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July 2012 Archives
July 31
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?
posted by nicapica68 at 10:28 PM PST - 25 comments
Help me understand the argument that the social discount rate sets the amount we should invest to mitigate climate change.
[more inside]posted by piyushnz at 9:22 PM PST - 8 comments
Acne-filter: I finally went to a dermatologist, who prescribed Differin for my adult acne. A few questions inside.
[more inside]posted by anonymous at 9:15 PM PST - 10 comments
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]posted by genehack at 9:11 PM PST - 4 comments 
Can you recommend free/very cheap software for a Mac that allows me to slow down recorded music (mp3s) on the fly?
[more inside]posted by obliquicity at 8:41 PM PST - 19 comments
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]posted by capricorn at 8:32 PM PST - 2 comments
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.
posted by flatluigi at 7:55 PM PST - 8 comments
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]posted by tristeza at 7:35 PM PST - 30 comments
Who is
this muppet?
This is from a set of Sesame Street flash cards. Google has failed me.
posted by bq at 6:37 PM PST - 25 comments
My estranged father passed away last Sunday. I've decided to attend the funeral. Please help me conduct myself with something resembling grace. Overly complex snowflakey stuff inside.
[more inside]posted by Ephelump Jockey at 6:35 PM PST - 23 comments
Order up for some serious, stylish, comfortable shoes that are New York fashion AND all-day-walking compatible.
[more inside]posted by mmmcmmm at 6:29 PM PST - 48 comments
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]posted by hwyengr at 5:52 PM PST - 5 comments
Give me all of your best tips and strategies for living rent-free, especially if that involves house sitting for strangers.
[more inside]posted by pinetree at 5:09 PM PST - 20 comments
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]posted by lorebella at 5:03 PM PST - 23 comments
I want to use bamboo fabric to sew a custom martial arts gi. Help me find fabric and plan this out.
[more inside]posted by jeffmshaw at 4:44 PM PST - 9 comments
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.
posted by michswiss at 4:33 PM PST - 7 comments
Help me determine which settings I should use on a digital camera to photograph buildings.
[more inside]posted by mlis at 4:18 PM PST - 12 comments
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]posted by torisaur at 4:02 PM PST - 10 comments
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]posted by thrasher at 3:58 PM PST - 35 comments
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]posted by colfax at 3:44 PM PST - 10 comments
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]posted by toomuchkatherine at 3:03 PM PST - 20 comments
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]posted by Mothra Pisces at 2:26 PM PST - 2 comments
Have any pleasant date activity ideas for a small-town midweek?
posted by jsturgill at 2:18 PM PST - 19 comments
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]posted by amanda at 2:04 PM PST - 21 comments
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]posted by caryatid at 1:43 PM PST - 22 comments
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!
posted by raphael19 at 1:26 PM PST - 14 comments
In what literary tradition is the work of Ian McEwan? Which authors, past or present, are stylistically related?
posted by shivohum at 1:02 PM PST - 9 comments
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]posted by OneMonkeysUncle at 12:53 PM PST - 14 comments
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]posted by shotgunbooty at 12:26 PM PST - 13 comments
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]posted by The Whelk at 12:21 PM PST - 8 comments
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.
posted by aught at 12:13 PM PST - 7 comments
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]posted by bbyboi at 12:12 PM PST - 12 comments
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]posted by Alison at 11:56 AM PST - 7 comments
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]posted by lynnshaze at 11:51 AM PST - 5 comments
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]posted by slimeline at 11:46 AM PST - 23 comments
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]posted by cairdeas at 11:33 AM PST - 41 comments
I live in a rent-controlled building and have a bad neighbor with violent tendencies, how can I best fix this?
[more inside]posted by rhizome at 10:56 AM PST - 15 comments
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]posted by dynamiiiite at 10:56 AM PST - 27 comments
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?
posted by shimmer at 10:55 AM PST - 33 comments
I have hot Italian sausage and ricotta cheese. Help me make a delicious dinner! Difficulty level: no pasta.
[more inside]posted by vorfeed at 10:46 AM PST - 20 comments
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]posted by zombiedance at 10:13 AM PST - 6 comments
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?
posted by philosophygeek at 9:54 AM PST - 3 comments
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?
posted by Rory Marinich at 9:32 AM PST - 6 comments
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.
posted by dkleinst at 8:48 AM PST - 5 comments
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]posted by kellyk801 at 8:37 AM PST - 12 comments
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]posted by ezekieldas at 8:29 AM PST - 6 comments
Ebay Help: My phone died and I bought a used one from ebay. The seller listed it as "perfect working condition". Well, it's not. Ebay resolution was no help and now I'm stuck with a phone that barely functions.
[more inside]posted by sio42 at 8:21 AM PST - 27 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 7:15 AM PST - 24 comments
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]posted by Beardman at 6:55 AM PST - 11 comments
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]posted by EmpressCallipygos at 6:29 AM PST - 10 comments
Need help planning a vacation in New England/North-East US are in fall. More details inside
[more inside]posted by WizKid at 6:26 AM PST - 31 comments
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.
posted by kfs27 at 5:08 AM PST - 10 comments
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.
posted by Ted Maul at 5:05 AM PST - 3 comments
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]posted by estlin at 4:27 AM PST - 30 comments
(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]posted by lollusc at 3:11 AM PST - 3 comments
I would like to be a teacher. Snowflake: of technology, to adults, in San Francisco, during evenings.
[more inside]posted by nominal at 12:21 AM PST - 7 comments
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.
posted by rhapsodie at 12:00 AM PST - 4 comments
July 30
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]posted by Beacon Inbound at 11:57 PM PST - 25 comments
I have a 4 yo and another on the way. We camp a lot. We have a VW jetta wagon, but it's getting cramped and we need something bigger. I like the Mazda 5 but my wife thinks it's "too minivan looking." ANy suggestions for maxi-wagons that have that third row of seating that can fold down into cargo space? We do not want an SUV but may have to consider something on the small end of the SUV range ... and we're hoping not to spend more than 24k. Used/new/prev lease all are options.
posted by luriete at 8:46 PM PST - 22 comments
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!
posted by tessalations999 at 8:35 PM PST - 7 comments
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.
posted by holdenjordahl at 8:09 PM PST - 11 comments
How can I find a partner for a very specific kind of long-distance relationship? (Mild kink inside.)
[more inside]posted by anonymous at 8:03 PM PST - 8 comments
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]posted by kellybird at 7:29 PM PST - 4 comments
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]posted by 8k at 7:17 PM PST - 3 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 5:34 PM PST - 32 comments
Made some marinara sauce in the slow cooker that came out tasting really metallic. Any way to save it?
[more inside]posted by JanetLand at 5:20 PM PST - 11 comments
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]posted by Dreadnought at 4:41 PM PST - 8 comments
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]posted by mdn31 at 4:24 PM PST - 11 comments
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]posted by Sine_Agraphia at 4:20 PM PST - 6 comments
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]posted by Drasher at 3:12 PM PST - 2 comments
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]posted by Modica at 3:09 PM PST - 23 comments
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]posted by matticulate at 2:59 PM PST - 8 comments
Which is the best Portuguese or Spanish restaurant in the Ironbound section of Newark, NJ?
[more inside]posted by iconomy at 2:44 PM PST - 3 comments
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]posted by griphus at 1:56 PM PST - 32 comments
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]posted by LarryC at 1:55 PM PST - 10 comments
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]posted by rhiannonstone at 1:54 PM PST - 21 comments
Index card lovers unite! Looking for
non-digital ways to manage citations, sources, etc. for academic research projects.
[more inside]posted by threeants at 1:45 PM PST - 10 comments
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]posted by printchick at 1:45 PM PST - 19 comments
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]posted by skylar at 1:37 PM PST - 20 comments
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.
posted by calistasm at 1:23 PM PST - 3 comments
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]posted by Rhaomi at 1:18 PM PST - 12 comments
My boyfriend has just been diagnosed with a severe bacterial throat infection. How likely is it that I also have it?
[more inside]posted by fight or flight at 1:08 PM PST - 8 comments
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]posted by CrystalDave at 1:07 PM PST - 13 comments
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?
posted by Jagz-Mario at 12:38 PM PST - 15 comments
The internets has ruined my brain and my ability to concentrate. How can I relearn how to focus and be less distracted?
[more inside]posted by burlsube at 12:37 PM PST - 10 comments
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]posted by bleucube at 11:11 AM PST - 18 comments
Should I tell a friend that a contractor I recommended to her has a drug problem?
[more inside]posted by eeby at 10:59 AM PST - 30 comments
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]posted by thecaddy at 10:54 AM PST - 6 comments
Torn between being a busy body, saying something so someone can help, or stay the heck out and mind my own business.
[more inside]posted by MayNicholas at 9:32 AM PST - 47 comments
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]posted by adamrice at 9:00 AM PST - 10 comments
Do you recall a TV show or movie where the characters used the word "rape" as a mnemonic device?
[more inside]posted by anonymous at 8:29 AM PST - 7 comments
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]posted by nebulawindphone at 8:15 AM PST - 24 comments
My '95 Toyota Camry uses Dexron II transmission fluid as power steering fluid, but nobody sells Dexron II anymore...
