
I am researching travel in advance of a trip. I like to have the material available both online and if I lose access to the internet. It will be mainly accessed using an iphone.
Mostly organizing maps, reviews from yelp, Urban spoon, and some emails.
Any advice on good ways to do this?
THanks!
What neighborhood should we explore in Seattle?
Seattle neighborhood recommendations. More inside. [more inside]
No more jello please
Any tips for living with chronic nausea while waiting for the doc? [more inside]
Steel homes
What is the best company to contract for building a steel home? [more inside]
How to improve brain performance?
How to improve brain performance? [more inside]
Can an owner also live in a rental property?
Can I classify my house as a rental if I turn my mother into a tenant? [more inside]
Experiences of the wrong heaven or hell
Do you know of (or have you had) a vision of heaven or hell that doesn't conform to that person's (or your) religion? [more inside]
Stalker or just socially inept?
About 4 months ago, a new guy moved in below me (I've lived here ten years). About 2 months ago the landlord gave me his (guy's) phone number (he plays music loud and I suppose landlord wanted to be out of the middle of it--especially when I call landlord at 2:30 a.m.) I've used the number maybe 3 or 4 times since then. [more inside]
Help me identify with this film from the spoiler.
Help me identify with this film from the spoiler. [more inside]
Bike sharing in Chicago
Does anyone know what's going on with Chicago's bike sharing system? I'll be visiting in October for 1.5 weeks and planned to sign up for a month-long membership with b-cycle but am not so sure anymore. [more inside]
antidepressant side effects help
Unbearable side effects of starting Citalopram. Should I stick this out or take a chance with an alternative? [more inside]
How can I restore this trunk without destroying it?
Metafilter! Help me clean up this vintage trunk about which I know very little. [more inside]
Help me find a previously read travel essay about a Chinese haircut.
Help me find that non-fiction piece about getting a haircut in China. [more inside]
My house price is on the internet
When you google my address, a listing on guava.ca appears with its list price from last fall. How can I get this completely removed from the internet?
soft leather binding
Can you put books with soft leather bindings on the bookshelf like other books? [more inside]
How to wean?
When and how did you stop breastfeeding? [more inside]
Tips for living with inlaws?
Tips for living with inlaws? [more inside]
Help me succeed in my first sales job!
I've landed my first sales job. Yay! Please recommend books I can read, classes I can take, and other things of that sort I can do to succeed in the field. [more inside]
Sticky Fingers, maybe?
What was that short story I read about sex with Mick Jagger? [more inside]
What can I do to loosen up my tight hip/ leg muscles?
What can I do to loosen up my tight hip/ leg muscles? Part of the problem is that I don't know which of my muscles are tight, I just know that I can't move my right leg as much as my left. [more inside]
How do I stop masturbating to violent images?
I am a woman who is deeply ashamed of what sexually excites me and need help or resources in learning to stop my porn/masturbation problem. [more inside]
Lies. Damned lies. And statistics.
Are there any reliable statistics for the number of American high school seniors who apply to colleges each year? [more inside]
Pissing off prospective friends and alienating people since the 1980s
I pissed off a lot of people at a meetup. How can I patch things up with them and be friends, or is it even possible anymore and should I just give up? [more inside]
How to read short stories?
How to read short stories so I actually remember them? [more inside]
Red Riding Trilogy Questions
Questions about the Red Riding trilogy (the movies, not the books). [spoilers] [more inside]
Food is an important part of a balanced diet
Cooking for one (non-foodie edition) [more inside]
July 21
How to make a move on someone I've been waiting to approach?
How do I approach a castmate I've developed feelings for? We've been working on a show together for about a month, and I've developed an attraction to him. I immediately determined I should wait until the show closed to make any obvious moves, but I'm not sure how to do it. [more inside]
How to make a website for a small company?
I'd like to create a website for a company I've started with some friends. I've never done this before. Can you tell me the best way to do this? [more inside]
Some Pig.
12 pounds of pork shoulder!... uh, now what? [more inside]
A longtime dream has come true and I now own a classic console turntable stereo (Sears Silvertone) but I have some questions about replacement styli and more. Help me make the most of this beautiful wooden music machine.
A longtime dream has come true and I now own a classic console turntable stereo (Sears Silvertone) but I have some questions about replacement styli and more. Help me make the most of this beautiful wooden music machine. [more inside]
Recommend a programmer a book that teaches high school maths step by step
Can you recommend a programmer a book that teaches high school maths step by step? I did maths at high scool and I was OK at it. However, fifteen years later, after forgetting almost all the maths I learnt back then, I am diving deep into the theory of programming algorithms (sorting, tree structures, graph algorithms and so forth). I find the programming straight forward, but I am struggling with the theory and proof of algorithmic time and space complexities. I am looking for a book that will cover algebra, logs, limits, inductive proof, matrix manipulation and so forth. [more inside]
How do I manage my emotions?
I am a highly educated 27 year-old female, and I am at a loss as to what to do with my extreme emotions.
How does one manage a burst of emotions so as to deal with the situation in an effective and calm manner? Specifically, I need advices on redirecting or channeling my anger and sadness in a way fast enough that I can still remain in the scenario (even more specifically, when in conflict with my mother)... but one that does not involve self-mutilation. [more inside]
Calvin-Hobbes Architectural Design, LLC
Help me build the best modular indoor blanket fort EVER. [more inside]
Managing an Online Writing Group
A few other graduate students and myself are part of an online writing group hosted on Basecamp. How can I keep the conversation going online? [more inside]
Help me have a blast in northern Michigan
What are the most super fun things to do in the eastern upper and northern lower peninsulas of Michigan? [more inside]
medical certification in italy
What kind of certification do you need to work in the medical field in Europe? Specifically in Italy? [more inside]
The mystery of the gigantic Asian princess photograph
Two Asian restaurants near my house - I think the owners are Cambodian, but I'm not quite sure - recently hung in their dining rooms huge, glossy photographs of a very young girl, maybe 5 or 6 years old, dressed in elaborate royal regalia and wearing heavy makeup. It's very striking (and a wee bit creepy.) Who is this girl?
How to label baby bottles and clothes?
Tips for labeling baby items for daycare. [more inside]
Does Google's 2-factor authentication only care about the mobile phone number?
I have a question about Google's 2-factor authentication and upgrading to a new device. Can you help? [more inside]
LCD monitor into fully functional TV?
How can I set up my LCD monitor as a full-fledged TV for a digital tuner, DVD player, and Wii? [more inside]
Baby, please don't go!
My friend was offered a job several months ago, but the company screwed up his immigration paperwork and... yada yada yada, he may get deported in a month. Oh, and he's gay. How can I help? [more inside]
Where can I find cheaper skincare products?
I'm looking for more affordable skin care alternatives to Rhonda Allison. [more inside]
Medical Loss Ratio (and I am at loss)
What am I supposed to do with Medical Loss Ratio notice from the insurer? [more inside]
Hoping for the Hopa
I need your yia-yia's spanakopita recipe. [more inside]
How to get data consolidated from a bunch of computers with money rather than work?
Service to pull data off a bunch of old computers and then recycle, in bay area? [more inside]
Triangle-to-Atlanta recording studio
Help me find the best Raleigh-to-Atlanta recording studio that fits my needs! [more inside]
Is it worth it to contribute to my company's 401k?
Is it worth it to contribute to my small company's John Hancock 401K, given the high expense ratios and no employee match? [more inside]
How can my friend get in touch with a movie set designer?
I have a friend who's a mid-career interior designer but is interested in exploring set design for films. He doesn't have a contact, and it's been suggested he get in touch with (via email, presumably) a few set designers he likes, and see if they might advise him as to how they did it and how he might proceed. I looked and saw you can see who did the set design for a given film on IMDB, but as I know very little about the film industry I'm at something of a loss as to how he'd be able to reach those people. Does anyone have any practical advice for how he could find contact info for these people?
But I love brussels sprouts!
What is this life-simulation game I played in the early days of the web? [more inside]
Instad of right-click, "key-click"?
Is there a Firefox extension that does this: I hover over a link with my mouse, but instead of right (or left) clicking, I push a key on my keyboard, which then opens the link. [more inside]
Is there a minimum sample size required to use the bell curve for performance management?
Is there a minimum sample size required to use the bell curve for performance management? I was wondering if small teams (3-5) can use the normal curve / bell curve for categorizing employees by performance? I have a feeling that the sample size needs to be much larger than that (3-5) for the bell curve to apply. Anybody know if there is a minimum? If possible please share link to supporting evidence.
What sort of server & network setup would work for a small design business?
What networking or server (NAS?) equipment do I need to set up a small design business that will use a lot of fairly large CAD, Rhino, PSD, AI, and other design-type files? [more inside]
Safe, easy, preferably free way to get hot corners in Windows 7
I want OS X Exposé-style hot corners in Windows 7. Is there any alternative to Hot Corners or LiveEdge? [more inside]
I need a classroom!
My fundraising training class has taken off. I started teaching four weeks ago and now I have been asked to teach two more modules. Problem is one is in London. I would like to find a place to lead a fundraising training on consecutive Sundays in Watford between Watford High Street, Watford Junction and Watford Tube starting in September. Anyone have any ideas or alternatives I should consider? My classes are action learning so there are only handouts and homework not overheads.
How to exit gracefully from an unworkable & unaffordable living situation?
Back in May I cosigned a lease for an apartment with a friend of a friend running from July to July. Thanks to changing circumstances since then, I can't afford it and I have no choice but to get out of the whole arrangement by September, before university starts back up again. The province I'm in has extremely pro-tenant rental laws, so transferring the lease will not be a problem. What concerns me is dropping this bomb on the cosigner, who is 4000 km away until, well, just when I'd have to leave. Since we were introduced in April for the purposes of being roommates, he's also shown himself to be far more naive than he appears when it comes to stuff like this. But I've also committed a huge error in judgement by signing for this place, and I feel guilty for helping to convince him. I've accepted I'll have to burn more than one bridge. But I'm way too overwhelmed by the hundreds of responsibilities have piled up on my shoulders, and need to tell him very soon. How do I make this as quick, painless and guilt-free as is possible? More on the "changing circumstances" inside: read just the bold bits if you're short on time. [more inside]
Crock pot beginner needing some guidance
Crock pot noob! I just bought a crock pot and have a few questions about some things I'd like to make, and would like recommendations for good sources for recipes. [more inside]
Can I eat this fruit?
Building a team
Team building activities? Hi All, i have a team of 7 people, and 2 of them are new. I want to integrate team building activities into our next staff meeting. What are some of your favorite activities that are appropriate for an office setting in a time frame of 15-45 minutes? I am looking for things that build connection and reflection, that aren't too cheesy or cliche. Thank you!
Can someone give me an estimate of how long food takes to go through your digestive system.
Can someone give me an estimate of how long food takes to go through your digestive system. [more inside]
Tracking exercise minutes
I'm looking for a simple iPhone app: I want to start exercising for 30 mins./day most days of the week, but I may not always get in the 30 mins. at once. (Apparently, it doesn't matter.) I want an app that tracks my daily minutes of exercise (e.g., 10 mins. here, 10 mins. there) and tells me how much more I have at that moment till I get to my 30-minute daily target. It'd also be nice if it told me my weekly minutes up to that point. I track my food in another app, so I don't need it to track calories.
Does anyone want old computer memory?
Just replaced the memory in my MacBook Pro (was 2GB, now is 6GB) - what should I do with the old memory sticks? [more inside]
Help me find this book set in Venice!
Book search: looking to find the title/author of a mystery set in Venice.
Likely NOT Donna Leon, the mystery features a married British couple in Venice on vacation. Plot elements may include a suitcase of books, a murder that takes place at a film festival or fashion show. The couple become involved in solving the case.
Published in the last decade, perhaps.
Thanks!
feature or a problem?
I purchased iTunes match so that'll my songs are both on my hard drive and in the cloud.
When syncing my iPhone with computer using a cable, playlists will copy but only the information. Not the actual tracks. I have to download them with wifi. My questions is 2 part 1) is this normal that the media does not actually transfer? 2) if it isn't how do I fix this so that songs transfer from computer to iPhone?
I'm up to date on all software.
Can I eat this, Cat Edition
That's enough! says Riker
I'm looking for an episode of Star Trek the Next Generation where Riker hits a table and yells that's enough! [more inside]
Getting from NYC to Phila and DoylestownPA
Best ways to get from NYC to Philadelphia and then Doylestown, PA? (via Public transportation!) [more inside]
Can this ring be recovered?
How to reach United Airlines, re: jewelry lost on plane, they said they found it but email returned as undeliverable. Details to follow [more inside]
Getting through radiotherapy
How can we make radiotherapy easier? [more inside]
"Set it and forget it" bike camera?
Mr Corpse is looking for a camera to mount on his bike, to record his daily commute in case of being hit (again) by a car. Desired features inside. [more inside]
What kind of phones do stereotypical hipsters have?
What is the stereotypical hipster phone? iPhone? Flip phone?
What is the stereotypical hipster computer? [more inside]
Essential non-profit analyst skills?
What are the skills I need to acquire in order to become an analyst or consultant in the non-profit world? [more inside]
Just what are the "cores" in my new laptop?
Within the past couple of years I've noticed the computer people describing their hardware with a new attribute: cores. It seems from the advertising that more cores are better than less cores, but what are they, exactly? [more inside]
Mathless Engineer, Need Help!
How can I learn calculus and differential equations well, in a relatively short amount of time? [more inside]
Fixing general marital communication issues
I feel like my marriage is falling apart. It's not because we don't love each other, but I don't know what to do. [more inside]
She just wants to watch her stories.
What is the best way for my sister to watch Netflix given her old TV setup? [more inside]
*BEEP*---*BOOP*---*I LOVE YOU*---*BEEP*
What can I do to make my geographically-distant fiancee feel more emotionally close to me? [more inside]
Tesla Biography
Which biography of Nikola Tesla should I read?
__
Apparently the Chinese media just discovered the salutatory effect of a good health scare on subscriptions and viewership, and now my parents are finding one thing after another, either directly through newspapers and news broadcasts or indirectly through their friends back home. Most of these topics have very little evidence in either direction, so it's hard to put together a better counterargument than, "Well, it's clearly just wacky!" Except, really, they are clearly just wacky and I'd like the hive mind's help disabusing my parents of them. Maybe there's a Chinese-language Snopes that addresses wacky health scares from the mainland? [more inside]
Is this a good deal on a laptop?
Is this a good deal? It's a Lenovo G580 Intel Ivy Bridge Core i5 2.5GHz 15.6" for $599. My uncle left his job and had to give up his work provided laptop. Thus, he's now using one so old it has windows 2000. [more inside]
I want a C section
Pregnant and interested in elective C section - looking for anecdotes/resources? [more inside]
Can I be bi-coastal if I'm not rich?
I live in Los Angeles with my girlfriend. We both work in TV. I want to move to New York City and she's game, but she recently got into her department's union which provides highly coveted health/pension benefits and needs to maintain an address in LA in addition to fulfilling her union days every year. We are not rich. Can we be bi-coastal? [more inside]
How can I buy or make a replacement bent wire shelf-hanger for my bookcase?
I bought a bookcase (with adjustable shelves) off Craigslist. All of the shelves were included, but not all of the little bent-wire bits (photos inside) that hold the shelves in place. Where can I find replacements? [more inside]
Ouch! What gives, tummy?
YANMD. What could be up with this weird sore spot on my abdomen? [more inside]
How are crimes involving civilians dealt with on US overseas military bases?
How are crimes involving civilians dealt with on US overseas military bases? [more inside]
Conceptual Cosplay
I love really clever & well-done conceptual cosplay, such as Disney Princess superheros or genderbent Justice League. What others are there? (They don't have to be tied to a specific fandom; just a real-life costume of a conceptual or non-anthro idea that is done well)
How do I get a job in Silicon Valley?
I'm a physicist, working to get hired in the tech sector in Silicon Valley. I'm an experimentalist having worked on collider and free electron laser experiments. I've done a lot of coding, most of it in C++ and Python, scripting in bash etc. The problems I solved, though, seem very different from ones relevant to the tech industry. My experience doesn't seem to count for much! [more inside]
IT'S DANGEROUS TO GO ALONE! TAKE THIS.
Help me mount and hang my Zelda overworld map. [more inside]
July 20
why is tuna in oil a thing?
Ive ben wondering about this since i was little. At the store you can get tuna packed in water, or tuna packed in oil. what's tuna in oil got that water doesn't? i would think that tuna in oil won't work if you don't want the oil, and if you do, you have many better oil options that the the oil in that can, that most likely just got sluiced out the top of a tanker truck or held for months belowdecks in unwashed tankards on a tuna boat.
Mortgage free life and freedom.
Living a mortgage free life. The dream, is it realistic? [more inside]
sick of being sick, how to keep my chin up?
I'm sick and depressed and I don't know how to stop it [more inside]
My boyfriend is quitting cigarettes. How do I stop wanting to kill him?
I love my dear boyfriend but he can be trying at the best of times - his last cigarette was 5 days ago. How do I deal with the irritable ass he has become and please tell me that this is temporary. [more inside]
How do I move on?
Help me reconcile the fact that my BF doesn't want to get married and I will have to return home due to visa restrictions. (long) [more inside]
Buying a car should really be as simple as Amazon
How exactly does one buy a car (first timer's edition)? [more inside]
Gotham in the Dark Knight trilogy
Why did Christopher Nolan "recast" Gotham City in each of the Dark Knight films? (Question is spoiler-free, but answers might not be.) [more inside]
Annotate .svg with html5 visually?
Annotate .svg with html5 visually? [more inside]
♫ how is the weather / so happy together ♫
So is our honeymoon doomed to eventually be over because that's life, or has anyone discovered a way to be in eternal honeymoon stage? [more inside]
Death, dawn, and the tides
Idle curiosity: "They say that people who are near death die generally at the change to dawn or at the turn of the tide." Is there ANY empirical evidence to support this? [more inside]
Carpet common?
So I'd like to know if homes built in the USA in 1958 commonly had wood floors and it is possible this owner added the carpet later. If true we'd have hope that the wood below has possibility for restoration. [more inside]
I lost a book about a girl and a horse lost in a blizzard.
A lost book about a lost girl and a horse and a blizzard...remembered from childhood. [more inside]
Do average phones last two years?
Do I need a top of the line Android phone to make a 2-year contract worth it? [more inside]
impact of separation on Austrian visa status
I have a sister about to go through a separation and likely divorce while in a foreign country. Would appreciate any comments/advice on the impact of the separation on the visa of the dependent husband, and how to prevent the husband taking the child out of country. [more inside]
How can I feel more confident in situations that make me feel unsafe?
What can I do to make myself feel more capable in situations where I feel unsafe? [more inside]
How do I find an adult psychologist in Boston or Manhattan available on short notice?
Help find a Boston or Manhattan psychiatrist who takes 1199 insurance and can see a new patient soon. My dear friend is in serious distress. [more inside]
I'll take a jar of peanuts and a 45 automatic. I brought my own bag.
Can one really walk into a gun store in some states and just buy a gun? [more inside]
Classic like Madewell, not classic like Ann Taylor
I like clothes that are simple, clean, classic, but still young. Un-fussy dresses, casual skirts, cute jackets, well-cut t-shirts. My dream wardrobe would come from Madewell and Uniqlo. Unfortunately, I'm a 14-16 US, 18-20 UK, so they're both out of the question. [more inside]
How many churches does the sky have?
Answers to the Book of Questions? [more inside]
Help me get to the root of the problem
I'm a man in my early 40s with a full head of hair. In its natural state, my hair is completely gray. So why is it turning orange all of a sudden? [more inside]
Where to eat in Depoe Bay OR
Where should I go for a really, really good meal in Depoe Bay, Newport or Lincoln City Oregon? Snowflake details inside. [more inside]
Pin the tail on the donkey
Trying to make plans for my future: what country should we live in? [more inside]
Should I Buy A MacBook? If so, which one?
Which (if any) MacBook should I be buying! Focus is on audio podcasting, sporadic HD video editing, blogging, and extended periods of writing / blogging / freelancing. Oh and I've been 100% Windows till now. Snowflake, as usual, inside. [more inside]
Phone interview on vacation...sounds good but please read.
First of all, let me say I am thankful for getting a phone interview offer....read on and apologies for the ramble and poor writing style here. Please bear with me here for a bit. I had a job interview in a city I had hoped to move back to two weeks ago, and didn't get it. Like most others applicants, I prepared very well and studied, talked to myself, etc. so, it is what it is. I desire to get back to this place where my wife's family and my friends are and where I have lived for 15 years (Indianapolis). I've been extremely stressed out, have anxiety problems but have meds to help. [more inside]
Should my friend risk a verbal lease in Chicago in an owner occupied 3-flat?
My friend is moving from out of state, and she had us go look at an apartment for her. We didn't like it very much, but the neighborhood is not bad and we walked around the block looking for 'for rent' signs.
While out walking, we saw a mailman, so went up to ask him if he knew of any good places to rent. He immediately told us about this couple in a flat who have a floor to rent by word of mouth. He said they are nice people and have been living there for a long time.
The mailman introduced us, and we checked the place out and recommended it to our friend.
The friend called and the owners don't do written leases. While she'd really likes the sound of the place, she's uncomfortable about living in a place with a verbal lease and is worried she could lose her deposit (they want one month's rent).
Is this normal? Do people often ask for verbal leases? Should she run away?
Add some color to my bag?
I bought a new black canvas tote with brown leather straps. It's very comfortable but it is just so... bland. I am looking for ways to add some decoration or color to it that will still look professional enough for my job. [more inside]
New boo seems to poo during sex. NSFW
New boo seems to poo during sex. NSFW [more inside]
Looking to find a good reputable screen replacement vendor.
Looking to find a good reputable screen replacement vendor. Some of my end users (CEO among them) have recently broken their smart phone screens. I'd like to find a good vendor who can replace the screens and they've got to work on more than just iPhones.
Thanks!
Nonconsensual rear bike wheel swap
I had to leave my bike at a rail station for a few days. When I picked it up again it felt funny on the way home, and a close inspection showed someone had swapped my rear wheel for another almost identical one. Can anyone familiar with bike theft explain what happened? It's not totally the same, but the rear cassette is identical, the tyre of the same good make but with a heavier tread. The original wasn't anything special - the stock Bontrager off a 6yo Trek 7.3 hybrid.
Failed dental implant with possible incompetence...recourse?
Over the past 6 months I've been having a dental implant installed, and it has now failed. The dentist has been rather dismissive of the pain, and I'm pretty sure I can identify specifically when the implant failed and I believe it to be his fault. This should have taken 4 appointments to finish, and has now been 9, and will end with the 10th…hopefully. There are other instances of his (possible) incompetence past the break (please read if you are going to reply). He has said that after I heal when it's removed he will do the process again for free…but I'm rather terrified of him now. Do I have any legal recourse to ask for a refund?
Again, details after the break. [more inside]
Subtitled TED talks for my language students
I'm trying to find standalone copies of TED talks with English subtitles. I will be teaching in a room without an internet connection to Chinese faculty who have good vocabularies but are working on their delivery. [more inside]
Hormone Help: PCOS vs Migraines
In the Red Corner, we have PCOS, a three-time champion with Special Ruptured-Cyst Attack! In the Blue Corner, we have Possibly-Hormonal Migraines, defending the title and famous as the inventor of the Icepick-To-The-Brain Technique! The winner takes home the grand prize: the right to determine whether I stay on contraceptive hormones or not. Aaaaaaand... FIGHT! [more inside]
Things to do in Paris when you're eleven
I need your recommendations for stuff to do in Paris with my eleven-year-old daughter. [more inside]
Can we dissolve a not-for-profit while giving away or selling assets to a private individual?
Asking on behalf of a friend. How can one dissolve a not-for-profit that isn't working, but still allow for the website the organization runs to continue? [more inside]
Ladies! Can you help another lady out by helping her man find the right handbag?
Ladies! Can you help another lady out by helping her man find the right handbag? [more inside]
Gift ideas for someone moving to Chicago
One of my best friends is moving to Chicago at the end of September, got any gift ideas? [more inside]
Social Media Monitoring
Please reccomend Social Media Monitoring software or services. [more inside]
No Narcissists, Please
How can I reprogram myself so I am no longer attracting (and becoming attracted to) narcissistic men? [more inside]
Where does young hipster Mr. Rogers hang out?
I don't know where to meet people who are smart but not arrogant about it, or smart and also socially functional. [more inside]
I need situated
Is there any way (either by app or setting) to make my Android tell me where, by name, I am? [more inside]
How many dollars does it take to change an auto buyer's mind?
How much do car companies spend on advertising in the US? [more inside]
Pacific Northwest Frog (Toad?) ID needed
A poorly-maintained ex Ornamental Carp Pond in Kenmore, Washington has unexpectedly become home to three lovely amphibians, 3-4 inches long. Brownish bodies, greenish heads (the green could be due to algae and weeds.) The most distinguishing feature of these little guys is a sound I have never heard a frog make: a "yowp" or "yelp" noise, which they make when they are startled into jumping back into the pond. Any clues?
Babe: Nephew in the city
My 17yr old nephew is staying with me in London for a few days next month, as I'm taking him to his first gig. He likes graphic design, Jack white and playing guitar. What cool things should he go, see and do? [more inside]
Looking for awesome "of the month" clubs
What are some awesome/offbeat/unexpected "of the month" clubs? [more inside]
I Don't Want To Be The Mosquito Beacon Anymore
I am like a magnet for mosquitoes. I am going camping in two weeks on Assateague Island. I need every single repellent idea, stat! [more inside]
How do I navigate working remotely request.
Could I get advice on how to navigate the politics of switching from working in the office to working remotely? The topic has been broached and the wheels are turning but I want to ensure that they are moving ahead and not backwards. [more inside]
List places to teach/instruct/adjunct undergrad Math in Seattle?
List places to teach/instruct/adjunct undergrad Math in Seattle? [more inside]
Best iPad apps, special offline snowflake edition
Help me find awesome iPad apps that don't need the internet. [more inside]
Help me build my bunker of sounds from vintage vinyl.
Minimum computing horsepower for recording from vinyl? [more inside]
I could use smoke signals. Those are wireless.
My Internet connection is terrible. All efforts at tech support have failed. Could switching companies fix the problem? Details inside. [more inside]
Cleverly clothe the children of a geek
Help me come up with math-themed "big brother"/"little sister" shirt designs for a friend's kids. [more inside]
Help me find good places to eat in Toronto.
Toronto-filter: Some of my boss-doctors are visiting Toronto for a conference this weekend, and are looking for nice restaurants close to the Westin Harbour Castle (which is next to the Toronto Islands Ferry Terminal and between the feet of Yonge and Bay Streets). They tend to be adventurous eaters, and like quiet atmospheres, and will need both quick food and sit-down meals as they are there for 4 days. [more inside]
Ladyparts doctor in Boston?
recommendationfilter: Anyone have a good lead on a friendly and knowledgeable Ob/Gyn in Boston? [more inside]
Accessible Access Training?
Microsoft Access Training/Classes in New York City (Manhattan), or your best suggestion of online materials. [more inside]
Inducing labor using Cytotec
My wife will likely have labor induced in the first part of next week. Her doctor is talking about using Cytotec (Misoprostol). There are some troubling reports about possible uterine hyperstimulation from the use of Cytotec, but there are also valid reasons to use it. As we try to make a decision about how to proceed, what factors should we be considering (about the med choice or about induction in general)? [more inside]
Emergency Pie Recipe
Botox injections and neutropenia
Are there risks in having botox injections for a neutropenia sufferer?
A relation of mine is determined to have botox injections to get rid of wrinkles, however, they suffer badly from cyclic neutropenia which means that their immune system is often weak and have white blood cell issues and consequently they get infections frequently. I am aware that botox is botulinum toxin and I have kept trying to persuade her to see her doctor before having botox injections, to check whether they are safe for her in light of neutropenia. She is desperate to go ahead with this and it is hard to persuade her to get medical advice on this. From a layman's perspective, I am concerned that this may be dangerous for her.
Does anybody with medical knowledge, perhaps haematology, know if this botox is safe for neutropenia sufferers?
Many thanks!
How can I get analytics for IT support requests?
What's the best (ie fool proof) way for me to get some ongoing analytics data for my department at work? [more inside]
Different top navs, same website--how hard is it?
Website design question: how difficult is it to have a slightly different top navigation bar for different sections of the same website? [more inside]
Finally ready to let go of my MP3 cache
I'm possibly ready to stop toting around 75GB of music, and switch to something 'cloudier'. What are the best options for a geek/control freak? [more inside]
My chief regret in life/Guitar Shopping
I sold a Dana Bourgeois Slope D guitar and have always regretted it. I can't really afford to buy another one. What's a good alternative? [more inside]
How old are peacocks when they get their tail feathers?
How old are peacocks when they get their tail feathers? [more inside]
Launch my project, change my life.
Let's leave aside the odds, or what I end up doing with this thing I want to do. I want to think big, very big and plan, schedule and execute against a "project" of writing a novel or a memoir. From a project perspective, I want to end up with say, 350 pages in a realistic but compressed timeframe. You tell me ... how would you get there? [more inside]
Common tactics for explaining art and portraying artists
Is there such a thing as meta-analysis of art literature? [more inside]
Designing product numbering and barcode systems
Assume I'm starting an e-commerce selling (retail, brand-y stuff) sports apparel and equipment. How should I design the product numbering and barcode system if I want to manage products, shipments, inventory, and warehouse locations? [more inside]
Help me plan a holiday
Husband and I want to take a holiday during the school holiday break (I know, but we're teachers) in September and/or December (in the lead up to Christmas) this year. We live in Melbourne, Australia.
The major catch
- I'll be 5 or 7 months pregnant, depending when we go. [more inside]
I want to climb mountains ...
How do I start ... mountain climbing? [more inside]
One, two, buckle my shoe, or at least repair it somehow
Does anybody know of a cobbler anywhere in London or the south-east of England who can repair a sandal with a broken rivet closure, or else replace the rivet closure with a buckle closure? [more inside]
How do I get the best out of recruiters?
I'm job-hunting in the outside world after many years at a single idiosyncratic organisation. Recruiters are a foreign species to me. Please teach me how to get the best out of them. [more inside]
Should I lawyer up before my arraignment?
I’ve been charged with misdemeanor drug possession (11377) in California after accidentally going through airport security with .7 grams of meth on my person. My arraignment is next week; what can I expect and/or how should I prepare? [more inside]
July 19
Book suggestions please!
What authors are like these authors? [more inside]
Looking for places like Portland outside the US.
Looking for places like Portland outside the US. [more inside]
Moving from PostgreSQL to SalesForce with Rails 3
If feasible, how do you move the database backend of a Web application built with Rails 3.2 from PostgreSQL to Salesforce (or Database.com)? [more inside]
How do you find followed Pinterest boards again?
I have a dumb Pinterest question. When I follow an individual board, how do I find that board again? [more inside]
Pedicure in DC?
Pedicure in Washington DC. I'm at the start of a long visit, and my feet hurt already! [more inside]
Wasting way too much time watching physics videos...
I need time to go through this, but I'm wondering to the scientists if they have ever pointed an electron microscope at the center of a particle collision at the LHC? Do they see at that level of detail?
Research/studies on language recognition
Is there a word or term for not being able to understand a word of a language, but still being able to correctly recognize it if you hear it? For example, if I hear someone speaking German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Russian, Chinese, Japanese, or Mongolian, I can probably correctly identify that they’re speaking said language they’re speaking EVEN THOUGH I can’t understand a thing they’re saying. Has this been studied before? [more inside]
Rent or not rent? Decisions, decisions.
How to move past my uncertainties and come to a decision, and fast? [more inside]
Songs with persistent, but superfluous, percussion
You know those clinking bottles in Bob Marley's "Jammin'"? Help me think of other popular songs that have what I am calling "persistent superfluous percussion". [more inside]
Looking for a sparkling sangria recipe from Imbibe Magazine.
Imbibe Magazine - sparkling cherry-nectarine sangria ingredients? Jul/Aug 2007 Issue. Or, your sparkling sangria recipes. [more inside]
Congratulations, new priest! (I don't agree with what you're joining.)
Is sending a congratulatory card to a newly ordained Catholic priest ethically problematic for people who disagree with the Catholic Church on political and social issues?
I probably suck at my job.
I'm a programming intern. I probably suck at my job. My boss hasn't noticed yet. How can I get better before it blows up in my face? [more inside]
There may be bugs on some of you mugs...
I'm looking for some fun songs about camping, for young kids (ages 3 and 5). [more inside]
In search of a flower nail
Where can I buy a flower nail in the Boston/Cambridge area? [more inside]
Tofu to sink your teeth into
How can I make my tofu seriously chewy? [more inside]
Where are the single thirtysomethings outside of OKCupid?
You're a woman in your 30s looking to meet men for dating/relationships. What are you doing to meet people OUTSIDE OF online dating sites? [more inside]
point me to Pontycymmer.
Help a tourist get from Cardiff, Wales to Pontycymmer (Pontycymmr) and back. [more inside]
Check your lease, you're living in dog city.
How specific is breed specific legislation? [more inside]
Hive mind, help with my bee problem
We are doing a construction/cleanout job on a townhome and found a bag of potting soil on the back patio. When we went to move it, it turned out to be full of bees! I can actually see honeycomb inside the bag. How can I relocate the bees without hurting them? [more inside]
When you can't have what you want, try to want what you have.
I have two career options to choose from, and neither is the one I want. Help me make the best of the choices I have. [more inside]
Apple Airport failure
Terrible WIfi signal after installing new Apple Airport Express. Help! [more inside]
What's the best approach when my puppy growls and snap at people and other animals?s
What's the best approach when my puppy growls and snap at people and other animals? [more inside]
Is my garden poisonous?
Hey Dr. Hodgins: my garden soil is pretty like a rainbow! How do I find out what's making it that way, and whether it's safe to grow veggies in? [more inside]
I'm thinking of applying for a Fulbright - how well do I REALLY need to know the language?
I'm thinking of applying for a Fulbright - how well do I REALLY need to know the language? [more inside]
Are all therapists the same?
I need therapy. I have no idea how to start. How does one pick a therapist if all seem the same? [more inside]
The Real World: Post-Apocalyptic Hellscape
Help me track down this Cube-esque, straight-to-video nuclear bomb shelter paranoia film (with a shocking twist!). [more inside]
Where can I buy a counter-depth refrigerator in Los Angeles today?
Where can I buy a counter-depth refrigerator in Los Angeles today? All attempts to date have ended in rivers of sorrow. [more inside]
I'm looking for ideas for: puzzles, riddles, problems and scavenger hunt type stuff to incorporate into a gift.
I'm looking for ideas for: puzzles, riddles, problems and scavenger hunt type stuff to incorporate into a gift. [more inside]
Aubergine Allergy?
Is it possible to randomly develop an allergy to eggplant / aubergine in one's late 30's? [more inside]
What cool places can I go to to eat my lunch in Toronto?
(Toronto filter) What are some awesome places I can go to in Toronto where I can eat a lunch I bring myself? [more inside]
Where to sit at a Nascar race
I'm going to my first Nascar race in October. The Bank of America 500 in Charlotte. What are the general principals involved in picking somewhere to sit? High/low/corner/straight. My instinct says somewhere high so we can see as much action as possible. Also, any specific recommendations for this track?
Hobbies, how do they work?
After spending most of my waking hours in front of a computer for years, I have no idea what to do with my free time that doesn't involve internet. I don't have many friends so I'm not even sure how the process work. Is it sudden inspiration? How did you get started in your favorite hobby and why do you like it?
What are these dear naked German gentleman doing?