[more inside]posted by Mercaptan at 7:58 AM PST - 9 comments
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]posted by pandabearjohnson at 7:49 AM PST - 49 comments
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]posted by lovedbymarylane at 5:01 AM PST - 10 comments
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]posted by myntu at 3:41 AM PST - 2 comments
Is emoticon usage in decline for non-personal messages and posts? What replaced emoticons?
[more inside]posted by molamir at 2:58 AM PST - 22 comments
I have to host a trivia quiz for friends in a couple of weeks. What rounds should it have?
[more inside]posted by vidur at 12:16 AM PST - 12 comments
July 29
I apparently stopped talking from just before I was one till I was about four. Should I be worried?
[more inside]posted by divabat at 9:32 PM PST - 24 comments
Frustrated with a "Verification of Illness" form. Rattling my brain trying to figure out how to fill this out.
[more inside]posted by raintree at 9:25 PM PST - 8 comments
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!
posted by browse at 9:00 PM PST - 3 comments
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]posted by alms at 8:07 PM PST - 22 comments
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?
posted by GaelFC at 7:58 PM PST - 9 comments
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]posted by randomkeystrike at 7:56 PM PST - 12 comments
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]posted by MrHalfwit at 7:51 PM PST - 15 comments
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]posted by Grandysaur at 7:33 PM PST - 19 comments
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]posted by zardoz at 7:25 PM PST - 5 comments
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!
posted by wheats at 6:30 PM PST - 4 comments
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]posted by Alterscape at 5:31 PM PST - 21 comments
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]posted by cestmoi15 at 5:15 PM PST - 15 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 4:55 PM PST - 26 comments
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]posted by slidell at 4:40 PM PST - 23 comments
UK short story market for sci-fi and speculative fiction. Are there any sites that list current calls for submission?
[more inside]posted by run"monty at 4:07 PM PST - 1 comments
Are there issues with working two half time jobs as opposed to one full time job that I should be aware of?
[more inside]posted by jimmysmits at 3:34 PM PST - 15 comments
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]posted by stresstwig at 3:14 PM PST - 10 comments
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]posted by humboldt32 at 2:36 PM PST - 13 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 2:08 PM PST - 45 comments
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]posted by jitterbug perfume at 2:02 PM PST - 9 comments
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]posted by trogdole at 1:31 PM PST - 3 comments
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?
posted by Busoni at 12:43 PM PST - 29 comments
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]posted by lizarrd at 11:43 AM PST - 12 comments
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?
posted by parmanparman at 11:29 AM PST - 5 comments
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]posted by ethansh at 10:30 AM PST - 10 comments
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]posted by saltwater at 10:29 AM PST - 22 comments
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]posted by lesbiassparrow at 10:10 AM PST - 32 comments
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?
posted by mochapickle at 9:43 AM PST - 4 comments
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).
posted by gertzedek at 9:34 AM PST - 17 comments
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]posted by desjardins at 9:15 AM PST - 19 comments
I need an alternative to Google Drive (formerly Google Docs) to use with my 5th grade students.
[more inside]posted by robverb at 8:19 AM PST - 8 comments
What ingredient is it in Sobe drinks that consistently gives me diarrhea? [maybe not NSFW, but a bit graphic]
[more inside]posted by anonymous at 7:44 AM PST - 10 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 7:44 AM PST - 81 comments
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.
posted by No-sword at 6:55 AM PST - 8 comments
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]posted by CollectiveMind at 6:45 AM PST - 4 comments
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?
posted by insteadofapricots at 6:20 AM PST - 13 comments
Based on your personal experience, what is the best American airline to fly with (in terms of quality of service, comfort, customer service, etc.)?
posted by Tenacious.Me.Tokyo at 4:24 AM PST - 20 comments
Two questions about Vietnam! 1) Safe to take my macbook on travels through the country? 2) What should I be buying cheaply in Vietnam?
posted by freddymetz at 2:25 AM PST - 19 comments
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.
posted by evil_esto at 1:52 AM PST - 4 comments
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!
posted by surenoproblem at 12:36 AM PST - 7 comments
July 28
Insect identification - what can you tell me about this flying beast? (good pic inside)
[more inside]posted by Listener at 10:16 PM PST - 4 comments
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]posted by Dr. Eigenvariable at 8:29 PM PST - 26 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 7:43 PM PST - 21 comments
Does anyone have any hair-styling tips and/or tool suggestions for people with wayyyy too much hair?
[more inside]posted by Tarumba at 7:14 PM PST - 15 comments
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]posted by Eyelash at 7:03 PM PST - 7 comments
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]posted by elephantsvanish at 6:25 PM PST - 29 comments
PS3 + Amazon Instant Video is giving me no sound. PS3 works perfectly with sound with all other games/movies etc.
[more inside]posted by wile e at 6:18 PM PST - 2 comments
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]posted by taiscape at 6:06 PM PST - 14 comments
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?
posted by Infernarl at 5:34 PM PST - 4 comments
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]posted by danb at 5:25 PM PST - 1 comments
yet another smoke stink question. I looked for answers and found some that would be helpful, BUT...
[more inside]posted by fifilaru at 2:45 PM PST - 7 comments
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?
posted by coffee and minarets at 1:58 PM PST - 10 comments
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]posted by sleevener at 1:56 PM PST - 1 comments
WestVirginiaCampingTripFilter: Interesting activities in & within an hour drive of Monogahela National Forest for some adults and 30+ kids?
[more inside]posted by NolanRyanHatesMatches at 1:28 PM PST - 6 comments
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]posted by gazole at 1:17 PM PST - 9 comments
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]posted by pantarei70 at 1:12 PM PST - 21 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 12:38 PM PST - 9 comments
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]posted by Foam Pants at 12:22 PM PST - 16 comments
I'm trying to remember the name and author of a science fiction short-story. Description inside.
[more inside]posted by sauril at 11:08 AM PST - 4 comments
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]posted by JannaK at 10:34 AM PST - 23 comments
Can I grease the bearings in a wheel with a back-pedal brake without wrecking the whole thing?
[more inside]posted by nevan at 10:31 AM PST - 7 comments
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?
posted by chengjih at 10:12 AM PST - 9 comments
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]posted by dithmer at 9:50 AM PST - 8 comments
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]posted by Bardolph at 8:54 AM PST - 31 comments
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]posted by houndsoflove at 8:51 AM PST - 33 comments
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]posted by ChrisR at 8:46 AM PST - 16 comments
Yesterday I had a cystoscopy during which the MD used a laser to break up a stubborn kidney stone. He then placed a stent with strings attached up in there somewhere and the strings extend out from my penis. I am scheduled to have the stent removed on Monday morning and the idea of pulling this thing out of my penis by yanking on the strings is giving me a bad case of the fantods. What can I expect here? Is it going to be a brief moment of hellish pain or should it slide out without excessive discomfort?
posted by Seymour Zamboni at 7:16 AM PST - 11 comments
Which PHP framework is the most straightforward to pick up for an beginner / intermediate programmer?
[more inside]posted by jontyjago at 6:38 AM PST - 7 comments
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]posted by diode at 5:50 AM PST - 2 comments
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]posted by indognito at 5:34 AM PST - 36 comments
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]posted by cmp4Meta at 1:24 AM PST - 2 comments
July 27
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.
posted by Mai2k3 at 10:45 PM PST - 19 comments
What was this "ooh la la la la..." song with the hot electric guitar that I heard the other night?
[more inside]posted by smcameron at 9:44 PM PST - 4 comments
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]posted by Mach3avelli at 9:12 PM PST - 20 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 9:10 PM PST - 20 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 8:51 PM PST - 24 comments
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]posted by cupcake1337 at 7:38 PM PST - 5 comments
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]posted by vulgar_wheat at 7:14 PM PST - 12 comments
Please help me learn about outcomes from Reggio Emilia and similar project-based, progressive educational systems.
[more inside]posted by spbmp at 5:37 PM PST - 11 comments
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?
posted by Stynxno at 4:38 PM PST - 5 comments
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]posted by jimwhimpey at 2:39 PM PST - 34 comments
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]posted by Jacob G at 2:16 PM PST - 2 comments
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]posted by Yiggs at 1:55 PM PST - 8 comments
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.
posted by bearwife at 1:28 PM PST - 11 comments
Is my mortgage broker drawing out the process on purpose? Is he getting paid now or is it a commission type business?
[more inside]posted by Kazimirovna at 1:21 PM PST - 9 comments
Further science/philosophical reading about human evolution and the woes of our modern life. Looking for suggestions, please!
[more inside]posted by alex_skazat at 1:11 PM PST - 13 comments
Honeysuckle and jasmine smell identical to me. Is there a good reason for this? Like...science?
[more inside]posted by mippy at 12:42 PM PST - 4 comments
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]posted by punkrockrat at 11:55 AM PST - 13 comments
I'm interested in making a strong faraday cage device to protect my stuff, one that is walk-in.
[more inside]posted by Query at 11:52 AM PST - 12 comments
Help me understand which camera memory card to buy, and also (potentially) where I might buy one in Boston/Cambridge (or online)!
[more inside]posted by UniversityNomad at 11:49 AM PST - 11 comments
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?
posted by Egg Shen at 11:43 AM PST - 4 comments
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]posted by gofargogo at 11:25 AM PST - 8 comments
Landlords: What websites get you the best results for advertising room-rentals / shared accommodation?
[more inside]posted by audio at 11:21 AM PST - 8 comments
Having a potentially cancerous skin growth removed by a plastic surgeon. What should I expect?
[more inside]posted by swift at 10:46 AM PST - 16 comments
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]posted by symbioid at 10:44 AM PST - 36 comments
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]posted by eliseb at 10:35 AM PST - 81 comments
What types of jobs or careers would let me live in the US but travel internationally every couple of months?
[more inside]posted by inatizzy at 8:39 AM PST - 21 comments
Are all bars super accommodating to pregnant ladies, or just the ones we go to in Montreal?
[more inside]posted by awenner at 8:34 AM PST - 12 comments
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?
posted by steinsaltz at 7:58 AM PST - 15 comments
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
posted by Uncle at 7:35 AM PST - 7 comments
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]posted by sully75 at 7:29 AM PST - 12 comments
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.
posted by st starseed at 6:29 AM PST - 13 comments
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?
posted by =^^= at 6:24 AM PST - 10 comments
I'm interested in psychology, public health, and aging. Who should I be following on Twitter?
[more inside]posted by leedly at 6:22 AM PST - 5 comments
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).
posted by cavyherd at 1:47 AM PST - 11 comments
July 26
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?
posted by kreestar at 11:46 PM PST - 7 comments
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]posted by meowzilla at 11:15 PM PST - 8 comments
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?
posted by LSK at 10:43 PM PST - 10 comments
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]posted by Chutzler at 10:14 PM PST - 10 comments
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]posted by logic vs love at 10:07 PM PST - 21 comments
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]posted by ekf at 9:13 PM PST - 8 comments
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?
posted by lirael2008 at 9:07 PM PST - 6 comments
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]posted by iamscott at 8:30 PM PST - 5 comments
New apartment comes with beautiful, expensive sectional couch. Our cat is a pro furniture shredder. Help.
[more inside]posted by nerdfish at 8:26 PM PST - 19 comments
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.
posted by leftoverboy at 7:46 PM PST - 11 comments
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]posted by L'Estrange Fruit at 7:42 PM PST - 35 comments
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]posted by Countess Elena at 7:29 PM PST - 4 comments
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]posted by deadwax at 6:56 PM PST - 22 comments
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]posted by vash at 6:40 PM PST - 41 comments
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?
posted by ac at 5:11 PM PST - 6 comments
How do I make one of those "Little Girl Laughing...SLOWED DOWN" videos with some footage of my grandson?
[more inside]posted by newfers at 5:09 PM PST - 2 comments
Are there online forums/communities for support for medical professionals/students with serious mental health diagnoses?
[more inside]posted by anonymous at 4:41 PM PST - 2 comments
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]posted by Rafaelloello at 4:16 PM PST - 23 comments
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]posted by smilingtiger at 3:59 PM PST - 17 comments
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]posted by Ery at 2:53 PM PST - 5 comments
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]posted by carmenghia at 2:22 PM PST - 12 comments
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]posted by aecorwin at 1:46 PM PST - 4 comments
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]posted by toomanyplugs at 1:02 PM PST - 8 comments
Lost the dosing card for a prescription of Voltaren gel (diclofenac sodium 1%). How can I figure out how much to apply?
[more inside]posted by otherwordlyglow at 1:00 PM PST - 10 comments
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]posted by bluefly at 12:57 PM PST - 19 comments
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]posted by zeek321 at 12:52 PM PST - 3 comments
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]posted by corb at 11:51 AM PST - 26 comments
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.
posted by rzperllian at 11:50 AM PST - 83 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 11:25 AM PST - 6 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 11:24 AM PST - 6 comments
Do any of you New York-area mefites have an opinion on Verizon versus Time Warner for internet?
[more inside]posted by Mooseli at 11:20 AM PST - 17 comments
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]posted by Shesthefastest at 10:59 AM PST - 7 comments
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]posted by Miss T.Horn at 10:36 AM PST - 26 comments
What is the least awkward way of tipping someone when you're not actually paying for anything?
[more inside]posted by schmoo at 10:10 AM PST - 17 comments
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]posted by simongsmith at 9:48 AM PST - 1 comments
Translation Help Please for these gravestones ... (Chinese or Japanese? I'm completely ignorant of Asian languages, sorry.)
[more inside]posted by RedEmma at 9:46 AM PST - 15 comments
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]posted by jeffhoward at 9:42 AM PST - 4 comments
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]posted by peachfuzz at 9:29 AM PST - 32 comments
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]posted by shelleycat at 9:11 AM PST - 24 comments
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]posted by greta simone at 8:58 AM PST - 7 comments
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.
posted by cmfletcher at 8:17 AM PST - 2 comments
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.
posted by timpanogos at 8:11 AM PST - 3 comments
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]posted by foxhat10 at 8:06 AM PST - 13 comments
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]posted by Fig at 7:57 AM PST - 19 comments
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]posted by livinglearning at 7:13 AM PST - 9 comments
What would be the best hardware upgrade in my desktop PC to improve multitasking performance?
[more inside]posted by pilibeen at 6:44 AM PST - 28 comments
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]posted by pla at 6:41 AM PST - 4 comments
Is it possible to eliminate the transition animation when switching between Spaces in Mountain Lion?
[more inside]posted by pharm at 6:19 AM PST - 15 comments
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]posted by solotoro at 5:50 AM PST - 7 comments
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]posted by JimmyJames at 5:45 AM PST - 7 comments
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]posted by therubettes at 4:43 AM PST - 7 comments
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]posted by cendawanita at 3:14 AM PST - 4 comments
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....?
posted by EatMyHat at 1:00 AM PST - 4 comments
July 25
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.
posted by pokeydonut at 11:03 PM PST - 7 comments
Help me find more great sci-fi about ancient aliens / ancient technologies for my favorite 14-year-old avid reader.
[more inside]posted by wintersonata9 at 10:36 PM PST - 30 comments
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.
posted by circular at 10:24 PM PST - 6 comments
What are some common folk/fairy tales which feature horrible suffering (death/torture) of unnamed, minor characters?
[more inside]posted by Alabaster at 9:42 PM PST - 12 comments
Managed to get some form of sickness in Istanbul. Am I okay now, or should I still go see a doctor?
[more inside]posted by mrfuga0 at 9:41 PM PST - 9 comments
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?
posted by Bushmiller at 8:42 PM PST - 0 comments
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]posted by Defying Gravity at 8:34 PM PST - 17 comments
How do you decide to have a baby? Like, actually, literally decide, "today we're going to try"?
[more inside]posted by annie o at 7:28 PM PST - 38 comments
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]posted by superna at 7:17 PM PST - 16 comments
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]posted by gwen1234 at 7:06 PM PST - 3 comments
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]posted by horseblind at 5:52 PM PST - 13 comments
I'd like to get/make a gift for a breast cancer survivor. I am moderately crafty. Gift ideas?
[more inside]posted by mooza at 5:16 PM PST - 10 comments
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]posted by thesocietyfor at 5:14 PM PST - 21 comments
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]posted by (The Rt Hon.) MP at 4:49 PM PST - 19 comments
Help me puppy-proof my house while creating the ultimate puppy environment for puppy happiness and funtimes!
[more inside]posted by elizardbits at 4:24 PM PST - 22 comments
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]posted by constellations at 4:21 PM PST - 10 comments
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.
posted by 256 at 4:14 PM PST - 28 comments
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]posted by Lakmir at 3:44 PM PST - 17 comments
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]posted by davejay at 3:09 PM PST - 17 comments
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!
posted by seekingsimplicity at 2:53 PM PST - 33 comments
how to reply when someone says quit speeding, in a way that sounds friendly and funny?
posted by daveg02 at 2:39 PM PST - 27 comments
Please recommend some movies and TV shows I would enjoy watching that are available for free streaming with an amazon prime membership.
[more inside]posted by medusa at 2:11 PM PST - 9 comments
The last OneNote vs Evernote question on AskMe was over two years ago and I know
a lot has changed. (more)
[more inside]posted by Gerard Sorme at 2:11 PM PST - 13 comments
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]posted by twoforty5am at 2:00 PM PST - 9 comments
Kindle keyboard w/ lines on screen... Amazon does NOT seem interested in replacing (this time). Any options on repair?
[more inside]posted by Jacen at 1:16 PM PST - 6 comments
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]posted by She Kisses Wyverns at 1:02 PM PST - 7 comments
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]posted by KoiPond at 12:47 PM PST - 15 comments
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]posted by mrgroweler at 12:42 PM PST - 3 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 12:06 PM PST - 9 comments
Looking for a recommendation for a fee-based financial adviser in the Cleveland area.