Can any German history lovers tell we what these sweet old naked fat men are doing in this old postcard? [more inside]
Chino or Ontario? Which is better? Or less bad?
One month work assignment, need a place to stay: Chino or Ontario, CA? [more inside]
Dripping drainpipe
How to fix the noise from a dripping drainpipe? [more inside]
The Limits of Flatness
Are there an infinite number of 2D shapes? [more inside]
When should I show up for a delayed flight?
I just got a text alert from the airline that my 8:40pm flight (it's 3:30pm now) has been delayed until 10:20pm. Should I go to the airport in time for the 8:40 departure, or can I get there an hour and a half later?
Chicken thighs, you are so tasty, but I will regret this later!
Why does (dark) chicken meat sometimes (but not always) make me feel ill? Slightly TMI descriptions inside. [more inside]
How to find a chart of U.S. workforce composition by sector over time?
Looking for a simple economic history chart to make a simple point. An hour on google images has failed me; can the hive mind help out? [more inside]
My cats want to know whyit's okay for ME to play with my poop when they're not allowed to
Calling all Metafilter poop technicians!
I have a poop sample to prepare. It involves dissolving it in a preservative. The poop was pretty tough and fibrous and I can't get it all to dissolve. What would a poop technician do? [more inside]
Keeping my chin up?
I’m going to be working with the (presumably unaware) friend of someone who sexually assaulted me in the past, and the perpetrator also has personal information on me that I’d rather not be made public. How should I interact with the friend personally and professionally? [more inside]
I wish I could call it Fight Club.
What's a good name for a blog on (interpersonal, not politica) conflict resolution and relationships? [more inside]
Best bike to bobber for a girl?
Best motorcycle to convert into bobber for small female? [more inside]
Help me allow students to read each other's code anonymously.
Help me find a system I can use to post student programs such that other students can easily read through different programs and provide feedback. [more inside]
Make Your Own Retreat
Help me plan a self-made relaxation / meditation retreat for one week in San Diego [more inside]
How do you choose which health plan to enroll in?
My partner's application for Family Health Plus (New York) was approved. Now he needs to choose a 'health plan' to enroll in. We have no idea how to choose one. Please help! [more inside]
Having F3arful difficulty finding this jacket
Help me find a jacket as exactly like this as possible, of any material, as cheap as possible. [more inside]
Let Her Know Just How Much Thought I've Put Into Breaking Up?
When breaking up with a live-in girlfriend, should I let show just how much forethought I've put into it? [more inside]
I would love some App ideas for a new Nexus 7 tablet.
I would love some App ideas for a new Nexus 7 tablet. [more inside]
How to make the most of too much insurance?
My wife and I each have medical insurance through work under different providers that covers the other. What is the best way to take advantage of a ridiculous ammount of insurance until I can cancel mine in January? [more inside]
Do what makes you ___
"Do what makes you happy" - awful career advice? [more inside]
More Money, More Problems
21 year old with what seems like a spending addiction and terrible financial habits. Please help me figure out how to spend my money properly. I don't want to live like this anymore, struggling from paycheck to paycheck. [more inside]
Because I need to keep a very close eye on my cats, they are just that shady.
Recommend a Decent Home Security System with the following features: [more inside]
Scooter articles
Looking for music journalism discussing German dance group Scooter. [more inside]
I cannot function with a data plan, apparently.
The new contract-free iPhone plans from Cricket and Virgin - do you have to buy the phone from them as well, or can anybody with an unlocked iPhone get a month of service without a contract? [more inside]
Have i commited welfare fraud?
Three-parter: Can the Canada Revenue Agency review information from a closed bank account? If so, would they search for this information while assessing someone's eligibility for social assistance? If so, have I done something I'll get in trouble for? [more inside]
If I tried really hard to get healthy, how successful will I be?
Let's say I'm a 5'5", 230lb female. Let's say tomorrow, I start eating very healthy and working out 4-5 times a week. How much can I expect to lose and what physical changes can I expect to see by the end of the year? [more inside]
Freelance writer website examples
Looking to create a website to advertise my girlfriend's freelance writing skills- she would like to do some freelance writing on the side and has done it in the past but would like to take it up a notch. She has a journalism background. I have a wordpress template, some headshots, portfolio samples, etc to use so that is not the gist of my question. I was wondering if there are other examples that you have seen of writers self promotion pages that struck you as good examples that we can get ideas from. [more inside]
Planning a Ramble Around South-East Asia
Having completed my research in Malaysia early, I find myself with two weeks to travel in South-East Asia. Where should I go? I have many options and not enough time to plan. Please guide me! [more inside]
Just Say Noga
What are some alternatives to yoga for flexibility and strength? [more inside]
Choosing between sectional couches
Please help me decide between two couches: a chaise sectional, and a two-piece sectional! [more inside]
AT&T iPhone in Asia. How?
I have an AT&T iphone that I'd like to use on an upcoming trip to Asia. What do I need to do? Is it as simple as a jailbreak and a new SIM card?
Sending money directly from A to B?
Best way to make monthly payments between two people in the US that requires no manual effort each month, and has minimal fees? They both have checking accounts.
An app to demonstrate econ policies' efficacy? (helping to show extern)
Conservatives in the U.S. seem to inherently assesses economic policies based on the personal ethics (as in, self-reliance) involved, not on overall benefit or harm to the society. Is there a (simple, credible) online app that lets you easily try different policies (including "each must pay his own way" personal-ethics ones) & compare the outcomes? [more inside]
Would you kindly explain these plot points to me?
I just finished playing Bioshock for a second time, and I have some questions about the story. Massive spoilers inside. [more inside]
Soften the softphone blow
How can I make the move to softphones work best for my team? [more inside]
Internet Ettiquette Question
How do I react if I committed an internet faux pas, and how can I tell if I even did it in the first place? [more inside]
Please help me fix a problem I am having in Wordpress?
Having issues with a Wordpress.com template and the location of the Search function. [more inside]
Looking for insights on the business of photography.
UI designer wanting to turn into UI designer/photographer is looking for insights on the business of photography. [more inside]
Crab costume
A girl I'd like to impress (the barista at my local coffee shop) has invited me to her party, a "crab costume party". Any ideas for costumes? She's from New Zealand, in case that helps. Something kooky that doesn't require me to dress up like a crab would be appreciated...I don't look good in tights.
Best sites for Canadians to buy headphones?
Best sites for Canadians to buy headphones? [more inside]
Good strategy games for the XBox?
I've just been lent an XBox 360 discovered that I'm utterly, embarrassingly dreadful at First (or Third) Person Shooters. What I have enjoyed beyond all expectations though is Petroglyph's splendid Panzer General: Allied Assault (I'm a big time tabletop and card gamer and own the physical game too). So, lovely hivemind, can you suggest any excellent card/war/strategy games for an XBox I might enjoy just as much? Thanks!
July 18
Is this recruiter being unethical?
Is this unethical behaviour by the recruiter and how can I fix it? [more inside]
Is this stereotype real or made-for-TV?
Is this stereotype real or made-for-TV? [more inside]
Give my brain something to obsessively consume for the next few weeks.
Hey! Do you like quasi folk music? Me too! Recommend me some great bands! [more inside]
Rabid worrying?
Dog bite. Am I in danger? [more inside]
Miserable, meowing newly-indoor cats
I know this has been asked in one form or another, but I need to ask again: how can I help my cats transition from indoor/outdoor life to indoor only? [more inside]
Is there a linguistic term for this?
Is there a term for, or linguistic function fulfilled by, the phrases "no yeah" and/or "yeah no" when used for the purpose of agreeing?
Teach a singer new tricks on the guitar
Guitar-playing filter: Absolute beginner here, having just picked up my first acoustic guitar. Between choir and piano lessons, the music theory isn't an issue, but I do have a couple of questions I hope you MeFi's can answer. [more inside]
Damn it Arianna this is annoying!
When did Huffington Post started auto-playing it's embedded videos and how do I make it stop?
What happened to the servants?
By the second half of the 20th century, Britain's servant class had all but disappeared. How was this phenomenon covered in contemporary news, commentary and literature? [more inside]
Need help finding a specific lapel pin
I lost the very cool little lapel pin that came with my blazer made by Scotch and Soda. Where can I find a replacement? [more inside]
Eczema on my new tattoo! Help!
Over the last six months, I've had a case of eczema on the backs of my hands. Sometimes it's bad; sometimes it's not. Right now, it's totally raging -- worst it's ever been. The rash never spread anywhere else -- until I got this new tattoo... [more inside]
Recommending good non-profits?
My cousin is moving to Chicago. He is working in the social service field, as a Manager and will be looking for jobs when he gets out there. Anyone know of non-profits they would recommend as good places to work or look into? He has experience in mental health, youth and homelessness but is open to broadening his focus. Thanks!
Gleep Reject
How can I watch Glee Project online? Oxygen on cable is not an option, nor is satellite TV. My daughter would very much appreciate you clueing in her dad. [more inside]
Dog leash hooks
I have a dog leash with a snap hook (it appears to be called) on one end and something else on the other end. [more inside]
What is causing the level of fluid in my hummingbird feeder to go up and down?
The amount of hummingbird food in my feeder is going up and down on its own. What's going on? Is it possible that it's acting as a thermometer or a barometer? [more inside]
Should we demolish our house to increase the property value?
Should we demolish our house to increase the property value? [more inside]
Are we unqualified?
Apartment-hunting: are we doing something wrong? [more inside]
Legitimate political theory or a case of "some animals are more equal than others?"
Is there a form of socialism that agrees with me or have I simply been brainwashed into accepting capitalist structures as natural? [more inside]
I don't even need the WHOLE groove back. Just a bit is fine.
Somehow I came out on the other end of almost 10 years of monogamous relationships with less sexual confidence than I started with. I'm starting to catch myself thinking that sex just doesn't seem worth the anxiety it produces. Help? [more inside]
My Klean Kanteen tastes like I'm carrying spare change in my mouth. Fixes?
Last week I bought a 16oz Klean Kanteen Insulated (double-walled, hot/cold) container to replace a favorite Thermos (also stainless) that is no longer made. [more inside]
Can you identify this beautiful-looking hummbird-shrimp-moth hybrid?
What sort of species is this interesting little guy? Pics and observed characteristics noted, inside. [more inside]
Waking up from emotional slumber
For most of my life I've been a bit of a cold self-interest-maximizing unfeeling robot. Lately I am feeling things and it's amazing. But it's hard to manage this and make sense of it. Has anyone been there? [more inside]
What bank should I open an account with?
I need a bank account for some work-related stuff. I need a debit card for it, like yesterday. What nationally available banks can I open a checking account with that will give me a (temporary, at least) debit card immediately? Bonus if they have a lower than $20 minimum balance. I'll be arriving in Wharton, NJ tomorrow to open this, so bigger bonus if there's a branch there.
Ableton Live and Synced Video for Concert
The band uses Ableton Live for backing tracks (drummer uses a click track - metronome).
From the arrangement view (Live's VSTs are used also) is there a way to place video in a track and have it stream from a Macbook
while the audio streams to a soundcard?
If not, what is the easiest way to play videos in sync with the backing tracks? [more inside]
Need games for a picnic for all ages
What are some good games to play at a picnic for a large group of people with a large age-range? [more inside]
3rd row car seat options?
3rd row seating/car seats in a mid-sized SUV/Wagon? [more inside]
Web development learning
Any good recommendations for an online learning program that covers all of web development? HTML, CSS, JavaScript, PHP, MySQL. Having to pay for it is fine. Something like this.
Where to sell CDs in NYC?
Where can I sell a couple hundred CDs in New York City? (Assuming that it's even worth selling them nowadays....) [more inside]
Proper etiquette for an unsolicted merit raise
What is proper "thank you" etiquette when given an unsolicited raise based on merit? [more inside]
Need good ideas for a Group Reading
Looking for ideas of Books that would be relatively fast reads and entertaining for group readings. I got the opportunity to participate in a reading of Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas this past weekend in Aspen in celebration of the Good Doctor's 75th. It was a blast and would love to recreate that without doing the same book, but that book is perfect. A friend recommended my favorite book Confederacy of Dunces, but I think that book works because of the Character of Ignatius which may be hard to pull off in an aloud reading. But anyways, any ideas?
Need Memphis school advice
Located in the Memphis, TN area my spouse and I are struggling with finding the right school structure for our young son, who will be starting 1st grade in a few years. We both want him to be in an environment that teaches children HOW to learn and HOW to find the answers, not just repetition and memorization but critical thinking at a place that doesn't require a declaration of our religious beliefs. [more inside]
How do I recognize people?
I have a lot of trouble recognizing faces. (to quantify I scored 20% on this famous faces quiz.
What can I do to train myself to get better?
Is There a Workflow or Permissions System for Youtube?
Need a solution that will let multiple people post to a single YouTube account, but only after a review process. [more inside]
GoodView?
I am looking for a Goodreads-like site for movie tracking. [more inside]
Need help regarding older guy and my daughter's online 'relationship'
My daughter's infatuated with her online friend who turns out to probably be MUCH older than she. Looking for guidance on handling this situation. [more inside]
Do you pay estimated taxes as a freelancer?
Do you pay estimated taxes as a freelancer? [more inside]
Guy at bike shop, who appears to be a reputable bike fitter, tells me he can make a bike I like less fit like a bike I like more. Is he right or just trying to move last year's product?
Truth or hyperbole: Guy at bike shop, who appears to be a reputable bike fitter, tells me he can make a bike I like less fit like a bike I like more. Is he right or just trying to move last year's product? [more inside]
Meta-question about abstraction
Philosophy / education: how can I search for topics related to the ability to generalize and manipulate abstractions? [more inside]
Looking for psychology term, perhaps from Herman's Trauma and Recovery
Do you know the name of the mental disorder or syndrome or complex in child abuse survivors where they can be reported as being "geniuses at doing the absolute minimum necessary to survive"? As best as I can recall this phrase comes from Trauma and Recovery by Judith Herman but none of those words seems salient enough to pull what I want with a search engine. [more inside]
Need to sell some redundant photog gear in order to gain needed gear.
Photography Filter: Help me prioritize unused gear before selling it. [more inside]
Harmonium Music Suggestions
Harmonium music? [more inside]
Jocks, Nerds and Rebels (tm)
To what extent do American Highschools resemble the stereotypical American Highschool seen in just about every movie and TV show ever, withever present competition for social status, rigidly defined cliques, omnipresent bullying, etc... etc?
We appreciate you enough to give you a discount!
Work Filter: My boss and I want to find a way to let our clients know we have provided to them a discount on our account covering letter to them without sounding like "a douche bag" or slimy. What wording do you use on your letters to convey this? [more inside]
Help identifying 'big sky' paintings
Ten or twelve years ago I saw a series of paintings I really liked at the Denver Art Museum. The paintings featured idyllic farm-like scenery under bright blue skies with white clouds. Distinctly the sky made up 80% of the image, so the ground and barns, etc. appeared to be quite small and the sky seemed huge. There were at least 3-5 of paintings in this series, and the canvases were very large. Can anyone identify the paintings or artist?
She's so cute! Help me not break her!
Help this new kitten mama and bonus naming. [more inside]
Decent (yet affordable!) places/area to move to in the West New York area? (Hoboken, Jersey City, Weehawken)
Decent (yet affordable!) places/area to move to in the West New York area? (Hoboken, Jersey City, Weehawken) [more inside]
Bullets fired into the air
In a video of Syrian street celebrations over the recent assassination, a gentleman is firing a machine gun into the air. Are bullets fired into the air a danger to others? It seems obvious it would be, but I don't know the physics involved, or likelihood of a bullet hitting a person.
Oh, the flood of new music. How to find the good stuff?
What's the best way to keep up with new alt/indie music that's being released? How do you discover the good stuff? [more inside]
Are there any other websites that offer free legal movies other than Hulu?
Are there any other websites that offer free legal movies other than Hulu? [more inside]
I need to cook up big batches of yarn.
My turkey roaster used for yarn dyeing ... died. Help me find a replacement: a kitchen appliance with a very large, preferably shallow, stainless steel cookwell. [more inside]
pregnant Segway-ing... really forbidden?
can I *really* not ride a Segway while pregnant? [more inside]
Will my unpaid gym membership prevent me from visiting Taiwan?
Will I encounter trouble entering or exiting Taiwan based on my unpaid gym membership there? Also, will this affect my US credit in any way? [more inside]
this is my shot at an emmy. Don't fuck it up.
What is gonna be my best mac based workflow for editing this documentary I'm working on? details inside [more inside]
Where's the best nature in upstate New York and Ontario?
Where should we go for a nature-filled long weekend within 4 hours of Toronto, Canada? [more inside]
Itunes screensaver with a folder of images?
You know the iTunes album art screensaver? How can I make the same thing with a folder full of images? Replacing the album artwork with the desired images doesn't seem to work (OS X Lion). [more inside]
Budgets for Web Businesses
Business plan filter: Help me create a budget for my website business. [more inside]
Ze batteries, zey do nussing!
Why are my UPSs not pulling power from the generator? [more inside]
Oil tank leak in crawl space. Where do we go from here?
A month from selling our house, and we found out we have an oil tank leak we need to clean up before we leave. Costs could be up to $10,000. Anything we can do? [more inside]
How healthy is my seemingly healthy soup diet?
Just how healthy is my Chunky Campell's Vegetable soup? [more inside]
Help a graduate student get insurance!
Starting in one month, I'll be an unemployed NYS graduate student living completely off of loans. Am I eligible for family health plus/medicaid? [more inside]
Day 49: Pasta. Day 50: Pasta. Day 51: Pasta.
What are some interesting, edible, non-perishable "theme packs" to spice up food choices when located in a remote area with limited access to fresh ingredients? [more inside]
I Needs Me a Unicorn Bar (or three)
Tell me about your DC Unicorn Bar. Or finding the Unicorns in a city in general. [more inside]
What is my dog?
Can you please suggest what my mixed breed dog might be a mix of? Bonus points if you don't say "German Shepherd". [more inside]
Job Hunting, It Defeats Me
I really need to find a better job, but I don't know where to start. How do I even figure out what job to look for? It's pretty clear that there is no promotion path for me whatsoever in my current job, and there are rumblings that my entire department is about to get transferred to someplace where I don't want to be. The only reasons I'm still here are inertia, fear of the terrible job market, and the fact that self-promotion makes me queasy. [more inside]
How do I explain an 18-month career change I don't think I want to make after all?
I changed careers but the company and position haven't worked out and I don't think I've progressed enough to really progress in the field. How do I switch back, and should I? [more inside]
Music to go with reading Rushdie's "Midnight's Children"?
Recommend me some music to go along with reading Salman Rushdie's Midnight's Children? While reading the book, it's occurred to me that I like and am interested in Indian music, but don't really have any, and don't really know any artists to look for other than Ravi Shankar. I think I'm mostly looking for the more classical Indian styles, as opposed to the pop/Bollywood stuff, but some of both would be nice maybe. Can anyone suggest other performers or albums? Bonus if they're easily available through Amazon or iTunes.
College; now what?
Post-college, pre-graduate school: I recently finished my undergrad program, and have found myself at a stand still. Any good organizations to help move my future along? [more inside]
US bank account for non-present, non-US citizen?
Is it possible for a non-US citizen who does not currently reside in the US to open a US bank account? If so, please help since I keep hitting dead ends... [more inside]
Coming out to traditional Chinese dad?
Coming out dilemma: how do you tell your traditional Chinese dad (ESL) that you're gay? [more inside]
Recommend lawyer in Rochester NY for non-profit organization?
Can anyone recommend a lawyer in Rochester NY who can set-up a not-for-profit corporation for the "maker space" / community workshop we're starting? We'd like to find someone who's affordable, trustworthy and personable. And we'd like to get some personal recommendations instead of just a list of names from the bar association.
How much should I charge to speak at an event?
I've been asked to speak at an event in a major American city in front of one or two hundred people. How much should I ask for my speaker's fee? Is this an accurate guide? [more inside]
Dysfunctional, negative office is emotionally draining
I am in a negative, dysfunctional office environment with very little supervisory support for all parties involved. I have been seeking other employment but that's besides the point of this post, I would like any advice on my immediate options in this situation and how to make it any more tolerable? [more inside]
It's MBA draft season!
What does "MBA talent" mean to you? Do I have such talent? [more inside]
Name that show - hand-nailed-to-a-tree edition
What was this show - late night UK channel 4 community-service soap opera. [more inside]
Your favourite band might not suck as much as some people think.
For me Miles Davis Bitch's Brew is the epitome of good driving fusion /jazz / rock.
Help me push the envelope. I remember some Wayne Shorter, Stanley Clarke, Billy Cobham, Weather Report, John McLaughlin.
I need more of this good music in my life.
Drawing a blank on a notebook...
I'm looking for a notebook that has about 100 pages, blank (not ruled or graph), smooth and reasonably thick paper, spiral-bound, about 5"x7". I usually like Japanese style notebooks, but doesn't have to be. I looked on JetPens.com but didn't find one that met all these criteria. Do you know of another source?
How do I know which career is right for me?
No focus, no idea about future career. What do you guys do and did you always want to do it? [more inside]
All this over a ham sandwich?
Please help me figure out what I should have done differently in this argument with my boyfriend. It gets long, sorry. [more inside]
Neighbor attacked boyfriend; what should I do?
Neighbor attacked her boyfriend with knife. What should I do? [more inside]
How to choose between waiting and moving on?
At the moment, I find myself waiting for a friend to grow healthier (both emotionally and physically) on the off-chance that this growth will allow our friendship to turn romantic further on. Should I simply resign myself to friendship alone (do my level best to date other people, cement myself in her friend zone), or is there some long-term logic to what feels, right now, like madness? [more inside]
How to get better at staying in touch with people?
How do I get better at initiating and maintaining contact with friends, romantic partners, and potential friends? If you are a socially anxious, super-busy person, what helps motivate you to stay in touch on a day to day basis? [more inside]
July 17
Prospective father-in-law rejected marriage proposal request. What now?
I asked my girlfriend's father for permission to marry her and got shot down. What now? [more inside]
What can I do for a homeless stranger?
What can I do, if anything, for a homeless stranger who hasn't asked for help? [more inside]
Can I delete all my iOS apps from my computer?
Now I've signed up to iTunes Match, the only thing my iPhone and iPad sync with iTunes for is apps. Is there any point in me continuing to do this? Or can this be turned off and the apps deleted? What are the downsides if I do this? [more inside]
Did I really hear this weird bit of surreal poetry by (I think) Peter Gabriel on the radio years ago?
When I was about 15 (circa 1994), I remember listening to some sort of radio program (on NPR or similar) wherein they played an extremely bizarre bit of surreal spoken-word verse by a very young Peter Gabriel. Or at least I *think* it was Peter Gabriel. In any case, I would love to hear it again and actually learn what album/collection it came from. Presuming I didn't imagine this weird thing involving a train and a golden rod... [more inside]
Healing a burn - what's best?
How effective is laser treatment for burns? When should it be done? [more inside]
Here fishy, fishy, fishy
Please help me find the perfect Aquarium stand...or, really, just one that is functional and not hideous. [more inside]
Learning how to swim! As an adult.
I am 28 years old and never learned how to swim. I'm about to learn. Advice? Tips? Is it too late for me? [more inside]
How do I find a job in IT/Web with lots of experience before I graduate in may?
I am graduating next May (2013) with a Bachelors of Science in Applied Computing Technology from Colorado State University. I have 3 years IT & Network Support experience and just about 2.5 years web development experience through Student positions. I've done the whole freelance thing for the last 5 years as a Wordpress theme guy. How do I approach getting a full time job after college? [more inside]
Help us write our co-op application letter
We are applying to co-op housing: Please help us write an appropriate (and awesome!) cover letter for our application! [more inside]
What am I doing wrong?
I've just launched a Indiegogo campaign, but after six days, nobody has shown interest. [more inside]
I breathe you in and keep you forever
There was an article/NPR story from a couple years ago that described findings that we incorporate ALL things we take in into our bodies. [more inside]
what new career can an ex artist get?
I followed my dream- now I want insurance. For the first time in my life I could work anywhere. I have no idea where to start. [more inside]
Should I upgrade the hardware on my Macbook or just give it a good cleaning?
My 2009 Macbook Pro has grown a little too much hair and is in need of a trim and some general cleaning. Could you tell me if my proposed scenario sounds reasonable or is it overkill? [more inside]
Volunteer criminal background check deal breakers
Volunteering with youth - criminal background check deal breakers? [more inside]
Am I afraid or just not that into him?
Is this a sign that it's not a good match or am I just afraid of intimacy after my last relationship? [more inside]
Help me remember the name of this show from 15+ years ago
Help me remember the name of this show from 15+ years ago [more inside]
Healthy vegan gifts for the road
I need ideas for reasonably healthy, vegan snacks for the road that I can give as a gift. [more inside]
Yemeni restaurant in L.A.?
Is there a good Yemeni restaurant in Los Angeles? [more inside]
What are some stories camp kids can tell on a podcast?
What would be some good radio monologues to have kids read for a sleep-away camp podcasting group? [more inside]
Does this thing ever turn off? Help me get a better attitude about sleeping
I need more sleep and I have the means. But I don't seem to want to, you know, actually sleep. What gives? [more inside]
Simple, secure, interoperable communications anywhere - what would it take to add the "secure" part?
Let's say everyone in the world suddenly decided they would like secured email - as in, email that's encrypted from sender to recipient. What would be the current barriers to making that happen? [more inside]
Can these over-ripe cucumbers be saved?
Can I do anything with these extremely over-ripe cucumbers? [more inside]
Grounded Snowbirds need help
Snowbird can't fly south this year, help me make it through a Canadian winter, my first. Tell me all you think I need to know about keeping warm and sane. [more inside]
What the Font Failed. Will you?
Mac friendly computer software to draw math pictures.
Anyone know of a Mac friendly computer program that makes it easy to draw geometric figures? Preferably free, but I'm willing to pay if its not too much and if its worth it. [more inside]
What do I need to ask about skin cancer surgery?
Mohs surgery, end of next month. What should I be asking the surgeon in the meantime? [more inside]
I guess I'm growing older!
Looking for an electric start gas powered lawn mower. Because of some recent back problems, I would like to avoid yanking on the rope of a recoil start lawn mower. [more inside]
I love my husband, but I miss what we used to do, so what do I do to help him see?
Married, LIttle with a capital L. How can I get my husband to see what I'm lacking and how it hurts? [more inside]
Help me make an informed decision on using Propecia.
After much research on side effects and talking with my doctor, I am close to trying Propecia for my male-pattern hair loss. However, I still have some reservations. Help me make an informed decision. [more inside]
What's the best Albany Airport / Saratoga Springs transit option?
Transit options from/to Albany Airport to/from Saratoga Springs? [more inside]
Lung Cancer - What now?
80 years old, lost 40 pounds since May, no appetite, weakening, diagnosed with lung cancer today. What can we expect now? [more inside]
Shoot-em-up
Looking for a name of a novel, but can only remember one scene, where a guy is recruited for some sort of mission in a video arcade. [more inside]
Help me find an RPG that my partner and I can play co-op by tonight!
Help me find a PC-based RPG that my partner and I can play co-op by tonight! [more inside]
What's the deal with this mystery FBI "packet?"
Weirdness with background check - FBI involved? [more inside]
How do I flirt with guys I meet from OKCupid?
How do I flirt with people I meet from OKCupid? [more inside]
Where can I get Chinese internet access?
How do I get a Chinese IP address for my Mac? [more inside]
How to recruit for a scientific study?
Calling all scientists! Conducting a research study...how best to recruit my target population? [more inside]
Looking for a Mac OS compatible 3G AT&T USB dongle
I'm looking for 1) an AT&T 3G USB modem(?) that is compatible with Mac OS and 2) an accompanying short-term data plan arrangement. [more inside]
Louis habla Espanol?
The comedian Louis C.K. is Mexican, having grown up in Mexico with Spanish as his first language. His family is still in Mexico too. Can anyone help me find audio/video of Louis actually speaking Spanish?
Which History Documentaries are Accurate?
Please recommend good documentaries and TV programs about history that are accurate. [more inside]
Making the Most of Free Time
I've got an utterly free week coming up in DC. What should I do with my time? [more inside]
Midlife relationship question
I recently met online a former high school boyfriend from 25 years ago. We've seen each other briefly at reunions, but now we are both single and he is over the moon with me before we've even had a chance to meet in person again, which will happen tomorrow. I am confused and overwhelmed by his interest in me, how do I proceed? [more inside]
To Sue or Not to Sue?
We've been living in a house in Oregon that has been converted from a four bedroom to a two bedroom plus pottery studio. We've recently had some major issues with the landlords regarding a plumbing issue (see previous question). Well, the landlords wanted us to pay half of the plumbing bill. I said "Hell No" then they asked us to move. They have found new tenants and I don't want the owners to get away with the shit they pulled on us. [more inside]
anti-Tennessee music
Looking for songs that talk about or portray Tennessee the state (preferably), or it's cities in a not kind light. [more inside]
Caregiving at a Distance
How can I get information about my mom's medical condition when I live in another state? [more inside]
How to Sext better?
Help me "sext" better. [more inside]
I want a jerb! Or at least an interview
What method of job-seeking is most likely to yield the highest rate-of-return for landing a job or at least getting interviews? [more inside]
Cardiology for Dummies
Asking for a friend: I'm a student nurse, what resources are available to help me gain a better understanding of cardiology? [more inside]
Two men- what to do?
Help me choose between the men in my life. [more inside]
Safe St. Louis parking lots?
Where should I park a 17' U-Haul near the St. Louis airport? [more inside]
Is anti-virus software necessary on a Mac?
Is anti-virus software necessary on a Mac? [more inside]
EDM for DAD
Please school this 50 year-old in what to expect at the Skrillex concert I am taking my 13 year-old daughter and her friends to. [more inside]
Do we need a CMS for our business website?
My small business is redoing its website. We are hiring people, and the main difference is: no CMS or two choices of open-source CMS. Do we want to go with the (more expensive) CMS option? [more inside]
How do I filter out e-mails with an empty To: fields in Gmail?
How do I filter out e-mails with an empty To: fields in Gmail? [more inside]
All citizens have a right to know the workings of their courts.
According to this story in the Guardian, a BBC documentary about the London riots has been banned by a judge in England. However, the judgement also forbids revealing the judge's name, place or sitting, or more importantly, reasons for the banning. Can you help me find a leak of the judgement or any additional information, as I would like to know why it has been banned.
Doomed to inactivity??
EU artist's work visa in the US, newest possible edition [more inside]
Shall I visit my kind-of-ex or not?
Travelling to a country where someone that I was involved with fairly recently and parted on amicable terms lives. Shall I visit him - and risk either rekindling a relationship that doesn't really have a future, or becoming even more heartbroken? Snowflakes within. [more inside]
Creationism Museum Vaccination
Help me find a new pair of jeans.
My well-loved Penney's straight jeans have finally bit the dust and I need to invest in some new everyday straight-ish jeans. My previous pair weren't perfect, but they fit well, were medium rise, and were not overly skinny, distressed or embellished. I could wear them in lots of situations. I am on the slender/average side, though curvy, so I don't like jeans that are form fitting, rather ones that can skim rather than hug. I am pretty flexible with wash.
Functional alcoholism and family life.
Functional alcoholism and family life. [more inside]
Please help us plot out our late October mini-cation
Where should we go in the Pacific Northwest near the end of October? [more inside]
GSM, SIM, iPhones in Iceland for US folk: Talk down to me
Having trouble making sense of unlocked GSM phones, SIM cards, and unlocking/jailbreaking US phones for travel to Iceland. Please help. [more inside]
Please help me help my parents to stop texting me about this.
My parents were eating in a Cracker Barrel last night and saw this thing hanging on the wall. What the heck is it? [more inside]
"Crazy" people in film/lit whose craziness also serves as a vector of truth?
Treasured "crazy" people in film or literature who give crazy a good name? eg McMurphy in One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest? Others? Jesters, oracles, conspiracy theorists who happen to be right?
Cognitive Behavior Therapy group in San Francisco - does it exist?
Cognitive Behavior Therapy group in San Francisco - does it exist? [more inside]
Should I take advantage of a physician mortgage?
NYC real estate filter - the wife and I are looking to buy a 2BR condo in Manhattan... [more inside]
How do surfers stay alive in big water?
I've always wanted to know: As a surfer, what happens after the giant humongous wave you're surfing crashes over you? How do you not drown? I'm mesmerized by amazing surf videos like this and this, but the camera obviously can't film what's happening inside the wave/under the water, and the edits never show how or where the surfer (and their board) come back up. [more inside]
Looking for software for windows to tag movies and tv shows media files for itunes.
Looking for software for windows to tag movies and tv shows media files for itunes. [more inside]
Can or should I go back to college?
I'm in my 30s. Can/should I go back to college? What about student loan debt? [more inside]
On rituals and algorithms
What is the relationship between the ritual and the algorithm? Are all rituals algorithmic? [more inside]
Looking for South African novel
South African novel? A Boer seduces a black girl, they have sex in his Mercedes Benz. The book deals with the seduction that comes before, and the problems afterwards. The white guy is NOT cast as a villain. My friend read this book in the 70s and is looking for it. Thanks!
Why is my lawn sad?
Please help me find resources that explain the terms of "ownership" in patents on improved seeds and plant materials.
I have a question about patents in relationship to "improved" seeds and plant materials (my knowledge of IP law and plant breeding is pretty limited). I'm trying to understand more precisely the terms of ownership of these agreements. For example, I understand there are reach-through provisions that exclude materials from being used for purposes other than research. I also understand that many biotech firms are not interested in plant materials that contain technologies not already part of their IP portfolios. Please direct me to resources that will help me understand the terms of ownership -- how "property," in this case is information, is made explicit with these agreements.
Ayudame, hablo espanol como un mono!
What would be the best way for someone to develop / re-learn Spanish in four months or so of part-time study? [more inside]
Resources to learn about astronomy, please!
Please recommend resources (books, websites, iPhone apps, etc.) for learning about astronomy: constellations, stars, dark energy, dark matter, black holes, space exploration, and the solar system. [more inside]
To our viewers at home: Who are you?
Where can I find accurate statistics regarding how many viewers/readers media organizations have? [more inside]
The Economics of Post-Graduate Degrees These days...
London UK 2nd career: Should I do a Masters in Economics? Or is self-study with a good reading list a viable alternative? [more inside]
Help me remember this web-based shooter game
I’m trying to remember a recent browser-based Flash game. It was a vertical scroller, overhead space-themed shooter, something I saw online within the past 6-12 months. You had a ship and you’d pick up weapons. Your bullets were meagre at first, and then numerous as you upgraded your weapons. The screen would fill up with bad guys, bullets everywhere, general mayhem that you could only survive with a constant inflow of invincibility powerups.
What was this game?
July 16
How do I deal with a clingy friend?
How do I deal with a clingy friend? [more inside]
Must-see cities in England?
Going to London, England for a bit and would like to see another city or two while I'm there. What other cities in England are must-sees? [more inside]
Caffeine/alcohol cleanse.
Does a short break from alcohol/caffeine/whatever accomplish anything? [more inside]
The Invisible, Omnipresent Digital Backpack
I want to digitize everything, and I mean everything: DVDs, CDs, books, food… okay, not food, just the media. What should I keep in mind? How can I make this easy? [more inside]
Identify this musical instrument?
Just what is this flat, neckless 4-stringed musical instument? [more inside]
Emergency or not?
My dog's mouth is bleeding; there's a lump by her gums. It's 10pm here. What should we do? [more inside]
What was this short 1984 parody film?
What was the short film on the SciFi series Exposure about a man who told his boring work gossip to the screen of big brother in a 1984 scenario?