[more inside]posted by Tehhund at 12:00 PM PST - 2 comments
PodcastFilter: Either I am running out of podcasts I like or I need fresh perspective to help me find new ones.
[more inside]posted by Kitteh at 11:51 AM PST - 17 comments
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]posted by Kronur at 11:47 AM PST - 21 comments
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]posted by vegetableagony at 11:35 AM PST - 7 comments
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]posted by Laura Macbeth at 11:24 AM PST - 4 comments
Who are the great Olympic athletes competing in 2012 from lesser-known countries?
[more inside]posted by jtajta at 11:20 AM PST - 6 comments
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]posted by fake at 11:17 AM PST - 11 comments
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?
posted by Cat Pie Hurts at 10:57 AM PST - 21 comments
It's "America Day"! What simple activities and games would you suggest for 40 English language learners in China, ages 8-12?
[more inside]posted by elisse at 10:48 AM PST - 2 comments
Does anyone have information on using PEX tubing for residential use, particularly regarding long term health risks?
[more inside]posted by batou_ at 10:01 AM PST - 9 comments
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?
posted by Jamesonian at 9:53 AM PST - 13 comments
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]posted by gilsonal at 9:35 AM PST - 26 comments
Is it possible to watch Formula 1 in the U.S. (Mass.) without cable? I do have internet + Apple TV + Netflix + Hulu Plus.
posted by lovingkindness at 9:05 AM PST - 9 comments
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]posted by chatelaine at 8:59 AM PST - 18 comments
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]posted by TurkishGolds at 7:44 AM PST - 12 comments
Working out: Help me build a workout plan around Olympic lifts and free weights for burning fat, building muscle...
[more inside]posted by MMALR at 7:18 AM PST - 10 comments
Students of art, lovers of philosophy, can you recommend a book I can buy as a gift for a friend?
[more inside]posted by Chichibio at 6:50 AM PST - 17 comments
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
posted by ndaguiar at 6:48 AM PST - 1 comments
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]posted by A Terrible Llama at 6:30 AM PST - 32 comments
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.
posted by rockhopper at 6:18 AM PST - 10 comments
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]posted by miniraptor at 5:47 AM PST - 0 comments
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]posted by leetheflea at 5:06 AM PST - 9 comments
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]posted by Gordion Knott at 3:46 AM PST - 14 comments
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?
posted by iamkimiam at 1:36 AM PST - 13 comments
July 24
Can you identify this classic/blues rock song from a 4-bar GarageBand remake of a guitar melody?
[more inside]posted by germdisco at 10:08 PM PST - 3 comments
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]posted by yogalemon at 9:31 PM PST - 28 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 8:57 PM PST - 2 comments
what to do with a sweet, amazing, seemingly-indoor cat who has showed up on our doorstep twice now.
[more inside]posted by xbonesgt at 8:24 PM PST - 30 comments
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]posted by geoff. at 8:11 PM PST - 31 comments
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.
posted by toodleydoodley at 7:54 PM PST - 15 comments
You are a salaried employee with no overtime. You get an hour for lunch. Do you work 9-5 or 9-6?
posted by asockpuppet at 6:31 PM PST - 72 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 6:24 PM PST - 25 comments
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]posted by rhombus at 6:09 PM PST - 16 comments
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]posted by restless_nomad at 6:04 PM PST - 12 comments
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]posted by jlibera at 5:14 PM PST - 5 comments
I have a very nice Dutch roadster bike. Help me (in Canada) find replacement pedals fit for this king of the road.
[more inside]posted by scruss at 5:13 PM PST - 15 comments
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]posted by ohyouknow at 4:16 PM PST - 35 comments
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]posted by jonobarel at 4:07 PM PST - 2 comments
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]posted by jeffburdges at 3:28 PM PST - 9 comments
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]posted by LobsterMitten at 3:25 PM PST - 3 comments
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]posted by grrarrgh00 at 3:09 PM PST - 15 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 3:03 PM PST - 26 comments
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]posted by dobbs at 2:33 PM PST - 3 comments
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]posted by suburbanbeatnik at 2:16 PM PST - 73 comments
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]posted by forkisbetter at 1:23 PM PST - 35 comments
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.
posted by freakazoid at 1:00 PM PST - 39 comments
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.
posted by blue_wardrobe at 12:20 PM PST - 3 comments
Please recommend great French films, ideally critically acclaimed, that I can watch on Netflix or Amazon Instant Video. Difficulty: should not be depressing.
posted by Dragonness at 12:17 PM PST - 47 comments
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]posted by Smegoid at 11:51 AM PST - 17 comments
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.
posted by rebent at 11:48 AM PST - 75 comments
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]posted by codacorolla at 11:40 AM PST - 15 comments
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]posted by atomicstone at 11:28 AM PST - 3 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 11:23 AM PST - 32 comments
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.
posted by undercoverhuwaaah at 11:05 AM PST - 6 comments
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]posted by lamprey at 10:56 AM PST - 6 comments
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.
posted by one_bean at 10:41 AM PST - 7 comments
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]posted by SampleSize at 10:20 AM PST - 20 comments
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]posted by mbidi at 10:08 AM PST - 7 comments
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]posted by condour75 at 9:09 AM PST - 40 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 9:06 AM PST - 29 comments
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]posted by Sully at 8:59 AM PST - 3 comments
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.
posted by OneMonkeysUncle at 8:26 AM PST - 20 comments
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?
posted by luvmywife at 8:06 AM PST - 16 comments
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]posted by mary8nne at 7:57 AM PST - 18 comments
Help me recover from my recovery: advice sought on diet, fitness, repatriation, etc. after a long hospitalization.
[more inside]posted by anonymous at 7:56 AM PST - 13 comments
What is OpenDNS and how do I turn it off? Please explain it to me like I'm seven years old.
[more inside]posted by Brittanie at 7:55 AM PST - 5 comments
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]posted by Avenger50 at 7:43 AM PST - 47 comments
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]posted by TomMelee at 7:42 AM PST - 33 comments
I want to read about daily life in the Middle Ages. Particularly daily life in monasteries, but in other places too.
[more inside]posted by showbiz_liz at 7:07 AM PST - 20 comments
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]posted by Fiasco da Gama at 5:36 AM PST - 3 comments
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".
posted by Faintdreams at 4:15 AM PST - 20 comments
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]posted by blnkfrnk at 12:25 AM PST - 6 comments
July 23
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]posted by lizbunny at 11:25 PM PST - 32 comments
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]posted by cardioid at 11:01 PM PST - 14 comments
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.
posted by DesmondDoomsday at 9:22 PM PST - 7 comments
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]posted by auntietennis at 8:58 PM PST - 11 comments
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]posted by msk1985 at 7:55 PM PST - 4 comments
My husband is making fetish videos of himself, and I'm not sure what to do about it (if anything)
[more inside]posted by anonymous at 7:50 PM PST - 21 comments
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?
posted by AaRdVarK at 7:33 PM PST - 14 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 7:27 PM PST - 19 comments
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]posted by Paper rabies at 7:01 PM PST - 19 comments
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]posted by leslies at 6:49 PM PST - 3 comments
Help me find a flash game where you built a spaceship from parts of enemy ships
[more inside]posted by nickhb at 6:32 PM PST - 5 comments
Is there any program that can prevent one from searching for specific terms in Google?
[more inside]posted by Clotilde at 6:26 PM PST - 3 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 6:07 PM PST - 14 comments
Superhero origin triple-bill movie evening: Kick Ass, Batman Begins and Spider-Man (Sam Raimi). Optimum viewing order? Guests arrive at 3pm.
posted by Hugobaron at 5:51 PM PST - 10 comments
How can I go about transferring my OS to a new SSD but leave my other programs without totally breaking everything?
[more inside]posted by _DB_ at 5:47 PM PST - 11 comments
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]posted by mrflibble at 4:59 PM PST - 3 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 4:36 PM PST - 36 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 4:36 PM PST - 19 comments
How do l find the residual sales value that will generate a given IRR when the investment and cash flows are fixed?
[more inside]posted by jefficator at 4:12 PM PST - 3 comments
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]posted by hrj at 3:58 PM PST - 15 comments
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]posted by jonathanbell at 3:45 PM PST - 5 comments
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]posted by pink_gorilla at 3:38 PM PST - 23 comments
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.
posted by gman at 3:37 PM PST - 6 comments
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]posted by SuperSquirrel at 2:58 PM PST - 6 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 2:40 PM PST - 19 comments
NYC activities for a (gasp) bridge & tunnel visitor? Would like ideas for activities, sightseeing that might be especially worthwhile or edifying.
[more inside]posted by polymodus at 2:25 PM PST - 13 comments
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]posted by Debaser626 at 1:25 PM PST - 11 comments
Gauged ears - what to do? Cultural appropriation, work, your opinions and suggestions needed.
[more inside]posted by Frowner at 1:25 PM PST - 31 comments
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]posted by youngergirl44 at 1:11 PM PST - 16 comments
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]posted by rhiannonstone at 1:09 PM PST - 24 comments
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?
posted by shivohum at 12:47 PM PST - 1 comments
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]posted by ClarissaWAM at 12:45 PM PST - 5 comments
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]posted by elizeh at 11:59 AM PST - 15 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 11:39 AM PST - 6 comments
What should I do make sure my best friend has the very best experience as my Maid of Honour as possible?