Help with rapidly deteriorating photo of recently deceased grandpa?
Can someone tell me how to go about saving/restoring this beloved photo of my grandfather? [more inside]
GLONASS Satellite Stats on iOS Devices
Is there an iOS app that shows the received signal strengths of GLONASS satellites? [more inside]
I'll eat you out of that pineapple under the sea.
What are some great seafood restaurants on the Oregon Coast not terribly far from Portland? [more inside]
What is that white stuff inside my Ziploc Brand Container?
What is that white stuff inside my Ziploc Brand Container? [more inside]
How does one overcome a low undergrad GPA in a grad school application?
Your undergraduate GPA was not stellar, you spent some time away from school, then you got into the graduate program you wanted. HOW DID YOU DO IT? Special bonus if it was NYU Food Studies. [more inside]
Just please not Avon Barksdale.
NameMyDogForTheMillionthTimeFilter: On Saturday I'll be bringing this guy home from the shelter. He's incredibly shy and distrusting of humans. What shall I call him? [more inside]
Please help me with my first salary negotiation.
I am preparing to negotiate my salary for the first time. What strategy should I take? [more inside]
Two VGA only monitors & one VGA only PC - Dual screen needed. Please suggest.
I have a PC - CPU tower with one VGA port, a DVI port and few USB ports. And I cannot open this to add any cards, corp policy.
And two monitors with just VGA ports.
Is it possible to setup a dual monitor? - one extending to another not a splitter with mirror image in two monitors
Please help.
Foreclosed family in crisis.
Resources for foreclosed family to find new place to live in Minneapolis? (Also questions on how to deal with a family crisis in general.) [more inside]
Multiple Wives?
How does US law handle foreign nationals (e.g. Saudis) who have legally married multiple wives? Could someone be prosecuted for bigamy? Could multiple wives get a green card? Would a foreign national be expected to divorce all but one wife should he become resident in the US?
Who sounds like Fiona Apple, as heard in Anthropologie last week?
What vocalists sound like Fiona Apple? I'm trying to ID a song I heard recently in an Anthropologie store, and I don't have much to go on besides the voice. [more inside]
Anything out there for a RPG fan that needs a fix?
Recommend me my next favorite RPG! [more inside]
Tell Me What I Want To Hear. (In the car on the way to work.)
Another Tell-Me-What-Music-To-Listen-To Question! [more inside]
How do you move on in a healthy light from an abusive childhood?
No former teenage angst here; what do you do when your parents genuinely SUCK? [more inside]
for the love of god, make VLC 2.0.2 work on my finicky mac minis
Help me make the finicky mac minis play well with VLC [more inside]
I didn't think the infection was THAT bad.
Did my doctor just prescribe waaaay too much medicine? [more inside]
There is probably an easy solution to this, but damned if I can find it.
I have a Macbook with OS X 10.5.8 and Firefox 13.0.1. The printing scale under File -> Page Setup in Firefox has randomly started defaulting to 60%. So every time I restart Firefox, I have to go in there and change it back to 100% before I print anything. I can't figure out how to change it back. Is this a Firefox thing, or a printer thing? [more inside]
The knot is tying me in knots
Help me find a wedding planning website. Tried 'theknot.com' and I can't get past how disorganized & visually chaotic it is. [more inside]
If I could control your thoughts you wouldn’t be this angry at me
My father in law is bipolar and self-medicating with alcohol. He is the sole carer for my house-bound mother in law. They live 5 hours’ drive away and they resist efforts to help them. How do I best cope with him? How do I practically help them both? Long and painful story below the cut. [more inside]
with my double barrel shotgun and a whole box of shells we'll celebrate the fourth of july
Please suggest songs (mostly but not exclusively blues and americana) for a soundtrack to a story about two very bad people on a cross-country Bonnie & Clyde-style crime spree.
Ideally the lyrics would be at least a little bit relevant, but that's less important than the tone. The best example I have so far is Holly Golightly's Devil Do. [more inside]
question about meeting people
I've been in Austin for a little over a month now. I've been trying to find things to and trying to meet people. I could use some advice, some tips, or really just some encouragement. [more inside]
Help me cook delicious plant based, whole food meals, in China
Help me cook delicious plant based, whole food meals, in China [more inside]
How to find a leak in a sprinkler system
How can we find out if there's a leak in our sprinkler system? [more inside]
Can my landlord enforce a fee for overnight guests?
Can my landlord charge $5/day for overnight guests? This is an apartment, not a room in a boarding house. [more inside]
How to safely un-quit drinking?
My partner and I have decided that we would like to learn to drink in moderation, and have already begun to see if it will work for us. But we're not trying to reduce our intake-- we've each abstained from alcohol for over five years and are starting from a place of not drinking at all. Basically, we're un-quitting drinking, and want some guidance. Is there some sort of support or literature that can help us make sure we're on the right track as we learn to have a healthy and casual relationship with alcohol? [more inside]
Why aren't there rappers from the Bronx anymore?
Can anyone explain the relative paucity of New York rappers from the Bronx, particularly since the form was more or less born in that borough? [more inside]
Compact, effective shade structure for Burning Man?
Asking for a friend: "How do I best go about buying/getting/building a shade structure for Burning Man? Specific requirements, as always, inside." [more inside]
What headphones should I buy to run with?
What headphones should I buy for running and the gym? Wish list: Sounds better, and doesn't fall out as easily as the Apple earbuds; lets more ambient sound through than those in-ear headphones with silicone tips; includes an inline microphone and controls that actually work with an Android phone. [more inside]
What if Miss Manners had written a book on office relations?
I would like some recommendations for books on office etiquette, including things like dress, getting lunch with people, how introductions to superiors should be properly handled, dealing with my intern being sidetracked by someone else's request, etc.
If it helps, I currently work in media, East Coast U.S. I work on the tech side, but I'm having to deal with this stuff a lot anyway, and it's all new to me coming out of mostly technical positions in the past.
Are there any free support groups for depression/anxiety in the SF Bay Area?
Are there any free support groups for depression/anxiety in the SF Bay Area? [more inside]
Looking for a therapist in Brooklyn/Manhattan
Do you know a good talk therapist in Brooklyn or Manhattan, or can you help me find one? Would you recommend yours? I'm not sure why I'm finding it so difficult. [more inside]
Looking for a traffic lawyer in Minneapolis.
Recommendations for a good traffic lawyer in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area? [more inside]
copin' with readin'
Looking for any decent non-fiction books, in English, about Copenhagen. [more inside]
And stop moving apartments all the time!
How can I best manage documents for a fleet of freelancers online? Particularly including signing W-9s and contracts digitally. [more inside]
How can I fight this tow?
My girlfriend's car was towed from the street on a potentially bogus claim here in Chicago. How can we fight this? [more inside]
How to break up tracks when ripping CDs?
CD Ripping - how to break tracks into smaller chunks? itunes or MediaMonkey. I recently got a copy of Stay Awake, a CD of new artists doing covers of old Disney songs, and I want to rip it to my computer. Several tracks are medleys - 3 or 4 songs running into each other as a single track. I know I can rip these individually, and then use a cutting program to make an individual copy of the songs, but is there an easier/automated way? [more inside]
Looking for new novels - flavour: slightly epic fantasy, SF or historical, with good female characters
I'm looking for some new books and/or authors to read, probably fantasy/SF or historical, dramatic but not dark and preferably with female characters. [more inside]
Bag it
Looking for a gym bag. Can you recommend one? Snowflake details inside. [more inside]
I just want to get back to normal. This is hard.
My depression is getting out of hand. I’ve started therapy, and will probably soon be on meds. But I’m having trouble coping, during the in-between times. Help? [more inside]
How to find graphic design work in the Bay area?
My girlfriend and I live in the Bay area, and she's looking for graphic design work. She'd prefer a full-time job, but would be happy with contract work for now. She's new to the industry, and would like your advice on finding work. Any tips or resources would be welcome. [more inside]
Painful digestive condition, round 2
It's not parasites, IBD/Crohn's, or celiac - but the doctors have found no other explanation for this severe intestinal pain and chronic constipation than "IBS". Low HDL, metabolic syndrome. Gluten still seems to be a culprit - is this even possible? [more inside]
stories about working for yourself; achieving success.
stories about working for yourself;
(fearing and achieving) success. [more inside]
Can I spend £1k doing something useful in exotic supply chains?
Volunteering abroad; three week Supply-Chain-project filter [more inside]
The switch from Mac to Linux, 2012
After a couple of mind-changing conversations I'm ready to give Linux another shot. Old hands, please help me pick a laptop, a distro, and offer a little advice for some transition issues. A few details within. Thanks! [more inside]
Indie darling wannabe
I want to find my personal style, but I don't want to be categorized as fashionable or trendy in any way. You might not be an independent film costume designer, but maybe you can help me find blogs or sites for inspiration. [more inside]
Lawyer now or lawyer later?
Virginia-tenant-filter: I moved out, they sent me a big bill with a short deadline. Dispute damages first, lawyer later? Or lawyer now for the dispute? [more inside]
Can't Login??
What's it like to have two eyes? In other words, can someone give an explanation or offer a resource that could help me see (pardon the pun) what it's like to have stereoscopic vision?
What's it like to have two eyes? In other words, can someone give an explanation or offer a resource that could help me see (pardon the pun) what it's like to have stereoscopic vision? [more inside]
Who is pointing out many apparent gateways to demonic possession in my soul?
What is the origin of this (slightly NSFW) fascinating list of "doorways to demonic possession," including, along with classic "occult" practices, drug use, and popular films with supernatural themes, such interesting additions as postmodernism and cyberpunk culture? [more inside]
What sort of bike to get
Should I get an expensive new bike or a cheap used one? Any specific styles or models? Would the models the local bikes stores recommended be any good? [more inside]
Choosing entrepreneurial teams
Choosing teams for an entrepreneurial team project to solve problems in the developing world. Help me! *snowflakes inside* [more inside]
How do I get my feet to get along with my lumpy yard?
Why do my feet hurt after I mow the lawn and what can I do to fix it? [more inside]
Case Studies required of Software Business Failures?
I would be interested in hearing case studies for software business failures that have occurred due to one or both of the following factors:
- Wholesale replacement of entire engineering staff (e.g. firing all staff in original location and replacing with staff in a new location).
- Winding down product development on existing products with the expectation that it will be replaced by a new platform in the future (I'm thinking along the lines of Ashton Tate here and their DBase product).
I would also be interested in hearing any examples of where either of these strategies has been put into effect, and it been a success, rather than a failure. [more inside]
Can I go to court for this?
UK tenancy filter: I'm in a shared house. Our contract is up at the end of the month. Against my advice, a few of my fellow tenants are refusing to pay their rent for the final month - claiming they need the money to afford to move. They claim that the landlord will be able to take the arrears from the security deposit and that we won't be taken to court over it... [more inside]
I need job references. I've only worked for the family business and they won't be fair.
I am currently applying for a new job. The problem is I have worked for family since college for the past 9 years. I don't of course want to tip them off that I'm considering other work, and they are somewhat vindictive, so I don't want to ask them for a reference prior to leaving, nor would I expect to get a fair reference from them. [more inside]
Make my husband overpaid and never around
What career background is necessary to be hired as a (non-entry-level) consultant with McKinsey or Boston Consulting Group? [more inside]
They have a trailer but I can't have it
I need to move an apartment's worth of things from Seattle to Dallas, including a vehicle. A U-Haul 5'x8' trailer would be awesome but they don't rent to Ford Explorer drivers. I have a Ford Explorer. There don't appear to be any other trailer rental companies in the Seattle area. Are there any other options? Less than $500 would be great--the U-Haul trailer I can't have is $321--but I'm open to all ideas that are somewhere in the ballpark. [more inside]
They got a Husky/Akita. Now what?
Husky/Akita mix-breed. What are we in for? [more inside]
Where should I get BBQ in KC?
I will be in Kansas City for a short time on August 1st for the Sporting Kansas City/Stoke city soccer match. I want to get some of the famous barbecue. I'm staying near the stadium but I will not have a car. However, I'm not against taking a cab where I need to go. What are your suggestions, please?
Bats!
I have a (furry, adorable) bat clinging to the outside of my living room window and I am not sure what to do. [more inside]
Splitting escrow upon divorce and house buy-out.
I bought my house from my wife. We got our escrow refund check in the mail. I think it's rightly mine. She disagrees. Details inside... [more inside]
Thanks but no thanks.
Need help on how to avoid eating someone's food. [more inside]
WTF Google?
A purchased e-book has disappeared from my iPad.
I would like to have it back, please. [more inside]
Help develop a child's interest in football.
Inspirational (American) football movie or book for a 7 year-old boy? [more inside]
I breathe deeply and their muscles relax. Why?
Please explain the science behind this phenomenon. I want to know about the effect MY deep breathing has on the release of my clients' muscle tension. I have experienced and observed distinct differences between when I am deeply breathing, and when I default to shallow chest breathing. When I breathe deeply, their muscles release tension and relax, opening more and "melting" more to my work. It's quite remarkable. [more inside]
Good ISP for Brooklyn?
Can anyone recommend a good high-speed internet provider that'll provide to not-all-that-outer Brooklyn? [more inside]
Looking for stories about foreclosure and minorities
I am looking for stories, books, and anecdotes about banks, landlords, and judges bending the law to evict or foreclose on poor people and minorities, especially in the pre-civil-rights era, and especially on black land-owners. Within the U.S., no particular geographical restrictions. [more inside]
Best practice for finding a designer?
I have a somewhat popular blog that I'm hoping to develop further, and I need to find some designers. I need a WordPress theme designer for the website as well as a cover designer and an interior designer for a book. What's the best way to go about this? [more inside]
How can I make VPN work over a Virgin Media broadband connection?
I'm in the UK with Virgin Media as my ISP. The combo modem/router they provide does not allow VPN to work (and I am not alone in my experience, according to the internet). Can anyone recommend a way around this? [more inside]
A CV with no context?
I am looking at moving my career into a field where many of the skills and much of my experience will be useful, but the context entirely different. How does one frame a CV and other correspondence such that the fact that the skills and experience were acquired in a different industry is de-emphasised? [more inside]
He's my boy.
Considering moving out of the parental home again, after four years living here and bonding strongly with their cat. Cat was only a couple of months old when I moved in. He's now four. I'm feeling awful and guilty (quite apart from sad at the fact that I'm going to miss him too). How is he going to take my absence and can I make this easier? [more inside]
Help us pick a vacation/honeymoon destination for the Christmas Holiday.
Help my wife and I pick a vacation/honeymoon destination for the Christmas Holiday. [more inside]
Are we friends with benefits?
Are we friends with benefits? [more inside]
My mom has died, I will be ok, is it ok to know that?
My mom has died, I will be ok, is it ok to know that? [more inside]
July 15
Ring my bell
Where might I find a replacement (low-profile) doorbell transformer that is similar to this? It is about the size of a Matchbox or Hot Wheels toy car and has FRONT, REAR and TRANS connectors. The replacement transformer I bought looks like this, which is about the size of a tennis ball and has white, black and green wires, but no FRONT, REAR and TRANS connectors. Big chain hardware stores shrug their shoulders, lighting stores only carry the big TF I linked to, so where might someone go to find something like this, to fix an older doorbell? [more inside]
Now what?
HoneymoonFilter: in a couple of weeks, we're flying into Olbia, Sardinia where a rental car is waiting for us and flying out of Ajaccio, Corsica ten days later. I haven't booked or planned anything in between. Any itinerary suggestions or tips on what we shouldn't miss? Thanks.
My life is at a standstill
I didn't work hard for anything I have. But all the hard work I have done has ultimately been for nothing. What's the best way to maintain the will to take initiative, when, for most of my life, personal action hasn't mattered? [more inside]
What is this sci-Fi book that disturbed me as a child?
What is this horrible book about chimps that scarred me as a child? [more inside]
At least she knows she doesn't want to be a farmer...
How does someone used to constant mental work adjust to the drudgery of manual labor? [more inside]
So, does everybody indeed want to be a cat?
Please help me find exciting jazz pieces that might entertain my (almost) 4 year old son! [more inside]
Rescue me! Stories of heroics & love
What are your favorite amazing stories? [more inside]
Help me find the perfect b-day gift
Where can I find this oversized gold tone chain link necklace 1, 2 (as seen on Covert Affairs last season)? My girlfriend really likes it! [more inside]
The ultimate vacation: starting at the ocean by myself
Recommendations for a quiet, budget-conscious solo vacation consisting of staring at the Atlantic Ocean? [more inside]
Canceled 90s buddy cop show?
Help me remember this canceled buddy cop show from the 90s. [more inside]
Enhancing us-Canada relations without a passport
Can I drive into Canada from buffalo with my Canadian citizenship card and drive back later into buffalo two days later with my US permanent resident card? [more inside]
From External drive to TV, can it be down?
Is there any way to play media files on a tv if the files are stored on an external USB 2 drive, which is hooked up to an Airport Extreme Base Station? There's a Roku SD and iPhones involved in this party, if that helps.
Avocado oil
100% pure avocado oil [more inside]
Experiences working on wheels?
I want to operate a mobile office around town, picking up people and then parking somewhere for us to all work together. Keen to hear your experiences with and knowledge of this kind of arrangement. [more inside]
The Best Tiger Woods Game
Is there a Tiger Woods video game that is considered the hallmark of the series for single player? Is there one that's considered a failure? Or is the newest one always the best one? I'm looking specifically for Xbox 360 or Wii.
Is it feasible to get from Edinburgh airport to Waverley Station in an hour and fifteen minutes?
Is it feasible to get from Edinburgh airport to Waverley Station in an hour and fifteen minutes? We're arriving on a flight from the Republic of Ireland. Perfectly happy to pay whatever is necessary. [more inside]
What to read after P.G. Wodehouse?
Now that I've worked my way through P.G. Wodehouse (I think, some books have different titles so it is difficult to keep track), what should I read for laughs? I like to read books that are so funny that I laugh out loud. For years, that was P.G. Wodehouse (and Saki). I've now read those novels and stories too many times. I need to leave them for a few years. What should I read now?
Can I save these old manuals?
I found two old user manuals in an old sewing machine. Is it possible to open them up and preserve them? [more inside]
How do I find a list of legitimate overseas English teaching opportunities?
After decided not to go to law school this fall, I find myself somewhat at loose ends, and have decided to look into teaching overseas. Google searches have led me to a confusing plethora of programs, as well as to endless warnings of scams of all types. Is there some sort of centralized database of 'clean' programs, and if so, where might I find it? [more inside]
All the pretty colors
I just watched Daft Punk's Interstella 5555 again, and it got me wondering, if I love Interstella 5555, what other anime might I enjoy. Assume I know little about anime, and bonus points if I can watch it via Netflix streaming.
How to Buy an Expiring Internet Domain
I want to buy an internet domain name that is expiring in 3 days. I though it would be a simple process, but looking into it, I was quickly overwhelmed. Here is the info on the current domain: Registrar: HOMESTEAD LIMITED DBA NAMEVAULT.COM / Whois Server: whois.namevault.com / Referral URL: http://www.namevault.com / Name Server: NS1.FASTPARK.NET / Name Server: NS2.FASTPARK.NET. Honestly, I don’t really understand this info but I think it may be important. can anyone offer me advice or point me to webpage with current info about this process? (A Google search turned up several posts but they’re all years old.) Thanks!
How can I be the best intern I can be?
I just started an internship at a casting agency. How can I be the best intern I can be? [more inside]
gay/straight objectification
Has anyone ever published an article or blog post about their experience as a straight man being objectified by a gay man, and the experience opening their eyes to how they themselves objectify women?
Buying a used car by proxy
We need to buy a used car in Phoenix, Arizona. We know roughly what we want, but we don't have time to shop for it, and we're currently in another state anyway. Can we hire some kind of agent in the Phoenix area to car-shop for us? [more inside]
Why am I always uncomfortable around people?
Why am I always uncomfortable around people? What the hell is wrong with me, mentally? *Warning* LONG LONG LONG READ, but probably interesting?* [more inside]
American studying German and Arabic in Berlin
What would it be like for an American to live in a neighborhood of Berlin like Neukölin and attempt to study Arabic and German at the same time? [more inside]
Chevy auto part help?
Will this '95-'96 Lumina AC manifold assembly work on a '99 Lumina? Link inside... [more inside]
How can I ace my co-op board interview?
What are some tips for successfully handling a co-op board interview? (Brooklyn-based) [more inside]
How to thoroughly remove mold from a fridge?
My fridge smells strongly of mold, even after removing the offending produce, visible mold, and giving it a cursory wipedown. Where is the rest of it hiding? [more inside]
How to be private and individual when others judge me?
How can I balance my need for individuality and privacy with human tendency to stereotype and judge based on external facts? [more inside]
Name this music video with a freight train in it
Name this music video with a freight train in it [more inside]
How to root Android Optimus V
LG Optimus V on Virgin Mobile -- this phone sucks. Or maybe it's the operating system? Anyways, tell me about rooting it. [more inside]
US readers: Is there a good film about your city or state?
US readers: Is there a good film about your city or state? [more inside]
Getting Back to School/Work
Going back to work after being out of the workforce for a long time- who has done it? [more inside]
A Plague of Ants
I have lots of ants! I hate ants! What's my best strategy for getting rid of them? [more inside]
Burning stinging vulva, what to do
I have had a burning/stinging vulva on and off for over a year and it's driving me crazy. I've seen lots of different healthcare professionals and none of them have been able to identify it. I've finally got an appointment with a specialist (thank you NHS) in chronic women's health conditions in a couple of weeks and I want to be prepared when I see her, so has anybody suffered anything similar? [more inside]
Butt what's this pain?
Had a baby and now I have hemmoroids. Some have been thrombosed. Ouch , but survivable (I once had a fissure so I'm not complaining about hemmis).
Now, every time I poo I get a general ache radiating out from my butt. My perineum and vulva ache too. Hurts enough to sit at an angle while I'm driving.
What is this new bloom of pain? [more inside]
Help me teach in a compartmentalized classroom
I just found out that I will only be teaching only math and science to two fourth grade classes that will rotate between my room and my co-teacher's. What tips and tricks should I know? [more inside]
more music like this, please
How would you describe music like this, and can you recommend more like it? Kind of dreamy vocals and swelling strings, old-fashioned mid-20th-century feeling.
Example 1: The children's chorus from the opening to Night of the Hunter, starting about 32 seconds into this video.
Example 2: Walt Kelly's "Willow the Wasp", 30 second sample on amazon.
Cold Hard Steel
Tell me about your favorite indie rock songs that have steel drums. [more inside]
Gave her gas and cash, is that the end of this scam?
A random request by a stranger on the street for gas and cash, followed by a request for a cell phone number... I'm fairly sure he got scammed, but is that all there is to it? [more inside]
Will inhaling vaporized marijuana/cannabis hurt my liver?
I need my liver to recover after years of alcohol abuse. Will vaporizing marijuana have a detrimental effect? [more inside]
Why do people accept DUI checkpoints and airport body scanners?
In a country which believes in liberty and 'innocent until proven guilty', why do people accept DUI checkpoints and airport body scanners? I'm trying to get opinions that help me understand a perspective that's not my own. [more inside]
How do you know to cancel an event if the rain hasn't started yet?
When should you cancel an outdoor event because of rain? When the chance of rain is 50%? 75%? When there is a little lightning bolt in the picture? [more inside]
Different RAM Speeds
Can I use slightly slower RAM from my old computer in my new one? [more inside]
How to stop being intimidated by the farmer's market?
Help me stop being intimidated by my local farmer's market. [more inside]
What Advice Do You Wish You Had Been Given Before Going to College That Would Have Helped?
What advice do you wish you had been given before leaving home and going off to college for the first time? [more inside]
Prep homework for Dark Knight Rises
Which 10 Batman comics should I read before watching the Dark Knight Rises? What should be my preparatoy homework before watching the movie? [more inside]
Is my severe ear infection worth yet another trip to the doctor?
Hello, AskMefi, let's talk about my ears (again). I am currently in the midst of a severe ear infection. People keep telling me to go to the ER, but I'm not sure what that would accomplish. [more inside]
Another ambiguous friendship problem, involving 2 shy snowflakes
Two shy snowflakes romance question. Need ideas for pushing the boundaries of our ambiguous friendship. [more inside]
How does one prepare for martial law?
So... A friend of mine's predicting martial law here in the UK by Christmas. As a thought experiment, how does somebody in the western world prepare for martial law? Are there any examples of western countries where this has occurred in recent times? What happened? What advice is there?
Random forwarding to porn on iPad?
Why am I getting forwarded to porn sites using Safari on my iPad 3? [more inside]
Help me deal with negative patterns of thinking.
Help me learn how to control my own mind. How do I stop thinking about things that I shouldn't be thinking about? [more inside]
Pleasant Peasant Fare
Help me stretch my budget with new 'old' recipes?
Looking for 'heritage' meals that might be technically challenging or time-costly, but use cheap ingredients. [more inside]
Help me find a basic sim card for my old phone without the requirement to top up every month
Is it possible to buy a pay as you go sim card (UK) for my old phone that doesnt require me to top up every month? [more inside]
July 14
I need THIS tie.
Help me find a really long rage comic
Help me find a really long rage comic [more inside]
Essential bar glassware
What are the core essential pieces of glassware for mixing drinks? [more inside]
Best Practices for Ending it with Therapist
Terminating with psychotherapist after six sessions: I think I should. But, I wonder how to do it properly? How much of an explanation do I owe the therapist? [more inside]
Can anyone recommend an essay editing service?
I am currently in the process of applying to law school. I am a strong writer and am not convinced I need a lot of help with my essay, I just want to have a totally independent third party who does this for a living read my essay and give me feed back. Can anyone recommend (or warn me of) any companies that provide this service?
Burlesque training in South-East England: where and how much?
How much training is required in order to become a credible burlesque performer? [more inside]
intimate human connections
Where are my people? [more inside]
July 2012: What are some good audio transcription tools?
Wondering about the current state of more-or-less free VOICE RECOGNITION software and websites. Anywhere you can upload an MP3 to get a transcription? [more inside]
Who wrote the old book of poems for kids, "It May Be So, It May Be Not"?
I've got another "what was that thing from my childhood?" sort of question, and I've combed through Google and Amazon and Abebooks to no avail. A book of short quirky poems for children, probably illustrated. Mid 1970s. Very likely published by Scribners, we had tons of their hardcover books from an uncle who worked there (now deceased, so I can't ask him.) I thought the title was "It May Be So, It May Be Not", which was also the title of a poem in the book that went, either partially or entirely... [more inside]
Reverse culture shock, a broken heart, and incomplete research--what else could go wrong?
How do I prepare and brace myself for readjustment to a place I hate after spending time abroad? Snowflake details plus poor-decision-driven extra concerns inside. [more inside]
Maternity Fifties Flair
The Fabulous Fifties, maternity edition! Where can one find fifties-style/a-line dresses that are reminiscent of the fifties? Think Modcloth styling, but for a ginormous belly. [more inside]
Taking my mentally disabled adult brother on a road trip in the KY/TN/NC/OH/ region for a vacation. Where should we go?
Taking my mentally disabled adult brother on a road trip in the KY/TN/NC/OH/ region for a vacation. Where should we go? [more inside]
Looks good now but....
Is the dealership scamming me?
Bought my used 01 Toyota Camry from a dealership over a year and a half ago. Today they inspected the brakes and told me all pads need to be replaced + new brake fluid + powersteering fluid flush + resurfacing the rotors, and new battery. I have been taking this vehicle to same dealership for routine oil changes which include multi-point inspections, and only the battery was an issue in the past. Am I wrong to think that after just over a year and a half I shouldn't need so much work done- should I complain and write a letter, or is this to be expected with a used vehicle? [more inside]
It's raining in the basement.
Sink overflowed in bathroom, it's raining in the basement, now what? [more inside]
Are there other services like Dwolla that allow charging of a "facilitator fee"?
Are there other services like Dwolla that allow charging of a "facilitator fee"? [more inside]
Best way to handle this summons?
Any chance to settle with a collections agency once I've received a summons to court? [more inside]
Just can't take the pressure
Looking for a discrete cushion I can use to protect blood flow through my perineum to... to the bits connected to the perineum. Or some other solution [more inside]
This stoic mask of mine is giving me grief.
I don't show pain very well (if at all), and this leads to problems with doctors. But if I try to show how much pain I'm in, it comes off as false and that leads to different difficulties. [more inside]
Post-truth understanding is an oxymoron.
I have been seeing several references lately to "post-truth" campaigns/politics lately, but I am not sure exactly what the definition is. I can infer what is implied, but want material that explains what it is. Example [more inside]
Running in the 70s!
My husband and I need totally awesome 70's costumes. That we can run a 5K in. [more inside]
All I want to do is play games on my gaming laptop!
Why does my laptop crash to a black screen only while gaming? [more inside]
Novice international travelers need help!
Need advice about airline tickets please: LAX to Okinawa. [more inside]
Is the Indian Pacific woth the money
Has anyone used the Indian Pacfic railway in Australia? Was it worth the price? [more inside]
And why are all cords either grey or black with no identifying marks?
We have approximately four million chargers and gadget-to-computer cables in the house. I want a neat, efficient, easily-accessed method of storage for them. Ideas? [more inside]
Karaoke recordings that don't suck?
Are there commercially available karaoke recordings that aren't shoddy re-recordings, often using synth instruments? Is that what they use at karaoke bars, and I've just never noticed? [more inside]
radioactive bra?
I accompanied my mom today as she went shopping for bras to wear as she goes thru radiation treatment....do they HAVE to be completely 100percent cotton? Any mefites out there had followup radiation after breast cancer surgery and have suggestions? [more inside]
How do first time business owners find out all the things they need to do before they can open their doors?
A hypothetical business like a pizza place (but it could be something else) wants to open up shop. How do the hypothetical first time business owners find out all the things they should or need to do before they can open their doors? Things like.... [more inside]
Like Saturday Night Fever, But Real
Can anyone guide me to online footage of contemporary or ballet dancers dancing in places other than the stage? I'm looking for excellent professional contemporary dancers cutting loose at the club, or rocking out to like Huey Lewis & The News on headphones or something like that. The moves they do on stage are so incredible---I wonder what it's like in an informal environment.
Pennies from heaven?
I had a routine ladyparts exam a few months ago. It qualified as "preventive care" and I didn't have to pay a copay. (Yay! Thank you, ACA!) I got a rundown of what they charged my insurance a month or two ago -- one of those THIS IS NOT A BILL things -- and promptly lost/forgot about it, since I owed nothing. Today I got a check, made out to me, from the doctor's office for a couple hundred bucks. Do I get to keep it? [more inside]
What's between letting things go and leaving over them?
Needs and Boundaries: What is the space between "I suppose I can let this go" and "this is an utter dealbreaker; do this thing or I'll have to end this relationship" - and what do you do about negotiating things in that space? [more inside]
Like a virgin
Imminent break of self imposed celibacy after a few years. Going away on romantic trip next week. Gentleman in question unaware of my choice or relationship history. How to prepare? Do I tell him this? What can I do to prepare myself? [more inside]
A 9-5 grind that might not suck
You love your hobby big time, but turning it into a job is either very difficult or financially impossible. Instead, you work a job that pays the bills and leaves you enough energy to aggressively pursue that hobby on the side. What's your job? [more inside]
I found my thrill...now what can I do with it?
We just procured a couple of pints of delicious wild New Hampshire blueberries while kayaking around an island. Fun! Next question: what to do with them? [more inside]
Staying within airline luggage size limits?
The size limit on checked luggage is 62 inches (height+width+depth) for most airlines . Do I need to be concerned about being close to that, assuming the weight is okay and it is not overstuffed? [more inside]
Northeast US and Atlantic Canada roadtrip suggestions
Road trip from Toronto - Vermont - New Hampshire - Maine - New Brunswick - Prince Edward Island - Quebec in late July/early August. Goal is to have fun and lots of it - help us out! [more inside]
What typeface should I use for my tattoo?
I need help finding a typeface for a (text-based) tattoo. [more inside]
Please tell me who this character is.
Can you identify the character in this Comic Con 2012 cosplay photo? [more inside]
Is there anything I should know or do before I hire a company for hoarding cleanup?
Is there anything I should know or do before I hire a company for hoarding cleanup? [more inside]
Help me keep things interesting
NSFW: How to make post-foreplay intercourse more... interesting? Also questions about submissive-leaning partners. Explicit inside. [more inside]
Homemade fruit rum safe to drink after 1.5 years?
Homemade fruit rum safe to drink after 1.5 years? [more inside]
How much would replacing a transmission celluloid on a 2001 Saturn run?
My 2001 Saturn's transmission celluloid has gone out. It can be reached through the oil pan so it's fairly accessible as transmission repairs go. What's a reasonable price to expect for this repair? I'm just looking for a ballpark so I might know if I'm getting hosed in the estimate when I get it next week.
sssshhhhh ... be vewwy vewwy quiet ... I'm hunting jobs ...
Small nonprofit job-search-filter: can a job application/interview be confidential if everyone knows everyone else? [more inside]
I think I'm too close to my friend. How do I back off without creating a bunch of dramaz?
How do I handle an opposite-sex friendship that feels like it is shading into an emotional affair? No contact? Clear communication about boundaries? Something else? [more inside]
Where are all the good guys?
I have started to realize that I am attracted to men who are "bad boys", men who don't have their shit together, who give off a cool vibe, but their lives are just falling apart. The relationships I develop with these men are not healthy, and usually benefit the men with complete disregard of my feelings and emotions. I also noticed that the worse they treat me the more I want to be with them. I realize that this is bad and that I should stop but I keep coming back these men. What can I do to stop this? [more inside]
Sleep apnea is causing me to fall asleep at work. HELP!
I'm pretty sure I have sleep apnea and it's affecting me at at work. [more inside]
How can I wear earrings 3-4 days per week without pain?
How can I wear lightweight earrings all week without my ears hurting? I don't think this is an allergy issue. [more inside]
Parking: beancurd in beantown
Any tips for parking near Boston's Chinatown? [more inside]
Itinerant work when you are constantly on the move
Itinerant income when always on the move?
Help me a career, or at least an income, that fits the itinerant life. [more inside]
Drywall/Plasterboard and Insulation Installation help needed!
We live in a 160 year old stone house in Scotland that is really cold in winter. Please help me make it warmer? I've been told it's easy to take down the drywall/plasterboard, install insulation, and put more drywall/plasterboard up again. But is it? [more inside]
How to deal with a spaniel in the office?
A colleague brings a noisy and disruptive (but otherwise lovely!) dog to the office, what's the best way of telling him that it's not OK? [more inside]
Insecure at any speed
My Wordpress installation got hacked one too many times. I'm done with Wordpress. And pretty much done with PHP as well. What do I move on to now? [more inside]
Help me not screw up my life!
I got fired from two of my three jobs for absenteeism. For some reason, when I get stressed out in life, I get so down that it's hard to go in. I get sick to my stomach and anxious, it's like I have a panic attack at just the thought of going in. [more inside]
July 13
runner's toes?
Two of my toes turned black after wearing shoes that were too tight. It's been a month and they still haven't healed completely. Is there anything I can do? [more inside]
Makeout Romance to Friend Zone--Do I go to party now?
Should I go to a party even though I've been downgraded to "friend zone"? [more inside]
Up the creek without a paddle!
Was lied to by my school about my degree-- required to commute--got a (not so random) grant from my college for transportation costs. Then I received a not-so-nice e-mail about my financial aid. How to proceed through these murky waters and still make it out ahead? (Rather long) details behind the cut. [more inside]
Zoom zoom
Can you play devil's advocate and talk me out of this Mazdaspeed? [more inside]
Is our house killing our MacBook chargers?
In the past year or so, around four MacBook chargers have basically stopped working (I've lost count as this includes a couple of old chargers from early MacBooks we had lying around), all in mysterious fashion. Generally they overheat more than I think is normal, and often they switch to the dreaded, "Not charging" status. On one of them, the rubber insulation melted completely then buckled. I am wondering whether it's just a coincidence that so many chargers have died, or if the wiring in our old house could be to blame? [more inside]
Anyone have any suggestions for camping within 8 hours of Northeast PA?
Anyone have any suggestions for camping within 8 hours of Northeast PA? [more inside]
Help me find my lost snowman!
In a fit of donation madness, I donated a stuffed animal and now I really miss him. [more inside]
Help! Brand new ikea furniture gives me a stuffy nose
Bought ikea furniture for a bedroom.. big mistake. The smell of paint is so strong that if i sleep with the windows closed i wake up with a stuffy nose. Is there any remedy?
Mea culpa. I'm here to learn.
I started a new job in a completely new place and I want to be the best colleague I can be. What are some tips or commonsense things for me to remember and internalize about appropriate workplace behavior? [more inside]
Help us open this door
Help! My bil has locked his bedroom door, and we can't figure out how to open it. [more inside]
Le maillot à pois rouges
Help me find the polka-dot wrapper that the Tour de France King of the Mountains Jersey is based on. [more inside]
Love isn't just a four letter word
A male married friend recently told me he loved me. A few weeks later he told me again [more inside]
Time to eat the donuts?
Donut Dispute. [more inside]
Cash only? Or is a check just fine?
Buying a used car. How do I handle the money aspect of it? [more inside]
How likely is it that my Social Security disability claim was denied because my case worker was a jerk?
How likely is it that my Social Security disability claim was denied because my case worker was a jerk? [more inside]
I need to reëxamine my love of the New Yorker's editorial department.
What the heck is up with the New Yorker's umlauts? [more inside]
Tips to keep cool on a long bike ride
Please give me your best tips to keep cool while I'm doing long bike rides on my road bike on warm days (and assume I know the basics of hydration, electrolytes, sports drinks, etc). [more inside]
Hit and run - finding the scumbag
How to find a hit-and run driver in a fairly large city? [more inside]
Single-family home energy advances?
Home energy advances. Are there any new developments I should know about as I'm about to move into an older single-family home after 13 years of living in an apartment? It is a gas/electric home with heavy tree shade.
Best desktop graphics card available right now for under $200?
What is the best gaming-appropriate desktop video card available right now for under $200? [more inside]
Concern over personal information after googling.
I googled someone I've been dating for almost 3 weeks and discovered that they had a sibling die in a work related accident just over a year ago. Now I feel I have deeply personal and traumatic information about them without it having been given freely and not sure what to do with it. [more inside]
My student loan situation is outrageous. Is this scenario fairly common?
My student loan situation is outrageous. Is this scenario fairly common? [more inside]
Looking for standard metadata definitions for commercial contracts
Looking for standard metadata definitions for commercial contracts [more inside]
Smart Phones at Virgin Mobile
My wife and I are going to swap our elderly "regular" cell phones on Sprint for smart phones on Virgin Mobile. My wife is going to go with the Optimus Elite. My question is this: Can it possibly be worth it for me to go with the less expensive iPhone ($550) over the highest-spec Android phone (the Evo V 4G at $300)? [more inside]
Another career advice question, what's a budding writer slash editor to do these days?
I majored in journalism and Spanish. My only work experience has been internships at newspapers and lots of Spanish tutoring. I do not want to be a teacher. Journalism jobs are pretty much unavailable for the conceivable future, at least for young people 3 years out of college like me. What else can I do? Where can I put my skills to use? My plan was to work in journalism or publishing. What else is there now that these industries are sinking, fast?
In search of ultra light laptop bag
I lost the practically weightless (Muji) laptop bag of my dreams and it seems to be out of production. Please help me find it or something equivalent? [more inside]
Help Me Choose the Right Blogging Software
I need help choosing blogging software that is affordable, not overly complex but still feature-rich for an image-heavy site that will feature blog posts and encourage community interaction. I have a domain and am planning to start a business that my site will support.
I will be building and posting using OS X and iOS. I used to use iWeb. I didn't love it, but it made adding and manipulating media (photos, video, audio) easy, and it wasn't difficult to tweak existing themes to make them uniquely my own. I loved the WYSIWYG interface, but haven't seen any other blogging software like this.
I'm quite adventurous regarding technology, so the more plug-ins or widgets to choose among, the better. I may eventually have a podcast, allow call-in comments, etc.
I do not have a lot of money to put into the blog right now, but will invest more down the line. I need to start out affordably using a platform that will grow with me. There are so many choices out there that I am simply stuck. Please help me narrow my choices!
Why doesn't my computer like iGoogle?
Is this some sort of igoogle virus? Automatically redirects me to spammy sites... [more inside]
Rust and then some...
What glue should I use to glue laminated fabric to rusty steel? [more inside]
Does the latest iPad require a cellular subscription in order to use its GPS for location services?
Does the latest iPad require a cellular subscription in order to use its GPS for location services? (oh, and any reason to select AT&T over Verizon, or vice-versa?) [more inside]
I Want my Clear Conscience Back
I owe a person money and want to pay her back. How should I go about it? [more inside]
What's 3G got that wifi doesn't on a phone?
I've had a smart phone (android nexus one) for a few years now, but have always gotten by with wifi access only. I just recently bit the bullet on 3g access. So what new things can I do now with my phone with my newfound wandering internet access?
The shortest paths to insanity.
Grant Morrison talks about a temple with 365 steps in Kathmandu that it's said will grant one enlightenment within one's lifetime if one can run up the steps in one breath (I may have details wrong). What are some similar discrete, concrete tasks that are supposed to produce relatively unambiguous (though possibly purely empirical) results? [more inside]
How do you manage anxiety and indecision when it comes to timeliness and scheduling?
How do you manage anxiety and indecision when it comes to timeliness and scheduling? [more inside]
How to track changes without Microsoft Word?
Is there a good way to track changes on a document other than Microsoft Word? [more inside]
No X-rated Content on Kickstarter?
So...under its guidelines, Kickstarter says it cannot be used for funding pornographic material... [more inside]
How can I feel happy about being a skinny male (125 pounds, 6 feet tall) when I have never felt comfortable in my own skin?
How can I feel happy about being a skinny male (125 pounds, 6 feet tall) when I have never felt comfortable in my own skin? [more inside]
Cat lost at Devil's Tower - help
Cat lost at Devil's Tower. What to do? [more inside]
Putting the ACH in ACHE?
I use ACH transfers for a lot of things: my paycheck and retirement money go directly into my bank account, my rent and several credit cards and utilities get paid out of it, and i transfer money back and forth between various banks. What safeguards keep anyone who has a check of mine (with routing # and account #) from making a transfer to themselves? Or for that matter, keep businesses that i gave the information to from taking out more than i authorized?
how to describe the "hw" sound
How could I describe in a non-technical way how certain English-speakers maintain a distinction between the "w" and "wh" sound? A certain amount of technical description could help. Its for a character in a story. For example: "The beginning of his 'what' still comes from deep within his throat." I don't know if that's technically true and it sounds awesomely terrible but something like that. [more inside]
Pull me out of the water? No, that just won't work.
My friend is in an abusive relationship and refuses help. How do I cope? [more inside]
making pith helmet cat ears - advice?
Please help me:
a) procure 2-5 pith helmets (natural straw type), inexpensively;
b) procure material to make matching cat ears;
c) add cat ears to pith helmets, in "airplane ears" or "listening behind" position, because cat safari is serious business.
Found $15/helmet source for (a), but wonder if there's a less expensive way. For (b), I have no real clue - what should I even buy? Very thin chair caning supplies? Tiny willow branches from a nearby tree? Any ideas? [more inside]
Do you think I can listen all day to such stuff?
What are some rhyming kids' books (4-7 yrs) that are actually enjoyable for the poetry, as well as the story and pictures? [more inside]
Pronounce "The One Sun Shone Down on the Brown Ground," Please
Linguistics-filter: What sort of English accent makes "brown," "sun," and "shone" all be pronounced with a similar vowel sound? [more inside]
What to expect during a grad school interview?
What should I expect when interviewing for a Masters-level nursing program? [more inside]
Interview With A Character
Help me find this bookfilter: An writer's guide 'interview' with your own fiction character to help uncover their traits and depths. Or, a similar list of interview questions to learn a lot about someone in a short time. [more inside]
Do you have any examples of songs that deal with poverty v. wealth in mate selection?
I'm looking for examples of songs that deal with poverty v. wealth in mate selection. [more inside]
Which plants are clues to a recent fire?
What plants (especially flowers) can be found growing in a wooded area that had recently (within 1-6 years) been through a fire? Other indications that a fire had passed? Northeast specific, please. If you were playing fire detective, what would you look for? [more inside]
What was the poem within this sonata?
Ridiculously specific classical music question: What is the poem/program note that is supposed to be read before the final movement in Hindemith's 'Sonata for Alto Horn in E flat' (1943)? In the original German and the English translation, if possible. [more inside]
I need help understaing how to use a professional stage mic/line mixer.
I know next to nothing about professional audio and need expert advice on how to use an intimidating-looking portable mic/line mixer for my office's webcast. What are all those knobs for?!? [more inside]
Loving and living in the moment?
My boyfriend is moving in 10 days. We will not be continuing our relationship after he goes. How do I enjoy our last bit of time together without constantly mourning the end of the relationship? [more inside]
Parents' second divorce?
Support for one's parents' second divorce? [more inside]
(pun) name that vintage store
Like making up puns? Please help me come up with a pun of a name for my vintage store! [more inside]
Give me your best 12 inches!
What essential vinyl LPs should I buy? [more inside]
Sunglasses recommendation
Can anyone recommend a brand of affordable and durable wayfarer sunglasses? Is there any reason why I shouldn't buy cheap Walmart sunglasses? [more inside]
Boss and Day Offs
Is it possible to take 1-2 days off a week if you own a business? [more inside]
Making Youtube Videos to promote your site on a shoestring budget
Is there a way to make high quality youtube videos using a smartphone (Iphone 4 or Samsung Galaxy S2)? [more inside]
A Mystery Band of Double PJ Harveys
Help my identify a band I heard earlier this year! Two Scottish girls that sound like two PJ Harveys... [more inside]
If My Arteries Were Like This, I'd be Dead.
How can I get what is apparently a lot of gunk out of my kitchen drain pipe? [more inside]
A Knotty Issue
In all the talk about fast fashion and sweatshop labour, it's often been said that sequins can only be attached by hand, therefore someone needs to physically sew them onto a garment. But what about crochet? [more inside]
Blind Me With Science
What are some good layman-level introductions to science like chemistry, physics, biology, etc? [more inside]
Operations in the Klasies Caves
I was helping my 4th grade age sister-in-law with her math homework, and came across a question that I couldn't figure out. Can you do it? [more inside]
What's the best way to move about in Iceland?
Iceland: Renting cars in Iceland is EXPENSIVE! My family is only going to be there for two days - five of us. What's the best way to get around? [more inside]
I've got the summer in sandpaper sandals blues.
Shoe Filter: Can these Birkenstocks be saved? [more inside]
No, I do not want to "hack my baby".
Dads of MeFi- what do you wish you had been told before your wife/partner went into labor? [more inside]
idiomatic phrase: "no rest for the wicked"
I've always assumed that "no rest for the wicked" was a bastardization of the phrase "no rest for the weary". But is it? [more inside]
How to populate PDF form from Excel data?
How to populate PDF form from Excel data: number of copies based on number of rows? [more inside]
Who has anger made you ?
Help me understand Anger and its relation to self-esteem, loving relationships, circmstances, and daily life. Are you or have you been and angry person ? to what extend have you been able to spot the causes and / or gotten better ? How did it feel ? [more inside]
This Proposal Is Over Starting Right Now
How do you cope with waiting for a proposal that isn't likely to come? [more inside]
A city filled with infinite possibilities
Will be flying into Toronto this Saturday for a conference until Wednesday. I will be in the Front St. area. I like to walk, transit and wander, so tell me where to go. [more inside]
Is she calling off the wedding?
The other night, I met my Fiancee and we went out on a date. She is a wonderful person and I am madly in love with her. We've been together for less then a year but we're already planning a wedding next year. She wants to study abroad in out of the country the last semester of school (Spring). When I expressed concern that we wouldn't be as close when she got back as we are now, she said that If I'm concerned about that, we should NOT be getting married. What do you think? [more inside]
Will AT&T U-Verse fix my noisy DSL line?
Will AT&T U-Verse fix my noisy DSL line? [more inside]
Wanna DIMyself.
Help my baby and me get some sleep
I do not know how to get to sleep, and my five-month-old has the same problem. [more inside]
Revising our dream: how to find work that can be done from anywhere in the US
Work to live. How to find jobs we can do from anywhere in the US (or ideally anywhere in the world). Bonus for attorney jobs. [more inside]
Automated Phone Calls For Good. Honest!
I need a service that will allow me to generate an automated call to a small group of telephone numbers in the event of a software failure. [more inside]
What do we feed a 10 month old?
What else can we shovel into the gullet of our insatiable 10-month old? [more inside]
A one-handed read
Can you read books on an iPad one-handed? How about while nursing a baby? [more inside]
Take me to LA
What films, songs and books should I see/hear/read to get a feel for LA? [more inside]
Oh, OYSTER!
Oyster allergy question! TMI inside - please weigh in with your experiences or professional insights. Long story short, I have no other shellfish allergies, can I take a Zyrtec or similar and still have an oyster now and then? Can one grow out of this type of allergy?? It seems I might have!
Details inside. [more inside]
Up to 12 days to check out somewhere new...
What's a non-resort-y vacation spot on the Mediterranean (or barring that, somewhere else with nice weather/water)? [more inside]
SWF in search of movie scenes about dating
I'm looking for short movie clips about first dates--both good and bad--for a video montage. Bonus points if they're available on Youtube, and double bonus points if they are funny but not risque--montage will be used at a professional meeting. Current movies and/or classics. Any suggestions?
How iScrewed am I? (iTunes Library Recovery)
Can I convince a fresh version of iTunes to recognize my old library? [more inside]
July 12
Seeking Travel Tips for the Resplendent Island (Sri Lanka)
I'm looking for vacation tips for a trip to Sri Lanka. [more inside]
How to get multilingual speakers to stick to a language I understand?
How can I set up interviews with multilingual speakers and colleagues so that the default language they use is most likely to be English? Is there anything I can say or do to make this happen? Alternatively, how do I deal with the frustration of not understanding what is going on, when everyone is speaking a language I don't speak? [more inside]
Best 3g SIM card for Western Europe?
What are my prepaid 3g data+sim options for Western Europe? [more inside]
Please recommend a secure and affordable WordPress host
What web host for a small business WordPress site would you recommend as being secure and affordable? [more inside]
Tell me about your experience living in some (relatively) affordable suburbs north of New York City!
Tell me about your experience living in some (relatively) affordable suburbs north of New York City! Special snowflake details inside. [more inside]
Upcoming lease issues
In one month I am moving out of my current living situation and moving into an apartment on my own. I'm stressing due to multiple issues, most importantly regarding my rental history, which is shaky, and a roommate that isn't paying rent. Will my rental history cause issues when I try to get a lease? [more inside]
Goats make no sense
How do mountain goats walk over mountainous terrain with such alacrity, given that their feet are essentially stumps of keratin (i.e., hooves)? [more inside]
Therapist's professional boundaries in conflict with school's request--help?
How do I deal with the conflict between my therapist's professional boundaries and the information my college wants? Also, how to deal with the trust issues this is creating? [more inside]
Help me find a specific book!
I'm looking for a fiction novel I read in the early 90's. I think it was called something like 'Wire World'. Set in London, present day, about two opposing groups who got around via secret zip-lines attached to the buildings. It was written by an ex-screenplay writer. I remember it being a fun read and would like to find it again.
No such luck with the Google, you're all I've got to turn to, askMeFi'ers!
Which pomade?
I need a hair product that doesn't look like I'm wearing hair product and also doesn't leave a residue in the tub. I'm thinking about American Crew pomade. Experiences and other suggestions are welcome. [more inside]
Looking for a no-contract SIM for Italy with data/internet and texting.
I need a no-contract SIM for Italy that offers texting and unlimited Internet. I have a similar set up with Virgin Mobile France for 16€/month, I just want a SIM for the times travel to Italy, which is maybe once every other month for a few days. Are there any other mobile providers in Italy besides TIM?
Shower me with shower ideas
I'm hosting a bridal shower for a colleague at work. What games can we play that are easy to execute? [more inside]
Where can I buy berets in DC?
Where can I buy three black berets and gauloises cigarettes tomorrow or Saturday in Washington, D.C. (or on-line so they get here SUPER fast)? [more inside]
What recipe is my mom trying to make?
Mountains of sugar and fruit in glass jars in the pantry: What the heck is my mother making? [more inside]
It's like he's trying to be on Jersey Shore. But not really.
First installment of significant time apart due to work travel. How do I deal with this? [more inside]
Don't be a stranger.
I'd like to find a friendly, sociable group of people to live with in Boston/Cambridge/Somerville. How do I search for this on craigslist? [more inside]
18 Months Until I Am Fired. What Now?
I am getting fired in 18 months, what should I do now to prepare? [more inside]
Rocking Out in the Bay
Recommendations for singing/vocal coaches in the SF Bay area that work well with a rock/pop/punk energetic vibe? [more inside]
Fire Island 411
I live in NYC and would like to take my family for a day trip to Fire Island, but have been kind of frustrated by the googling I've done (lots of info, some of it conflicting). Any Fire Island residents/visitors care to help me out? [more inside]
If it bleeds, it leads (forever?)
I'm looking for a link to studies that show people hold on to false beliefs (particularly via incorrect news accounts, accusations, or gossip) even after those facts have been proven false by the very same media outlets or sources. [more inside]
Where is a fun, Fall Northeastern honeymoon destination?
Looking for a honeymoon destination in the Northeast in November [more inside]
A queen mattress that fits through a twin doorway
Looking for a comfortable (firm!) queen mattress that fits through a very small door. [more inside]
A Rose by Any Other etcetera, etcetera, etcetera...
In your subjective experience, would you say that you have been treated differently after going by a different name? How so? Tell me [more inside]
Why does my dog cough when I whack him?
Could my dog have possibly have worms as well as ticks? [more inside]
Faking identity with permission: could I regret it?
In the US of A, what's the legality of pretending to be someone else? With their permission, over the phone, to health insurance companies and the like. I'm a personal assistant fresh out of college, and I'd like to know how my self-absorbed and well-respected boss could possibly screw me over later. [more inside]
Identify this poem
Poem identification help! [more inside]
Help my quest for more rainbow?
How can I find the complete Rainbow Quest series (Pete Seeger's show from the mid 60s)? [more inside]
Help me stay incognito in Gmail
In Gmail, is there a way to chat from an alternate email?
They are both Gmail accounts. One is my main, which the chat defaults to. I would like to be able to chat from my alt email so I can don't have to give out my full name to random folks from the internet. I found someone asking this very question on the Gmail forums, but there were no answers.
How can I easily make a self-contained slideshow?
I've been asked by my employer to make a flash drive containing a self-contained slideshow with music (that he can give to prospective clients) that is both elegant and easy to open. It needs to work on both Mac and PC. [more inside]
I have the summer off and want to make the best of it. Help me hack my schedule for maximum physical and mental fitness!
I unexpectedly have the rest of the summer off. I want to lose weight, read great books, become smarter and in general be fabulous. Help me maximize my time, effort and schedule! [more inside]
I swear I'm not an Afghan weapons smuggler
Selling an undocumented gun in Washington state. How do I do it safely, legally, and quickly? I am ignorant about this in every way. [more inside]
What was the feeding capacity of land in Feudal Japan?
I'm reading The Story of Civilization and I came across a quote that doesn't quite parse. [more inside]
How do I find space to do some metalworking?
How do I find a small industrial/workshop/garage space available to rent/share in my city? [more inside]
The best sound quality $150 can buy
I have a (squishy) $150 to throw at a speaker setup for my living room. Help? [more inside]
Beachbum and Beachcomber are taken - what's left?
Help me find a tiki name starting with B (that is not depressing). [more inside]
How to deal with a crappy neighbor
Neighbor problem. My neighbor lets unleashed dogs run around. [more inside]
cloning or copying a hard drive
Copying a windows partition to bigger disk. How should I do it? [more inside]
It's Carter Burwell's fault, if you want to know the truth
Music recommendation: like Khachaturian at his most brash. [more inside]
Repeated calls from foreign telemarketer to cell. No way to stop them!
I've been receiving calls every few days for the past few months from a company trying to sell me prescription drugs from India. I've tried telling them to please stop calling, putting them on donotcall.gov, filing a complaint with the FCC, and even complaining to Washington state which seems to be where the calls are routed from domestically. None of these have worked so far...though that isn't too surprising. What does surprise me is that I'm unable to even put a block on the number because it has a 3 digit int'l prefix and Verizon's system for blocking can only handle 10 digit numbers! The number reads on 001-206-337-3269 on my phone. Pretty frustrating. Any other ideas? thanks!
Raindrops keep falling on my head...literally...
How can I get the landlords to do something about our intermittently-leaky roof? [more inside]
3g iphone not reading sims card after update
I updated a iPhone 3g with the latest software & now it won't read the sims card .... [more inside]
Questions about Posner's participation in Apple v. Motorola
Three questions brought up by Richard Posner and his participation in Apple v. Motorola: 1) Do his frequent extrajudicial writings ever cause any questions of partiality or disqualifications in his cases? 2) How would a circuit judge come to be designated to hear such a case? Is it on his initiative or someone at the district court? Is there any risk that the special treatment will seem unfair when compared to the usual random assignment of cases to judges? 3) How does a judge decide how to spend time on cases versus extrajudicial activities? Does Posner's docket ever suffer because he is spending his time writing law review articles?
Help me deliver a bacon-peanut butter-honey-and-banana birthday donut to someone in Washington, D.C.!
I would like to surprise a friend in Washington, D.C. for his birthday with a special treat; however, it's a donut made in a mom-and-pop store here in Dallas, and I won't be flying up there anytime soon. Can you help me figure out a hack for this? [more inside]
Hello Pasta!
Pasta from scratch and recipes that compliment it? [more inside]
Buying a good theme
I'm currently shopping for pay themes for a Wordpress blog. A lot of theme websites have previews for their themes, but are rather limited in their implementation. Are there good review/forum sites for themes that aren't SEO backwash, or is there an effective search method to find sites that use a particular theme? [more inside]
Unique degree - now where to apply?
I just graduated from a unique/specific master's program and now I'm searching for jobs. Are there any places I'm leaving out of my search? [more inside]
Feed me
Recently decided to go paleo and am looking for your favorite resources on delicious paleo recipes! In particular, looking for awesome remixes of classic favs, like cauliflower pizza crust (yum btw), but any favorite sites/blogs are welcome. Thanks!
Why is my boyfriend's cat allergy worse in areas where the cat is not allowed?
My boyfriend's allergic to my cat, but it's worse in my room and bathroom where she is not allowed. [more inside]
Should I say something?
I have been seeing my close friend's boyfriend on Grindr a lot lately. Should I say something? There are complicating factors. [more inside]
Sex fainting?
Feeling extremely faint but only in certain (NSFW) situations. What's the deal? [more inside]
Please help me not kill anyone with my self-designed furniture
I want to make some (very simple) wooden furniture to fit some specific use cases, so I drew my own plans up. I don't have any furniture design peeps or woodworkers in real life that I can ask to look at them. Is there anywhere on the web I can post my plans and get feedback on if this table will work the way I want it to, and maybe get some construction order advice? [more inside]
Leaving a pet in the house on vacation. Windows open or closed?
Leaving a pet in the house on vacation. Windows open or closed? [more inside]
Clarksville, TN area BBQ recommendations?
Any recommendations for BBQ joints in the Clarksville, TN/Oak Grove, KY area? [more inside]
How to start using a nickname with people who already know you?
I’m a snowflake with a “weird” name. How do I start using a common nickname instead? [more inside]
Can you suggest a resort near Minneapolis?
I'm looking for a weekend getaway within two hours of Minneapolis. And I just know that you have suggestions. [more inside]
godspam
At regular intervals, I get "press releases" from god@llah.us. Full text of one such email below the fold. Is this a joke, spam, art, a trojan or ?? [more inside]
Is love worth the risk?
Relationshipfilter : is this a recipe for disaster, or do I need to learn to accept more risk? [more inside]
Oops!
So, um, how do you put a bicycle hub gear back together? [more inside]
what is a "Flavor Shot" in a video script?
I was just handed a script template in two-column video format, with a large space for a "Screen Shot/Flavor Shot" over a few lines with fields for other info like:
Segment:,
Timing:,
Description of Action/Visual:,
Script:. [more inside]
How on earth to sell this object?
How best to value and sell a beautiful, large, fragile antique desk in the suburban Chicago area? [more inside]
What is an engaging, interesting accounting topic for a speech to small business owners?
What is an engaging, interesting accounting topic for a speech to small business owners? [more inside]
Nine's too short, eleven's too tall. Ten inches, please, or not at all.
What well-known and interesting objects or animals are ten inches tall? [more inside]
Tenant's rights filter: Virginia. My landlord is making a lot of unreasonable requests. What are my options, and who should I talk to?
Tenant's rights filter: Virginia. My landlord is making unreasonable demands. What are my options, and who should I talk to? [more inside]
Am I allergic to Patagonian toothfish?
Is it possible to be allergic to just one specific type of fish? Is this even an allergic reaction? NSFLunch details inside. [more inside]
Looking for Author/Titles of a trilogy about genetically engineered twinned psychopathic warriors?
Looking for Author/Titles of a trilogy about genetically engineered twinned psychopathic warriors? It wasn't new in 2005 when I read it; I think it was published mid 90s or earlier. It's essentially a Frankenstein story with genetic engineering. [more inside]
If you die in the game, you die in REAL LIFE
Help me find books (or other media) about people playing RPGs. [more inside]
I'm an iPod newb and I need help.
I'm a complete iPod newb and I need help. [more inside]
Arabic Translation Needed Please!
Arabic Translation Needed: What does this picture say?
July 11
Is this a good surveillance system?
Lost Love, Lost Poem
Help! What was the name of that WB Yeats poem? [more inside]
Don't Talk To Me
How do I deal with strange men who talk to me...even though they're not directly hitting on me, I can just tell the conversation is going to be a 'special' one? [more inside]
Sitting on a gold mine
Is there a cheaper chair that does what an Aeron does? [more inside]
Not having much sex - is this bad?
I'm married, and we don't have sex much at all. Should I be worried? [more inside]
What do I tell the bank?
Should I be honest with my big-4 (USA) bank when it calls to find out why I haven't paid my mortgage? I'm selling the house and need the $ for rent. [more inside]
Art Print ID needed
Looking for a link to this image and/or information about artist, please.
Fantasy-like/surreal art, landscape orientation. Circa 70s - early 80s - there may have been other similar prints. Female face/eyes (large), with 2-3 small sparrow-like birds gazing up at her from the lower corners of the image. Greyish and yellowish tones throughout, "misty" feel. (I think the last name of the artist starts with F ?). Any ideas?
definition of "fixtures" in construction contract
Is the water heater an electrical fixture that should be part of the "electrical finishing fixtures" allowance when building a new house under a standard contract with a general contractor? [more inside]
Trick me into eating vegetables!
I joined a CSA to eat more vegetables but.... I kinda....hate vegetables. What are some great recipes to make me actually want to eat this stuff? [more inside]
Origin/value of Chinese ink drawing
Origin/value of Chinese ink drawing [more inside]
Scream and run in circles?
Allegedly someone unhappy about a warrant in which I was involved may be interested in "doxing" me. Any tips on whether I should worry much or do something about it? I am already a believer in strong passwords and keeping close track of activity on my financial accounts.
I think my desire to not date is hurting my career
Broke up with my boyfriend a month or so ago and still reeling from that. Now it seems every guy in the tech community wants to date me and I don't want to date anyone. How can I avoid this problem? [more inside]
Hidden costs of building/driving a modified motorcycle in SoCal?
I want to fix/build/restore/modify a motorcycle and put it on the road in Los Angeles, California. Think a 600cc cafe racer or something similar. I can do all my own work, have a welder, mill, and all necessary tools.
What are the hidden costs and problems? Any idea what this will cost (time, $$) to take it from Craigslist to city streets? [more inside]
non-insurance repairs after minor accident
Just got in a minor accident (brand-new car - sigh). The other driver wants to do the repairs himself through the body shop that he works at... [more inside]
So, like the opposite of Gordon Ramsay
Are there any videos on YouTube similar to Great Depression Cooking, in that they feature completely amateur cooking? I mean people without great knife technique or whatever, just cooking regular meals in small regular kitchens like the rest of regulars, fearlessly and worrying not so much about presentation or perfection?
What are the *approximate* download numbers for a Top 20 podcast episode?
What are the *approximate* download numbers for a Top 20 podcast episode? [more inside]
Best format for court filings?
Best text formatting for legal filings? [more inside]
What's that word that.....
There's a word that means "inflexible", "hidebound", "set in their ways", "slow to change". It's a metaphorical word similar to "ossified" or "calcified", but the metaphor related to the body and means, roughly, "paralyzed". [more inside]
Will my feet explode if I wear my old sneakers to run?
What's the difference between minimalist running shoes and slim sneakers? [more inside]
Good thrift shops in pittsburgh?
Are there any good thrift shops in Pittsburgh? Looking for a place to find high quality men's clothing.
What's the best software to teach talented youth digital tools for design?
What's the best software to teach talented youth digital tools for design? [more inside]
What game is this boy playing?
Help me see clearly and avoid any mis steps; We finally went on our first date (lasted 9 hours) and had plans for a second. I thought for sure he liked me but he ended up canceling the date and hasn't messaged me since. I want to reach out but am sitting on my hands because I don't want to appear needy. Should I reach out or let it be? (More details inside) [more inside]
Slow down I just wanna get to know you
What could slow down the pace of change (religious/scientific/economic/cultural) in a civilization? (Please see specific details inside.) [more inside]
Multitasking is my forte
What things can I do in my head to entertain myself/learn something/pass time quicker? [more inside]
Retraining a career from an MLIS
Picked up a MLIS on a whim and finding it to be hindering me more than helping. How can I retrain for a viable career in today's job market? [more inside]
Another day, another bag suggestion request
Yet another bag recommendation needed. This one is for a small (think city bag, not hiking bag) bag that I can carry both as a backpack and a front sling, shoulder, or cross-body bag. And that works reasonably well as both. [more inside]
Blistered Boobs - ewww
Clear fluid filled blisters on chest 4 days after mild sunburn - delayed reaction or coincidence? [more inside]
Classic Black Suit?
Yet another dress me for my interview question: Director-level position at a gaming/software company in Orange County, CA. A few snowflake details inside. [more inside]
Low self-esteem and its dangers.
How to deal with a (somewhat close) friend's extremely low self-esteem? [more inside]
What's in an IT Manager's portfolio?
Asking for a friend: He's applying for a job with the title "IT Manager" and is asked to include a portfolio. What kind of portfolio does an IT Manager have? [more inside]
I think I'm learning Cantonese, I really think so.
I'm moving to Hong Kong for at least two years, starting at the end of August. Help me pick a feasible strategy for learning some Cantonese. [more inside]
What else am I going to kill with these sticky traps?
Sticky traps vs. flea beetles - what else am I going to kill? [more inside]
How to pack for Ireland in August
I am going to Ireland for 8 days in August with my mom, aunt and cousins. I'm looking at the average weather and panicking a little about what to pack/bring/carry. I specifically need a good backpack for a camera, and some decent looking shoes. Can you help? [more inside]
Help me find this science book aimed at kids.
What was that book? 1970s or early 1980s science book for kids, illustrated with black and white photographs. [more inside]
Advice / recommendations wanted for 2/3 day stopover in Taipei
We are planning a 3 day stop over in Taiwan during mid-August and are wanting hints and tips for places to see / places to stay / places to eat. [more inside]
Math of Astrology
Could you recommend a book or web site on the math of astrology? [more inside]
Hey, check out these cute tiny getas
So I found these awesome little Japanese sandals (called geta, I now know) and I am wondering if it's ok to use them for dress up or if they are worth something and I shouldn't damage them. [more inside]
help my friend get (positive) attention at a group interview!
Asking for a friend. Anyone have experience in a group interview for a flight attendant position? Please share!
Help me find a way to download Senate Finance hearing testimony
I need to save a video from the Senate Finance Committee's hearings video library so that I can edit out a small snippet of testimony. [more inside]
Printing logistics
I need to make an emergency application for a foreign passport in California. [more inside]
Help me find the right "X" in firefox
I keep 15 to 30 tabs open in firefox and have a hard time distinguishing which "tab close X" is the active one and which ones are greyed out. [more inside]
What are the best state parks in Western Washington?
Best state parks in Western Washington state? What should not be missed? [more inside]
Why am I being contacted by my ex-boyfriend's roommate about my ex-boyfriend?
Why is my ex-boyfriend's roommate contacting me anonymously about my ex-boyfriend, 6 months after we broke-up? If this has happened to you, what did you think it meant? [more inside]
Reccomendations for an art theft novel?
Can you recommend a novel that features art theft, forgery or other fine art-related crimes? [more inside]
Help me preserve my cat's hearing.
I just bought this white noise machine and it's amazing. But will the sound hurt my cat's ears? [more inside]
Moss help?
Best practices for growing moss in terrariums? [more inside]
What the heck is an interview challenge activity?
My wife has a job interview coming up. She just got the schedule and it is a two-hour interview including a one hour "activity challenge." What can she expect? [more inside]
Buying a telescope for my school
I'm teaching a high school astronomy course in the fall. I have around two thousand dollars to get a telescope. This purchase is the kind of thing that just bluescreens by brain. Please guide me. [more inside]
Retiring Mr. Acura-San, the best car ever
Help me find a sweet little hatchback. [more inside]
Solo Sports for the Awkward Chick
I'm interested (so far in a casual "maybe?" manner) possibly taking up: tennis, archery, or kayaking. Help me decide? Long post inside. [more inside]
Spectacular sticker shock. What prices are glasses in Bangalore?
How much should glasses cost in Bangalore? Progressive lenses, with auto-darkening? I'm primarily interested in the price for the lenses. I got a price today of INR 26,500 which is about the same as the US, whereas I had read it was significantly cheaper. I am here for a week so I had thought to take advantage of the prices, but now I'm wondering if it's worthwhile.
Studio music videos
What are some music videos in which rock bands or artists are shown in the studio doing the exact performance that was eventually released on album or CD? [more inside]
My scrapbook of cycling incidents.
Help me document my weight loss and cycling journey on the great interwebz. [more inside]
Do "snitches get stitches" if they're random bystanders?
I've lived in a gradually-gentrifying "high-crime" part of my city for several years. Today, after a shooting, I gave my first police statement. While waiting to do so -- out in the open, easily identifiable, with dozens of people around -- I considered that I was vulnerable to witness retaliation, if anyone wanted to. I'm not worried from today, but the officer took me indoors and out of sight before pulling out his notepad, so I'm curious. When is witness retaliation really something to worry about? Are there non-obvious ways to mitigate the risk?
Should I send another e-mail?