[more inside]posted by gwenlister at 11:34 AM PST - 20 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 11:17 AM PST - 45 comments
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]posted by griphus at 10:59 AM PST - 61 comments
Appropriate gift for an Orthodox Bar Mitzvah, preferably something that can be easily purchased and shipped from western Europe?
[more inside]posted by ohio at 10:44 AM PST - 15 comments
What's the story behind jiggly fat? Why do some people have jiggly fat while others seem to be carrying denser fat?
[more inside]posted by kitcat at 10:04 AM PST - 3 comments
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]posted by Joey Bagels at 9:52 AM PST - 5 comments
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]posted by theatro at 9:42 AM PST - 9 comments
Tell me about framing movie posters. Tips. Frames. Deals. Conventions. Things to beware of.
[more inside]posted by bswinburn at 9:40 AM PST - 6 comments
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]posted by speedgraphic at 9:13 AM PST - 14 comments
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]posted by The Whelk at 9:00 AM PST - 62 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 8:01 AM PST - 21 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 6:54 AM PST - 8 comments
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.
posted by KHinds10 at 6:38 AM PST - 18 comments
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]posted by iheijoushin at 6:23 AM PST - 20 comments
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.
posted by canine epigram at 6:21 AM PST - 9 comments
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]posted by amcm at 6:03 AM PST - 4 comments
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]posted by Kamelot123 at 12:24 AM PST - 3 comments
July 22
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]posted by slater at 10:29 PM PST - 3 comments
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]posted by 5ean at 10:07 PM PST - 4 comments
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]posted by arniec at 9:59 PM PST - 1 comments
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]posted by cap11235 at 9:52 PM PST - 13 comments
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]posted by furiousxgeorge at 9:51 PM PST - 4 comments
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]posted by asimplemouse at 9:36 PM PST - 28 comments
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]posted by filthy light thief at 8:18 PM PST - 30 comments
I have two weeks of PhD qualifying exams coming up - how do I stay sane, healthy, and positive?
[more inside]posted by SNWidget at 7:48 PM PST - 15 comments
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]posted by slateyness at 7:47 PM PST - 47 comments
If I show you a neighborhood in Paris, can you tell me how safe it is for a family with kids?
[more inside]posted by crapples at 7:36 PM PST - 12 comments
Cataract surgery + implant filter: My mother is about to have the first of two cataract surgeries and is considering bifocal implants.
[more inside]posted by quince at 7:33 PM PST - 2 comments
Is there a regular dance night in or around Asheville, NC, that includes '80s music but is nonsmoking?
[more inside]posted by rikschell at 7:01 PM PST - 5 comments
How do I keep my sanity, the little dignity that I have left, and not completely ruin my daughter's life?
[more inside]posted by andariel at 7:00 PM PST - 48 comments
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.
posted by Ventre Mou at 6:58 PM PST - 9 comments
Dog filter, we adopted a rescue dog last Sunday and she's great, but I have a couple of questions.
[more inside]posted by patheral at 5:46 PM PST - 21 comments
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]posted by ichomp at 5:06 PM PST - 14 comments
I need an weather proof outdoor webcam. I have intermittent power and wifi. What are my options?
[more inside]posted by chillmost at 5:01 PM PST - 8 comments
Only child makes depressing Christmas visit to parents. How can I prevent this from happening again?
[more inside]posted by eldindeer at 4:47 PM PST - 30 comments
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]posted by That's Numberwang! at 4:44 PM PST - 8 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 4:39 PM PST - 5 comments
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]posted by she's not there at 4:33 PM PST - 6 comments
"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?
posted by Chocolate Pickle at 4:28 PM PST - 3 comments
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!
posted by dougiedd at 2:12 PM PST - 11 comments
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]posted by Nufkin at 12:11 PM PST - 14 comments
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]posted by Prairie at 12:11 PM PST - 28 comments
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]posted by bluelight at 11:29 AM PST - 8 comments
Unbearable side effects of starting Citalopram. Should I stick this out or take a chance with an alternative?
[more inside]posted by lilnublet at 11:24 AM PST - 8 comments
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?
posted by anonymous at 8:47 AM PST - 11 comments
Can you put books with soft leather bindings on the bookshelf like other books?
[more inside]posted by Paquda at 8:38 AM PST - 1 comments
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]posted by Autumn at 8:20 AM PST - 8 comments
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]posted by Sakura3210 at 7:54 AM PST - 11 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 7:40 AM PST - 24 comments
Are there any reliable statistics for the number of American high school seniors who apply to colleges each year?
[more inside]posted by dfriedman at 7:31 AM PST - 3 comments
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]posted by dekathelon at 7:02 AM PST - 94 comments
July 21
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]posted by lemoncakeisalie at 11:41 PM PST - 36 comments
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]posted by twirlypen at 10:03 PM PST - 11 comments
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]posted by Senor Cardgage at 9:11 PM PST - 5 comments
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]posted by maryrosecook at 8:18 PM PST - 11 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 7:54 PM PST - 24 comments
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]posted by spunweb at 7:32 PM PST - 3 comments
What are the most super fun things to do in the eastern upper and northern lower peninsulas of Michigan?
[more inside]posted by looli at 7:19 PM PST - 14 comments
What kind of certification do you need to work in the medical field in Europe? Specifically in Italy?
[more inside]posted by skwint at 7:17 PM PST - 3 comments
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?
posted by moammargaret at 7:10 PM PST - 7 comments
I have a question about Google's 2-factor authentication and upgrading to a new device. Can you help?
[more inside]posted by KokuRyu at 6:25 PM PST - 17 comments
How can I set up my LCD monitor as a full-fledged TV for a digital tuner, DVD player, and Wii?
[more inside]posted by gregoryg at 6:17 PM PST - 7 comments
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]posted by Madamina at 6:05 PM PST - 9 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 3:36 PM PST - 6 comments
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?
posted by supercoollady at 3:22 PM PST - 7 comments
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]posted by zardoz at 3:21 PM PST - 10 comments
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.
posted by r2d2 at 3:20 PM PST - 13 comments
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]posted by This_Will_Be_Good at 3:06 PM PST - 3 comments
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.
posted by parmanparman at 2:34 PM PST - 3 comments
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]posted by denmarkstreet at 2:06 PM PST - 6 comments
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]posted by marble at 1:59 PM PST - 31 comments
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!
posted by tessalations999 at 1:39 PM PST - 8 comments
Can someone give me an estimate of how long food takes to go through your digestive system.
[more inside]posted by sockpim at 1:29 PM PST - 20 comments
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.
posted by trillian at 1:23 PM PST - 4 comments
Just replaced the memory in my MacBook Pro (was 2GB, now is 6GB) - what should I do with the old memory sticks?
[more inside]posted by WestCoaster at 1:05 PM PST - 11 comments
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!
posted by kidelo at 12:55 PM PST - 5 comments
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.
posted by captainscared at 12:41 PM PST - 3 comments
I'm looking for an episode of Star Trek the Next Generation where Riker hits a table and yells that's enough!
[more inside]posted by k8lin at 11:51 AM PST - 6 comments
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]posted by misspat at 10:31 AM PST - 7 comments
What are the skills I need to acquire in order to become an analyst or consultant in the non-profit world?
[more inside]posted by hala mass at 9:47 AM PST - 4 comments
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]posted by Rash at 9:43 AM PST - 11 comments
How can I learn calculus and differential equations well, in a relatively short amount of time?
[more inside]posted by anonymous at 9:18 AM PST - 8 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 9:00 AM PST - 37 comments
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]posted by d. z. wang at 7:59 AM PST - 6 comments
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]posted by nooneyouknow at 7:41 AM PST - 12 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 7:26 AM PST - 12 comments
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]posted by enn at 7:21 AM PST - 5 comments
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]posted by funkbrain at 1:38 AM PST - 12 comments
July 20
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.
posted by facetious at 11:36 PM PST - 23 comments
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]posted by krakenattack at 9:45 PM PST - 20 comments
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]posted by winsome at 9:38 PM PST - 50 comments
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]posted by robhuddles at 8:35 PM PST - 15 comments
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]posted by Tarumba at 6:57 PM PST - 36 comments
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]posted by dragonfruit at 5:54 PM PST - 5 comments
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]posted by usermac at 5:48 PM PST - 21 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 5:40 PM PST - 5 comments
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]posted by jcrcarter at 5:01 PM PST - 4 comments
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]posted by cilantro at 2:57 PM PST - 17 comments
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]posted by Ratio at 2:38 PM PST - 16 comments
Where should I go for a really, really good meal in Depoe Bay, Newport or Lincoln City Oregon? Snowflake details inside.