E-mail etiquette: I need to have an interview with my college's contact at my externship. The contact asked me to e-mail her in July. I e-mailed her 6 days ago but have not gotten a reply. How should I proceed? [more inside]
Things to do in and around Halifax this weekend
Going to be in Halifax this weekend, starting late tonight! Looking for recommendations, especially regarding scallops, whale watching, and the level of terror the Cabot Trail might invoke. [more inside]
Do deaf people experience semantic satiaton?
Do deaf people and/or other speakers of American Sign Language experience semantic satiation?
Get on up?
Please help. Looking for any danceable, up-tempo, completely awesome songs that you know. [more inside]
I don't need a shark, but I do need someone strong - is there a happy medium?
Can anyone recommend experienced family law attorneys in the New Orleans are who aren't sharks? [more inside]
Cabins & B&Bs, oh my! Between Mendocino and Portland
Recommendations for Cabins & Queer-Friendly B&B's between Mendocino and Portland? [more inside]
Dear Blogger, this is an English language blog read...
How do I get Blogger to use .com instead of .de? [more inside]
Is there really more to life than this?
How do I stop feeling so lonely, and be excited again about the rest of life? [more inside]
One Hair Clip to Rule Them All
I have a hair clip that I adore. Please help me find more. [more inside]
Shaw 'nuff.
Help me find a possibly misremembered George Bernard Shaw quotation. It was something like "I enjoy writing plays because I get to argue all the sides of an argument with myself." [more inside]
What do cover letters and CVs look like in Quebec?
What do cover letters and CVs look like in Quebec? [more inside]
How to make a relationship work?
I am starting to think that my boyfriend and I are not on the same page when it comes to what we want in our relationship (both now and in our future). Am I being silly or is this a deal breaker? Apologies in advance if this gets too long. [more inside]
Partner's depression triggered by someone we can't avoid, what to do?
The trigger for my partner's depression? Contact with his child's mother. Need solutions for both of us. [more inside]
How to move to Boston
Please tell me everything I need to know about the logistics of finding an apartment and moving to Boston on a month's notice. [more inside]
Open courses that teach writing skills: where are they?
Open courses that teach writing skills: where are they? [more inside]
Buy A House With Cash
My wife and I are buying a house in Austin, Texas ( Steiner Ranch ). We are trying to figure out how we want to finance it. We have the means to pay for the house with cash. We are being offered a mortgage at 3.6%. The cost of the house would represent about 50% of our net worth. The other 50% is fairly liquid, with an even spread between 401k, index funds, 529's, and cash. Should we do it? [more inside]
So, um, how big is your....kneecap?
Say I'm an industrial designer (I'm not), and I have to design a car seat, desk chair, climbing harness, body armor, or some other piece of equipment that has to be able to interact with a whole bunch of differently-shaped humans on a regular basis. What resource do I use to find out things like average foot width, or average knee circumference, average jaw length, or any other specific anatomical measurements? [more inside]
Help me figure out how to furnish my apartment in Boston/Cambridge.
Help me figure out how to furnish my apartment in Boston/Cambridge. [more inside]
What is best setup for Thunnderbird+Lighting sync?
I want to organize all my email+calendar+tasks On & Off line. What is best setup for Thunderbird+Lighting+Gmail+Google Calendar sync? [more inside]
How to un-boring my meetings?
What is the most awesome meeting icebreaker / energizer that you have ever heard of and / or participated in? [more inside]
In debt, trouble paying, what to do?
I'm in debt, behind, and can't afford the minimum payments. I freelance and haven't made enough money to cover expenses for a good while now. Although some recent changes to the way I do business have had a positive impact, I'm still not making enough to pay for said debt on top of my regular expenses, let alone catch up. I'm returning to school soon for a two-year degree that, by all available information, should ultimately lead to a good middle-class income. But until it does, what do I do? Who do I talk to? Do I have options? [more inside]
Is it possible this GP is wrong about a UTI?
Is my partner's GP missing something here? UTI vs. chlamydia details inside. [more inside]
foreign characters on a windows keyboard
A quick question about Windows keyboard shortcuts for foreign characters. [more inside]
Interviewing people without notice
Journalists and interviewers of MeFi, how do you initiate informal interviews in a way that's comfortable for the subjects? [more inside]
Chrome and date input
I have a form with some html5 date input fields. I use the jquery UI datepicker to get it working on browsers that don't support type="date".
Everything's lovely in IE and Firefox. Chrome is behaving oddly. It displays both the jquery datepicker and (I assume) its own html5 picker. It won't display the value I'm giving it correctly, and whatever you put in the input (using the chrome picker because it won't accept input from the jquery one...) it returns 0/0/00.
Help!
Moving via RV
Help me move from Oregon to NYC Part 2: Moving in a rented RV. [more inside]
Identify this Bag?
What kind of bag is this? If I had to ask whether a shop had one in stock, what would I ask for? I first thought "messenger bag", but google pics show another style. Maybe a subspecies of the same thing?
July 10
Superhero comics from an ordinary schlub's POV?
Comic book readin' friends: What are some well-known series where the protagonist(s) is a "normal" who exists in a world of "super" beings of one kind or another? Research for something that maybe could someday be a thing.
Long-lost rapper
GAME OF THRONES is a gateway drug
Requesting intelligent, well-written "realistic" epic fantasy book suggestions. Having George R.R. Martin withdrawals. Need more severed heads & engaging dialogue and relatable bleakness, less "you're the one," stilted conversations and Randomly capitalized Words. [more inside]
Reading english websites in russian to practice russian
Is it a good idea to practice russian by reading english websites translated into russian via google translate? [more inside]
Abilify Akathisia
Abilify-filter: Will the akathisia go away? [more inside]
while (salary < desiredSalary) askForRaise();
How much do junior C++ developers get paid, outside of major cities? [more inside]
Car conundrum: fix it or pitch it?
My '03 Hyundai Accent has serious mechanical issues. I'm working poor. Would it be wiser to see if it's worth it to shell out for repairs or immediately pass her on and do without a car until I can get a replacement (that might not be much better)? [more inside]
Nursery in a loft: are we crazy?
Would you set up a nursery in a mostly enclosed loft area? Wife and I love a potential new apartment, but a steep staircase is making us a bit worried. [more inside]
What liqueur has the most ingredients?
What liqueur has the most ingredients? [more inside]
Darling, you make me ... break out in hives?
Am I, er, allergic to my boyfriend? [more inside]
"Hi, great to see you, who are you?"
Which is best: asking an acquaintance "What's your name again?", hoping they don't notice you don't remember their name, or guessing their name and being wrong? [more inside]
Dork needs database
I'm looking to make a simple, personal, research database in OSX. Ideas? [more inside]
Will learning to orgasm through masturbation help me through my divorce?
Will learning to orgasm through masturbation help me through my divorce? Female, been married 10 years, left because of verbal abuse, disturbed by reawakening of my sexuality now I'm "old" (nearly 40) and unloved. [more inside]
crowd: how do I crowdsource an app, please?
I want my organization to develop an app for a specific purpose. The catch: it has to be dirt cheap. Enter: Crowdsourcing? [more inside]
what is an anchor fence?
What is an anchor fence? (this is relating to restrictive covenants on a lot in a subdivision) [more inside]
Help me keep my feet comfortable when wearing closed shoes full-time
Keeping feet dry and comfortable when having to wear closed shoes full-time. [more inside]
Help me make this happen
Relocation to Barbados and employment options for a US citizen. More inside. [more inside]
Job interview outift
Is this outfit appropriate for a job interview at a nice restaurant? [more inside]
No, no, I'm not attracted to women! I just find women attractive!
Mid-20s, female, sort of starting to wonder if I might maybe be bi, kind of hating on myself over it. [more inside]
How to handle a child's degenerative and fatal diagnosis
Tomorrow I find out if my two-year-old son has Duchenne's Muscular Dystrophy. There's no "good" form of MD, but this is definitely the "bad" (and most common) version. Most children with this diagnosis are wheelchair-bound by age 12, and the average life expectancy is 25. There is no treatment and no cure. How do I, as a father, deal with this? [more inside]
Why does nobody answer my e-mails for their housemate-wanted ads on Craigslist in San Francisco?
Why does nobody answer my e-mails for their housemate-wanted ads on Craigslist in San Francisco? [more inside]
Filter blues.
Need to change an Everpure H-300-HSD filter cartridge. The model number on the cartridge is 9720-75. How important is this number? Ordering direct from the Everpure site seems to get me a generic 300-HSD filter, and I'm finding -74 and -76 and -72 and so on models with a price difference of twenty+ dollars on other sites such as Amazon. If I'm off a number is that likely to not work at all?
Does the hat make the man?
I started dating a guy who is great but his fashion sense is ruining my buzz. Ill fitting clothes, sort of a "Scarface" aesthetic, age-inappropriate hats--you name it. And I haven't even gotten to shoes that I can only describe as . . . puzzling and vaguely medieval. What should I do with this? [more inside]
Milwaukee Estate Lawyering and Maid Service, Inc.
A few recommendations needed for a new resident of Milwaukee. [more inside]
Display random tweet using PHP?
Dearest metafilter, show me the way to display a random tweet, selected by hashtag (preferable) or username, by using PHP/javascript/magic. [more inside]
God Made the Queen?
Where does The Queen (of England)'s original authority come from? [more inside]
Basic line graph
Program for drawing a line graph (on graph paper?)? [more inside]
How to fix (Windows) Thunderbird issues?
Someone I know recently asked me to do a couple of hours of work on her (Windows) laptop and such to help sync up things like calendars with her new iPhone and various and sundry little tasks. Most of this went perfectly well. However, I've encountered two major issues both to do with Thunderbird (which I've never really used). Details within. [more inside]
Forging Ahead
Is there a trick to installing Minecraft Forge on a mac? [more inside]
Book Guilt
Help me overcome crippling guilt at getting rid of physical books. [more inside]
Asian finger food recipes for someone with no Asian cooking experience
What are some good Asian finger foods to serve at a world cultures-themed baby shower? [more inside]
All Things Weird and Wonderful to do in the East Bay and SF
I'm spending a working sabbatical in Berkeley from July 25-August 25. I grew up there, so I have a general sense of places to go, but I'm out of it in terms of what cool organizations/spaces do cool and crazy things that I should keep tabs on while I'm in town in Berkeley, Oakland, and SF. I know about the Prelinger Archive and Southern Exposure and the Roxie in SF, but that's about it. What mailing lists and websites for different places should I be keeping my eyes on while I'm there? [more inside]
Is it true that flea collars are toxic?
How do flea collars work? Are they helpful or harmful? Our cat never had fleas, but we put a flea collar on him preventively because he's an outside cat. Now it looks like he's scratching himself really often, which we have never seen him do before. Should we take the collar off?
How do flea collars work anyway? [more inside]
Does anybody want collected letters home, even from someplace/time interesting?
How to find out whether historic letters are of any interest to somebody researching the era? [more inside]
Chance for a change... good? or bad?
My best friend is leaving her job at a local, well established physician’s office, and the position could be mine, as I understand it. In my head, there aren’t many downsides, but my SO thinks otherwise. Am I just blocking out major downsides because I feel like I want out of my current job? I feel if I go against my SO’s wishes I’ll never be allowed to have a bad day and rely on him, but I also don’t want to resent him for stopping me from making a switch if I become even more unhappy with my current position in the future.
What to do? [more inside]
St. Petersburg hotel tips
Heading to St. Petersburg, Russia in September. Let me in on your top tips for places to stay and things to do. [more inside]
But I counted all the people yesterday!
I am moving to a remote island in the middle of nowhere, and I need hobbies. [more inside]
how can i make my personal training sessions more effective?
I have had 5 sessions so far with a personal trainer I like a lot. How can I prepare myself during the week (when I'm not working with her) to be awesome during my sessions? [more inside]
I'm not pregnant, just backed up.
How much bloating/abdominal distension is normal with mild/moderate constipation? [more inside]
Why am I forgetting so much?
How good is a good memory, really? And when should memory loss be a concern? [more inside]
I invited strep throat to dinner, but he just won't eat!
Seems likely I have strep throat. I went to the doctor and they did rapid testing but it came back negative, now they're making a culture to make sure. This will take two days, but since I have all the symptoms of strep (and lack many of tonsillitis), I'd be willing to guess I have strep throat.
They haven't put me on antibiotics yet, so it looks like I'm staying sick for a while. What can I eat to keep myself healthy and happy until I know more? [more inside]
I'm considering leaving the public sector for private. Please help me learn the smart way to negotiate employment offers and understand the real value of my current package.
I've been working in local government in a mid-level administrative job for six years. My satisfaction level is low, but the benefit package is generous (we're a small local entity contracting benefits through CalPERS), and the job is as secure as anything for the foreseeable future. Would I be crazy to leave it? [more inside]
Where can I host an Olympic Opening Ceremonies party in Brooklyn?
Is there a bar or other space in Brooklyn, Manhattan, or Long Island City where I can reserve a private room with a TV for a get-together to watch the Olympic Opening Ceremonies? I am not looking to pay for an entire event, just reserve a private space with a TV and proximity to a bar where my friends can buy drinks.
Why is Gorilla Glass so much stronger than other chemically strengthened glass?
How does the High Ion Exchange (HIE) process get such a deep compressive layer in the glass strengthening process used in Gorilla Glass? [more inside]
Hotels in San Francisco
Help me choose a hotel in San Francisco, fairly close to Moscone Center - currently reserved at the Clift, but also looking at Good Hotel, Hotel Rex, and Hotel Vertigo. Has anyone stayed at more than one of these that can make a comparison? Thanks..
I'm not driving across OREGON in a Prius.
Where can I rent a luxury car for 24hrs in Portland, OR? [more inside]
Triathlon Playlist
Hello, Mefites! Can you help with a triathlon playlist? [more inside]
Removall or other eco-friendly paint removers for retail in Twin Citites?
Looking for a lead on Removall 220 available for retail in the Twin Cities area, or recommendations of equivalent (brushable, eco-friendly) paint strippers. [more inside]
Excel: A job for vlookup?
Excel help? I think this is a job for vlookup but I'm not sure. [more inside]
Gotta scratch that Civ II itch. Any hope on Mac OS X?
I'm having major Civ II cravings. I have a iMac running OS X and an iPad. Is there any hope for me?
Establishing Vacation Home Rules
Help me set some reasonable rules/guidelines for being at our vacation house with guests or our adult children so that I do not do all the cooking. meal planning, laundry and tidying during vacation. [more inside]
Need to keep it legal!
Anything we can do about cop neighbor's multiple legal street-parked vehicles? [more inside]
Task-based/time-based productivity.
Help me find a productivity app. [more inside]
In Berlin for the month, looking for great live outdoor music! What's going on?
In Berlin for the month, looking for great live outdoor music! What's going on? [more inside]
iMod
I have a car with a tape deck and a CD player. I want to play my iDevice on it. I am thinking about going to a mechanic and having them install a radio with that component in it, or just adding a line out to plug into my device. [more inside]
Should I look a gift house in the mouth?
My parents want to put the down payment on a (small) house, and have me live in it and pay the mortgage. Are there any downsides to this that I'm missing? [more inside]
Lids for bail-top jars?
Does anyone know where I can buy lids for old-style bail-top canning jars?
How can I tell linux to ignore one USB port?
How can I tell Linux to ignore a bad USB port? [more inside]
Work appropriate bicycle commuter fashion?
I'm trying to find work appropriate clothing that is made with bicycle commuting in mind. I'm particularly interested in button up shirts that are well tailored. I'm lucky enough to work in a creative industry but I still like to look nice-ish in my own quirky way. I'm done wearing t-shirts to work but I still ride my bicycle in almost every day. I've found a couple good pairs of paints via Levis and Mission Workshop here in San Francisco, but finding shirts with the commuter in mind seems almost impossible! Help me look snazzy while staying comfortable and non stinky!
Finding nets for theme park attractions.
School teacher looking for 1 page nets to create 3D models of theme-park attractions. E.g. A roller coaster, log flume, Ferris wheel, runaway train.
I've been looking on the internet and draw a blank. Any help would be appreciated. Students will be able to design their own images, and the more able challenged to adapt the model.
Internet links preferable, but if you know of a book, then please let me know. Thank you.
Goodbye Portland
I want to move out of Portland. Where should I go? [more inside]
West Coast retreat
Looking for an all-inclusive spa/yoga/outdoors retreat type thing, along these lines, but on the West Coast. [more inside]
Looking for fabric suggestions for an ottoman re-upholstery job.
Looking for fabric suggestions for an ottoman re-upholstery job. (Any deals on mohair?) [more inside]
Help me find an essay?
Can you help me find this vaguely-remembered creative essay about dating that was published on The Awl (or similar) maybe a year ago? [more inside]
Cheap paper for watercolor practice?
Are there any no-hassle, cheap alternatives to watercolor paper? I want to practice a lot without spending a lot. [more inside]
Hack To The Future
Hackerfilter: How difficult would it be for a government agency to forge a data trail that goes back several years? Specific (fictional) example inside. [more inside]
How to get rid of the smell of tea tree oil
How do I get rid of tea tree oil that's stubbornly refusing to come up from a laminate counter? I spilled a small bottle today and the smell is atrocious. Clorox wipes have been unsuccessful thus far.
Traveling for business with low credit card limit?
What options does our small UK business have for booking short notice travel when the credit limit on our business cards is fairly low? [more inside]
Unique Jewelry Online?
My lovely boyfriend would like to buy me a piece of jewelry for my birthday, with a budget of up to $500. I think I'd like a ring, but I'm open to other options. Do you know of any awesome online jewelry stores that I should look at? [more inside]
(nearly) identical Wordpress sites hosted on different URLs
Question about nearly-identical Wordpress sites hosted at different URLS and Google indexing/rankings. [more inside]
Getting my math(s) right.
Maths (math) people of the US: I need your help in working out if certain British conventions would be understood or standard in the US classroom. [more inside]
A guide to Hadrian's Wall
I'm taking a week to hike Hadrian's Wall in mid-to-late August, and I'm looking for a useful guidebook. [more inside]
Low heeled shoes + sexy/fly? Is it possible?
Unfortunately the beautiful ivory and crystal 3 inch pumps I bought for my wedding make my dress too short! I was kind of distressed, but now I'm seeing this as an opportunity to get a little wilder. Wedding colors are red-red and any shade of purple. Please link me any (well, no Chucks please and no flip flops) kind of pretty/sexy low heeled shoes (in ivory, muted gold, red, or purple). Interested in a kitten heel in ivory, but I'm also way more open minded now than I was before. Purple suede laceup Oxford with side cutouts? Sexy red patent kitten pump? Ankle booties? My dress is ivory lace, strapless, floor length. Thank you thank you thank you!
If that ain't Lake Minnetonka in "Purple Rain," which lake is it?
In 1984's "Purple Rain," Prince famously tells Apollonia to purify herself in the waters of Lake Minnetonka. They're standing by a lake, so she jumps in, and only then does he tell her "That ain't Lake Minnetonka." I believe it's not--I'm a native Twin Citian and Lake Minnetonka is huge and ritzy. But my question is: What lake IS it? Another Twin Cities lake? Something in L.A.? A soundstage pool? (Unlikely!) Does anyone have the definitive answer. You can watch the scene here, NSFW because she's topless.
Is it worth paying for a federal resume?
Has anyone ever paid to have a federal resume created and did it help? Even if it didn't initially result in a job offer were you happy with the end product? [more inside]
Recommend a heart-rate monitor please.
Heart rate monitors and their bigger-better-brothers: as a follow up to this question about emphysema, I was wondering if the Green had some recommendations for highly reliable, simple to operate heart rate monitors. [more inside]
Trying to thank my vet for all her help
Which picture to give my vet? Is a picture appropriate? [more inside]
Where to stay in Brooklyn?
Where to stay in Brooklyn, October 2012 edition. [more inside]
Why are all dinosaur mouths depicted the same way?
Super-specific roaring dinosaur question: Every picture of tyrannosaurs with open mouths (1, 2, 3, 4) seems to picture them with flaps of muscle or skin covering the corners of their mouth. Why is this so universal? Are there living animals with similar mouths that this is based on?
How can I give romantic relationships a different place in my life?
How can I give romantic relationships a different place in my life? [more inside]
I'm so tired of being itchy...
Bedbug treatment and cats - Should I board the cat after treatment of my apartment, and for how long? [more inside]
Attorney client privilege in the movies
What are some scenes or plot points in movies relating to attorney client privilege? [more inside]
Boot the gym bag!
What do posh people do, that us mere mortals do not? [more inside]
Stop me from eating all the things
How can I stop eating when I'm not hungry? [more inside]
I want my new music track of the day!
Help me find a new 'new music track' podcast! [more inside]
The cheaper the better
Is there an online source to tell which cars are less expensive than others to insure?
What happens as a relationship ages?
I am not totally happy with my relationship. I need some perspective…please help me figure out whether this is just a phase and I should stick it out or whether I really want to move on. [more inside]
How to protect idea for database and apps after showing it to someone?
I sent a video outlining an idea I came up with for a DB and series of apps to a contact I made at a big org. I received a terse reply that appeared to be claiming the idea as theirs. What is the best way to respond? [more inside]
I want to be leaving, on a jet plane
Travelfilter: solo, female, 22, Europe, August, anything from a few days to 3 weeks. Recommendations for destinations to invigorate, refresh and reinspire me after a tough year. [more inside]
Sometimes I run the tap while i'm brushing my teeth and think about how when I'm old I'm going to look back on this and feel like an idiot.
Assume I will live for another 50 years and that I live in North America. Will we "run out" of drinkable water in my lifetime? If not, how bad will the upcoming decades get as far as availability and pricing?
The first book in this language
How can I cheaply self-publish a trilingual book in a previously undocumented indigenous language? [more inside]
July 9
Headphones to cut me off from the world.
I'm looking to spend about $100 on headphones that deliver excellent music, and with superb passive noise isolation. I will mainly be using this at home, for music and movies. But I'd also like to take them on long-haul flights, to block out engine roar. Difficulty: must be comfortable, no in-ears, and no active noise-cancellation. Argh! Do these headphones even exist?
Now that my trip is over, what *would* it have cost to fly?
Retro-Travel Filter: How much did it cost to fly roundtrip between Detroit and Philadelphia this past May (2012; leaving on 5/24 and returning 5/29)? Or, how can I figure this out? [more inside]
Go west old woman!
Roadtrip filter: I am planning on a solo road trip from Denver to Portland, OR by way of Missoula, MT, to visit friends in both of those places. Need suggestions of places to stay on the way. [more inside]
I can't believe I'm using my question looking for a cat video but this is gonna make me crazy
I cannot remember where I found this YouTube video. It is a song about cats in boxes. I vaguely remember the line "cats in boxes are amazing" in it. I think at some point the cat(s) may be removed from the box, and then possibly replaced in the box. The song was sung by a girl (I think) and had a sort of indie/folk-y backing to it. [more inside]
Movers from Milwaukee to Chicago
Any recommended movers for moving from Milwaukee to Chicago? [more inside]
Help me decide between a VW Golf Wagon and Subaru Forester
Point me towards iPod Nano 6th Generation programming/development resources.
Is it possible to write code for / develop for the iPod Nano 6th Generation? Can anyone point me towards iPod Nano 6th Generation programming resources? [more inside]
I'm looking for ways to achieve a lush, curly, Italian-like hair style. See picture.
I'm looking for ways to achieve a lush, curly, Italian-like hair style. See picture. [more inside]
40 hours in ad, 25 hours IRL?
You pay $550 to enroll in a 40 hour bar tending class. The teacher shorts you 1.5 hours out of your first 4 hour session, and says he "will never keep you the whole 4 hours". I want my 40 hours! Am I out of line? [more inside]
Help me love my chair!
Help me keep my white leather chair looking awesome! [more inside]
Crazy Cat Lady in the Making?
I can't live with people! Help! [more inside]
Quest: Great non-FPS PS3 games
Quest: Awesome PS3 games. What are some great PS3 games that came out this past academic year for a given value (inside) of great? [more inside]
Who wears short shorts? Seriously? Who?
Help A Girl Out: High-waisted Undies Edition [more inside]
Dress for the rest
Looking for clothing lines/companies geared towards women ages 18-35 that cater to non-average sizes (including petite, tall, plus size, etc.) Particularly interested in smaller companies. Bonus points for stuff like sustainability, fair labor practices, natural fibers.
Food Fun in Vienna and Berlin!
What foods do I need to try in Vienna and Berlin? Are there any foods I should try to bring back? [more inside]
Dinner recommendations needed
Trying to find an nice restaurant on Providenciales, Turks and Caicos for an anniversary dinner. [more inside]
Whose Finger Was That?
Which saint am I thinking of? Did I make her up? [more inside]
One week, one small home, two families. Help an irritable introvert cope?
Husband's family is coming to town, yay! They're asking if we can put them up for a week, eek! Small home, two bedrooms, four adults, three children. I'm an introvert and homebody in the extreme; have anxiety and, lately, irritability issues; and I don't know if or how I can cope with this. Help me make this possible. [more inside]
Working as a pharmacy technician - can I negotiate better pay and more learning opportunities? And how would you phrase this to leave good relations in the future for employment reasons?
Working as a pharmacy technician - can I negotiate better pay and more learning opportunities? And how would you phrase this to leave good relations in the future for employment reasons? [more inside]
Need a copyright infringement defense attorney
Received a notice that my contact information was subpoenaed from my ISP, since my IP was associated with copyright infringement (torrenting). Obviously, I need a lawyer, even though I haven't been sued (yet). Resources online mostly point to lawyers in NY, CA, and FL. I'm not in any of those places. What's the best way to find a lawyer who can represent me? [more inside]
How to be more social ???
Any tips on being more social ? Lately, I have noticed that I am becoming more and more intraverted, whenever an activity comes up where other people I know will be there , I automatically start thinking of the reasons why it's not worth going or how it might go wrong. I don't like this new frame of mind , but at the same time I never feel bored or anxious to do anything else when Im by myself , or with my gf. Any tips on changing my intraverted ways ??
Can you reuse perfume containers?
How can I reuse perfume containers? [more inside]
Who are some current female singer-songwriters who seem to be stuck in the 90s?
I am looking for current "alternative" music by obscure female singer-songwriters that sounds like it could have come out in the mid-late 90s. Who are some out there who currently write in that style, even now that it is the 2010s? [more inside]
Cheapest way to get from San Francisco to Chicago?
My daughter—mentioned in a previous question—is traveling this summer. Unfortunately, her most recent traveling companions have turned out to be less than desirable. Looking for suggestions for getting her from San Francisco back to Chicago as cheaply as (safely) possible. [more inside]
play it again
Identify a song from half-remembered lyrics [more inside]
How can I best deal with friends being stupid/excluding me, and maturely handle the situation?
How can I best deal with friends being stupid/excluding me, and maturely handle the situation? [more inside]
Kenmore stovetop wants to burn our sauces -- can this stove be saved?
Crap electric stovetop acting crappily. Can this be repaired (preferably for less than $150)? [more inside]
Esty sucks for travelers
I made the asinine mistake of ordering something off Etsy to a Spanish address. Very bad idea. How do I deal with Spanish customs? What happens when packages are returned for non-payment of duties? [more inside]
Does this Vietnamese caption contain an attribution?
Can anyone who reads Vietnamese make out the caption below this photograph? (Warning: gory and/or potentially NSFW war photograph). I'm specifically interested in whether any of the information in the caption could lead to a potential attribution.
What should I do after telling psychiatrist that today would be our final session?
Without fully realizing it, I told my psychiatrist that today was our last session. I feel very sad about this and don't know what to do. Advice? [more inside]
How do I get hold of a Royal Mail delivery envelope within the next 6 hours?
UK Filter: I need to buy/beg/steal a Royal Mail Special Delivery Envelope before 8.45am tomorrow morning. The post office does not open until 9am. I am in Belfast and I am all outta ideas.... [more inside]
What does it mean to "leave" a country on a passport?
What does it mean to "leave" a country on a passport (specifically, the US)? [more inside]
How can I best keep my shoes from smelling up my walk-in closet?
How can I best keep my walk-in closet from smelling like my shoes? And how can I best keep my shoes from smelling up my walk-in closet? [more inside]
Are reconditioned factory buildings safe (health-wise) to live in?
Are there health risks in living in an apartment inside a reconditioned factory building in Hoboken, New Jersey? [more inside]
Have hair, will cut hair, need cut hair made into a wig.
Asking for a friend: Where in Northern California can I get a wig made out of my hair to give to a family member with cancer? [more inside]
What the Hub Mind Said
What is the relationship between the Iain M Banks books Consider Phlebas and Look to Windward? The names come from the same T S Elliott poem, and are even adjacent in the poem, so I'm sure it's significant - but how would you explain that significance? I've quoted the relevant bit below. Spoilers for the two books present and expected, of course. [more inside]
Is it reasable to pay for repairs of a 18month old phone?
My Smart phone unable to be charged and it's outside of its warranty period. Store salesman said I would need to pay for repairs and as well as $50 just to see what's wrong, would this be true given the Consumer Guarantees Act (of New Zealand)? [more inside]
A particular subset of hipster
Please help me find online shops or etsy designers that sell dresses with unusual modern tailoring: structure and draping, weird necklines, etc. Solid, neutral, cotton/jersey/wool preferred. [more inside]
PhD in nursing?
What do you do with a PhD in nursing? Is getting one a good idea? [more inside]
Green bug on my grubby building's windowsill
What bug could this be? [more inside]
What was this vampire novel?
What on earth was this vampire novel I read in the 90's? I remember only a few details: the female protagonist was a half-vampire, formed by being bitten then given a blood transfusion in a hospital. This left her with most of the powers, but few of the weaknesses, of other vampires. After her transformation, I think she started hunting vampires. It might have been a trilogy. That's all I got. [more inside]
How to pull oneself out of a book by the bootstraps?
How do I drag myself out the door to do the things I want to do? [more inside]
Freak of nature seeks effective hair-removal solution....
When I get a bikini wax, it stays smooth for less than ONE WEEK. Is there a better hair removal solution for freaks of nature like me? [more inside]
Can I Negotiate a Job Title?
Is it possible or recommended to try to negotiate job titles? [more inside]
Welcome to the family.
My wife's sister and her new husband live near us in Atlanta. We haven't been that good about spending time with them and are looking for ideas for activities that we could all do together. I guess we're ideally looking for things that are fun, but where everyone can still talk and get to know each other. Bonus points if you can throw in a few ideas that might also be fun for our 4 year old son.
Moldy passport pages
How to keep my passport (US) pages from getting moldy? [more inside]
No mellow yellow please
Microsoft Office Track Changes has decided to make my reviewing color an orangish YELLOW. Yellow looks great on green but is completely lost on white. How do I change the color? [more inside]
Midwestern mall stores in 1989?
Where can I find a list of stores that would have been in midwestern malls in 1989? [more inside]
Because binders solve all woes, even weddings
Help me put together a wedding planning binder for a friend! [more inside]
My Dad is helpless with Technology, and I am not (despite what he thinks) a tech professional.
Help me to help my father with his computing issues, and help me maintain my sanity in the process, please? This is both a tech and psychology question. [more inside]
Long lost advice column by a dishwasher
Long lost advice column by a dishwasher [more inside]
A pin that might be a little too sharp to wear on an airplane now
Can you help identify this old airline pin? It's an angular bird with a curved beak and blue markings on the tail, about the size of a normal airline "wings" pin, probably from the 1960s or earlier. [more inside]
Wedding of Opposites Can't Get Off the Ground
I'm Dharma, he's Greg. Or vice versa. Help us figure out how to make a wedding that we're both happy with, so we can get married already! [more inside]
The Princess and the Beam
Box Springs: Should I keep it? Edition: Should we put the brokenish box springs (twin, two for a king) back on, or get new ones? [more inside]
Should I stay or should I go? Now?
How should I resolve this dilemma between family and personal / career fulfillment? [more inside]
Good Quality Everyday Clothing Online
Where can I find reasonably-priced basic pieces for women online? [more inside]
You'll get my Gaga when you pry it from my cold dead hands
Please help me build a playlist of music for a 56-year-old! I'm dating an old(er) guy, and he's smokin. Yay! But classic rock is so boring, and now I'm trying to pick some music.... [more inside]
Gout diet advice
I just had my first attack of gout, and I'm looking for trustworthy sources of information on the purine levels of different foods. [more inside]
Your best lime/lemon cake please!
Need a great birthday cake for my dad! [more inside]
A place of one's own
I kind of want to buy a house. I know absolutely nothing about buying/financing a house. I also have sort of crappy credit. [more inside]
No honey, I'm pretty sure they don't have fishsticks here. Sorry.
WeekendExcursionFilter: SeaWorld (San Antonio)/Aquatica, a one- or two-day destination? [more inside]
Need to know the name of the wife of Austrian sculptor Johannes Benk.
AustrianArtHistory/NovelResearch–Filter: I need to know the name of the wife of Austrian sculptor Johannes Benk (1844–1914). [more inside]
Help a Jew use up a pound of pork
I have a pound of ground pork. What should I do with it? [more inside]
Swedish Ambient Krumphouse for the Swedish Ambient Krumgod!
Disco of the Ruinous Ones: Help me build a special little sound track for the each of the Warhammer 40K Gods of Chaos. [more inside]
How to create structure in an unstructured day?
What are the most successful strategies for managing unstructured time? [more inside]
Forgotten Greek philosopher
ClassicsFilter: looking for a Greek politician (or philosopher?) who makes an analogy between politics and agriculture. [more inside]
Is it possible that MRIs just don't work on some people?
Is it possible that MRIs just don't work on some people? [more inside]
Post-op hysterectomy checklist
Please help me plan my shopping list for post-hysterectomy recovery. [more inside]
Please help me identify this handwriting font
Please help me identify this font. [more inside]
The peppers have eyes
1) Big, round, colorful vegetables are starting to grow in my wife's garden.
2) She'll be gone for the next two weekends.
3) I've got a bag of 1000 googly eyes.
Question: How can I make this prank work without ruining her harvest? [more inside]
Advice for speaking/performing with a cold?
I have a cold. I have to talk to talk to a few groups of people in the next 48 hours, and want to avoid excessive coughing, crazy hoarseness, etc. Any advice? [more inside]
overweight and insecure
My wife is overweight, insecure, and unhappy. Help her. And me. [more inside]
Help me find this creepy teen novel
I am looking for the title of a YA novel from the 80s, in which a young girl is selected for an exclusive private school, where all of the students have a telepathic gift of some kind. What happens is that the spirits of dead artists and thinkers contact the girls and the girls serve as their channels, producing more "original" work. I think one of the artists was Chopin. Of course, psychic possession hijinks ensue. I like to think that I am an excellent Googler, but I can't find this book. Anyone? Anyone?
Creating a basic custom PivotTable style in Excel 2010
Any good resources for help in creating custom PivotTable styles in Excel 2010? [more inside]
So, is Terminal 2 like an Embassy and we're all on US soil?
How much time do I need to leave to clear US Customs at Dublin airport before a flight to the US? [more inside]
Ghostly smell of a thousand cats!
I am going slightly mad trying to figure out how to rid of the smell of a thousand cats from one section of my apartment. Please help me metafilter, you are my only hope! [more inside]
Best web usability blogs?
Please recommend some blogs on current trends in web usability and user-centric design. [more inside]
What do you call lobster head fat?
Phantom Smell?
I apparently have a mildly unpleasant odor that permeates everything I own, and only one person can smell it. How can I find out what's causing it? [more inside]
Adam's Needle bearing fruit: what now?