[more inside]posted by OrangeDisk at 2:28 PM PST - 8 comments
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]posted by ewan at 2:12 PM PST - 10 comments
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]posted by snap_dragon at 1:55 PM PST - 11 comments
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?
posted by bleary at 1:35 PM PST - 26 comments
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]posted by kingfishers catch fire at 1:23 PM PST - 9 comments
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!
posted by covert7 at 12:54 PM PST - 2 comments
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.
posted by cromagnon at 12:52 PM PST - 14 comments
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]posted by aloiv2 at 12:38 PM PST - 7 comments
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]posted by mecran01 at 12:33 PM PST - 5 comments
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]posted by Someone Else's Story at 12:22 PM PST - 10 comments
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]posted by [insert clever name here] at 12:14 PM PST - 9 comments
Which animal has the hardest eyes? I was thinking about how eyes are pretty soft and it might be advantageous for a creature to have "natural goggles" protecting its squishy eyes. Which animal's eyes have the toughest coating? (I do not care to hear about the protective qualities of retractable eyeLIDs, only the surface which can not be retracted, and which must be seen through.)
posted by Greg Nog at 11:36 AM PST - 13 comments
One of my best friends is moving to Chicago at the end of September, got any gift ideas?
[more inside]posted by GuppieXX at 11:06 AM PST - 7 comments
I don't know where to meet people who are smart but not arrogant about it, or smart and also socially functional.
[more inside]posted by anonymous at 10:25 AM PST - 24 comments
Is there any way (either by app or setting) to make my Android tell me where, by name, I am?
[more inside]posted by lordcorvid at 10:15 AM PST - 5 comments
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?
posted by dorgla at 9:53 AM PST - 11 comments
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]posted by mippy at 9:53 AM PST - 10 comments
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]posted by amicamentis at 9:47 AM PST - 57 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 9:19 AM PST - 5 comments
Help me come up with math-themed "big brother"/"little sister" shirt designs for a friend's kids.
[more inside]posted by pyjammy at 8:07 AM PST - 9 comments
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]posted by joannemerriam at 8:03 AM PST - 8 comments
recommendationfilter: Anyone have a good lead on a friendly and knowledgeable Ob/Gyn in Boston?
[more inside]posted by anonymous at 7:34 AM PST - 6 comments
Microsoft Access Training/Classes in New York City (Manhattan), or your best suggestion of online materials.
[more inside]posted by rosswald at 7:24 AM PST - 4 comments
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]posted by OmieWise at 7:24 AM PST - 26 comments
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!
posted by conrad101 at 7:17 AM PST - 1 comments
What's the best (ie fool proof) way for me to get some ongoing analytics data for my department at work?
[more inside]posted by eatcake at 7:16 AM PST - 7 comments
Website design question: how difficult is it to have a slightly different top navigation bar for different sections of the same website?
[more inside]posted by aka burlap at 6:51 AM PST - 12 comments
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]posted by tmcw at 6:48 AM PST - 14 comments
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]posted by sully75 at 4:56 AM PST - 8 comments
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]posted by thinkpiece at 4:32 AM PST - 18 comments
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]posted by Foci for Analysis at 4:16 AM PST - 7 comments
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]posted by jojobobo at 3:59 AM PST - 7 comments
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]posted by tel3path at 2:12 AM PST - 5 comments
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]posted by embrangled at 12:19 AM PST - 6 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 12:16 AM PST - 26 comments
July 19
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]posted by remi at 10:34 PM PST - 0 comments
I have a dumb Pinterest question. When I follow an individual board, how do I find that board again?
[more inside]posted by thehmsbeagle at 10:33 PM PST - 7 comments
Pedicure in Washington DC. I'm at the start of a long visit, and my feet hurt already!
[more inside]posted by jrochest at 10:15 PM PST - 6 comments
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?
posted by sfts2 at 10:02 PM PST - 13 comments
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]posted by huxham at 9:59 PM PST - 13 comments
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]posted by Curious Artificer at 9:31 PM PST - 21 comments
Imbibe Magazine - sparkling cherry-nectarine sangria ingredients? Jul/Aug 2007 Issue. Or, your sparkling sangria recipes.
[more inside]posted by wnissen at 9:09 PM PST - 4 comments
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?
posted by vegartanipla at 9:07 PM PST - 20 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 8:13 PM PST - 40 comments
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]posted by sherlockt at 6:37 PM PST - 38 comments
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]posted by Melsky at 5:24 PM PST - 17 comments
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]posted by GardenGal at 4:01 PM PST - 6 comments
I'm thinking of applying for a Fulbright - how well do I REALLY need to know the language?
[more inside]posted by lxs at 3:31 PM PST - 9 comments
I need therapy. I have no idea how to start. How does one pick a therapist if all seem the same?
[more inside]posted by anonymous at 3:15 PM PST - 13 comments
Help me track down this
Cube-esque, straight-to-video nuclear bomb shelter paranoia film (with a shocking twist!).
[more inside]posted by Rhaomi at 3:12 PM PST - 8 comments
Where can I buy a counter-depth refrigerator in Los Angeles today? All attempts to date have ended in rivers of sorrow.
[more inside]posted by stephennelson at 3:05 PM PST - 8 comments
I'm looking for ideas for: puzzles, riddles, problems and scavenger hunt type stuff to incorporate into a gift.
[more inside]posted by jesirose at 2:53 PM PST - 10 comments
Is it possible to randomly develop an allergy to eggplant / aubergine in one's late 30's?
[more inside]posted by zarq at 2:38 PM PST - 18 comments
(Toronto filter) What are some awesome places I can go to in Toronto where I can eat a lunch I bring myself?
[more inside]posted by JoannaC at 2:35 PM PST - 11 comments
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?
posted by Keith Talent at 2:33 PM PST - 11 comments
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?
posted by Memo at 1:57 PM PST - 19 comments
I am considering three different approaches to a new setup involving the new line of Apple laptops. I'm looking for the best compromise between portability, longevity, and performance. Help me decide please.
[more inside]posted by nímwunnan at 1:03 PM PST - 8 comments
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?
posted by bluefly at 12:38 PM PST - 15 comments
Why does (dark) chicken meat sometimes (but not always) make me feel ill? Slightly TMI descriptions inside.
[more inside]posted by wholebroad at 12:33 PM PST - 7 comments
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]posted by sy at 12:25 PM PST - 4 comments
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]posted by L'Estrange Fruit at 12:08 PM PST - 7 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 12:08 PM PST - 14 comments
What's a good name for a blog on (interpersonal, not politica) conflict resolution and relationships?
[more inside]posted by sweetkid at 11:43 AM PST - 30 comments
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]posted by procrastination at 11:25 AM PST - 4 comments
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]posted by 3T at 11:11 AM PST - 10 comments
When breaking up with a live-in girlfriend, should I let show just how much forethought I've put into it?
[more inside]posted by Theophilus at 10:26 AM PST - 17 comments
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]posted by fredericsunday at 10:04 AM PST - 14 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 9:05 AM PST - 32 comments
Looking for music journalism discussing German dance group Scooter.
[more inside]posted by LSK at 8:30 AM PST - 3 comments
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]posted by cgg at 8:17 AM PST - 4 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 8:00 AM PST - 6 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 8:00 AM PST - 55 comments
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]posted by timpanogos at 7:51 AM PST - 1 comments
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]posted by reren at 7:37 AM PST - 14 comments
Please help me decide between two couches: a chaise sectional, and a two-piece sectional!
[more inside]posted by AceRock at 7:23 AM PST - 18 comments
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?
posted by New Old User at 6:54 AM PST - 17 comments
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.
posted by smackfu at 6:42 AM PST - 17 comments
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]posted by ahaynes at 6:35 AM PST - 12 comments
I just finished playing Bioshock for a second time, and I have some questions about the story. Massive spoilers inside.
[more inside]posted by jbickers at 6:25 AM PST - 10 comments
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]posted by Rosengeist at 5:39 AM PST - 9 comments
UI designer wanting to turn into UI designer/photographer is looking for insights on the business of photography.
[more inside]posted by wolfr at 3:19 AM PST - 6 comments
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.
posted by omnigut at 2:35 AM PST - 49 comments
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!
posted by timpollard at 12:59 AM PST - 9 comments
July 18
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]posted by primate moon at 9:39 PM PST - 20 comments
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?
posted by CitrusFreak12 at 9:00 PM PST - 12 comments
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]posted by chrisinseoul at 9:00 PM PST - 21 comments
When did Huffington Post started auto-playing it's embedded videos and how do I make it stop?
posted by Bonzai at 8:51 PM PST - 6 comments
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]posted by dontjumplarry at 8:35 PM PST - 19 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 7:32 PM PST - 17 comments
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!
posted by Equiprimordial at 7:22 PM PST - 5 comments
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]posted by msalt at 7:14 PM PST - 13 comments
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]posted by falsedmitri at 6:39 PM PST - 8 comments
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]posted by waldo at 6:19 PM PST - 30 comments
Is there a form of socialism that agrees with me or have I simply been brainwashed into accepting capitalist structures as natural?
[more inside]posted by asnider at 5:16 PM PST - 31 comments
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]posted by My Famous Mistake at 4:41 PM PST - 14 comments
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]posted by quarterframer at 4:27 PM PST - 12 comments
What sort of species is this interesting little guy? Pics and observed characteristics noted, inside.