YuccaFilter: I have an Adam's Needle in my front yard (yucca filamentosa, I believe) which has flowered, and is now bearing fruit! My question: what to do with these little green gourds? [more inside]
Prometheus in 4D
I just went to see Prometheus last nigh in 3D. Unfortunately everything was out of focus and so it was more like 4D. I talked to the manager and he told me I had two options:
1. Refund immediately
2. Free voucher at the end of the film
So I am just wondering about how a modern movie theatre operates... [more inside]
Bipolar family member draining everyone's health
My sister (in her 20's) has recently been diagnosed as bipolar, after many manic episodes that have previously been attributed to depression. Right now she is staying with our parents and driving them crazy - every time I talk to my mom on the phone she is either close to tears or past that line. I have no idea how to help, maybe you do? [more inside]
Help with FireFox addon
FireFox addon problem [more inside]
How to persuade them?
From "The Call of the Wild".-The sled was broken out. Men were holding their breaths,intensely unconscious of the fact.- Some classmates claim that the fact means that men were holding their breaths, not that the sled was broken. I can't talk them over to my point of view that the fact is that the sled was broken because only my intuition tells me so... How could you persuade them as a native speaker? Or are they correct?
Hints for family life in Glasgow?
A friend is planning to spend six months in Glasgow and has questions about day-to-day matters: housing; music; dancing; groceries; school; and other matters. I've already sent her previous Glasgow-related questions, and I'll happily forward your more current recommendations. [more inside]
Will I get stuck in Tokyo?
Please help me determine if this flight plan through Narita (Tokyo) airport is plausible or insane. [more inside]
Is Rosemary that Bitter
Cooking Help: Is too much Rosemary causing these slow-cooked meat braises to get too bitter? Last night I did a slow roast / semi-braised Lamb shoulder (bone in) and there was this familiar bitterness that I've noticed before in my cooking and other peoples cooking. From memory I am associating it with Rosemary being present. Its hard to remember exactly but I feel that rosemary is usually involved. But I think there is also often whole sliced lemon involved. [more inside]
Eating healthily on holiday
I am looking for some tips on how to eat healthy while going on holiday. [more inside]
Can you identify these classic Infocom fonts?
What are the fonts used in these iconic Infocom ads: 1 2? I'm particularly interested in the 'Many are the doors...' font and the 'Apple II...' font from 1, and the 'WE'RE WRITING' font from the second. I can find stuff that's close with WTF et al, but not the same.
PST is for Problems Syncing sTuff
Can I run a local cross platform imap server ? [more inside]
Calories ingested
Do I get all the calories from everything I eat? [more inside]
How to deal with my friend's friends
I'm not sure how to tell my friend that I would really like to keep hanging out with her--just not in a group setting. Help? [more inside]
Almonds + greens + ?? = delicious.
I have two kinds of almonds: smoked and wasabi soy. Help me build delicious salads around them. [more inside]
July 8
What geeky events are there in the Pacific Northwest (especially with musicians)? What geeky bands are in the area?
What geeky events are there in the Pacific Northwest (especially with musicians)? What geeky bands are in the area? [more inside]
How much does a university reputation mean on the job hunt?
Does a Bachelor degree from an online university hurt my prospects on the job hunt? [more inside]
Selling Diablo 3 and Battle.net's Terms of Service
I have a physical, legal copy of Diablo 3 I'm planning on selling on eBay. I always knew that once I got bored of D3 I'd be selling it, so when I registered it on Battle.net I created a whole new GMail & Battle.net account (with a fake name) so I could give them to the buyer as part of the sale. My questions, then, are as follows; [more inside]
How can I be more supportive of my girlfriend’s work schedule?
My girlfriend works nights exclusively and I am a high school teacher with summers off. How can we make this work? [more inside]
Best Crab Legs in Suburban Chicago?
Where are the best crab legs in suburban Chicago? [more inside]
Need some telepath stories, stat. (You may already know this)
Got a sudden yen for telepathy stories, based on some vague wispy memories. Identification or other suggestions, please. [more inside]
What does a city with "female energy" look like?
What does a city with "female energy" look like? [more inside]
Do MSW rankings matter?
Do the rankings of the school matter when getting your MSW? [more inside]
Want a better brush
I want a good grill brush that won't shed metal bristles. [more inside]
I never learned to write!
How can I learn painless penmanship? [more inside]
Hotels in Montreal
I have tickets to Osheaga in Montreal. My boyfriend and I will be taking the train from Toronto. I have left the hotel arrangements to the last minute and now I'm afraid we'll end up on a park bench. Requirements: Private room, less than 150$/night. That is all. Any ideas? [more inside]
Flashes of light swimming in front of eyes, not retinal detachment or migraine
What could be causing flashes of light in front of my eyes when I look out of the extreme corners of my eyes? Retinal detachment or migraine precursor has been ruled out. [more inside]
What are the hidden secrets of renting?
We know how to buy, sell, and own a house in the burbs, but what are the secrets to renting and living in an apartment in Boston? [more inside]
What's the best way to deal with neighbors smoking in an apartment building?
What's the best way to deal with neighbors smoking in an apartment building? [more inside]
SF&F tragedy, noir, and "defective detectives."
BookFilter: Noir and postmodern fiction in sci-fi clothing. Find me The Big Sleep of science fiction. [more inside]
Recommended progressive piano studies for adult beginners. which are interesting but easy, eg Bartok’s Mikrokosmos.
Recommended progressive piano studies for adult beginners. which are interesting but easy, eg Bartok’s Mikrokosmos.
I have been learning how to play piano for a couple of months, practicing around an hour a day. Until recently I have been resigned to playing kids method books, grade 1 ABRSM pieces, scale books and adult all in one tuition books which are too heavy on folk tunes and blues for my liking.
But then I stumbled upon Bartok’s Mikrokosmos, which is a set of progressive studies, from complete beginner up. The studies are interesting, melodic, discordant, emotional, jazzy. Perfect. I am hungry more just like it. Is there such a thing as a contemporary set of progressive of studies for complete beginners, which are melodically interesting. Or am I cutting corners?
I want to prevent my new headphones from fraying near the plug.
I want to prevent my new headphones from fraying near the plug. Can you give me tips to prevent this from happening like it always does? [more inside]
Oh, Bugger.
I am a Canadian tourist in London. I've had my purse stolen. What do I do? Actions already taken and details inside [more inside]
seeking true grit
How do I identify the grit on a sharpening stone? [more inside]
Things to see and do in the UK while travelling by bike
Two guys travelling by bike through England/Scotland from mid-July to mid-August, but no definite plan. What to see and do? [more inside]
I hate to clean
I am a messy person who doesn't like to clean. Should I put more effort in being cleaner, or just accept this part of myself and get over the guilt? How? Or is this a psychological problem? Or maybe it's normal. [more inside]
Should I stop throwing away those proxy voting things from the stocks I own?
Should I stop throwing away those proxy voting things from the stocks I own? [more inside]
Is there an app for making babies?
I want to have as little sex as possible and maximize my chances of getting pregnant. What is the best iPhone app to help me? [more inside]
Fast Flatbed Scanner with SMTP/Exchange integration
I am looking for a Fast Flatbed SMTP/Exchange integrated Scanner. It should work as a stand-alone device i.e. networkable (so not attached to a PC) and email scans ('scan to email' so digital copies of receipts can go into an expense system) and be easy to use. It should have SMTP/Exchange/AD integration completely so it should be possible to Email to multiple email addressess if necessary. Money is not an issue but it should have fast and responsive scan times. I am really looking for recommendations especially from people with experience with enterprise ready Flatbed scanners in SME business environments. Something sturdy and reliable. Thank you.
This is nice but we have much better ice cream places in New York.
What do I tell New Yorkers when they disparage Boston, my home town? [more inside]
What's a good Lego-related gift for a 5 year-old?
What Lego-related gift should I get in the USA for a bright 5 year old Australian with Asperger spectrum issues? He likes Lego and has a particular interest in Legoland in San Diego. I want something that costs no more than $20 and I'd rather leave presents of actual Lego to his parents.
Chicago for middle-aged Chinese folk?
My (middle-aged, Chinese) parents and sister are coming to Chicago with me for a week this August to attend my graduation, and would like to make a vacation of it while they're here. Unfortunately, I'm enough of a homebody that few of my pastimes in Chicago are appropriate for groups, so I don't know how to entertain them for a week. We have a few ideas, and would love if the hive mind could offer advice on those or suggest additional ones. [more inside]
Pampering Staycation in NYC
Help me plan a fun, pampering, and interesting staycation in NYC! [more inside]
lexa-amateur mistake
I accidentally took 40mg of lexapro, having not taken any for three months. Is there anything I should do/expect in the over the next few days? [more inside]
Eastern Townships recommendations
a vegetarian and a pescetarian looking for recommendations on how best to entertain, lodge, and feed ourselves for 24 hours in Quebec's Eastern Townships! We'll be there towards the end of July.
What does it take to vote in the November election?
Is there an updated list of all the new Voter ID laws in various states in America? [more inside]
Help me use git the way it was intended.
I'm finally using git. Right now I'm using it stupidly: I pull from the main branch, make changes, push the changes, and then deploy. I'd like to be smarter with this process, and in particular, I'd like to be able to have (1) a process that can handle changes in priority easily and that (2) includes a clear separation between code that still needs to be tested vs. code ready to go live. [more inside]
Help me navigate this mine field of teenage drama and screwed up relationship between teen and adult.
Help me navigate this mine field of teenage drama and screwed up relationship between teen and adult. [more inside]
Help identify font
What font is this? [more inside]
How to get rid of a hickey asap!?
Advice to get rid of a hickey STAT? [more inside]
Great "fun" science fiction novels? (Think: Ready Player One)
What are some great "fun" science fiction novels? (Think: Ready Player One) [more inside]
How can I split HDMI audio off to headphones?
I'd like a splitter/dongle that I can plug an HDMI cable into that will pass video onto a monitor, but will allow me to plug headphones in to capture the sound. Does something like this exist? [more inside]
Mixed Tylenol and Alcohol
I just mistakenly took 2 Tylenol pills in the middle of the night to avoid a hangover tomorrow after a night of fairly heavy drinking. How bad is this? [more inside]
hal.dll missing or corrupt and I can't run recovery console
hal.dll is missing or corrupt on a Windows 98 install. But I have no system recovery disk and can't enter recovery console? This is a legit copy of windows, came installed on the computer when it was new, I have all the documentation and so forth, but from what I can discover online, it's from a vintage of Dell computers (it's an XPS 630) where they just want you to call Dell customer service and follow their directions. Halp. [more inside]
How do I avoid a soggy pie bottom?
How can I avoid a soggy crust for a coconut cream pie? [more inside]
Dungeness crab recipes
What are your favorite recipes for Dungeness Crab? [more inside]
Help! I'm teaching a dance class to blind teenagers tomorrow. Zumba moves and playlist wanted!
I have to teach a dance class to 6 blind teens tomorrow. Help me come up with a playlist and simple dance moves. [more inside]
Search for DVD recorder with tuner
I'd like to buy a brand new stand alone DVD recorder that has an over the air tuner (US) for under $200. Any recommendations? [more inside]
Making mountains out of molehills and rockin' some mo' skills/Butt naked beats with butt naked fills
How do I design a personal website/web portfolio that will dazzle, amaze, or at least intrigue everyone from professional web developers to non-technical senior level types outside the field and convince them that I do indeed, have the skills to pay the bills. [more inside]
Last-minute adventure near Milan
I missed my flight back to the states, and have an unexpected day to kill in/around Milan. Does anybody have suggestions for where to go / what to do? [more inside]
Ambition v. Overambition
What separates "ambitious" from "overambitious?" [more inside]
Grade Four Math Software
What is some good grade-four math software for a child who is comfortable using his computer? [more inside]
Does a stand alone translation tool like this exist?
The Google Translate app is awesome on my Droid 3 Android phone, especially the new conversation mode however it does not have an offline mode. I will be traveling where there is no convenient, fast, or affordable internet or cell service, specifically Cuba. Is there app or stand alone alternative that you know of? I especially like the speech to speech aspect of the conversation mode in google translate. English to Spanish and Spanish to English is what I am looking for.
Car washing for idiots
How to get the best out of coin-op style carwashes? [more inside]
Requesting strategies to help improve self-esteem.
Low self-esteem has eroded my quality of life. Most personal issues I have seem to stem from this core deficiency. What are some strategies to combat low self-esteem? [more inside]
Late at night while you're sleepin' poison ivy comes a'creepin'
Help me deal with my poison ivy -- the painful parts not so much the itchy. [more inside]
Best gifts for your spouse?
What is the most thoughtful gift you have given to (or received from) your spouse or SO? [more inside]
My laminate wood flooring creaks and cracks!
My laminate wood floor creaks like crazy. How do I fix it? [more inside]
Am I being too judgy?
How do I deal with my reaction to a friend confessing she has cheated on her fiancée? [more inside]
Not another relationship questions!
Really, I'm NOT a princess. Successfully navigating the living style/lifestyle differences in the beginning of a relationships. How? [more inside]
Help identifying tunnel in BBC TV program, Coast
Help identifying tunnel in BBC TV program, Coast [more inside]
Dead simple photo gallery
I need to create a simple photo gallery where users can choose a photo they want and download it. What's the best way to do this? [more inside]
Nice town for mini sister-reunion? Eastern Virginia version.
Sisters and I want to meet somewhere in the middle, between Connecticut and eastern Tennessee. We would like something that is a reasonable drive from each state. We are looking for a quaint type town, maybe a bed and breakfast, walking to restaurants and browsing antique stores? Not spending too much money would be nice. Close to the 81. Was thinking about northeastern VA-ish. We will be going end of July for 2 nights.
Paris with a peanut-allergic three-year-old -- tips for delicious nut-free dining?
We're heading to Paris for a week -- hurrah! Only catch: my three-year-old daughter has a really serious peanut and tree-nut allergy. She needs to avoid anything that could conceivably contain even a trace of nuts. Is she going to have to live off Goldfish crackers, or can we find safe dining options for her and ourselves? [more inside]
Best resources for breathing and pranayama?
What are the best resources to learn breathing and pranayama? More details inside [more inside]
How does the US wireless broadband landscape affect new products like Google Glasses?
How does the US wireless broadband landscape affect new products like Google Glasses? [more inside]
pup-pup!
Over the next few weeks I'll be looking at litters of puppies, searching for the Right One, and I'm well aware that every single puppy in the damn universe is the Right One. The Cutest Ever. So what are your tricks and tips for telling the best of the bunch, the healthiest, the most intelligent, from the rest?
July 7
Help me come up with some unorthodox ideas to help my blocked 22 year old son
Can any of you suggest some situations in the world, in another country ideally, that need the help of a strong, courageous, smart, big-hearted young man and where there is at least one adult in charge of things who might command the respect of my son? These would have to be situations that do not expect payment from people coming to help. He would see that as a total scam. Long explanation inside. [more inside]
How to ask client's IT team for SMTP access
I'm running software on a client's server that needs to send email reports. It typically uses sendmail, but we switched the DNS over to the client's own special MX records instead of the local mail exchanger. My software can use SMTP--what do I need to know in order to ask the client's IT guy for access without looking like a complete idiot? [more inside]
There is No Scent of Strawberries at Silverstone
What is the background music in the intro to the BBC's coverage of this year's British GP Qualifying? (Please, no spoilers!) [more inside]
Everything is bigger in Texas, including taxes.
Trying to make sense of our closing costs when purchasing a newly constructed home in Kaufman county (right outside of Dallas, TX) Mainly, property taxes. [more inside]
Folk Me Up
I'm looking for folky and bluegrassy covers of popular songs. Examples inside. [more inside]
The Best Of All Chickens
Today, a chicken was killed. And now, it is sitting in my fridge. Given that this is probably the highest-quality chicken I've ever had the chance to eat, how should I prepare it? [more inside]
Translate that!
Are there any untranslateable American and British words? [more inside]
What was time apart from your significant other like for you?
Help me make a decision: What was your experience living abroad without your partner for a year or more? [more inside]
Should I eat these accidentally sprouted lentils?
Should I eat the lentils that sprouted (well, sprouts became apparent) during cooking? [more inside]
Looking for photo credits for the bing dynamic wallpaper theme
I use the bing dynamic wallpaper for windows 7 and I can't find out any info on the pics. I have searched extensively and haven't found any site that indexes them or credits the authors etc. All I've found is a way to review the daily bing background on the homepage, but that only goes back 1 week. [more inside]
Comic flushing out those phonies who are only claiming to have been a reject so others will like them.
Several years ago I saw a webcomic about distinguishing between those who falsely claimed to be unpopular in high school from those who actually were. There was a young female narrator / investigator, maybe identified as the author of the comic but maybe not, who talked about interrogating friends and acquaintances to see how unpopular they really were. I think the last panel showed her writing in a note pad.
Anybody remember this? Google is getting me nowhere. I may have stumbled across it by following a link from here, but more likely from a comment than a post.
Connect laptop wirelessly to TV
How do I wirelessly stream laptop output to TV? No DLNA, no Intel WiDi, but HDMI port available. [more inside]
Masters degree question.
How much does a masters course in London usually end up costing? [more inside]
Piping scheduled strings through to twitter
Trying to pipe individual lines from a big text file through to twitter, at scheduled times. [more inside]
Baconmayo
I'm considering making some mayonnaise with bacon grease. I'd love some input on the idea. [more inside]
How best to use Airbnb as a host?
I finally got my act together and put my Brooklyn apartment up on Airbnb this morning. I'm a little surprised to be already receiving inquiries, and I realize now I really don't know how to vet these potential renters. For those who have hosted through the site before, what criteria do you use? Is no photo a red flag or is that normal? Is it suspicious or ordinary for them not to have much of a profile filled out? Are there specific questions I should be asking in my initial reply? (Will it make them suspicious if I ask for identifying information?) Are there scams to watch out for? Is there anything you'd add to a listing to head off potential trouble? [more inside]
What is this poem about a car accident?
Please help me find this poem about a car crash. I think it's from the New Yorker. Two drivers are in a car crash, and then they yell at each other until one of them says "wow, we were both scared," and then they feel better. Well, something like that. [more inside]
What font is this?
How do I afford graduate school?
I notified that I was accepted in my graduate program rather late (As in last week). I've decided to accept, but I have no clue how to go about getting loans. Bonus Q: What're the options for scholarships when it comes to grad school? More inside. [more inside]
Excel crash course
Can anyone recommend a great Excel course? [more inside]
I need a replacement for iGoogle
Can you help me find a replacement for iGoogle? I'd like a minimalist fast loading homepage with customizable news feeds. [more inside]
Is my boyfriend controlling or am I making this into an issue when it's no big deal?
My boyfriend tries to tell me what to wear, he says it's his preference but insists that I follow it. I told him that it's controlling and inappropriate however he sees it as completely ok. Am I overreacting? [more inside]
That's funny. Why? Because it's funny. Sigh.
I'm teaching a Language of Humour class to high school juniors and seniors. I need recommendations for things that are funny. And I need you to help me not fail. [more inside]
In a week or two, if you make the charts, the girls'll tear you apart
I want to learn to play an instrument. What's the best way to go about this? [more inside]
How to stop a 10 month old from spitting food?
This is for my mom. "Luke, baby i keep, ten months old, keeps spitting/blowing for lack of a better word, his food out. he is still on baby food plus a little table food. does it to both of them. does it to his mom too. what can we do about it? Will you ask people you know with babies about this situation? not fun."
Help me get my blog back up!
Why did my blog disappear? [more inside]
Banh Mi?! You hardly know me!
I'm going to a potluck-style picnic in a couple weeks and I'm taken with the idea of doing a Bahn Mi bar – what's your favorite recipes for making your own Bahn Mi sandwiches that would translate well to the outdoors? I've never made my own Bahn Mi before and I want to do a meat and a vegetarian filling so ideas for both very welcome!
HDTV has bluish lines all over it
My tv has turquoise colored lines all over it, and also on top of menus. It just randomly did this, no lightning storm or anything. Any ideas?
Sharp Aquos LC-46D62U or LC-52D62U (Tv is mounted to wall and the manual is for both tv's. Not sure which one mine is.)
How can I get dry-erase (Expo) marker out of my white dress shirt?
How can I get dry-erase (Expo) marker out of my white dress shirt? I threw rubbing alcohol, Shout, and a bleach pen at it. No visible difference from any of them immediately or after a wash, but it faded slightly in the dryer. I am tempted to do it all over again, but I'm worried about the impact those chemicals and washing over and over again is going to have on my new shirt! [more inside]
Recommend a good, cheap, platform-style bed frame
Help me find the right platform bed frame! I want something cheap and of reasonable quality, for a queen-sized mattress. This shouldn't be this hard, but BED SHOPPING IS OVERWHELMING! Please help. [more inside]
Help me fly by the seat of my financial pants.
Too many golden handcuffs. How do I get comfortable ridding myself of them? [more inside]
Please don't tell ME you think I'm wonderful. Instead, tell your five hundred closest friends.
How can I get people to stop gushing at me and instead promote me? [more inside]
I'd Love You More If You Would Drive the Speed Limit
My SO and I are ending the LD part of our LDR with a 4-day road trip home. Please help us still be a loving and functional couple by the end of it. [more inside]
Mayday! Your input for this guy about to crash?
I feel like a mess and never thought I'd end up here. I'm broke, headed for eviction, jobless, no insurance, on food stamps, overweight, have panic attacks, can't afford a therapist, have no friends that I can talk to about any of this. Did I mention I am 40 and married with two kids? If I don't get a handle on all this, my family is about to hit the skids. Ideas? [more inside]
Should I cancel the wedding?
In love with some difficult issues that are proving unsolved as the wedding looms. [more inside]
What are these plants in in my yard?
Post-college philosophy-paper substitute
My current occupation, although very interesting and satisfying in some ways, doesn't fulfill a craving I seem to have to apply my brain to challenging analytical tasks. I need something to do in my spare time that does. [more inside]
How to improve my radio voice delivery?
Need a voice coach in Toronto or some sort of DYI or online solution. For radio, not singing. [more inside]
What does the phrase "accounting logic" mean, particularly as used in the new book Monoculture?
I'm reading the book Monoculture by FS Michaels, which describes how what the author calls "the economic story," which she sees as dominant in our culture and as having replaced earlier dominant stories rooted in religion and science, is shaping people's work, communities, education, and relationships. In the book, Michaels talks about how "as the economic story spreads to government, a language based on economics develops along with a new way of thinking and reasoning about what goes on in government -- a kind of accounting logic. That accounting logic makes two assumptions: first, that anything and everything your government does can be assessed in terms of what value is added, and second, that the value added can be linked to how much money is spent on the activity in the first place." Etc. My question is: in this context, what does the phrase "accounting logic" mean? [more inside]
Bird call ID, please
There's no way for me to search this (that I know of), so I'll just ask the Magical Mefites. What is this beautiful birdsong I hear almost every morning outside my window? I love it; it puts me in a good mood when I hear it in the morning--even if it's a ridiculous hour like 4:30am (thankfully, not often). I tried to clean up the audio by filtering out traffic noise, so there's probably some odd artifacting; also, the interval is longer--I just trimmed out the longer periods of silence. Pacific NW.
Chrome window switching?
Need shortcut to switch Chrome windows [more inside]
Looking for an old science fiction book
I am looking for a book. It's apparently about a boy who falls through a door / portal and travels through time - maybe forwards, maybe backwards - to Wales. It probably has a female author. Any help appreciated. [more inside]
Is this a weed or what?
Weed or flower filter: I was on vacation for a week or so and now there is a bunch of stuff here that I can't identify. HELP! [more inside]
Why does my battery like come on intermittently?
My 2004 Saturn Ion has been having a problem with the battery light coming on intermittently. What could be causing this issue? [more inside]
Need a smallish office chair solution for limited space
I'd like ideas or recommendations for an office chair that doesn't hurt, with special decorating/space/shopping concerns. Complication: in Greece. After five+ years of computing from my kitchen table while sitting in a regular straight-backed wooden kitchen chair, I find the urgent need to move my workspace ... and get a chair that doesn't assault my back and legs. But it's tricky, because space is limited and many of the usual chair recommendations may not be available. Too many pix and way too much info inside. [more inside]
learning more about home construction and maintence
I own a house built in 1904 - how can I learn more about home construction and home maintenance? I do a lot of my basic repairs myself and always make a point to watch and ask questions (non-obnoxiously) when I have repair people over. [more inside]
Help me put a ring on it.
Need help shopping for wedding bands in Melbourne. Does it make sense to pay more for plain bands? [more inside]
What A Strange Direction
My partner is new to gaming that isn't point-and-click adventure style. I am looking for games with a very gentle learning curve that might get her more familiar with WASD movement, particularly in 3d. Portal 1 and Quantum Conundrum have proved to be a little too unforgiving too early on with jumping requirements. Any suggestions?
Rainbow-themed playlist.
I'm making a Rainbow-themed playlist for my boyfriend. Could you recommend colour-themed songs? I'm doing fine for "Reds" and "Blues." It's the Indigos and Violets (or Purples) and Oranges and Yellows (and the non-rainbowy colours, like Browns and Whites and Blacks) that are tripping me up.
July 6
Please Help me Convert Video
How do I make a DVD from a MP4 file? [more inside]
Help me determine if this car battery is indeed the guilty party
Is it sufficient for two occurrences of "Oops I Left The Headlights On" to completely kill an automobile battery's ability to maintain a charge? [more inside]
Where can I get large poster prints of Andy Goldsworthy's more popular pictures?
Where can I get large poster prints of Andy Goldsworthy's more popular pictures? [more inside]
You've goutta be kidding me
How long should I delay confirmation/treatment of "gout"? [more inside]
stories for boys
All I know about Northern Ireland is from films from1990 to the present. [more inside]
Going for the artsy, pseudo-vintage look.
Where might one find t-shirts that depart from the mass-produced style? Online, I have only come across this and this; I like their 1) hemless collars/bottoms/sleeves and 2) light/thin fabric. [more inside]
Why would two rats be upset at a turtle stealing their radish?
Wedding officiant in Utah?
We're planning a very small wedding in Salt Lake City. Can anyone recommend an officiant in the area?
My man fixes my stuff, but doesn't touch me enough
Boyfriend is great, but how can I get him to meet my emotional needs more consistently? [more inside]
How do I keep my dress from riding up under my backpack?
How do I keep my dress from riding up under my backpack? (more inside) [more inside]
Par Can Desk Light?
Identification of this tool?
Can anyone tell me what this is? I've had this for many years but now am clearing out my "collections" so my kids won't have to. Before I send this off I'd like to know what it is, and that would probably help interest someone in having it. Only marking is "Germany".
Philip K Dick movie triple bill
I need suggestions for the optimal order in which to watch Blade Runner, Total Recall (Verhoeven) and Minority Report. Mixed crowd, but all action / SF appreciators. All movies on Blu-ray. Will be eating oriental take-out. My instinct is Total Recall as desert. Is that best?
Okay to use replacement laptop charger that is .5v more and .2a less than original?
Ordered a 18.5v ~ 4.9a laptop charger on Amazon, but received a 19v ~ 4.7a charger. Is it okay to use? It seemed to work for the hour that I tested it, but I wasn't sure if I should continue using it.
Moving from Brooklyn to Boston
what is the brooklyn of boston? [more inside]
hypoallergic hair dye
Best hypoallergic hair dyes? [more inside]
Wanted: well written fan fiction
Prompted by this thread on the blue, I'm calling upon the hivemind to recommend some GOOD fan fiction or slash fiction or both. As long as it's entertaining and doesn't involve an inner goddess, I'm down.
Find my meebo messenger replacement!
Meebo messenger replacement: What's a good chat client that: 1) lets me save login info for multiple chat accounts, 2) allows me to message 'offline' (invisible) buddies, and 3) doesn't require a 'public profile' or facebook link? [more inside]
Do I listen to 8 year old or let her read quietly for summer homework?
Should I let my 8 year old read out loud to me for summer reading comprehension? [more inside]
Ew.
I'm beginning to think that owning pets isn't right for me. But I'm an animal lover, I grew up with pets and the thought of giving my own away breaks my heart. What should I do about this? [more inside]
Pandora and Spotify don't get it.
I am currently obsessed with the first minute of Some Nights by Fun. I've thought a lot about it and I think it's the a capella with multiple distinct harmonies and the clap beat that really delight me. Suggest other songs / artists I'd also like. [more inside]
Songs to nod your head to
Please give me songs that make you want to nod your head. [more inside]
My honey has money, and I don't, it's kinda driving me buggy. Help?
This is going to sound like I'm complaining, but I'm not. I just want to find a way to reset my way of thinking. Hope me? [more inside]
Hair club for cats?
Why is my cat balding? [more inside]
Abuse, anger; how far should I go to support my girlfriend?
My girlfriend has suffered a lot, and is very angry: she wants me to confront my housemate for his passivity to the abuse she endured. Should I? Long and complicated. [more inside]
Are all sperm the same?
One of my sperm contains 37.5MB of DNA information in it. Does every single one of my sperm have the very same identical 37.5MB of information? [more inside]
Please help me stop flipping out about my financial aid SNAFU.
I just received word that, due to a tiny technical error, I have to re-apply to get my Stafford loan to pay for grad school. This message was directly followed by the notice that I must pay for my tuition by Sunday night at 11:59PM or I'll be blocked out of my classes. Because it's now the weekend, no one is available to help at the financial aid office. My parents said they can float me the money until the loan clears. Should I take them up on the offer? [more inside]
Songs that would fit perfectly over a getting ready video montage
I need some song ideas for a bride-to-be's "getting ready" playlist. [more inside]
Geeky intellectual hero(ine) stories
Help me find movies/TV shows about geeky, intellectual heroes! [more inside]
Can I repeatedly autoclave a buffer solution?
Can I repeatedly (2-3 times) autoclave a buffer solution without altering it? [more inside]
In Search of Occupy Blueprint
Occupy Wall Street held a National Gathering in Philadelphia which ended this week. There was supposed to be a collectively drafted "blueprint" document emerging from sessions. The last report I could find mentioned that it was still being compiled on July 5. It was supposed to be completed to hand off to a group marching to NYC over the course of this weekend. Does anyone have a link to this document? All I've seen are some painted signs that were used in the process.
How can I get these animals to get along?
How do I get my cat to stop hissing and howling at the other cats in the house we moved into? How do I get one of the cats in particular to stop being so hyper-aggressive at times? [more inside]
How can I stop comparing my life to others'?
It seems like every day I will see someone accomplish something amazing. My first thought is not to be impressed or happy for them, but to try and find out their age. Then, if they are younger than I, I'm overcome with jealousy and regret. [more inside]
The Hills Are Alive . . .
The Sound of Music: Alternate Beginning? Totally a long shot, but I swear I remember a different beginning to The Sound of Music movie. I remember the children in the big house, a storm, and a newborn baby crying. And I clearly remember that this beginning explained/alluded to the mother's death - that she died in childbirth. [more inside]
Shine on, Crazy
Are birthday themes the same as anniversary themes (e.g., gold, silver, paper, etc.)? If not, is there a separate set of themes for birthdays? My gf's 60th is coming up, and while i'm sure she'd be happy to have something with diamonds no matter what, I'd prefer not to limit myself that way if 60 is not "the diamond birthday", and especially not if 60 is some other kind of birthday. OTOH, if there is a theme for 60, it may help me with my long-standing case of CMGS (Clueless Male Gifting Syndrome).
What type of city bike should a newbie get?
What should I be looking for in a decent city bike? [more inside]
What do I need to know to be a proper support kayak to a long distance swimmer?
What do I need to know to be a proper support boat to a long distance swimmer? [more inside]
What's a Great Gift for a Public Transportation-Loving Toddler?
What are your favorite public transportation/travel gifts for toddlers available in the U.S.? [more inside]
Here's another book question for you!
Please help me identify this book! [more inside]
Asking for job advice for partner from future graduate advisor - etiquette?
I'm planning to ask for job advice on behalf of my partner, from my future graduate advisor, because my partner's interested in a job opening at my future graduate school. Totally acceptable / useful thing to do, or a horrible violation of academic etiquette? [more inside]
How does one get into commercial writing?
How does one get into commercial writing? [more inside]
Help me watch the Olympics on my computer.
I want to watch the Olympics. I do not have cable. I do not have a TV. I do have a computer with an Internet connection. I work business hours on the west coast of the U.S. Can I watch the Olympics? [more inside]
Selective connection on some wifi devices.
Why will some of my home devices only connect to the wireless router if I power it off and then on again. [more inside]
Inscription translation?
I'd like a translation of this (I think Japanese) inscription in this picture frame. Could you provide one? [more inside]
Do marijuana lollipops from legal dispensaries work/help?
Do medicinal marijuana lollipops work? (Everything is legal and on the up-and-up). [more inside]
Who is responsible for rental pool damage?
Who is responsible for rental pool damage? [more inside]
Pirates and Pits
Pirates! Help me find a story about a pirate's treasure pit or what the story was based on, if it was real. [more inside]
Can Istream with uStream with IP camera?
Anyway to broadcast a Foscam to Facebook via uStream or Livestream? [more inside]
Help me overthink a song from Bloody, Bloody Andrew Jackson.
Some very specific questions about three different lines from the song "The Corrupt Bargain" from the musical Bloody, Bloody Andrew Jackson [more inside]
"Muscle weighs twice as much as fat"
I'm working out, particularly around the torso, and I'm much stronger. My waistline hasn't budged. My weight has barely changed since I started going to the Y and doing 20 minutes of cardio a day plus lifting weights. Loving wife says that's because I'm building muscle, and "muscle weighs twice as much as fat." What's truly going on?
What is the best going away present?
Recommendations for a going away present for coworker/friend moving home to Bangladesh from New York? [more inside]
Noob networking
I have an off-site server running ubuntu with 2 IP addresses (IPv4). How can I setup the interfaces file or what have you so that the server can be accessed from both addresses (SSH, ftp, etc.), but to the outside world whatever is done from one address is reported to the outside world with that same address? [more inside]
Planning a honeymoon, have no concrete ideas - so give us your ideas!
Need honeymoon recommendations in the Caribbean, Central America, or South America. Give us your recommendations! [more inside]
Wanted: more screen real estate for Macbook.
Help me pick a big-ass-monitor for my Macbook Pro (OSX Lion)! [more inside]
Small business websites and WordPress
After a fairly unsuccessful foray into getting someone else to design my business website (I hate it, and it looks amateur), I've decided to go for a pre-made WordPress theme. However, I feel like I'm a bit out of touch with websites these days and have a few questions. [more inside]
Help me find simplified/well-designed versions of useful/common forms.
Help me find simplified/well-designed versions of useful/common forms. [more inside]
Netflix and Silverlight Disaster
I can't for the life of me get Netflix to stop skipping every nanosecond on my Macbook. I have tried de-installing Silverlight, re-installing it, updating it, updating my Firefox, trying it on Internet Explorer. Nothing works. I have looked up every article or thread about the issue, and no dice. [more inside]
Racial Hostility in the Workplace
Co-worker just ended a diatribe about different types of Black people. We want to see consequences for this person. How do we write this report to HR? [more inside]
High-Level Tech Blogs
What are some good tech blogs for non-nerds? [more inside]
First gun range experience: Glock?
I want to shoot my first gun at a firing range and I am thinking of starting with a Glock. Is this goal realistic for an inexperienced woman with small hands? Possible further complication: I live in Chicago and do not own any guns.
Make like a horseshoe crab
Good places to have sex on the beach within an hour of Boston? [more inside]
Where should we go camping within 2 hours of Binghamton, NY?
Where should we go camping within 2 hours of Binghamton, NY? [more inside]
Help for parents of an adult with Asperger's.
Need help finding resources for parents of adult children with Asperger's. [more inside]
Where to buy decent ballet flat in Australia
Dowdy-shoe wearer needs advice about buying decent quality ballet flats in Australia [more inside]
Yet another iPhone/iPad app question
Point and Click Games for Ipad/iPhone.