[more inside]posted by pedmands at 4:25 PM PST - 9 comments
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]posted by anybodys at 4:04 PM PST - 7 comments
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.
posted by piedmont at 4:00 PM PST - 10 comments
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]posted by M83 at 3:55 PM PST - 8 comments
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.
posted by NoMich at 3:42 PM PST - 9 comments
Where can I sell a couple hundred CDs in New York City? (Assuming that it's even worth selling them nowadays....)
[more inside]posted by josh at 3:25 PM PST - 11 comments
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?
posted by kenaldo at 2:46 PM PST - 11 comments
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]posted by flesti at 2:33 PM PST - 12 comments
Need a solution that will let multiple people post to a single YouTube account, but only after a review process.
[more inside]posted by moviehawk at 2:14 PM PST - 4 comments
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]posted by barc0001 at 2:02 PM PST - 50 comments
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]posted by nanhey at 1:45 PM PST - 11 comments
Philosophy / education: how can I search for topics related to the ability to generalize and manipulate abstractions?
[more inside]posted by knz at 1:36 PM PST - 4 comments
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]posted by bukvich at 1:36 PM PST - 9 comments
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?
posted by Artw at 1:07 PM PST - 89 comments
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]posted by Danithegirl at 12:17 PM PST - 12 comments
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?
posted by 2bucksplus at 11:50 AM PST - 5 comments
Decent (yet affordable!) places/area to move to in the West New York area? (Hoboken, Jersey City, Weehawken)
[more inside]posted by rogoke at 11:34 AM PST - 6 comments
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.
posted by stbalbach at 11:18 AM PST - 16 comments
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]posted by 2oh1 at 11:13 AM PST - 33 comments
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]posted by amber_dale at 11:02 AM PST - 13 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 10:37 AM PST - 5 comments
Where should we go for a nature-filled long weekend within 4 hours of Toronto, Canada?
[more inside]posted by Ziggurat at 10:35 AM PST - 7 comments
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]posted by gofargogo at 10:26 AM PST - 5 comments
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]posted by Tooty McTootsalot at 10:14 AM PST - 21 comments
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]posted by oxfordcomma at 9:10 AM PST - 11 comments
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]posted by charmcityblues at 9:06 AM PST - 19 comments
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]posted by Karmakaze at 8:32 AM PST - 6 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 8:25 AM PST - 1 comments
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.
posted by dnash at 8:21 AM PST - 15 comments
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]posted by Stan Grossman at 8:14 AM PST - 4 comments
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]posted by widdershins at 8:03 AM PST - 7 comments
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.
posted by 14580 at 7:46 AM PST - 6 comments
iPad print media: What books and magazines make use of the iPad's technology to make them more than just zoom in/out digital reproductions of the print version?
[more inside]posted by sio42 at 7:39 AM PST - 12 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 7:34 AM PST - 6 comments
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]posted by wannabecounselor at 7:33 AM PST - 4 comments
What was this show - late night UK channel 4 community-service soap opera.
[more inside]posted by xchmp at 5:10 AM PST - 2 comments
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.
posted by adamvasco at 4:23 AM PST - 21 comments
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?
posted by lirael2008 at 2:26 AM PST - 12 comments
No focus, no idea about future career. What do you guys do and did you always want to do it?
[more inside]posted by Colibri at 2:26 AM PST - 22 comments
Please help me figure out what I should have done differently in this argument with my boyfriend. It gets long, sorry.
[more inside]posted by guessthis at 2:25 AM PST - 74 comments
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]posted by trainsurfing at 1:18 AM PST - 25 comments
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]posted by sockomatic at 12:45 AM PST - 14 comments
July 17
I asked my girlfriend's father for permission to marry her and got shot down. What now?
[more inside]posted by daeken at 11:40 PM PST - 89 comments
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]posted by Richard Holden at 11:05 PM PST - 8 comments
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]posted by aecorwin at 11:04 PM PST - 3 comments
Please help me find the perfect Aquarium stand...or, really, just one that is functional and not hideous.
[more inside]posted by fyrebelley at 10:31 PM PST - 6 comments
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]posted by snow_mac at 10:01 PM PST - 9 comments
We are applying to co-op housing: Please help us write an appropriate (and awesome!) cover letter for our application!
[more inside]posted by tamarack at 9:49 PM PST - 3 comments
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]posted by ilikecookies at 9:06 PM PST - 6 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 7:39 PM PST - 8 comments
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]posted by Rewind at 6:58 PM PST - 12 comments
I need ideas for reasonably healthy, vegan snacks for the road that I can give as a gift.
[more inside]posted by Mila at 4:57 PM PST - 19 comments
What would be some good radio monologues to have kids read for a sleep-away camp podcasting group?
[more inside]posted by grimace636 at 4:17 PM PST - 7 comments
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]posted by iamkimiam at 3:45 PM PST - 38 comments
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]posted by Tehhund at 3:37 PM PST - 13 comments
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]posted by batikrose at 2:51 PM PST - 39 comments
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]posted by junipero at 2:46 PM PST - 20 comments
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]posted by Rad_Boy at 2:19 PM PST - 6 comments
Married, LIttle with a capital L. How can I get my husband to see what I'm lacking and how it hurts?
[more inside]posted by anonymous at 2:15 PM PST - 13 comments
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]posted by iamisaid at 1:42 PM PST - 13 comments
80 years old, lost 40 pounds since May, no appetite, weakening, diagnosed with lung cancer today. What can we expect now?
[more inside]posted by soulbarn at 12:58 PM PST - 30 comments
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]posted by fearfulsymmetry at 12:52 PM PST - 4 comments
Calling all scientists! Conducting a research study...how best to recruit my target population?
[more inside]posted by amyshmamy at 12:17 PM PST - 19 comments
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]posted by circular at 12:07 PM PST - 2 comments
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?
posted by vacapinta at 12:03 PM PST - 15 comments
Please recommend good documentaries and TV programs about history that are accurate.
[more inside]posted by kristi at 11:13 AM PST - 19 comments
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]posted by waving at 10:48 AM PST - 15 comments
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]posted by ohmansocute at 10:47 AM PST - 26 comments
Looking for songs that talk about or portray Tennessee the state (preferably), or it's cities in a not kind light.
[more inside]posted by edgeways at 10:41 AM PST - 15 comments
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]posted by mreleganza at 9:51 AM PST - 19 comments
Asking for a friend: I'm a student nurse, what resources are available to help me gain a better understanding of cardiology?
[more inside]posted by rubyrudy at 9:51 AM PST - 3 comments
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]posted by ecorrocio at 9:29 AM PST - 22 comments
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]posted by jeather at 9:24 AM PST - 12 comments
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.
posted by Jehan at 9:12 AM PST - 7 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 8:58 AM PST - 18 comments
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.
posted by nanook at 8:44 AM PST - 7 comments
Having trouble making sense of unlocked GSM phones, SIM cards, and unlocking/jailbreaking US phones for travel to Iceland. Please help.
[more inside]posted by ImproviseOrDie at 8:09 AM PST - 8 comments
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?
posted by Hobbacocka at 7:50 AM PST - 53 comments
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]posted by Kololo at 7:25 AM PST - 11 comments
What is the relationship between the ritual and the algorithm? Are all rituals algorithmic?
[more inside]posted by 0bvious at 7:10 AM PST - 18 comments
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!
posted by Tom-B at 6:49 AM PST - 10 comments
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.
posted by grubstake at 6:07 AM PST - 1 comments
What would be the best way for someone to develop / re-learn Spanish in four months or so of part-time study?
[more inside]posted by Lame_username at 6:00 AM PST - 9 comments
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]posted by hypotheticole at 5:03 AM PST - 11 comments
Where can I find accurate statistics regarding how many viewers/readers media organizations have?
[more inside]posted by eytanb at 4:38 AM PST - 5 comments
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]posted by mary8nne at 3:06 AM PST - 6 comments
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?
posted by migurski at 12:31 AM PST - 9 comments
July 16
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]posted by vanitas at 11:33 PM PST - 47 comments
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]posted by cardioid at 10:53 PM PST - 9 comments
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?
posted by vash at 8:53 PM PST - 3 comments
Can someone tell me how to go about saving/restoring this beloved photo of my grandfather?
[more inside]posted by katyggls at 8:44 PM PST - 11 comments
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]posted by DeWalt_Russ at 8:08 PM PST - 12 comments
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]posted by Roman Graves at 8:03 PM PST - 81 comments
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.
posted by daveg02 at 7:06 PM PST - 7 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 6:47 PM PST - 7 comments
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?
posted by musofire at 6:44 PM PST - 2 comments
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]posted by xo at 6:08 PM PST - 9 comments
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]posted by désoeuvrée at 5:14 PM PST - 3 comments
Help me find a wedding planning website. Tried 'theknot.com' and I can't get past how disorganized & visually chaotic it is.