Hello, yet another app dream. I want to create a fabulous point and click game that is addictive and is playable on the iPhone and iPad. I have the concept and idea down for the game. Now it's time to sit down and start prototyping. Only i have no clue where to start. [more inside]
July 5
Harass and serve?
Guy who sexually assaulted me is trying to become a cop. This makes me terrified and enraged. Help?! [more inside]
Once they've responded, what next?
On dating sites/OKCupid: Once I get past the initial introductions, where do I go in the conversation? Alternately, could it be something in my profile that encourages people to not respond past the initial reaction? [more inside]
How to get the right copy editor
I need a copy editor. What questions should I ask, how much should I expect to pay, and how can I make certain to prepare the ms so that I get the most from the copy editor? [more inside]
Why would a landlord offer only a six month lease?
Why would a landlord want only a six month lease on a house rental? [more inside]
Help me prepare for a job hunt with little work experience.
Lots of life experience/education, not so much work experience. Help me get ready to get a job. [more inside]
Business in Boston
Moving to Boston to join a new tech startup. How can I quickly get involved in the tech startup community? [more inside]
Strategic vagabonding
Another help-the-20-something-find-life-direction-question. Specific angle: international travel [more inside]
Help me remix my wedding dress
I have a wedding dress. I have a black tie event in August. I want to wear a modified version of my perfect-for-me wedding dress to said black tie event. What are some things I can do to remix it? [more inside]
Help a nerd spell her French-language text tattoo correctly, please!
French language nerd wanted! Help a nerd spell her French-language text tattoo correctly, please. [more inside]
Is it bigoted to conflate "Jews" and "Israelis"?
Is it bigoted to conflate "Jews" and "Israelis"? [more inside]
Best New Yorker profiles
Best profiles in The New Yorker? [more inside]
No babies...yet
If RISUG (Reversible Inhibition of Sperm Under Guidance) is approved in India how can I, a US citizen, go there and get the procedure done? [more inside]
How do I accommodate people of size at our wedding?
How do I accommodate people of size at our wedding? [more inside]
What's this red line on my thumb?
What's this red line on my thumb? (Picture inside, not gross) [more inside]
Does the PS3 "Backup Utility" actually back up PS1 and PS2 Virtual Memory Card savegames, or doesn't it?
Does the PS3 "Backup Utility" actually back up PS1 and PS2 Virtual Memory Card savegames, or doesn't it? [more inside]
Worth the wait?
Should I wait for the next iPhone to be released, or buy a 4S right now? [more inside]
Should twitter be for more than following hot women?
I'm bothered that my friend follows mostly hot girls on twitter; how do I deal with this? [more inside]
Show me what you got, nature!
I'm looking for all awe-inspiring annual/seasonal/migratory natural phenomena within a 4 hour drive of Los Angeles. Help me fill my yearly calendar with sights to see! [more inside]
Renting to Ace Ventura.
How do i collect from (soon to be former) tenants in Texas who do not dispute that or how much they owe? [more inside]
Where are the batting cages in the SF Bay Area?
Where are the batting cages in the SF Bay Area? [more inside]
NYC to Atlanta and back on $200 or less.
Round-trip from NYC to Atlanta, GA for under $200? On Labor Day weekend? [more inside]
what should I cook for friends why they deal with an extended illness?
Food recommendations, recipes, anecdotes and other suggestions for friends with a long illnesse? [more inside]
Oh man, I frapped it up : (
How can I make my homemade frappes less watery? And more like Starbuck's frappes? What's their secret?! [more inside]
Help Feed My Reading Elephant's Kindle
Can you recommend something to read from the Kindle Owners' Lending Library? I have trawled through there for ages this month and last month and I'm having trouble finding something good that I haven't read before. [more inside]
Turning off the hunger
How can I turn off my hunger when I'm getting good nutrition and my stomach isn't empty? [more inside]
What were these flying 'stars' I saw yesterday evening?
Yesterday evening I was looking at the sky and noticed a star like object flying across the sky. As I watched I noticed there were 5 or so more... and then a moment later even more, perhaps 9 or 10, moving at the same speed across the sky, South to North, at a rather slow pace, yet I got the impression they were very high up so in actual fact moving at some speed. I called out to the wife to see them and she saw them also. So I guess the question is, what objects flying across the sky may look like stars moving? I thought satellites but never thought they flew in clusters like that. [more inside]
Mouse House Travel
I'm hoping to find someone with some insight on why we're being presented with really pricey flights from Milwaukee to Orlando, and what options we may have come this November. [more inside]
Spoilers wanted for Spec Ops: The Line
Give me spoilers about Spec Ops: The Line! [spoilers] [more inside]
Your Break My Dryer. I Break Your Face.
Contractor damaged my dryer while working on my house and now refuses to pay to repair it. What kind of leg, if any, do I have to stand on? [more inside]
Cloning/imaging my Mac
I think I am going to replace my Macbook Pro's hard drive. I would like to check that this cloning/imaging backup process I have in mind makes sense. [more inside]
Hopefully this is Lynchburg's redeeming quality
Do the two Lynchburg, VA j. crew clearance outlets have normal hours? [more inside]
Can you translate my bar of soap?
Summer Days (And Summer Nights!!)
Searching for the perfect summer shoe/sandal. Stringent requirements after the jump. [more inside]
I Should Have Learned This Somewhere
How do people keep their light-colored clothing nice? [more inside]
Short-term (4 month) accommodation in Gainesville, FL
I'm going to be a visiting researcher at the University of Florida, Gainesville from late August to late December this year. What's the best way to find accommodation for this time period? [more inside]
want to have a pleasant goodbye for both sides
How to part with your current employer in good terms? [more inside]
Free Online Photo Editor that works for high rez pics w/ nice Pixlr-like effects?
Are there any free photo editors that can work with higher resolution images (300dpi) and offer some of the effects that Pixlr-o-matic can? They seem to save to web resolution only.
Montreal or bust
What's the going rate to drive a friend's stuff across the country? [more inside]
Blender materials, what am I missing?
I've tried yet again to tackle learning Blender, and yet again, I'm stuck on what should be a basic simple thing. Adding a material to an object. Can someone get me unstuck? [more inside]
Have you hiked both Table Mountain (in Oregon, USA) and Mt. St. Helens?
Have you hiked both Table Mountain (in Oregon, USA) and Mt. St. Helens? How much more difficult was Mt. St. Helens? [more inside]
Simplify the kids' computer experience
I want to make an elementary school computer lab just work, magically if possible. I am Windows deficient and could use guidance. [more inside]
How do one handle buying property jointly before getting marrried?
How do one handle buying property jointly before getting marrried? (One partner has assets and the other one has income) [more inside]
Summer cooking
I recently picked up some citrus sea salt, and have no idea what to do with it. [more inside]
Why is baking soda slippery?
Solutions of baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and potassium metabisulfite in water are both slippery to the touch. Why is that?
My left foot.
YANAD/YANMD. My foot is bothering me - is it something that I should be concerned about? [more inside]
Any use nowadays for a phone modem?
Going through various bits of old computer equipment in a closet I found a few phone modems, both of the the internal card variety and the external USB variety. Assuming they'll even function (the cards are all wintel), is there anything interesting I can do with these in a world of broadband wired and wireless internet? Or are they fit only for recycling?
Car got towed, how do I fight the charges?
Car got towed in San Francisco, what are my odds of getting the charges dismissed? [more inside]
Taco Night+
What are some good fixin's ("fixins'"?) for taco night on a low-carb/quasi-paleo diet? [more inside]
Info from Silverlight into Excel?
Can I get this information from a site on Microsoft Silverlight into Excel? [more inside]
Trade reference etiquette
A question about the etiquette of supplying trade references on wholesale credit application forms. [more inside]
Home Movie Music Suggestions
Help me pick the best family home movie montage music. [more inside]
What can I make from the fabric from my wedding dress's train?
I'm having the train removed from my wedding dress-- what can I do with the leftover material as a keepsake? [more inside]
Omelette du fromage isn't going to cut it...
So I have a chance to interpret for a bunch of French chefs who are coming to my city. The catch: I have zero knowledge of the hotel industry. [more inside]
Fiber to my home
Is gigabit (fiber) internet access all that? [more inside]
Those video games will rot your brain!
My 7 year old son has misplaced his imagination. Please help me help him find it again... [more inside]
The other perspective
Can you recommend a book which gives a perspective of the occupying military force in a conflict zone? [more inside]
Doing It Myself Is Cheap Until You Calculate the Opportunity Cost
How on earth do working parents get their school-age kids to after-school extracurriculars? Help me solve this brain-twisting logic problem. [more inside]
Music Production Course? Conversational Spanish Course? (NYC)
Conversational Spanish summer coursel? Audio engineering summer course? NYC location. [more inside]
Lookin' for new tubes
Looking for blogs that are thought-provoking, light-hearted, and short-winded. Examples: Futility Closet, Colossal, Said the Gramophone. No linkblogs. Nothing cynical/polemical. Few posts per day. I prefer distinct focuses and subjects to meandering, text and thoughts to images and video (though media supported by text is fine if the media's brief enough). I like learning new things, but again, I want short, light reads – posts I can read in two minutes tops.
What on earth is this?
What a busy little flag! But whose is it?
Flag Idenifying: can you help identify this flag? Description, but no pictures. [more inside]
Suggested packet-based protein supplement
Need a suggestion on a protein supplement that tastes good, has the right ingredients, and doesn't cost more than a new car. Complication: I need it to be in packets. [more inside]
hypoallergenic family dog
Suggestions for friendly, hypoallergenic, not too big, not too small dog? [more inside]
Stop the Snark
A friend of mine recently started working at a gym. This gym offers "coaching" where employees/volunteers advise you on what to eat and your exercise habits. The issue with my friend is that she is constantly gossiping to me about clients and their weight/eating issues/laziness. [more inside]
Fringe: Critical Season 4 Episodes?
Fringe Fans: What are the absolutely essentials episodes in Season 4? [more inside]
Negotiating Job Offer - more money plz!
I got a job offer! Hooray! The job doesn't have any benefits attached to it, but I have been offered a high salary to compensate for this. Should I negotiate one particular benefit important to me? [more inside]
Where should we spend our volunteer time?
My husband and I (both engineers) are looking to volunteer about 6 months of our time abroad. Where should we be looking? [more inside]
Can you identify this table?
Hack a Depends? I'm out of ideas.
Dog diapers suck, they're expensive and they don't fit! Anyone successfully hacked adult diapers for a large-breed dog? My dog (and my floors and my nose) need help.... [more inside]
Sharing good PowerPoint slides within a company
Please help me set up something like a shared shoebox for keeping useful PowerPoints slides, ideas for visual representations, graphics, etc. [more inside]
Hungry Hungry Kittehs
Scheduled, portion-controlled feeding is failing for my cats. One ravenous kitty versus one food-agnostic kitty equals lots of frustration for me. Can anyone share some tips for making this work? [more inside]
My six year-old cat is acting strange about food and defecating. Help me help him.
My six year-old cat is acting strange about food and defecating. Help me help him. [more inside]
That's not what I heard?!
Not sure how to address the problem of over-embellishment/editing of conversations and situations by a close relative in which I am present and recall things differently (more details inside) [more inside]
What should I name a non-fiction reading stage?
What should I name a Non-fiction book reading venue? [more inside]
Help me find a (non-sexual) spa in Toronto that will hire a not-yet-registered massage therapy graduate.
Help me find a (non-sexual) spa in Toronto that will hire a not-yet-registered massage therapy graduate! [more inside]
Apretado! Apretado!
Spanish-translation-filter. As part of this month's Mefi music challenge, I'm doing a cover of Radiohead's Subterranean Homesick Alien in Spanish, and need translation help. [more inside]
Surely, orange swimmies are not the answer.
Triathletes and swimmers: How did you stop having panic attacks in open water? [more inside]
I would like to use LED lighting in my apartment and be able to change colors and brightness. how do I go about that?
I would like to use LED lighting in my apartment and be able to change colors and brightness. how do I go about that? [more inside]
School woes help!
Anyone have any experience with Georgia Connections Academy/online public school/homeschooling? What do I need to ask/be aware of? Any other non-traditional schooling options? (snowflake details..) [more inside]
Sleep tracker gadget recommendations?
What's the newest in sleep-tracking gadgets? [more inside]
Help me get my kid "Fired Up"
Got my nine-year-old a Kindle Fire for her birthday. Help me set it up and fill it with good things. [more inside]
He's still mad
Didn't return an aquaintance's call back and he's still mad 2 years later. What to do? [more inside]
What determines drownings after an ocean sinking?
I read today of a capsized yacht that killed over two dozen people, and I realized that I think I may over-estimate my ability to survive a sinking. I have always thought that I could tread water or float on my back for a long time if that were to ever happen, but the fact that people generally drown and sometimes soon after the sinking makes me think that there's a lot of complex things happening during the sinking (and I am probably over-estimating how much energy it would require for me to keep swimming). What is ordinarily the causes of drownings in sinkings at sea? [more inside]
Information on companies going from public to private
When a company goes from public to private ownership do they have to file a form with the SEC that lists the major shareholders being bought out and the number of shares held by each? If so, how can I find that information on EDGAR? [more inside]
I Won't Give Up Finding This Song
I heard an alternate version of Jason Mraz's "I Won't Give Up" on the radio that had a full band playing it with him or it was a remix, but I can't find it anywhere. My googlefu is failing me. Anyone know of a way to get a copy of that version (legally)?
First Time at Sleepaway Camp for Kid with OCD. How to Ensure he has a Great Time?
How to best prepare my 13-year old son who has (mostly under control) bad-thought OCD for 2 weeks of sleepaway camp, other than ensuring he has enough socks? [more inside]
Insane Kettle Grilling?
I'm looking for one crazy over the top Weber Kettle Grill recipe. If it exists. [more inside]
How do I optimize the shortest route between all 48 continental U.S. states?
How do I optimize the shortest route between all 48 continental U.S. states? [more inside]
頭が真っ白!
Bilinguals and polyglots of AskMefi please hope me. I understand a lot of words and grammar in Japanese but don't seem able to use them. How do you make the leap from "knowing" a word or grammar pattern to actually being able to use it in conversation? [more inside]
ID a faucet from this picture, win valuable gratitude
Can anyone help me ID this faucet? Late last night I noticed a steady drip/stream, and could not find an obvious manufacturer ID before, which I'd like to get before barreling into a hardware store looking for the right replacement parts.
what's that video - male friend edition?
i'm looking for the funny video where a guy has a hard time making new male friends. it's set after a basketball game and he's trying to hang out with the guy he played with - asking to watch a sports game with him, either at his place, or at a bar. the point is that it's difficult for a guy to make guy friends after college. please help! thanks! [more inside]
Semi-quick fixes for dilapidated objects
Will you share your best fixing-smaller-things-up hacks?
'I buffed it with gasoline and you'd never know there'd been water damage.' 'Did you know you can use a regular iron on them? Good as new.' 'Hardware stores sell them for 17c and that's all it takes to make a working switch.' [more inside]
Help me get over being excluded from a bf's family event.
I wasn't invited to my boyfriend's family function, and I can't seem to get over it. Help me. [more inside]
How to find a DVD drive for both my computer and TV.
Is there a DVD player that will work with my Mac and also connect to the HDMI port on my TV for playing movies? Bonus points if it is compact enough to carry when I travel. [more inside]
Highest reading age english language newspaper
Which english language newspaper (online or offline) has the highest reading age score? [more inside]
Raccoons aren't so cute after all
Help! I have a bunch of raccoons in my house! [more inside]
B2B or not 2B? Wetting beak in manufacture.
New to manufacturing. How do I go from making things to having something made? [more inside]
Need lots of win7 arcade Games for 3rd world, non-english, non-computer savvy 10 year olds
Where can I download lots of win7, laptop compatible arcade-ish games for non computer savvy, non English speakers with no internet. Can't you buy a bundle of like 400+ classic arcade games from somewhere? [more inside]
Is my knee ever going to get better?
Is my knee ever going to get better? I fell about two months ago, and it hurts and pops incessantly. [more inside]
July 4
Yo! We found your phone!!
Best practices for returning a Boost Mobile ZTE Android phone to it's rightful owner? The phone is fully charged, but I can't seem to turn it "on" or access the contents. The data chip is in there (I checked) I'm not sure if it is missing a sim chip, and inspection seems to indicate this phone doesn't use that technology. Help? [more inside]
Puppy problem? Or par for the course?
Puppy woes: Is there any possibility of making this work? [more inside]
I need to send images and stop sending drives.
PC Tech filter: What's a common disk-image format that I can use for storing images of bootable flash media? Sending new media to customers so slow and expensive. [more inside]
Contextual book review sites?
Another question about book review sites: I've seen the other questions here about a rottentomatoes-type site for book reviews, but they're a few years old. Has anything changed lately? [more inside]
Fall seven times get up eight times
We've all heard the story of how Edison failed repeatedly before coming up with the light bulb. What other individuals failed and failed before succeeding (in any category)? Tell me more about them.
What can my new, solo bedtime ritual be?
I need a new bedtime ritual. My partner and I separated last week. He used to come sit with me for a few minutes when I went to bed, or I would call him to say good night if he wasn't home. What can I do now instead? [more inside]
How to get a close shave with no razor bumps?
I'm a dark haired 26-year old guy, with what I assume to be a tough, bristly beard. How do I get past the 5'oclock shadow and razor bumps that have been starting to plague me as of late? (Details inside) [more inside]
Puerto Rican Daydreams
How hard would it be for me (a "mainlander" of non-Latina heritage, with no connections) to get a job in Puerto Rico? And if I did get a job there, would I like living there? [more inside]
Point me to a font size ruler.
I need a clear ruler with picas, points and line thicknesses on it, for measuring printed materials. I want it today. I'm in Australia and go shopping on the Gold Coast or Brisbane. The nearest thing I've found is at Officeworks but the picture is too small to be able to tell if it's what I need and they appear to only sell it online. I'm willing to pay up to $100. Maybe more if it's super-duper.
What's the fastest way from San Diego North County to LA during rush hour?
I need to be in Beverly Hills by 9AM tomorrow morning. I'm in San Diego North County. I have two basic options: Either take the I-5 N all the way or take the I-15 N and then go west towards Beverly Hills. I am assuming that taking the I-15, even though it's the longer route, will get me there faster during rush hour, because I'll avoid Orange County, South LA and all that mess. Am I right?
Is 25-30% above industry average too much to ask for in a salary negotiation?
Salary question: I'm aware of the industry average, but believe I have more to offer, and the employer seems very eager to have me as well. Is it out of the line to suggest an amount that I know is 25-30% above the average salary for the position in question? [more inside]
Who is the woman in this picture found in my grandfather's wallet? Not Grandma.
Who is this blond bombshell? [more inside]
Help me track down this wallet's owner
I found a wallet on the street today. All the money and credit cards and other ID were still in it. I would very much like to put it back into the owner's hands directly. Help me track this person down! [more inside]
Good Outdoor Gear review sites?
can anyone recommend some good websites that review sporting goods, from running shoes to tents, and that do not require a subscription?
The life I have not lived
Will I ever be in a ‘normal’ relationship? [more inside]
Tile importing + baby clothing = ?
Can you help me come up with some cute ideas for a customized onesie or other baby gift, having to do with tile? [more inside]
I want some currants.
Who in San Francisco will sell me currants? [more inside]
How can I cope with a really quiet talker?
How do you deal with 'quiet talkers'? It's really, really bad. [more inside]
Slow lover seduction
We've been married for 5 years now and since the beginning my wife has had male lovers although we've always played together...how can we keep the tension going for longer before we all get to the bedroom? [more inside]
Surgical Saltiness
Why does everything taste mega-salty after my surgery? [more inside]
Strategies for redirecting interviews
I'm looking for strategies and tips you use to interrupt, re-direct and control interviews with chatty folk. [more inside]
I have an expiration date.
Why do my relationships never pass the two-month mark? [more inside]
What to do with cake trimmings?
What to do with excess cake? [more inside]
Hypomania or hype?
I had what I believe to be a hypomanic episode a couple of months ago. Should I bring it up with my doctor at my next consultation? (lengthy special snowflakeness behind the cut) [more inside]
If it's a white lie, we may need some bleach
Am I overreacting to a lie my partner told me? [more inside]
What books can help me read a landscape?
What books can help me read a landscape? [more inside]
Little kids, big tree?
I need ideas for tree-based fun for my small kids. [more inside]
mind-blowing multi-city trips
MeFi travelers, please give me excellent ideas for an adventurous and memorable multi-city trip! [more inside]
How do I get my boyfriend to stop repeating himself endlessly?
My wonderful boyfriend gets stuck on one topic of conversation for days at a time and has trouble talking about anything else. How do I kindly get him unstuck next time before he drives me insane? [more inside]
Low to no medicine birth control options
please advise on birth control options particularly if you have experience with low-medicine or no-medicine methods. [more inside]
How to succeed at horse racing without really trying
Going out to the race track today at Lonestar Park in Grand Prarie, Texas. Problem: I've never been to a horse race before. I don't even know how they work. I would like to place one or two bets, but I don't know anything about the competitors. Any suggestions for a first timer in general? Futhermore, (if you are familiar with today's race), which horse would be a safe bet?
How should we recycle old VHS tapes
VHS tapes. How/where to recycle them? [more inside]
Please overfestivalise me!
Edinburgh festival filter: 7 whole days. Where to start? [more inside]
Which brands carry decent non iron slim fit dress shirts for Men (size -14.5 - 32/33)?
Which brands carry decent non iron slim fit dress shirts for Men (size -14.5 - 32/33)?
I have almost bought every single one I like at Brooks Brothers. Their fit is good but I am looking to shop from another brand so that I have more choice. Also I would prefer to go with a brand that has a good online store (hate going to the mall). Please note it has to be non iron. I am okay with BB prices but wouldn't mind learning about more reasonable options - Thanks!
Application Manager isn't managing
How can I re-set Adobe Application Manager to recognize when there are updates available again? [more inside]
Entry level work for an American outside the US?
Entry level work for an American outside the US? [more inside]
How do I explain a degree that took ten years to earn?
I am about to graduate college ten years after I started and would love some suggestions on how to approach this topic in a job interview? [more inside]
Looking for examples of local government supporting small businesses.
I want to make a presentation to our town council on behalf of local business owners, and I'm having trouble finding examples of how local governments show financial support for small businesses. [more inside]
What else sounds like Leviathan's Worship?
I really like the spacious, dark, and mysterious sound of Worship's Leviathan. What other tracks and groups feature this sound?
Carrying the Scrolls to a New Place
Two synagogues in the Buffalo area decided to merge. One is Reform and one is Reconstructionist. While I have a good idea of what these particular movements are in and of themselves, what would a merger of these two temples mean for everyday life for members, temple services, rabbinical duties, etc. I am interested as one of the articles mentions this is the first merger of its kind for both movements. Thank you!
Inguinal hernia surgery on four month baby
My four month old baby boy has just been diagnosed with an inguinal hernia and will have to undergo surgery in the next few days. I'm freaking out. Help? [more inside]
eBay Fabric Criteria?
What brands of tank tops have high-quality fabric? [more inside]
Replacing a wall AC? will a window AC do?
Do I really need a wall air conditioner? Can put a window one in the same place? [more inside]
I'm always the last to know about get-togethers with my friends
I've noticed lately that some new friends I've met last year via a social anxiety meetup group make plans for getting together amongst themselves and then inform me at the last minute, after all the plans have been made. This bothers me and I don't know why it's happening. Any insights on what I could do to handle it without sounding like a whiny child? [more inside]
Japanese film with poison gas and windmills?
Japanese film...colored clouds of poison gas...a village of windmills...what movie am I half-remembering? [more inside]
Is This Situation Reversible?
Is there help or hope for my situation? Post- manic episode: insomnia, various medication trials, zombie brain state. [more inside]
What should I do about rust on my car?
[CarFilter] My car is developing some fairly bad rust around the wheel wells. The cost to repair it is prohibitive - what should I do? [more inside]
Career vs Maybe Baby
Woman navigating career and family planning - stay comfortable in a good job or take the risk in a startup? Apologies, a bit long and ranty inside: [more inside]
Painful digestive condition - causes?
Embarrassing, uncomfortable digestive condition - what the heck is it? I regularly experience pain, constipation, bloating, and flatulence. I also get rashes regularly. I eat healthy and drink lots of water. Bread seems to trigger it - is it IBS, celiac, or something else? [more inside]
Legal thoughts for use of clips in a homeschool movie
My 7 year old son and I have been working to make a movie out of a story that he wrote this summer for a homeschool project. In making the movie, since we do not have an effects department, we found a few short clips (a few seconds or so) from movies - which we own copies of if that makes a difference - that we would like to use. Since this is a project for school, we want to make sure that we follow all rules and complexity of doing something like this and wanted to try to get permission to use the clips. [more inside]
Data sort help
Is there an off-the-shelf MSExcel function or 2.0 tool that will allow me to "return" a US City/State based on 5-digit US postal codes. I have 160 postal code queries to perform. The postal code data is in MSExcel. Something like this. I do not have MSAccess and I am a Mac user.
Dance Dance Revolution Crush in a Music Video?
Can't believe I'm using a question for this, but I just watched this music video and now it's gone. GONE, I say. [more inside]
We'd like to blend in like a 6-foot invisible rabbit.
What to wear to a play in New York? [more inside]
books that start with a bang!
Looking for (clean) books that grab you from the first page. [more inside]
Looking for some heavy summer reading.
I have a week at my parent's cottage coming up, and I'd like to get some recommendations on some comprehensive introductions to the classics, mythology, psychology and a few other subjects. [more inside]
Nice and cheap?
After reading this post about ridiculously cheap, but great-sounding headphones, I became curious about other cheap things that compare favorably to much their much more expensive counterparts. Does anyone know of anything that fits the bill?
poetry for the hard times
I am looking for 'healing' poetry: poems that 1) urge you to keep going, 2) tell you that yes, life is hard, but you can do it, 3) remind you to keep your shit together, 4) embrace you and say that you are not alone in this, or 5) just say that this too shall pass. [more inside]
How did I lose all these friends?
Does time heal all wounds? My recent ex took a lot of formerly mutual friends with her. They won't talk to me let alone about why and I think I'm in the dog house simply for asking the question, "why?" Is there a practical way to recover these friendships? Should I even try? Would it be better for me to just walk away and shrug it off? Given time will some of them talk to me again or is it just over? [more inside]
Help me find flip-flops with arch support.
I am looking for flip-flops that have nice arch support. The arch on my left foot collapses quite a bit when I walk. I want the shoes to be flip-flops, not Birkenstock-style sandals. I am male, and I live in the U.S.
How to live-stream a wedding from an Oregon vineyard with no wi-fi?
How can I live-stream a wedding from an Oregon vineyard where there is no wi-fi? [more inside]
Two related questions about using Comic Sans...
Two related questions about using Comic Sans... [more inside]
How can I purchase/donate/ship computers to a Third World school?
How can I go about purchasing computers to donate to a school in a developing country? That is, a _specific_ school -- the woman in my life is in the Peace Corps, and one of her dreams since she's been there has been to find some way to update the ancient computers at the school where she teaches. (This goal is shared by local teachers and administrators at the school.) This sort of targeted giving seems to fall outside the scope of most charities I've looked into, such as OLPC. Are there organizations suited to this kind of project, or which could offer advice on handling this (from the U.S.) as an individual? Is the latter remotely feasible? If so, what should I keep in mind, as far as insurance, taxes, shipping, customs, etc.? [more inside]
July 3
You are like Gibraltar in a raging storm
For the past few days I have been trying to recollect the title of the song that has the line "You are like Gibraltar in a raging storm" or something similar, in it. And I believe this is followed by the line "Are you for real? " But this could also possibly be at the end of the verses of the song. [more inside]
Is it possible to find lead sheet music for Pachelbel's Canon?
I'm trying to learn to play the piano, and right now I'm using this book by Scott Houston, who is a huge advocate of lead sheet music and "fake" books. I really, really like the book, and even after just sitting down for a little bit I can already play some basic stuff like row, row, row your boat and jingle bells. However, there is one snag: the book's philosophy is that you should think of the one song you would most like to play on the piano and learn how to play by starting with that song first, an idea which I really love except for the fact that the one song I would really like to play more than anything else is Pachelbel's Canon in D. He specifically says in the book that his teaching method is completely unsuited for learning classical piano. I really don't want to learn how to play classical piano except for this one song, but this is one song I would really like to learn. Is there any way around this?
Juggling Passports
As a dual citizen, can I travel to places on a Canadian passport that I can't go to (or is difficult or expensive to get visas for) on an American passport? Can I actually pick-and-choose what passport to use to get the best benefit? [more inside]
Help me identify a drawing!
Does anyone know the name of the artist who drew/painted a picture featuring a woman blowing dandelion spore presents? [more inside]
Botulism and a future-showing TV
Young adult book about a future-seeing TV and a botulism scare. [more inside]
I'll be in San Diego for just over two weeks starting Friday. What do you recommend to do/see?
I'll be in San Diego for just over two weeks starting Friday. What do you recommend to do/see? [more inside]
Help me help pass a bill from afar!
Woah! A state senate bill, coming up for a vote next week in a state other than mine, would set a unique precedent that's extremely important for my family. Tell me everything I can do to help this bill from afar. [more inside]
Why do people "go out" so late?
People in your 20's who like to go out REALLY late: Can you please explain to me the appeal of going out so late? [more inside]
Mystery Puzzles for Grownups
I'm looking for mystery puzzles for adults. [more inside]
Do I need to platonically dump my platonic crush?
I'm having unhealthy feelings towards one of my best friends. Can I salvage this relationship, or do I need a clean break? [more inside]
Breast implants in San Francisco?
San Francisco/Bay Area: recommend a doctor for breast implants, please. The decision to get them done is made; now for the logistics. What was your experience like? [more inside]
why aren't porn stars enough?
I need some intelligent perspectives on why I am so sensitive to my husband looking at women on facebook, and whether this is an issue that can't be solved. [more inside]
SugarCRM or custom?
Is SugarCRM a good contacts database solution for my wife's small business, given her current database and business needs? [more inside]
I don't want to copies!
Google Apps and Gmail Funniness. When I send from my gmail accout to my google apps account, I get a copy of the email in BOTH places. What is askew? [more inside]
Help me find my techno earworm!
Here's a snippet of a minimalist techno track that has been rattling around my head earworm style for a month now. Can you tell me who it is? The linked track was part of a 2 hour DJ set I downloaded from Tumblr at some point in March. As to what blog it came from I have no idea and no amount of searching gets me any closer. Help! WARNING! CONTAINS EARWORM!
I need an online music download vendor
A local, non-profit chorus would like to sell their music online. I think that offering a download for a fee would be a good way to make this happen but I can't seem to string together the proper search that would reveal businesses that would make this happen. Ideally, they would like to see a smidge of profit from this venture, however, the audience is small. This is the best I could come up with.
Video streaming from a small club
My friend would like to stream video from a small club he volunteers in. [more inside]
Please give me some Dr. recommendations for LA
LA filter: I'm looking for recommendations for various kinds of doctors in the Echo Park/Silverlake/Los Feliz/Eagle Rock areas. [more inside]
I need a source for cheap/scrap metal for machining in Austin, TX
I need a source for cheap/scrap metal for machining in Austin, TX [more inside]
What are examples of apps/sites/experiments that have shamed/exposed people sharing their info online?
I'm looking for examples of apps, websites, or experiments that have exposed people sharing their information online, or that sought to raise awareness about info being explicitly or accidentally shared. I'd love your help. [more inside]
Seeking an iPhone app that circumvents call logs. I'd like privacy when using a work issued iPhone. Does such an app/service exist?
Seeking an iPhone app that circumvents call logs. I'd like privacy when using a work issued iPhone. Does such an app/service exist? [more inside]
Almost wired for ethernet...
Looks like we have a half-finished ethernet setup in our new place. How do I make this functional? [more inside]
"Ain't Nobody Never Gave Me Nothing"
While discussing the movie Alien 3, a friend pointed out this comedy clip making fun of a stereotype in which black characters end up saying the line, "Ain't nobody never gave me nothing." I'd like to find more examples of this stereotype occurring. Can MeFites name some films where a black character says this? [more inside]
Affordable lodging for a month in Philly?
Looking for someone else: A place to stay in Philadelphia, for a month, affordably, public transportation to Broad and Girard a plus. [more inside]
Did this cartoon character actually exist?
Did this olde tyme cartoon character actually exist, or am I just imagining it? [more inside]
How do you pick your new town?
Leaving the city: how do you pick your new town? [more inside]
Given that x = Asian style cooking and y = a type of cheese, find y given that x + y = tasty
CookingFilter: I've been making a bunch of Asian fusion dishes lately and I don't think I've ever been satisfied with a component crucial to my understanding of food: the cheese! [more inside]
Levis at JC Penny - just cheap, or crap?
Are the Levis sold at JC Penny, TJ Maxx, etc. more cheaply made? [more inside]
Holding Deposit Paid, Apartment No Longer Available
I know that a holding deposit prevents the landlord from renting the unit to anyone else. What does it guarantee in the case that the tenant currently living in the unit decides to stay? (California) [more inside]
Locked out of Gmail
Asking for a friend: Trying to solve a Gmail lockout issue involving moving to another country, deactivating a previous iPhone, and 2-step verification. (Details within.) [more inside]
Help me beat the heat (in my attic)!
Calling all home improvement gurus and energy efficiency wizards--help me figure out how to better insulate my attic! I've read through a bunch of information on energystar.gov and other websites about insulating attics, but the more I read the more confused I get about how to do this, because I have the world's weirdest attic. HELP. [more inside]
Silent film books
What are some good books about the silent film era? [more inside]
Trutles Contemplating
Looking for sources for the idea that turtles affect the formation of their offspring inside the egg by means of contemplation. [more inside]
Facebook: my worst friend, my best enemy
I’m not on Facebook because, frankly, I didn’t have very many friends on the site and it was embarrassing. So I deleted the account. But now I’m reconsidering… [more inside]
Looking for a financial advisor/planner recommendations near Lowell, MA.
Looking for a financial advisor/planner recommendations near Lowell, MA. [more inside]
What are the best chopsticks?
If I were a chopstick connoisseur, which chopsticks would I have?
Please share experiences with treadmill desks
Should I consider a treadmill desk? [more inside]
Should I visit China or Europe?
Would you please help me decide where to go on vacation? [more inside]
Uh, I need to shower, dude.
Emergency Filter: where can I buy a water shutoff wrench on the Philadelphia Main Line this afternoon or tonight? [more inside]
youtube has slowed to a crawl
Does anybody know of a recent youtube or flash or browser update which has crippled youtube video caching? [more inside]
Designer-friendly Custom Printing of Notepads?
FIREWORKS!
What's the closest place to San Francisco where I can legally buy fireworks? Where can I legally set them off? [more inside]
+apple -computer +myth -game
What is the source of this half-remembered myth/folk-tale about an apple which grew when stamped on? [more inside]
Calling all Macintosh Clairvoyants
How many years can I expect to get out of my MacBook Pro? [more inside]
Best workflow for building crossword grids?
I'm about 95% done with my first NYT-style themed crossword puzzle, currently laid out by hand on graph paper, and I want to start looking at making a digital version of it. What are some good tools or workflow for creating well laid out crossword grids on the computer? [more inside]
Could my character use a belt to strop a razor?
Straight razor question - would a leather belt be an acceptable strop? This is a question for a play I am working on. [more inside]
Internet Learnin'
I'd like to learn how to create cool data visualizations using open API stuff for places like Twitter/Facebook/Google Maps. Where would someone who knows nothing about this kind of stuff learn something like this?
Where can I order a small run of custom printed boxes?
Could anyone recommend a website where I can order a (very) small run of (relatively) inexpensive custom printed storage or portfolio boxes? Or, alternatively, could you help me concoct a long lasting, elegant, DIY alternative to custom printed boxes? [more inside]
Help me get DVD video to my iPad, please.
How do I transfer/play dvd video to iPad3? [more inside]
Which MacBook model is right for me (your typical suburban middle-aged dude)?
Should I (a regular old computer user) get the Retina MacBook Pro? Or will the regular old MBP be sufficiently futureproof? [more inside]
How much water should I be drinking, really?
Help me figure out the eight glasses of water a day thing. Should it really be eight glasses? How to time them optimally? [more inside]
What flowers by the path?
What garden flowers are these, planted in a garden in the Netherlands? [more inside]
Hyde Park or Flossmoor?
Chicago Question. My husband and I both work for the University of Chicago and are planning to buy a home in the next year. We are debating between Hyde Park and a condo or a single family home in the burb of Flossmoor. Where should be buy? [more inside]
Hi, we missed you! Now, can you please STFU about… [TW: Sexual Assault]
[TW: Sexual Assault] One sexually assaulted me; the others hurt and abused me emotionally when close friendships imploded. I have PTSD after the whole experience. How do I get other friends to understand that I don’t want to hear about these people? [Snowflake configuration of details follows] [more inside]
For some reason googling "the pretty dress that I want" is not returning the right results....
Padmapper alternatives?
Now that Padmapper can't pull in Craigslist listings, are there any alternatives that help you wade through Craigslist apartment ads? [more inside]
My Terrible Mistake to Attend Graduate School
Should I leave my graduate school? Is it even worth it to get a master's degree? Long story inside. [more inside]
Over the moon
My friend wants me to try to recreate this painting as a decoration for her wedding. The problem is that neither of us have any idea who the artist is/where the image came from. Can you help? Also, it would help me out immensely if I had access to a higher quality image to work from.
Recommendations for Hong Kong hotel for an overnight layover for an exhausted family
Recommendations for hotel by airport in Hong Kong for a quick overnight stay between flights? We will be traveling with a 6 month old, and will likely be exhausted, so sightseeing won't be important. Ease, (relative) affordability the most important things! I'm going to try to go on Kayak today, but rec's would be helpful. Thanky in advance!
I want ebooks direct from the source
Looking for interesting writers (especially in the speculative/science fiction genre) who are self-publishing/self-distributing their own ebooks [more inside]
Paper umbrellas, plastic frying pans, and tits on a boar
Best camping cookware? [more inside]
Real-time captioning software for webinars?
Asking on behalf of a friend: she runs a weekly GoToMeeting webinar that now needs to be captioned in real time. Is there a good software solution? [more inside]
Wordpress Theme Work
I'm new to PHP and Wordpress development, but have experience working with HTML, CSS, Javascript, and XML. I'm currently building a Wordpress theme for a project and I'm feeling a little out of my depth. What is a good starting point for doing theme work? [more inside]
Cats and scalps
Am I going to suffer horribly for using a comb (that I washed) after I used it on my cat? [more inside]
Not your average Vegas list
What Vegas hotel has the best wifi, easy access to convention center, in-room coffee - in that order? Oh and a pool would be nice. [more inside]
Where can I play basketball in Washington DC area (Bethesda) late at night?
Where can I play basketball in Washington DC (Bethesda) area late at night? [more inside]
My middle name is not "Evgene"
Birth Certificate: Should I bother correcting a non-vital piece of info? [more inside]
Qigong for Daily Practice
Please offer encouragement and recommend resources for developing a daily qigong practice. [more inside]
How can I get rid of a mark left from cream to get rid of facial hair?
I have been using depilatory cream on my upper lip. A few weeks ago, I must have left it on too long because it left a mark, I guess it's a burn. It looks like a shadow and it's dark! It's horrible- now I have what looks like a moustache right where a moustache would be! Will this ever go away?
Is there anything I can do to make it go away? Is there anything a doctor could do? Would a chemical peel help?
If there's nothing that can be done, what's the best way to cover it? I've been using foundation, but it still shows through somehow.
Getting a three-year-old to sit still for five minutes. HAHAHAHAHAHAHA
Ways to make a nebulizer easier for a three-year old? [more inside]
What's my little bite of the Big Apple worth?
Need to get a NYC co-op appraised - couple of questions. [more inside]
Can anybuggy help?
Is there a collection, in print or online, or otherwise available (!) of the little comics that ran in and thru 'Cricket' magazine? I would pay money or not for this. I sure would like to read through the storylines (IIRC there were a lot of ongoing plots) without having to track down years and years of back issues, physically or digitally.
Crib mattress gap
Is this too much of a gap between the head of crib and the crib mattress? Is it safe to fill in the gap with a rolled up blanket? [more inside]
Ex with Asperger's
How do I navigate trying to reconnect with an ex who possibly has Autism/Aspergers? [more inside]
"Suspicious sign in prevented" in gmail account from odd IP address
A couple weeks ago I got an email from google to my gmail account that there was a "Suspicious sign in prevented". I changed my pw and all that, and there've been no more attempts and I'm not overly concerned anymore. However, I am pretty curious. The IP address google reported isn't one that pulls up any info when I look it up, and I'm just wondering if anyone can shed any light on what this might signify and a potential origin -- private proxy of some sort?
The IPv4 is 255.0.15.210. IPv6 2600:1003:b011:e219::103 . [more inside]
Dial my number on your capacitative touchscreen
Is there a compendium of language used to refer to processes/scenarios that were once accomplished/facilitated/created by now-obsolete technology? I'm thinking stuff like "dial", "rewind", "above the fold", etc. [more inside]
What kind of elastic will do the job?
AskMe sewers! That's as in ("sewing," not as in sewage). I found a piece of fabric I'd like to make a simple tube-style dress out of, sewing in a back seam to join the fabric and then sewing in elastic above the bust. I have two kinds of elastic on hand. Should I use the flat 3/4 inch specifically "non-roll" kind, which seems kind of wide and bulky, or the flat 3/8" braided one? [more inside]
Looking for post-divorce Pro Se resources.
Looking for post-divorce Pro Se resources. [more inside]
Alternatives to shutters for window exteriors?
Our new house has a very plain front - I think it needs some window trim, but I'm not sure if shutters are the right answer. Are there any other options that will be consistent with the look of the house and help it look less bald? [more inside]
How can I obtain UK car insurance (just for a couple of weeks) with a US license
How can I obtain UK car insurance (just for a couple of weeks) with a US license while traveling. [more inside]
One Mortgage or Two?
Should I get a second separate mortgage for my investment property, or take a cash out refi of my primary for the purchase? [more inside]
Dating while inexperienced!?
Getting into dating, but don't have any relationship experience. How, if at all, should I bring this up with the people I date? [more inside]
How to make a vulvar pimple hurt less.
I've got a giant painful cystic pimple on my vulva (where the mons pubis meets the labia majora, as in this illustration ). Even if it weren't a bad idea, I couldn't pop it--it's too deep. What can I do to make it less painful?
DIY baby monitor
DIY baby monitor? I'd like to make a webcam (or other camera) into a baby monitor, but don't know where to start. Help? [more inside]
My landlord locked the thermostat and it's not in the lease
Just started renting at a new apartment. The lease includes a flat fee for utilities, but does not state that the landlord will have control over the thermostat/have the thermostat locked. I was never told that the thermostat would be physically locked and the lease makes absolutely no mention of it. In fact, the only thing in the lease about utilities is his single hand-written line stating "$100 flat fee for utilities a month." [more inside]
Awkward coworker issue - is it any of my business to dig deeper?
We talk friendly, appropriate coworker talk about our lives, but he never talks specifically about his spouse though he's married and uses the pronoun "we" when talking about his personal life. I'm feeling awkward not asking him any other details about this part of his life, but also wonder if I should just leave it alone until he brings it up since it's really none of my business and this is a professional work environment. What to do? [more inside]
Securely storing OAuth credentials as a provider?
How do you securely store OAuth credentials as a provider? (1.0a, 2-legged) [more inside]
Scream if the power goes out...
Every now and then, the power fails in our garage. This wouldn't be a problem, except that's where our freezer lives. I'm looking for ideas to alert me when the power fails... [more inside]
Dutch Big Brother
Does the Netherlands keep any records of the foreigners who have previously lived in the country? [more inside]
How can we be the best housemates we can possibly be?
Best practices for living with a housemate. Difficulty level: we're a couple. [more inside]
July 2
Books you have to meet in person?
What are some books you have to meet in person? Books an e-reader cannot do justice? [more inside]
"No results for 'human shot by monkey.'"
Has a human ever been shot by a monkey? [more inside]
Pink Slip in Limbo? Another craigslist deal gone bad...what should I do?
So I was interested in this old Mercedes posted on craigslist and called the guy. He said it had just been crashed into in his driveway by his cousin and his insurance was "totaling" it; however it was really just cosmetic damage and there was a buyback option. The car would have "salvaged" on the title, but since he was getting paid by the insurance company, he would just let me have the car for whatever the buyback cost was. Called a few days later and he said that cost was $1000 less than the price he had originally advertised the car at, so I figured I might as well go look at it. Read on for the whole story... [more inside]
Is there a Russian translation of a book named "Feeling Good, by David Burns?
I'm looking for a Russian translation of a book named "Feeling Good", by David Burns. I'm not sure that a Russian edition exists, but Burn's book has been translated into many languages; it's one of the most popular books on Cognitive Therapy (maybe THE most popular book). I would like to find a copy for a Russian speaking friend. If you know of a Russian translation, it would also be helpful to know how I might procure/buy a copy. Thanks, in advance for your help!
Avoid the Noise
How far underground would I have go to escape any man made signals?
Can kids spel?
Is there any evidence that literacy (particularly spelling) standards of attainment have dropped in recent times, in the Anglosphere? Looking for citable evidence only.
Book suggestions on social skills and networking.
Hello Mefites,
I'd like some suggestions for books on social skills and networking in order to get ahead professionally(and also on the personal front).
Books with a Kindle edition would be a bonus.
Thanks a lot!
managing long-term malaria exposure.
Going to Kenya for ten or more months. How should one approach antimalarials for this length of time? [more inside]
How do you balance family activities at the cabin?
Just got back from a weekend at the cabin with my husband, daughter, son and son's fiancé. My son and his fiancé are very active and want to spend the entire weekend outside - golfing, swimming, seadooing, fishing, sunbathing, eating outside and sitting by a roaring bonfire until 2 am every evening. I do not. They do usually sleep in so that does give me some down time, but seriously, how do I get them to back off telling me that I "should" be outside, super active and do everything with them at their intensity level? I have tried compromising but honestly they are not happy unless you are doing exactly what they want all the time. And they just keep on nagging - it is driving me crazy. How much is expected to keep the family peace?
Battery powered sound effect
How do I make battery powered sound effect device? [more inside]
have i been an unwitting dick for years?
I'm in the US. A few years ago, I was horrified to learn that almost everybody who stays in a hotel leaves a tip for the housekeeping staff on the pillow before they leave the hotel. I had no idea. Apologies if this has been covered on the green before, but my searches haven't produced anything yet. What are all of the service oriented positions that I am expected to tip? Are there others I might be missing? [more inside]
ermahgerd hand mixers
Hand mixers! Can you recommend one? [more inside]
Should I give my social security number to the internet?
Online job application requesting SSN? [more inside]
Help me find my inner Michelle! (and an outer Ryan??)
NYC Shopping-Filter. Where can I find dresses/outfits like Michelle Williams in Take this Waltz? [more inside]
Bug Identification
Bug Identification: What kind of bugs are these? Mystery Bug A (1, 2, 3) is about an inch long from end to antennae, made a hissy/clicky noise, and bit me. Mystery Bug B are small skittery bugs that prefer cool, dark, and damp spots. I live in a southeastern Manitoba, Canada, which is classified as a humid continental climate, if that helps.
My 4G has abandoned me!
My Samsung Galaxy S2 phone is brand new (I got it only 3 weeks ago) and loses 4g connectivity every time I visit MIT. Connectivity does not come back when I leave the premises, however. [more inside]
green man
Old toy identification. [more inside]
Is this, like, trafficking?
Can I transport cigarettes from NC to NY via airplane? [more inside]
Should I disclose my pregnancy during the job interview process?
What are my responsibilities when interviewing for a new job while pregnant? Should I tell them I'm expecting? If so, what should I be prepared for?
I want to be ethical, but simultaneously am reluctant be at a disadvantage off the bat. [more inside]
It's not a tumor, but this headache is going to kill me anyway.
I have had an insanely painful headache, possibly caused by a pulled muscle in my neck, for over week and nothing I have tried has helped. I have seen my doctor and his diagnosis/suggestions haven't really led me anywhere. Help me come up with more things to try before I go crazy. [more inside]
I need a reasonably-intelligent phone, not a smart phone.
Is there a phone out there with a battery life like they used to have that can still let me check facebook every now and then? [more inside]
How can I deal with comments about a part of my appearance that I'm not fond of?
I have terrible dark circles under my eyes. How can I deal with the comments I get about how tired/sick I look? Any other advice for coming to terms with people constantly pointing out something I dislike about my appearance? [more inside]
Where can I find good country music on the Internet?
I love KEXP's Swinging Doors, but the streaming archives no longer work on my Mac. What other radio shows or podcasts available on the Internet might I like? [more inside]
Viability a specialized courier service.
Viability of freelance / contract long distance courier or chauffeur type service? Or even short distance off hours. Something that fills the gap FedEx and UPS don't service. [more inside]
Sailing away from DC!
Do you know of any good places within a 2-hour commute of DC where it's possible to rent a sailboat and stay somewhere cheap for a weekend? [more inside]
Do you know the title of this book?
I'm trying to recall the title of a young adult novel I read a few years ago. Help! [more inside]
Help me find an alternative to the default Mac screensaver?
Mac photo screensaver: are there any simple and free alternatives available that don't automatically resize the images to fit the screen, and have more display options? [more inside]
Go down, come up, that's about it. What'cha stressing about?
I got PADI certified well over a decade ago. Since then I've lost all my paperwork, and I want to get re-certified and start diving again. Advice? [more inside]
Help me share internet goodness.....
Wifi to wired internet: I have access to an open wifi network where I get a forced login page where I have to enter a password and I can access the internet (like starbucks except I only enter a password not a username).
I want be able to share this connection. [more inside]
Permethrin on clothes: safe for cats?
If I treat clothes with Permethrin, let them completely dry outside (for three days), will they then be safe for cats to be around?
Honesty vs Diplomacy
How do you balance being honest and being diplomatic in a way that works best for everyone involved? [more inside]
How do I tell my friend that I stole her idea?
I stole my friend's idea. [more inside]
What is this painting I am thinking of
Help me find this painting I think I saw at the the Met. [more inside]
Alternative careers for a vet tech
What are some alternative careers for a veterinary technician who doesn't want to work in a clinical setting and what are they like? [more inside]
Hedonic Engineering, or Life as Optimization Problem
As a recent graduate, how can I engineer my life to maximize happiness, financial security, and independence (in that order)? What choices did you make that led to suboptimal outcomes in these areas, and what would you do differently given another chance? [more inside]
Life of a Salesman - how to find one!
How to find good sales people? (Looking for Groupon refugees...) [more inside]
Poker practice online not for cash
Where can one play good online poker with real players (or a program w/*really* good AI with weaknesses and styles)? Not for cash - just for practice. Ipad app or website fine. *Not* just Texas Hold'em/7 card stud, but finishing off the HORSE class and beyond (Hi/Lo Omaha, Hi/Lo 7 card stud, Razz). Don't want scummy spyware or to have to give credit card info. [more inside]
How to find a public domain image that's similar to a copyrighted piece?
Help me find a public domain drawing like this one [more inside]
Kids music for a summer road trip.
Kids music for a summer road trip. [more inside]
Please help me come up with a tagline for my website.
Please help me come up with a tagline for my website that explains what it is in a short, succint sentence. Because I can't seem to. [more inside]
What can a vocational / career counsellor do for me, and are they worth it?
What can a vocational / career counsellor do for me, and are they worth whatever they cost? [more inside]
What does my Mazda transmission need next?
My 2002 Mazda Tribute is having transmission problems and I'm stumped about what to do next. Can you help? (My apologies for the length, I was trying to include all pertinent and potentially pertinent information). [more inside]
Is it okay to renege on a date that you didn't know was a date?
Is it ever okay to renege on a date if you didn't know it was a date in the first place? [more inside]
owwwww helppp
I've had chronic sciatic pain due to an inflamed piriformis muscle for about a year now. Physical therapy basically did nothing, so I'm considering accupuncture. Can anyone help me find a reputable place for this kind of procedure? Other piriformis advice is also welcome. [more inside]
Help me buy a computer for commuting!
I need a laptop that I won't be sad over if it breaks or gets lost, my target budget is Less Than or Equal To $400. Ideally super light with a full size keyboard. [more inside]
I need suggestions for library books
Help me pick out what books to check out from the library next. (Snowflake details inside.) [more inside]
If you felt like a small hippopotamus, where would you go to watch the PDX firework display?
Hey PDXers, where should I go to watch the fireworks on the 4th? Catch: I'm seven months pregnant and can't stand for a long time. [more inside]
What is this rash?
YANAD, but might you have some insight into this strange rash? [more inside]
Hope us with Illustrator, please!
What are your best resources, tips, and tricks for someone who's having a difficult time learning Adobe Illustrator? [more inside]
Wide temples and driving safety?
Can the wide temple arms on some styles of glasses interfere with driving safely? [more inside]
Where to start in the Total War series
Where should I start in the Total War series? I am enjoying Civilization V but I'd like to jump into the Total War series and I see there are quite a few versions and updates and I don't know where would be a good place to begin.
Should foxglove be removed from a garden used by a toddler?
Should foxglove be removed from a garden used by a toddler? [more inside]
Tips for a week in Panama City?
Travel MeFi: Wife and I are heading to Panama City, Panama for a week over New Year's Eve. Our top 3 locations for a hotel are inside. Any tips for seasoned travelers are appreciated! [more inside]
Help me play my cards right.
Resources for novice bridge player, please? [more inside]
Lake Cottages around Detroit
My wife and kids are flying into Detroit for my grandfathers 90th birthday. They have never experienced Michigan in the summertime. I would like to find a nice lake to rent a house / cottage within a few hours of Detroit. We will only have a few days after the party so recommending Traverse or Ludington is probably not going to work without feeling really rushed. Can anyone recommend a lake / area within a few hours of Detroit where my wife can experience the beauty that is Michigan?
What off-site professional trainings have you taken that are totally worth it?
I've taken some great trainings over the past several years and I'm looking for one this year. My company will send me almost anywhere in the US for up to 5 days of training/conference. Where should I go this year? [more inside]
Is there a US notary in Paris other than the US Embassy?
My friend, a US citizen living in Paris, is trying to find a US notary to notarize a document by the end of business tomorrow. The US Embassy will notarize documents, but not on such short notice. He could also use a French notary, but require having the document "officially " translated and while he is pursuing this option, he's not sure that he can find someone to do it by tomorrow. The easiest solution would be locating a US notary, but thus far, he's had no luck (he's been looking for several days). Are there any Metafiltarians who know of a US notary in Paris?
Feedback on dating profile
Please critique my OkCupid profile! (I know there's been a spate of these recently, but I'm back on the dating scene and Jessamyn says it's ok!) [more inside]
Wheelchair-friendly/accessible pubs/restaurants in Toronto?
Are there any good, accessible venues in Toronto (near the UofT Campus/St. George) for student events? (i.e. pubs, restaurants, and coffee houses?). [more inside]
Help me find an urban-friendly contractor to renovate our condo!
Renovating a condo for the first time in downtown Toronto: How do we find great contractors and designers? How do we get started? Snowflakes inside. [more inside]
Looking for a Few Good Parsnip Experts
Are second year parsnips good/safe to eat? [more inside]
Obsolete iMac Hard Drive Replacement. Where to purchase?
What internal Hard drive can I purchase for an iMac 20" G5 computer? [more inside]
What is up with this child?
I watch a 10-year-old girl whose behavior is very strange and I'd like to get to the bottom of it. She's a family member, and no one seems to take me very seriously when I mention her oddities. I spend ~20 hours with her weekly, and the more time I spend with her, the more concerned I am. Many details inside. [more inside]
Inversely, will a high end DSLR make me long for a P&S's small size?
For motion itself, will a new canon point and shoot (digic5) have the same movement quality as the 5d mark 3 (their nice digic 5 slr)? I understand that the lens quality will differ (chromatic aberration, etc), but what about seeing how the video handles movement, skew, and motion? [more inside]
Did I order from a scam website and what do I do about it?
I think I ordered a wallet from a scam website. Help me determine if it's a scam, and what to do about it. [more inside]
Excel Manual
Im writing a manual for an excel tool I wrote. Does anyone know any really nice templates I can use or let myself be inspired by? I just need help on the aesthetic part ;)
It's one of those manuals with pictures and screenshots too :) [more inside]
blu-ray netflix subtitles?
Does there exist a regularly updated list of Blu-Ray players that are capable of showing the subtitles on Netflix's streaming service?
Help Me Out-Stupid Them
What are the most pointless, puerile, time-wasting iPhone apps that you know about? [more inside]
Time to make some b-b-boundaries
My boyfriend and I are helping out a homeless couple and a homeless single girl-- how do I set boundaries and time limits without seeming pushy? When is enough enough? How do I truly help them? Lots and lots of details inside. [more inside]
Spagnoletta
Any early music experts out there who can explain an anomaly for me?
The Old Spagnoletta is a piece listed in the Fitzwilliam Book (289) as by Giles Farnaby. But it also appears to be in the Mulliner Book anonymously - and isn't the Mulliner Book too old for Farnaby? It is clearly the same music, not just a weird similarity of name.
Did Farnaby nick it? From Frescobaldi?
Is this deck frame salvageable?
This deck needs help (See here!) This deck was very neglected for a long while, and there are some boards rotting away or bending up, etc. The top boards all need to be replaced, that is a no brainer. The real question is about the frame. A few friends have suggested to just replace the top boards, and then sand/weatherproof the existing frame part of it. My first thought when I saw it was just to get rid of the whole thing.
Is the frame salvageable, or am I better off scrapping it all and starting anew?
coping with creepy crawlies
How do I cope with the fact that there is very likely a large spider running free in my apartment. [more inside]
"All I really want to do, is baby be friends with you"
My wife unfriended me on Facebook - what's the appropriate/healthy response? [more inside]
In Hartford, Hereford, and Hampshire...
Please suggest a good elocution and diction program I can use at home with my kids. [more inside]
open source project newb seeks advice
Programming-improvement filter: So how EXACTLY do I get involved in open source projects? [more inside]
Make me as soft a kitty as possible!
Please surround me with softness! I want everything I use or touch to be as soft as possible, because this relaxes me like nothing else. Please recommend your softest of everything - bedding, clothing, pajamas, socks, underwear, shoes, lotion, pillows, hair products, music - truly anything soft makes me feel better. (Fuzzy is good too as long as it's a nice soft fuzz.)
Terrier Hot Spots?
My Dog has lots of skin irritation. Could it be an after effect of stripping an abnormally long top coat? [more inside]
Pleasently peaceful books for pregnant people
My wife is just entering the second trimester and is having a new fiction craving.
The last time she was pregnant, she relaxed and read constantly.
I'm looking for book recommendations that are enjoyable page turners about nice things happening to positive happy people. [more inside]
How do I go about dating now, if I even should be?
How do I go about dating now, if I even should be? [more inside]
How long to hang onto stuff after a friend breakup?
What are my obligations in holding onto stuff after a friend breakup? Particularly, with friends-of-friends? [more inside]
Places to race go-karts in/near NYC
I thought it might be fun to race around like giddy kids with my wife for her birthday. she loves Formula one and has expressed an interest in racing go-karts. We both can drive but do not own a car as we live in brooklyn and have no need.
Any ideas on where to race go-karts near nyc?
(I found this place: gpny.com, and it seems to fit the bill..but are there other options?)
Anyone else had any similar experiences trying to find place to race?
Extravagant test-drive a real car on a track option?
f1 model kit?
(thank you as always)
-birthday panic!!
Online teaching of Python or R?
I've been asked by a colleague as to how they can learn programming for their professional advancement. Because of the area they work in, the possible languages would be Python or R. Complicating factors are that they (a) don't feel confident about self-learning and so (b) would like something more like a traditional classroom or workshop approach but (c) are in a remote foreign location, far from any educational facility, at least in their native language. So what we're looking for is an online classroom of sorts. [more inside]
Will jumping ship just lead to drowning?
Is this job offer an opportunity or a distraction? [more inside]
A tourist in Brighton, England
What are a few interesting things to do/see in Brighton, England this afternoon? [more inside]
Best way to sync USB with a home computer?
Is there an easy way to keep all of the files on my flash drive synced with my home computer, using something like Dropbox? I've previously been using Microsoft My Briefcase, but my computer has just been upgraded to Windows 7, so My Briefcase doesn't work well anymore. I've got some pretty easy requirements inside. [more inside]
Google Voice phone calls over wi-fi using android 2.2 cell phone.
Seriously considering buying Virgin Mobile LG Optimus V (android 2.2) phone tomorrow, would/will be my first foray into any phone even beginning to resemble smart. My main question: how difficult is this phone to set up to use Google Voice telephone number over wi-fi, calls in-bound and out. [more inside]
July 1
Surprise!period does not make me happy
What does it mean if you start your period early and you are taking birth control pills? [more inside]
GraphicDesignFilter - Please help me figure out how this Kool and the Gang 7" sleeve was designed almost 30 years ago.
GraphicDesignFilter - Please help me figure out how this Kool and the Gang 7" sleeve was designed almost 30 years ago. [more inside]
Is it really more of a liability to pack my own boxes?
I'm looking for moving/shipping companies to send a couple of boxes of books & clothes from Australia to the USA (as I'm relocating). While requesting quotes, one company strongly suggested that I hire them to pack my things for me as apparently US Customs get suspicious if the boxes were packed by the individual mover (me, in this case) rather than by a professional. I haven't seen this mentioned anywhere else and the US Customs website hasn't addressed this. What's going on? [more inside]
There is a wildish animal in my bathroom
Help! I did something dumb and now there is a feral cat loose in my bathroom. [more inside]
Making sure my 100K VW Jetta will be as reliable as it has for a few more years.
Car Maintenance Filter: 100K 2000 VW Jetta - What should I expect at the 100K checkup? [more inside]
Kicked Out of Her Own Apartment
Does an ex-wife in Oklahoma have the right to evict my friend from her boyfriend's house on the weekends when his kids visit? [more inside]
Looking for country/alt-country along the lines of Cash, Guthrie, early Dylan, etc.
I'm looking for new & modern country/alt-country artists along the lines of Uncle Tupelo, Richard Buckner, early Dylan as well as Hank Williams Sr., Johnny Cash, Woody Guthrie, and so on. Masterfully played acoustic guitar and bluesy tendencies a big plus!
How to avoid shoulder pain in Let's Dance 3 on the wii
My right shoulder hurts when I play Let's Dance 3 on the wii. I still want to play it though! Please help me find a workaround. Are there any 3rd party wiimotes that are really lightweight? [more inside]
What are the best ways to increase Excel skills?
What are the best free and paid resources or training courses for Excel? [more inside]
Microscope and telescope for a 4.5-year-old?
Can I get a telescope and microscope for around $150 (or less) that will be impressive to a 4.5-year-old boy, and still be useful for a few years? [more inside]
Where Can I Go Online To Get My Short Story Reading Fix
Your recommendations for online short fiction? [more inside]
Can you really be friends with a polyamorous and flirtatious ex?
Can you really be friends with a polyamorous and flirtatious ex? [more inside]
I feel like just running around and shouting ""WHO WILL HAVE SEX WITH ME??" yeah, it's that bad.
I want to have sex. WITH ANOTHER PERSON. It's been way too long and all the obvious roads to finding someone have been dead ends. Halp! [more inside]
What is this?
When I go through periods of working out a lot and eating well, I find myself overly critical of the bodies of people I see in public. What is this and how can I stop? [more inside]
Beautiful Permaculture Yards in 30 minutes or less per week
My suburban yard began as a permaculture project but is overrun with invasive grass. What can I do? [more inside]
Broadening her world view...with books!
Non-religious book recommendations for my very conservative mother? [more inside]
How does one get an apostille for a background check?
A friend asked me for help getting an apostille of her daughter's background check for a job in Korea- I haven't a clue where to start, but I've included her question inside. [more inside]
Teeth Woes
Can I use a teeth whitener after wisdom teeth surgery? Kinda gross details inside. [more inside]
Please provide some anecdotal evidence that it can, as you claim, get better...
Help me find some inspiring examples of individuals who floundered and failed through their young adulthood, but ultimately obtained success and/or happiness (either by their own or society's definition). [more inside]
Not the whole hog- just its ribs
I have never barbecued ribs before and I'm thinking of taking the plunge. I have a Weber and an oven that's reliable its front half.
Suggestions and advice gratefully accepted. [more inside]
Kamchatka!
Kamchatka. This place looks amazing, particularly from the snowboard touring/heliboarding angle, combined with some of my favorite things - Volcanos! Bears! Remote wilderness! Hot springs! Have you been there? Got any advice? Tell me your story - logistics? Budget/cost of travel? Best time for great snow? Reputable heli/guide company? Is there a time of the year when you can both hike and tour? Generally speaking, I want this combined with this if it is possible. Help a Siberia newb with no language skills start to plan an adventure? Thanks in advance!
Hurf Durf Poutine-eater
In Montreal for a couple of days. Where should I go for smoked meat, and or Poutine? Welcoming other suggestions as well.
...Bears, oh my?
Hiking in Algonquin Park for the day, worried about bears. Silly, right? [more inside]
Aperture vs. Shutter Priority
Under what lighting and landscape conditions are aperture priority vs. shutter priority more appropriate for capturing motion in water? [more inside]
I can't get it up in my new relationship. Help?
All of a sudden, my, uh, dude part is not cooperating with me. This is a new problem and I don't have health insurance. Are there are any exercises or treatments that don't involve prescriptions? More inside. [more inside]
Frozen meal short cuts?
What sauces, pastes, relishes or other partial meals can I prepare in batches and freeze? [more inside]
Suggestions for Acadia National Park?
Suggestions for things to do in Acadia National Park? [more inside]
There may be no golden fleece, but human riches I'll release.
In my last year of college I took a seminar course at my school's "humanities center," a small interdisciplinary program that mostly focused on continental philosophy. Some of my fondest memories of college are from that course. Where and how can I recapture something of that fantastic mindstorm? [more inside]
Help me make rum punch
I need help trying to figure out how many parts of these ingredients Barbancourt 4-year, Guava, Lychee, Lime, Orgeat, and Splash of Soda, do I need to make an amazing rum punch?
I took the ingredients from the menu of a restaurant I went to the other day.
Can I convert these light fixtures from 220-240v to 110-120v?
Can I convert these light fixtures from 220-240v to 110-120v? [more inside]
EU Membership - right/left?
European Politics Filter: Did the political positions on the issue of "EU Membership" (pro / con) switch sides (conservative / liberal) in most European countries over the past 10 years? [more inside]
Back to school? What else?
My situation: I think I want to return to school. Due to health problems, I left a previous education in rather poor standing - and after several years I'm considering an entirely different line of work. How do I pick up the pieces and start something new? [more inside]
Cheap eats, Vegas. Difficulty: Downtown
Downtown Las Vegas (Fremont Street) buffet dining suggestions? [more inside]
Help me furnish for 1k
Next month I’m moving into my own apartment, for the first time, and starting grad school. My domestic possessions consist of a respectable stainless steel stockpot, a coffee grinder, and three different kinds of coffee makers (people tell me I’m a great fit for grad school). How can I get maximum utility out of a $1000 budget to furnish the place? [more inside]
Can I/how can I date ethically near the end of grad study?
I have less than a year of PhD left to go, after which I'll be leaving the (Canadian) city I'm in. I've been single and not dating for just over a year, and generally have no problem being single, but now I crave human contact and would like to date, even though I know that it would have to be short-term/casual only, and eventually take a back seat to writing up/preparing to defend. How do I act as ethically as possible and make sure that everyone's on the same page? [more inside]
Cleaning in Minneapolis?
I have a need for a one time deep-cleaning service in the Minneapolis area. Does anybody have any recommendations? Further, does anybody have tips for getting family members to try and be less cluttered? [more inside]
How can I stop comparing myself to other people?
How can I stop comparing myself to other people? [more inside]
Who makes the best PCs these days?
I've been asked to recommend a new desktop PC for a relative, but I have no idea what brand to recommend these days. Can you help? Details inside. [more inside]
What a nice rack. No, wait, come back!
I really like this Umbra Loft magazine rack - but they no longer make them, and I can't find anything similar on the 'net. Any way to get one, or something extremely similar?
how can I open an embedded YouTube video from an iPad browser?
Is it possible to open the YouTube app from an embedded video in safari on the iPad?
Help me not do something dangerous
Can you help me read the diagram for the retrofit rewiring of the ballast for my T12 florescent bulbs? [more inside]
Oh Say Can You See/Breathe/Walk/Pee?
Where is best elevated spot to watch NYC July 4th fireworks with someone who is low mobility and agoraphobic? [more inside]
They trip the light fantastic; I want to trip my memory
Please help me identify this fuzzily remembered song. [more inside]
What should a kid not miss at Comic-Con 2012?
What events would you take a five-year-old to at San Diego Comic-Con this year? [more inside]
Need a name for a canned beer class
My husband is developing a craft canned beer class and is having trouble coming up with a name [more inside]
Looking for specific gay erotica that's vanished
Looking for a gay erotic short story that I read a few years ago [more inside]
How do i break bad news to my family without them overreacting?
I'm being made redundant from my job. When should I tell my family? [more inside]
What do landlords want to know?
Looking for a new apartment. Landlords of MeFi, what information should be in the initial email? [more inside]
MSc or PhD?
Wondering whether I should go for the PhD that I wanted when I went back to school, or whether it's more sensible to stay where I am and do a Master's first. [more inside]
Summer fling, don't mean a thing - or not
Getting far too emotionally invested in a fling. Would love advice on how to move forward... [more inside]
The *perfect* list ap
Looking for a shared list app that uses a Facebook login. [more inside]
GMail has an attitude that I need to fix...
GMail no longer shows new messages as unread. Any ideas as to how to fix this? [more inside]
Architect turned ... ?
“Architecture, of all the arts, is the one which acts the most slowly, but the most surely, on the soul” [more inside]
What can I do to improve my OKC Profile?
My experience with OKCupid has been somewhat frustrating. What can I do to improve my profile? [more inside]
Old fire extinguishers good?
It's a porcine emergency!
Where can I find wild boar sausages in London (UK) or the London area on a Sunday? [more inside]
What to do to feel brand new?
What do you do when you want to feel like a new person, or a new version of yourself, or just to shake things up? I am thinking about running out and getting some clippers and making an attempt at shaving my head. Whether for the oft-maligned symbolic break or out of sheer boredom, what have you done to feel new? or what do you do to feel fresh?
Tall clumping bamboo for Southern California?
I'd like to plant bamboo to cover up an unsightly structure that borders my property. Can anyone make a recommendation for which varieties of bamboo might be best? [more inside]
name that rash
Does my face rash sound like seborrheic dermatitis or atopic eczema? And, what can I do about it while I wait for a derm appointment? [more inside]