[more inside]posted by luciddream928 at 5:06 PM PST - 11 comments
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]posted by little-egglplant at 4:54 PM PST - 9 comments
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]posted by you're a kitty! at 4:52 PM PST - 44 comments
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]posted by Modica at 4:07 PM PST - 24 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 3:12 PM PST - 36 comments
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]posted by kensington314 at 2:45 PM PST - 5 comments
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]posted by KathrynT at 2:13 PM PST - 15 comments
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]posted by schmod at 2:09 PM PST - 10 comments
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.
posted by anonymous at 1:54 PM PST - 5 comments
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]posted by exgeographer at 1:39 PM PST - 4 comments
How can I best manage documents for a fleet of freelancers online? Particularly including signing W-9s and contracts digitally.
[more inside]posted by RJ Reynolds at 12:36 PM PST - 5 comments
My girlfriend's car was towed from the street on a potentially bogus claim here in Chicago. How can we fight this?
[more inside]posted by Carillon at 12:29 PM PST - 23 comments
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]posted by RevRob330 at 12:28 PM PST - 14 comments
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]posted by jb at 11:45 AM PST - 49 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 11:33 AM PST - 10 comments
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]posted by apostate street preacher at 11:33 AM PST - 15 comments
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]posted by Seeking Direction at 11:24 AM PST - 43 comments
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]posted by finnb at 10:52 AM PST - 28 comments
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]posted by okay-quiet-time at 10:42 AM PST - 16 comments
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]posted by bookdragoness at 10:37 AM PST - 8 comments
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]posted by RapcityinBlue at 10:27 AM PST - 29 comments
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]posted by DrMew at 10:23 AM PST - 11 comments
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]posted by aerotive at 10:06 AM PST - 19 comments
Choosing teams for an entrepreneurial team project to solve problems in the developing world. Help me! *snowflakes inside*
[more inside]posted by carolinaherrera at 9:53 AM PST - 16 comments
Why do my feet hurt after I mow the lawn and what can I do to fix it?
[more inside]posted by VTX at 9:15 AM PST - 12 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 8:51 AM PST - 7 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 8:48 AM PST - 13 comments
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]posted by KoiPond at 8:34 AM PST - 16 comments
What career background is necessary to be hired as a (non-entry-level) consultant with McKinsey or Boston Consulting Group?
[more inside]posted by brambory at 8:29 AM PST - 5 comments
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]posted by fireoyster at 8:28 AM PST - 11 comments
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?
posted by josher71 at 8:13 AM PST - 10 comments
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]posted by janepanic at 8:04 AM PST - 14 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 7:35 AM PST - 11 comments
A purchased e-book has disappeared from my iPad.
I would like to have it back, please.
[more inside]posted by SLC Mom at 7:21 AM PST - 7 comments
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]posted by sleeping beauty at 6:47 AM PST - 18 comments
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]posted by gauche at 6:22 AM PST - 6 comments
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]posted by futility closet at 6:11 AM PST - 5 comments
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]posted by olinerd at 5:23 AM PST - 10 comments
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]posted by deadwax at 3:11 AM PST - 4 comments
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]posted by springbound at 2:35 AM PST - 24 comments
Help my wife and I pick a vacation/honeymoon destination for the Christmas Holiday.
[more inside]posted by Ergolad at 1:57 AM PST - 6 comments
July 15
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]posted by Blazecock Pileon at 11:46 PM PST - 5 comments
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.
posted by halogen at 11:46 PM PST - 3 comments
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]posted by jumelle at 10:32 PM PST - 27 comments
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]posted by stewiethegreat at 8:40 PM PST - 7 comments
Recommendations for a quiet, budget-conscious solo vacation consisting of staring at the Atlantic Ocean?
[more inside]posted by pavane at 7:54 PM PST - 23 comments
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]posted by ttyn at 6:32 PM PST - 10 comments
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.
posted by Brandon Blatcher at 6:23 PM PST - 6 comments
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]posted by vizsla at 5:33 PM PST - 5 comments
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.
posted by nadawi at 5:05 PM PST - 5 comments
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]posted by Nelsormensch at 3:30 PM PST - 15 comments
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?
posted by Area Man at 3:22 PM PST - 79 comments
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]posted by AdamCSnider at 3:10 PM PST - 5 comments
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.
posted by 4ster at 3:00 PM PST - 11 comments
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!
posted by laswingkid at 2:34 PM PST - 5 comments
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?
posted by ac at 2:23 PM PST - 4 comments
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]posted by Maximian at 1:45 PM PST - 4 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 1:40 PM PST - 25 comments
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]posted by Corduroy at 12:45 PM PST - 10 comments
Will this '95-'96 Lumina AC manifold assembly work on a '99 Lumina? Link inside...
[more inside]posted by wsg at 11:23 AM PST - 4 comments
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]posted by kitcat at 11:02 AM PST - 15 comments
How can I balance my need for individuality and privacy with human tendency to stereotype and judge based on external facts?
[more inside]posted by EatMyHat at 10:57 AM PST - 37 comments
LG Optimus V on Virgin Mobile -- this phone sucks. Or maybe it's the operating system? Anyways, tell me about rooting it.
[more inside]posted by lewedswiver at 10:10 AM PST - 12 comments
Going back to work after being out of the workforce for a long time- who has done it?
[more inside]posted by Athene at 9:32 AM PST - 12 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 9:24 AM PST - 11 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 9:24 AM PST - 7 comments
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]posted by quietta at 9:13 AM PST - 8 comments
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.
posted by moonmilk at 8:47 AM PST - 8 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 7:42 AM PST - 21 comments
I need my liver to recover after years of alcohol abuse. Will vaporizing marijuana have a detrimental effect?
[more inside]posted by anonymous at 7:42 AM PST - 18 comments
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]posted by phoeniciansailor at 7:20 AM PST - 22 comments
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]posted by smirkyfodder at 6:55 AM PST - 12 comments
Can I use slightly slower RAM from my old computer in my new one?
[more inside]posted by KRS at 6:31 AM PST - 9 comments
What advice do you wish you had been given before leaving home and going off to college for the first time?
[more inside]posted by kinetic at 6:09 AM PST - 78 comments
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]posted by manny_calavera at 5:45 AM PST - 8 comments
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]posted by Lokheed at 5:34 AM PST - 16 comments
Two shy snowflakes romance question. Need ideas for pushing the boundaries of our ambiguous friendship.
[more inside]posted by JeanDupont at 5:30 AM PST - 7 comments
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?
posted by humblepigeon at 5:25 AM PST - 19 comments
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]posted by tokaidanshi at 1:49 AM PST - 23 comments
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]posted by Catch at 1:47 AM PST - 23 comments
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]posted by aqueousdan at 1:44 AM PST - 5 comments
July 14
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]posted by little_dog_laughing at 9:52 PM PST - 17 comments
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?
posted by Shark Tail at 9:19 PM PST - 3 comments
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]posted by shipbreaker at 8:26 PM PST - 13 comments
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]posted by tomboko at 7:46 PM PST - 3 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 7:11 PM PST - 10 comments
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]posted by heigh-hothederryo at 7:01 PM PST - 10 comments
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]posted by slowtree at 6:46 PM PST - 16 comments
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]posted by biograd08 at 6:30 PM PST - 20 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 6:00 PM PST - 7 comments
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]posted by patheral at 5:23 PM PST - 25 comments
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]posted by annsunny at 4:41 PM PST - 7 comments
My husband and I need totally awesome 70's costumes. That we can run a 5K in.
[more inside]posted by jeoc at 4:27 PM PST - 28 comments
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]posted by malibustacey9999 at 3:10 PM PST - 28 comments
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]posted by patnasty at 2:52 PM PST - 9 comments
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]posted by St. Alia of the Bunnies at 2:41 PM PST - 11 comments
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]posted by Feel the beat of the rhythm of the night at 2:21 PM PST - 18 comments
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.
posted by shushufindi at 2:19 PM PST - 13 comments
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]posted by fiercecupcake at 1:40 PM PST - 10 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 1:22 PM PST - 27 comments
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]posted by a2 at 12:23 PM PST - 45 comments
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]posted by goosechasing at 12:16 PM PST - 18 comments
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]posted by nosila at 11:58 AM PST - 9 comments
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]posted by Morrigan at 11:30 AM PST - 11 comments
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]posted by sinical at 11:29 AM PST - 8 comments
NSFW: How to make post-foreplay intercourse more... interesting? Also questions about submissive-leaning partners. Explicit inside.
[more inside]posted by anonymous at 9:28 AM PST - 18 comments
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.
posted by Issithe at 9:05 AM PST - 3 comments
Small nonprofit job-search-filter: can a job application/interview be confidential if everyone knows everyone else?
[more inside]posted by headnsouth at 8:42 AM PST - 11 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 7:23 AM PST - 30 comments
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]posted by anonymous at 7:23 AM PST - 30 comments
How can I wear lightweight earrings all week without my ears hurting? I don't think this is an allergy issue.
[more inside]posted by arnicae at 7:02 AM PST - 24 comments
Itinerant income when always on the move?
Help me a career, or at least an income, that fits the itinerant life.
[more inside]posted by bystander at 6:18 AM PST - 16 comments
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]posted by hazyjane at 2:00 AM PST - 23 comments
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]posted by sarahdal at 1:55 AM PST - 15 comments
